US Air Force equivalents of classic 'Star Wars' spacecraft
The U.S. Air Force Central Command has recently published an inspiring post on Social Media asking followers to think what would be the modern Air
Force equivalents of some of the most famous Star Wars ships.
According to USAFCENT:
- X-Wing: F-15E Strike Eagle (Dual-role air-to-air and air-to-ground)
- T-47: A-10 Thunderbolt II (Likes to fly low to the ground; built around guns)
- B-Wing: B-1 Lancer (Large swing-wing with heavy fire power)
- Millennium Falcon: AC-130H (Cargo carrier with firepower)
Generally speaking we agree but the AC-130H (that was retired): the AC-130U is a type in active service, hence more suitable (even though it does not carry cargo, despite it is based on a transport plane).
Someone may object the X-Wing could be the F-22, US’s most advanced multi-role plane; however, the Raptor is stealth and can evade radars, something the Rebels iconic spacecraft is unable to do. Moreover, as suggested by some Star Wars fans (including my son..) there are scenes in which the X-Wing vehicles fly in formation in a Top Gun-fashion loosely reminding the U.S. Navy F-14 “Bombcats.”
And what about the TIE fighter? Considered it represents the enemy side, we shall pick a Russian plane. The multirole, supermaneuverable Su-30SM seems to be the most appropriate.
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