REPUBLIC F-84E THUNDERJET The F-84 became the U.S. Army Air Forces' first jet fighter to enter service after World War II. The Thunderjet made its initial flight in February 1946. Republic completed the first production in June 1947, one month before the creation of the U.S. Air Force. Throughout its service life, the Thunderjet served as a day fighter, long-range escort fighter, fighter-bomber and the USAF's first tactical nuclear bomber. The Thunderjet gained its greatest renown during the Korean War where it was used primarily for low-level interdiction missions. The F-84 attacked enemy railroads, bridges, supply depots and troop concentrations with bombs, rockets and napalm. The USAF supplied many Thunderjets to nations participating in the Mutual Assistance Program, which provided military weaponry to defend against the spread of communism. By the time production ceased in 1953, approximately 4,450 "straight-wing" F-84s (later versions had swept wings) had been built. The F-84E on display at the museum was obtained from Robins Air Force Base, Ga., in October 1963. TECHNICAL NOTES: Armament: Six .50-cal. machine guns and eight 5-in. rockets or 2,000 lbs. of bombs or napalm tanks Engine: Allison J35 of 4,900 lbs. thrust Maximum speed: 620 mph Cruising speed: 485 mph Range: 1,485 miles Ceiling: 43,240 ft. Span: 36 ft. 5 in. Length: 38 ft. 6 in. Height: 12 ft. 7 in. Weight: 15,227 lbs. loaded Serial number: 50-1143