Behind The Wings (2019)

S3E3 The Century Series

In the 1950s, The Century Series marked a significant shift in aviation during the Cold War, highlighting the transition from early jets to advanced aircraft. With the sound barrier as a key milestone, the United States embarked on a mission to compete against the burgeoning Soviet Union by developing an array of remarkable fighter jets, collectively referred to as the Century Series. Beginning with the F-100, the first production aircraft to achieve level supersonic flight, the series introduced innovative designs, such as the iconic coke bottle shape of the F-102. The F-104, known as a "missile with a man in it," inspired countless pilots, while the F-105 cleverly disguised itself as a fighter but served as a bomber. The influence of the Century Series is still evident in today’s fighter jet designs.