Looking for Index/Descriptions of ALL USAF Fighters. Example: There was F-102 and F-104. What was F-103?

Question

I assume the F-103 was perhaps a concept plane that may never have even reached the prototype stage, but I would still like to know what was; specification, mission, stage of development at cancellation, etc. Think this would be interesting historical reading.

Was it really McNamara that broke the consecutive numbering tradition by insisting the USAF call the Phantom an F-4, as in the Navy?

Who makes the assignments? What is the criteria to make a new model sub-designation (example, F-4C, F-4D)?

Thanks.

Answer 1

The Republic XF-103 Thunderwarrior was a concept for a Mach 3 Jet and Ramjet powered Interceptor, aimed at hunting high-altitude Soviet bombers.

It never made it past the mock-up stage and was not built much less flown.

The Thunderwarrior was Republic's entry into the 1949 USAF requirement for an advanced supersonic interceptor, the contract was awarded to Convair's F-102 Delta Dagger.

Target performance was:

Maximum speed: 1,985 mph (3,195 km/h) at altitude, 2,600 mph (4,180 km/h) with ramjet
Combat radius: 245 mi (394 km)
Service ceiling: 69,000 ft (21,000 m)
Rate of climb: 19,000 ft/min (5,800 m/min)

Image:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:F103-2.jpg

As to fighter designations, here is a link with a good explanation.

http://home.att.net/~jbaugher1/Fdesig.html

Answer 2

f4 c is an older version of f4d any time a major upgrade comes ie; avionics, engines whatever the upgraded model got a new letter designation. not every number got used example ever hear of a f112 a lot never made it off paper some were re designated example f 108 and f 8 are the same airframe i have no clue where mcNamara did anything accept except get a lot of good men killed.

Answer 3

No F-103 as a fighter.

Check here

http://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/

Answer 4

go to the air force website