Leaps in Technology

Leaps in Technology. . The United States Air Force has always relied upon the application of leading-edge technologies to fulfill its mission of airpower projection. From the XP-59 of 1942 to the B-2, C-17, and F-22 of today, the Flight Test Center has been essential to the USAF strategy of developing and deploying the worlds’ most advanced and effective military aircraft. The F-86 and F-16 (displayed here) represent stellar milestones in this technological continuum and share many similarities. Both were state-of-art when first flown at the AFFTC; aerodynamic and mechanical marvels subsequently emulated by friend and foe alike. Both were essential to the USAF domination of the world’s war-torn skies. Both are absolutely beautiful in form and function and are physical embodiments of the challenge, excitement, and spirit of military aviation. These airplanes are displayed in the colors of our test support fleet during their respective 1950s and 1990s periods of service. This display is dedicated to the military and civilian warriors of the 412th Test Wing who labor on the shores of this famous patch of barren, dry, and dusty lakebed; to their pride in past accomplishment, and their passion for providing America’s Air Force with the best airplanes in the world. May they take pride in wearing the widely recognized and respected patches of the Test Wing, the Flight Test Center, and the U.S. Air Force. , Dedicated July 10, 2002. , AD INEXPLORATA!