With knowledge gained from the many combat missions its predecessors flew, the North American F-86H Sabre was the pinnacle of the Sabre series. It was heavier and larger than a fighter-bomber, but it performed better. The F-86H, which was developed in the early 1950s, could reach speeds of up to 693 mph thanks to its more potent engine, slightly larger fuselage, and more fuel capacity. Fitted with four 20mm cannons, the F-86H was designed for power and versatility, and it could carry bombs, rockets, or even a nuclear weapon. The F-86H never saw combat, but it served with Air National Guard squadrons and several active-duty wings, leaving a lasting legacy before it was phased out in the early 1970s. Its narrative follows the development of technology from the skies of the 1950s to its current position in aviation history.
In 1966, the Fiat G.91Y was introduced as a potent replacement for the G.91 fighters. The G.91Y was a total redesign, with the most notable change being the addition of two General Electric J85 turbojet engines with afterburners, despite maintaining the fundamental design of its predecessor. Even in a dive, this modification increased thrust by 60%, but it was still unable to break the sound barrier.Constructed upon an elongated fuselage initially intended for the G.91T instructor, the G.91Y provided enhanced capabilities, such as superior acceleration and energy conservation. Up until the early 1990s, the G.91Y was the only multi-role fighter exclusively used by the Italian Air Force. It was equipped with two DEFA 30mm cannons and could carry a wide range of bombs and rockets. Its speed, power, and firepower combined with their lack of countermeasures and air-to-air missiles made them a dangerous presence in the sky.
- G.91Y
- F-86H