From the iconic F-14 Tomcat in the original Top Gun to the advanced F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and the futuristic, fictional Darkstar in Top Gun: Maverick, the films showcase the evolution of fighter jet technology across decades. Each aircraft represents its era’s cutting-edge engineering and tactical capabilities, reflecting the changing face of military aviation, something that makes the movies even more fascinating.
If you love Top Gun, you probably admire the use of real flight footage and precise aerial maneuvers. They look incredible, and they amplify the authenticity of these films, drawing us into the fast-paced, high-stakes world of fighter pilots. By capturing the intensity and skill required to operate these machines, the movies were not only able to provide thrilling action but also offer a genuine appreciation for the pilots and technology behind modern air combat.
So, let’s take a look at all the airplanes that were used in the Top Gun movies, what they can do, and where you can see them today (because you CAN indeed see them in person!).
The Aircraft of Top Gun (1986)
The Top Gun films are celebrated for their thrilling aerial sequences and the iconic military aircraft that bring them to life. Below, we dive into the key planes that made the original Top Gun unforgettable, each chosen for its unique capabilities and contribution to the action-packed narrative.
The Grumman F-14 Tomcat is one of the most iconic aircraft in Top Gun and serves as the primary jet flown by Pete “Maverick” Mitchell and his fellow pilots in the 1986 film.
With its distinctive variable-sweep wings and twin-engine design, the F-14 was a centerpiece of U.S. Navy aviation during the Cold War era 🔗, excelling in air superiority, fleet defense, and strike missions. Its versatility and advanced radar systems allowed it to operate effectively in both dogfights and long-range engagements.
The Tomcat’s sleek design and powerful performance made it a symbol of American air power, immortalized by the high-speed aerial stunts and dogfight scenes in the movie. For many, the F-14 remains synonymous with naval aviation and is a beloved part of Top Gun’s legacy.
- Where to see it: Museum of Flight, National Air & Space Museum, Wings over the Rockies, and more. See all on F-14 Tomcats on Display 🔗
The Northrop F-5E/F Tiger II played the role of the fictional enemy MiG-28 in Top Gun. Despite its smaller size and relatively simple design, the F-5 was ideal for simulating adversary aircraft in military training exercises.
Known for its agility and high maneuverability, it could replicate the flight patterns of various enemy jets, making it a valuable asset for training fighter pilots in realistic combat scenarios. The aircraft’s compact build and reliability allowed for dynamic and believable aerial sequences in the film, further enhancing the intensity of the dogfight scenes.
While the MiG-28 designation 🔗 was fictional, the use of the F-5 effectively portrayed a plausible and credible adversary in the movie’s thrilling air combat sequences.
- Where to see it: Fort Worth Aviation Museum, Pacific Coast Air Museum, Hickory Aviation Museum.
The Douglas A-4 Skyhawk, another standout aircraft featured in Top Gun, was prominently used in the film’s training sequences to simulate enemy planes. Its compact size, lightweight frame, and exceptional maneuverability made it an ideal choice for representing aerial threats during pilot training.
The A-4 was a workhorse of the U.S. Navy for decades, known for its role in close air support and its ability to operate from aircraft carriers. In the context of the movie, the Skyhawk provided a realistic and challenging opponent for the F-14 pilots, adding depth to the film’s depiction of aerial combat. The jet’s agility and distinctive design ensured its place as a memorable part of Top Gun’s cinematic legacy.
- Where to see it: Museum of Flight, National Air & Space Museum. List of displayed Douglas A-4 Skyhawks 🔗
The Aircraft of Top Gun: Maverick (2022)
Top Gun: Maverick not only continues the legacy of high-octane aerial combat but also introduces a lineup of remarkable aircraft that reflect the evolution of aviation technology. From the advanced Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet to the nostalgic return of the Grumman F-14 Tomcat, the film captures the diversity and innovation in modern and historical aviation.
With cutting-edge jets like the fictional Darkstar and Sukhoi Su-57 Felon alongside classics like the P-51 Mustang, the movie blends realism, history, and futuristic concepts, creating a visually stunning tribute to the world of flight. Here’s a closer look at the key planes featured in Top Gun: Maverick.
The Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet serves as the primary aircraft flown by Maverick and the new generation of pilots in Top Gun: Maverick. A cornerstone of modern naval aviation, the Super Hornet is celebrated for its versatility, advanced avionics, and reliability.
Designed as a multirole fighter, it excels in both air-to-air combat and ground-attack missions, making it an invaluable asset to the U.S. Navy. With enhanced radar, electronic warfare capabilities, and greater range than its predecessor, the F/A-18 Hornet, the Super Hornet represents the cutting edge of carrier-based aviation. In the film, its sleek design and high-performance capabilities are showcased in breathtaking sequences, solidifying its role as the backbone of the Navy’s fleet.
- Where to see it: Currently active with the U.S. Navy.
The Sukhoi Su-57 Felon, a fifth-generation stealth fighter, represents the advanced adversary aircraft in Top Gun: Maverick.
Known for its superior agility, stealth capabilities, and cutting-edge technology, the Su-57 is a formidable opponent in the world of air combat. In the film, its inclusion underscores the high stakes and challenges faced by Maverick and his team. With features like thrust-vectoring engines and advanced radar systems, the Su-57 (which can successfully do Pugachev’s Cobra Maneuver, no surprise there) embodies the next generation of fighter jet design, making it a fitting choice for the movie’s tense and high-tech aerial dogfights.
- Where to see it: Shortly active in Russian Aerospace Forces. In November 2024 the Su-57 was presented at the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition.
A nostalgic highlight of Top Gun: Maverick is the return of the Grumman F-14 Tomcat, which played a central role in the original film. Despite being retired from active duty, the Tomcat makes a pivotal appearance, reminding audiences of its enduring legacy in naval aviation.
Renowned for its variable-sweep wings, twin-engine power, and long-range capabilities, the F-14 remains one of the most iconic fighter jets in aviation history. Its return in Maverick not only serves as a nod to the original film but also emphasizes the timelessness of its design and its place in the hearts of aviation enthusiasts.
- Where to see it: Museum of Flight, National Air & Space Museum, Wings over the Rockies, and more. See all on F-14 Tomcats on Display 🔗
Briefly appearing on the flight deck, the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II represents the pinnacle of modern stealth and multirole fighter technology. With its cutting-edge stealth design, advanced sensors, and unparalleled versatility, the F-35 is a symbol of the future of military aviation.
Its ability to perform in various roles—air superiority, ground attack, and intelligence gathering—makes it a vital asset for modern armed forces. Though it plays a minor role in the film, its inclusion highlights the evolution of naval aviation and the advancements in aircraft design since the original Top Gun.
- Where to see it: RAF Museum, Royal International Air Tatoo, and various Marine Corps Air Stations.
The North American P-51 Mustang offers a historical counterpoint to the modern jets in Top Gun: Maverick. Appearing in a personal context, the P-51 is a World War II-era fighter known for its legendary performance and contributions to Allied victory.
With its long range, speed, and maneuverability, the Mustang was a game-changer in its time. In the film, it serves as a sentimental touch, representing Maverick’s deep connection to aviation history. Notably, the P-51 featured in the movie is owned by Tom Cruise himself, adding a personal layer to its inclusion.
- Where to see it: National Museum of the United States Air Force, RAF Museum, National Air and Space Museum, The National WWII Museum, and many others. Here’s a List of surviving North American P-51 Mustangs 🔗.
Darkstar (Fictional)
Opening Top Gun: Maverick with a dramatic sequence, the Darkstar is a fictional hypersonic aircraft inspired by real-world designs like the Lockheed Martin SR-72 🔗.
Built for speed and cutting-edge performance, the Darkstar represents the theoretical future of aviation technology, capable of extreme speeds and high-altitude flight. Its design and capabilities push the boundaries of what is currently possible, setting the stage for the film’s exploration of innovation and risk in the field of aviation. The Darkstar serves as a symbol of Maverick’s daring nature and the relentless pursuit of excellence in flight.
