9 Of The Best Jets Ever Produced By Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor

Developed for the U.S. Air Force, the F-22 Raptor is a fifth-generation fighter jet known for its stealth, maneuverability, and advanced avionics. Introduced in 2005, it achieves air superiority and is regarded as one of the world's most powerful fighter jets.

F-16 Fighting Falcon

Originally designed for the U.S. Air Force, the F-16 Fighting Falcon, or Viper, is a versatile fourth-generation fighter aircraft. Known for its agility and affordability, it excels in both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions and is widely adopted globally.

F-104 Starfighter

The F-104 Starfighter, introduced in the late 1950s, is a high-speed interceptor aircraft renowned for its streamlined design and velocity. It set new standards in aircraft design despite safety concerns and impacted future fighter jet development.

U-2 Dragon Lady

Crafted during the Cold War, the U-2 Dragon Lady is a high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft crucial for strategic intelligence collection. Its elongated wingspan and role in the Cuban Missile Crisis highlight its importance, with modernized versions still in use.

P-80 Shooting Star

The P-80 Shooting Star, the first operational jet fighter for the U.S., marked the shift from propeller-driven planes to jet-powered aircraft. Initially deployed in WWII and later in the Korean War, it symbolizes a significant advancement in military aviation.

C-5 Galaxy

The C-5 Galaxy, a massive military transport plane, was created in the late 1960s for the U.S. Air Force to transport large cargo. Known for its front-loading nose, it plays a crucial role in strategic airlift operations, moving heavy and oversized equipment efficiently.

F-35 Lightning II

The F-35 Lightning II is a fifth-generation multi-role fighter aircraft designed for various branches of the U.S. military and allies. With stealth features and integrated sensors, it excels in air-to-air combat, ground assaults, and reconnaissance.

JetStar

The JetStar, debuting in the 1960s, is a business jet with a sleek design and four-engine layout. Initially for military use, it became popular in civilian aviation for its range, speed, and spacious interior, serving corporate and government clients.

P-38 Lightning

The P-38 Lightning, a key WWII asset, is a twin-engine fighter known for its twin-boom structure and central nacelle. Its versatility in interception, dive bombing, and reconnaissance missions showcased its effectiveness and adaptability in combat.