Lockheed T-33B

The Lockheed T‑33B is a two‑seat, jet‑powered trainer developed from the World War II‑era P‑80 Shooting Star. First flown on 22 March 1948, the T‑33 series was produced by Lockheed Corporation to meet the Air Force’s need for an advanced jet trainer after jet propulsion emerged. Over 6,500 airframes were built, and the T‑33B version, manufactured under licence for the United Kingdom, entered service with the Royal Air Force in the early 1950s and was later exported to many NATO allies.

Key features include a single Allison J33‑AF‑35 centrifugal‑flow turbo‑jet delivering 4,600 lbf of thrust, retractable tricycle landing gear, and a tandem cockpit with dual controls and heated canopy for all‑weather operation. The airframe, simple maintenance, and a top speed of 600 mph allowed it to emulate frontline fighter performance while remaining forgiving for students. Avionics were simple VHF radio and flight instruments, later upgraded with radar‑altimeter and ILS capability.

The T‑33B’s significance lies in its role as the backbone of jet‑training programs worldwide for three decades, shaping generations of pilots who later flew aircraft such as the F‑86 Sabre, F‑4 Phantom and fighters. Its longevity and adaptability cemented the T‑33 family as one of the most influential trainer aircraft in aviation history.