F-14A Tomcat – BuNo 161296
F-14A Tomcat – BuNo 161296
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“Wolfpack to Black Knights – Combat Veteran”
The F-14 Tomcat is an iconic U.S. Navy fleet air defender, famous for its variable-sweep wings, two-person crew, and legendary long-range intercept capability. Introduced in the 1970s, the Tomcat combined advanced radar and air-to-air missiles with high-speed, carrier-operable performance, becoming the symbol of naval air superiority through the Cold War and beyond. Later in its career, the F-14 evolved into a potent air-to-ground platform with the TARP pod.
Our F-14A Tomcat, Bureau Number 161296, carries a remarkable combat history:
• Initially served with VF-1 Wolfpack, where it is famously pictured making a barrier/net catch landing on the USS Kitty Hawk on June 30, 1984.
• Later flew with VF-154 Black Knights.
• Deployed to Al Udeid AB, Qatar during Operation Iraqi Freedom, where it operated as one of only five ground-based Tomcats in the war.
• Delivered 32 laser-guided bombs while using the TARP pod.
• It was the only F-14 in its unit to employ its 20mm Vulcan cannon in combat.
After a distinguished career, Buno 161296 was retired on October 21, 2003. It was later stripped and scrapped for parts. In 2025 we acquired original panels from this historic aircraft through a spare parts supplier, and in 2026 we transformed them into our limited-edition TransportTags — giving you a genuine piece of combat-veteran Tomcat history you can carry with you every day.
(Please note that Transport Tags LLC is not an authorized or licensed distributor of Northrop Grumman, or the United States Navy. We use aircraft names, designations, markings, and historical references for identification and educational purposes only, in accordance with the Lanham Act).
Vehicle History
Vehicle History
The F-14 Tomcat was designed and built by Grumman Aircraft Engineering Corporation (later Northrop Grumman) for the United States Navy. Developed in the late 1960s as a replacement for the F-4 Phantom II, the Tomcat was born from the Navy’s need for a long-range fleet air defense fighter capable of protecting carrier battle groups from Soviet bomber and missile threats. Grumman’s legendary design team, led by Chief Engineer Bob Kress and with significant contributions from test pilot “Corky” Meyer and others, created one of the most distinctive and capable fighters of its era. The aircraft first flew on December 21, 1970, and entered operational service with the Navy in 1974.
Powered by twin Pratt & Whitney TF30 engines (later upgraded in some variants), the F-14 featured revolutionary variable-sweep wings that allowed it to excel in both high-speed intercept missions and low-speed carrier landings. Equipped with the powerful AWG-9 radar and the long-range AIM-54 Phoenix missile, it could engage multiple targets simultaneously at ranges exceeding 100 miles. Over its nearly 30-year career with the U.S. Navy, the Tomcat transitioned from a pure air-superiority platform into a highly effective multi-role fighter-bomber, famously starring in the 1986 film “Top Gun.” The last U.S. Navy F-14s were retired in 2006, leaving behind a legendary legacy as one of the most photographed, celebrated, and beloved naval aircraft in history.
Product Specifics
Product Specifics
Vehicle Stats
Vehicle Stats
Specifications:
• Wingspan: Spread 64 ft (19.55 m) | Swept 38 ft (11.58 m)
• Length: 62 ft 9 in (19.1 m)
• Ceiling: 77,350 ft (23,580 m)
• Top Speed: 1,544 mph (Mach 2.34)
• Engines: 2× Pratt & Whitney TF30-P-412A or 414A
• Armament: 20mm M61A1 Vulcan cannon, AIM-54 Phoenix, AIM-7 Sparrow, AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles, plus laser-guided bombs and unguided munitions
Product Dimensions
Product Dimensions
Disclaimer
Disclaimer
TransportTags are unique, handcrafted pieces made from genuine vehicle skin. Features like scratches, blemishes, or minor discolorations testify to their unique vintage appeal and authenticity. By purchasing, you accept the product may differ slightly from website images. Transport Tags LLC uses authentic material from transportation vehicles, potential containing hazardous substances. Not intended for ingestion, inhalation, or use by small children. Transport Tags LLC is an independent company, not affiliated with, sponsored or endorsed by any entities. We use branded names and insignia for identification under the provisions of the Lanham Act, without implying any association or endorsement. For more information, read our detailed product safety and legal information here.
