Lockheed F-80 Shooting Star
History of the Lockheed F-80 Shooting Star
The Lockheed F-80 Shooting Star was developed in response to the U.S. Army Air Forces’ need for a jet-powered fighter during World War II. Designed by engineer Clarence “Kelly” Johnson and his team at Lockheed. The F-80 was the first operational jet fighter used by the U.S. Air Force. The prototype, XP-80, flew in 1944, just 143 days after the project was initiated. The aircraft featured a straight-wing design, influenced by German jet research, and was powered by a British-designed Halford H.1B turbojet engine.
The North American F-80 Shooting Star saw significant combat action during the Korean War, marking its place in history as the first jet versus jet fighter to engage in air-to-air combat. On November 8, 1950, an F-80 scored the first confirmed jet-vs-jet kill, shooting down a Soviet-made MiG-15. The F-80s were primarily used in ground-attack roles, targeting enemy supply lines, infrastructure, and troop positions. Despite being outclassed by newer jets like the MiG-15, the F-80 remained effective in close air support and interdiction missions throughout the conflict.
F-80 Shooting Star versions
XP-80
The XP-80 was the prototype of the USA’s first operational jet fighter, which first flew on January 8th 1944.
| Speed | Weight | Span | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6,287lb (2,852kg) | 37ft 8in (11.48m) | 32ft 8in (9.95m) |
P-80A
The first production model, later re-designated as F-80A, with improvements in avionics and armament.
| Speed | Weight | Span | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 558mph (898kph) | 14,000lb (Max) | 38ft 10in (11.83m) | 34ft 6in (10.51) |
RF-80A
The RF-80A was a photo-reconnaissance variant of the F-80. It was one of the earliest jet-powered reconnaissance aircraft used by the U.S. Air Force. The RF-80A replaced the aircraft’s guns with camera equipment, allowing it to conduct high-speed, low-altitude photographic missions. It played a critical role during the Korean War, gathering valuable intelligence on enemy positions and movements. The RF-80A was valued for its speed and ability to fly at higher altitudes, which made it less vulnerable to enemy anti-aircraft fire compared to propeller-driven reconnaissance planes.
P-80B
The P-80B was an upgraded version of the P-80A, featuring improved performance and reliability. Key enhancements included a more powerful Allison J33-A-23 turbojet engine, a reinforced airframe, and a modified canopy design. It also incorporated an improved ejection seat and upgraded avionics.
F-80C
The F-80C was the most advanced variant of the F-80 series. It featured a more powerful Allison J33-A-35 engine, which provided better performance compared to earlier models. The F-80C also had enhanced armament capabilities, including provisions for carrying rockets and bombs, making it versatile for both air-to-air and ground-attack missions. It saw extensive service during the Korean War, particularly in close air support roles, despite being outclassed by newer jets like the MiG-15. The F-80C was a key step in the evolution of U.S. jet fighters.
| Speed | Weight (Max takeoff) | Span | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 594mph (956kph) | 16,856lb (7,646kg) | 38ft 9in (11.81m) | 34ft 5in (10.49m) |
RF-80C
The RF-80C was a further development of the F-80C, adapted for photo-reconnaissance missions. It was equipped with advanced camera systems in place of the aircraft’s standard armament. The RF-80C could carry a range of camera configurations for different reconnaissance missions, including vertical and oblique photography. This variant was used extensively during the Korean War, where it provided valuable intelligence on enemy troop movements and battlefield conditions. The RF-80C’s speed and ability to operate at higher altitudes made it effective in gathering critical information while minimizing the risk of enemy interception.
Lockheed F-80 Shooting Star model builds
A mostly pictorial blog of my build of the Airfix F-80C Shooting Star from the Airfix Vintage Classic range. Airfix 1/72 Lockheed F-80C Shooting Star
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