As a civilian, I can only marvel at the speed and force of the modern military aircraft. The sleek beauty of the design, the speed that would make me pass out, and the roar of the engine that can be heard from miles away. They truly are one of the world's modern marvels. I'm not the only one who loves jets. My favorite childhood movie is getting a sequel 35 years later in the form of Top Gun: Maverick, and it was perhaps the original that led to men and women signing up en masse for service in the United States Navy. People love these jets.

The United States has employed the service of many great jets over the years. A few of these jets have been active for close to 50 years, while others will certainly come close to that kind of longevity. Do you feel the need for speed? If so, we've got a great selection of prestigious aircraft to show you.

7 of the Coolest Fighter Jets in American Military History

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