CF-104D

The Canadair CF‑104D was the Canadian‑built version of the Lockheed Starfighter, produced under licence by Canadair between 1962 and 1965. Developed as a high‑speed, high‑altitude interceptor and later adapted for nuclear strike, the CF‑104D incorporated a more powerful General Electric J79‑GE‑15 engine delivering 15,800 lbf of thrust and featured leading‑edge slats, a drogue parachute and strengthened airframe to handle the stresses of Mach 2 flight. A total of 111 aircraft were delivered to the Royal Canadian Air Force, where they equipped the 416, 425 and 434 Squadrons. The type’s sleek, delta‑winged design gave it exceptional climb rate and a service ceiling above 50,000 feet, while its 1,600 kg of internal fuel allowed long‑range penetration missions. The CF‑104D played a pivotal role during the Cold War, acting as Canada’s primary tactical nuclear delivery platform within NATO’s Air Defense Command. Though initially controversial because of its single‑engine, low‑lift configuration, the aircraft proved reliable and versatile, later being converted for reconnaissance and ground‑attack roles. Its legacy endures as a symbol of Canadian ingenuity in adapting a U.S. design to national defense needs. Today, a handful of restored CF‑104Ds are displayed in museums, reminding future generations of this remarkable aerospace achievement.