Introduction

Of the 633 F-14 Tomcats delivered to the United States Navy, only 80 remain, a testament to the iconic fighter's legacy. Among these, the oldest airframe in actual production is 158617, currently housed at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7293 in Whitehall, Pennsylvania. This article explores the history of the F-14 Tomcat and the locations where the oldest surviving airframes can be found.

The Oldest Production Airframe: F-14 158617

The oldest actual production F-14 Tomcat airframe, 158617, is not only the oldest in production but also one of the most significant. Currently located at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7293 in Whitehall, Pennsylvania, this airframe has a rich history dating back to its delivery in 1969. Despite being retired in 2006, it continues to serve as a symbol of the F-14's accomplishments and endurance.

The Oldest Service Airframe and Pre-Production Planeland

Another significant airframe is 157984, which is the oldest service airframe still in Navy hands. This aircraft, known as the YF-14 during its pre-production phase, served as the fifth of twelve pre-production planes. It is currently preserved at the Naval Aviation Museum in NAS Pensacola, Florida. While classified as a YF-14, it was the fifth in a series designed to test the advancements of its time, making it a unique piece of military history.

The Oldest Pre-Production Airframe: F-14 157982

The oldest surviving airframe of any kind is 157982, which was the third pre-production airframe. This aircraft played a crucial role in the structural testing of the F-14 Tomcat. Today, it is on display at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City, New York. The museum is well-known for its collection of historical aviation artifacts and offers visitors a glimpse into the early development stages of the F-14 program.

Conclusion

The remaining F-14 Tomcats are a testament to military engineering and aviation history. While most have been decommissioned and turned into razor blades, a select few remain in various locations, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7293, the Naval Aviation Museum, and the Cradle of Aviation Museum. Each of these airframes holds a unique place in the legacy of the F-14 Tomcat and represents a critical chapter in the history of naval aviation.