Built in 1957 for the U.S. Air Force, where it served for two years (from November 1957 to November 1959). It was then shipped to Canadair for use as a pattern aircraft for production of the CF-104, which was to be built under licence. Transferred RCAF in June 1963. In December 1967, Wing Commander Robert A. White set the Canadian altitude record of 30,513 metres (100,110 feet) flying this Starfighter.

The RCAF's first Starfighter was a Lockheed built F-104A with US serial 56-779. It was later converted to YF-104G configuration with updated avionics. Taken on strength in March 1961 while still at Lockheed and officially delivered June 27, 1963 retaining F-104A structure. The aircraft was transferred to the National Aeronautical Collection in Ottawa in February 1969.

DND photo.

DND photo.

The RCAF's first Starfighter began as Lockheed built F-104A 56-779. It was later converted to YF-104G configuration with updated avionics. Taken on strength in March 1961 while still at Lockheed and officially delivered June 27, 1963 retaining F-104A structure. The sleek fighter would set a Canadian altitude record of 100,110 ft on December 14, 1967. The aircraft was later transferred to the National Aeronautical Collection in Ottawa.

Delivered to the USAF as 56-770 in 1957. To the RCAF as 12700 in 1961. Converted by Lockheed as test bed for CF-104 avionics. Transferred to National Aeronautical Collection in 1968.

Pattern aircraft used prior to introduction of the CF-104.