The Lockheed T-33A was one of the most popular jet aircraft of its time. An advanced trainer, it was used by approximately 25 nations. The prototype's maiden flight occurred in 1948, and production did not cease until 1959. In all, Lockheed built 5691 T-33As and T-33Bs -- the US Navy ordered the B-variant; and the Japanese made another 210 under
license.
In 1951 the RCAF ordered the Lockheed T-33A as its jet training aircraft. In this country the Silver Star was made by Canadair Ltd. under
license. It had the usual features of a trainer, such as tandem-seating for the instructor and student. The Silver Star's role included pilot, jet instrument and weapons training, and it proved suited to its role. Its most famous example was the Red Knight, the red T-33AN that was used for solo aerobatics during the RCAF aerobatic team's displays at air shows.
This aircraft is on loan from the Department of National Defense Canadian Forces Air Command. No. 275 was once a
liaison aircraft for the famed "Snowbirds" and was used to transport support personnel and equipment to air shows across North America.
