The RCAF’s first introduction to the aircraft followed two years later, then the first of twenty Lockheed built T-33As were delivered on loan. The aircraft were known to the RCAF as the Silver Star Mark 1. This first batch was followed by a second loan of ten more aircraft. On 13 September 1951, Canadair signed a license agreement with Lockheed to build T-33 aircraft for the RCAF. The Canadair built version, known internally as the CL-30 (and as the T-33ANX by Lockheed and the USAF), was to be powered by an uprated Nene 10 engine licensed by Rolls Royce and supplied by Orenda Ltd. Once in production, the aircraft were designated T-33 Silver Star Mk 3 by the RCAF. Variations included versions for armament training (AT), photo-reconnaissance (PR) and pilot training (PT). Initially, the RCAF ordered 576 aircraft. Eventually, a total of 656 aircraft would be delivered to the RCAF between 1952 and 1959. Here in Comox, the “T-Bird” had been used by a variety of units until 2002, when it was struck off strength with the closing of 414 Squadron.

DETAILS

Manufacturer:Built by Canadair under license from Lockheed aircraft

Designation: CT-133

Model No: T-33

Marks: Mk I, II, III

Role: Trainer, EW, Target Towing

TOS: 1953SOS: 2002

No: 656

Comox Squadron/Unit Use: 409 Sqn, VU-33, 414 SqnService: RCAF, CF

SPECIFICATIONS

MK IV

Crew / Passengers: 2 crew in ejection seats

Powerplant: one 5100 lb Rolls Royce Nene 10 Turbojet

Performance:

• Max Speed: 570 mph (917 km/h)
• Cruising Speed: M .7, 410K TAS, (470 mph , 760 km/hr ) 
• Service Ceiling: 42,000 ft
• Range: 1,400 m (2,253 km) with tip tank

Weights:

• Empty: 8,440 lb (3,832 kg)
• Gross: 16,800 lbs (7,627 kg)

Dimensions:

• Span: 42 ft 5 in (12.93m)
• Length: 37 ft 8 1/2 in (11.49m) 
• Height: 11 ft 8 in (3.6 m)
• Wing Area: 238 sq ft ( 22.11 sq m)

Armament: none – but provisions for two .50 calibre Browning Machine guns and underwing pylons

Original Cost: $165,000

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