In the history of aeronautics, few planes have been as talked-about as the Lockheed F-104 Starfighter, designed in the mid-50s. This streamlined aircraft, with its stubby wings, stratospheric performance and a top speed of Mach 2 even fired the imagination of the general public: immediately dubbed the piloted missile. it symbolised the enormous progress then being made in the aeronautical industry. Particularly suited to the role of daytime interceptor, the F-104 was the most widely employed combat aircraft of its era. For several years it formed the backbone of US air forces and also saw extensive service in many other countries such as Germany, Italy, Holland, Belgium, Canada, Turley, Denmark, Norway and even Nationalist China. It remained in service with some air forces until just a few years ago. The F-104 held a special fascination for pilots despite the difficulties.