A low-cost system for air launch of multistage rockets carrying small military and scientific satellites to LEO could be operational in a few years using present technology and a minimum of investment. Development of such a system would only require the acquisition of Existing small jet trainer/fighter aircraft (from such aircraft presently In service or out of service and in need of restoration) and the down-sizing of a three-stage the T-38A Talon, the exported F-5F Tiger II, And the phased-out F-4E Phantom II. All of these aircraft are super- Sonic with a crew of two and the capability of carrying a small rocket Under the fuselage for subsonic air launch above 40,000-ft altitude.
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