The aircraft was developed in the first half of the 50-ies with the use of experience gained in the conduct of hostilities in Korea. At this time, it was believed that the main characteristic of the fighter is the maximum speed, maneuverability was considered optional, because maneuverable air combat allegedly outlived its usefulness. In the foreground put forward an automated air battle in which the aircraft after take-off from the airport, at maximum speed was aimed at the target, made the launch of missiles and returned back. The fighter was given the role of a "manned rocket". F-104 was the embodiment of this concept, which was considered revolutionary, determining the future of the fighter aircraft. The aircraft was created under the leadership of the famous American aircraft designer Kelly Johnson, who developed such famous aircraft as the P-38 lightning (Lightning) and SR-71 black bird (Black bird). "Zvezdafighter" made its first flight on September 9, 1954. In 1964, a special version of the aircraft F-104G was set a world speed record on the basis of 15-25km – 2300km/h. the Aircraft was mass-produced in 1958-1978gg. During this time, 2615 fighters of various modifications were produced, of which approximately 2,200 were exported (including those built under license in other countries). F-104 was in service with the air force of 15 States and in the period 1960-1970gg was the main fighter-bomber air force of NATO countries.The combat load was very diverse. Armament of the most common modification of the F-104G was a stationary gun M-61 “Volcano” caliber 20 mm with a stock of 750 shells and a rate of fire of 6000 rounds per minute. Seven knots outer suspension of the mole to be used for transporting bombs, missiles "Sidewinder", "Sparrow", and containers with unguided projectiles (usually 2-4 x AIM-9 "Skywinder" or 2 x AGM-12B "Falcon"; NAR or bombs to 907кг).
