Behind the Wings ®
The Podcast – S7, Episode 69
Retired Pilot Col. John “Warman” Stewart discusses his Vietnam combat sorties and how the Super Sabre saved his life multiple times.
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In this episode, we explore the history of the aircraft, John’s Air Force career, his first supersonic flight, and what it was like operating one of the most important fighters of the Cold War. We also get an in-depth tour of the cockpit that helped usher in a new era of air combat. From breaking the sound barrier to supporting troops on the ground, this one is going to be cool!
Key Takeaways:
- The F-100 Super Sabre was the U.S. Air Force’s first supersonic fighter, marking a major leap in speed, capability, and risk during the early Cold War.
- Flying the F-100 required constant attention, as early supersonic airplanes left little margin for error and demanded precise energy management.
- John’s Air Force career placed him at the forefront of the jet-age transition, pushing the envelope for both pilots and their aircraft.
- Combat operations over Vietnam highlighted the F-100’s role in close air support, where speed and firepower directly supported ground troops.
- The Super Sabre’s legacy is one of innovation and hard-earned lessons, shaping fighters and tactics that followed for decades.
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