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{{Short description|Jet fighter aircraft}}
{{Use Canadian English|date=November 2021}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=November 2021}}
{{more citations needed|date=June 2011}}
{{more citations needed|date=June 2011}}
{|{{Infobox aircraft begin
{{Infobox aircraft
|name = CF-101 Voodoo
|name = CF-101 Voodoo
|image = McDonnell CF-101 in air show.jpg
|image = McDonnell CF-101 in air show.jpg
|caption = McDonnell CF-101 Voodoo
|caption = McDonnell CF-101 Voodoo
}}{{Infobox aircraft type
|type = [[Interceptor aircraft]]
|type = [[Interceptor aircraft]]
|national origin = [[United States]]
|national_origin = [[United States]]
|manufacturer = [[McDonnell]]
|manufacturer = [[McDonnell]]
|designer = <!--Only appropriate for single designers, not project leaders-->
|designer = <!--Only appropriate for single designers, not project leaders-->
|first flight = 29 September 1954 (F-101)
|first_flight = 29 September 1954 (F-101)
|introduced = 1961
|introduction = 1961
|retired = 1987
|retired = 1987
|status = retired
|status = retired
|primary user = [[Royal Canadian Air Force]]
|primary_user = [[Royal Canadian Air Force]]
|more users = [[Canadian Forces]]
|more_users = [[Canadian Forces]]
|produced = <!--years in production, e.g. 1970-1999, if still in active use but no longer built-->
|produced = <!--years in production, e.g. 1970-1999, if still in active use but no longer built-->
|number built = 132 (two batches of 66)
|number_built = 132 (two batches of 66)
⚫
|developed_from = [[McDonnell F-101 Voodoo]]
|unit cost =
⚫
|developed from = [[McDonnell F-101 Voodoo]]
}}
}}
|}


The '''McDonnell CF-101 Voodoo''' was an all-weather [[interceptor aircraft]] operated by the [[Royal Canadian Air Force]] and the [[Canadian Forces]] between 1961 and 1984. They were manufactured by the [[McDonnell Aircraft Corporation]] of [[St. Louis, Missouri]] for the [[United States Air Force]] (as [[McDonnell F-101 Voodoo|F-101]]s), and later sold to [[Canada]]. CF-101s replaced the obsolete [[Avro CF-100 Canuck]] in the RCAF's all-weather fighter squadrons. The Voodoo's primary armament was [[nuclear weapon|nuclear]] [[AIR-2 Genie|AIR-2A Genie]] unguided air-to-air rockets, and there was significant political controversy in Canada about their adoption. Although they never fired a weapon in wartime, the CF-101 served as Canada's primary means of air defence from Quick Reaction Alert facilities at [[Canadian Forces base|Canadian airbases]]. The CF-101s were retired in the 1980s and replaced with [[McDonnell Douglas CF-18 Hornet]] fighters. Many examples are preserved in museums and parks in Canada and the [[United States]].
The '''McDonnell CF-101 Voodoo''' was an all-weather [[interceptor aircraft]] operated by the [[Royal Canadian Air Force]] and the [[Canadian Forces]] between 1961 and 1984. They were manufactured by the [[McDonnell Aircraft Corporation]] of [[St. Louis, Missouri]] for the [[United States Air Force]] (as [[McDonnell F-101 Voodoo|F-101]]s), and later sold to [[Canada]]. CF-101s replaced the obsolete [[Avro CF-100 Canuck]] in the RCAF's all-weather fighter squadrons. The Voodoo's primary armament was [[nuclear weapon|nuclear]] [[AIR-2 Genie|AIR-2A Genie]] unguided air-to-air rockets, and there was significant political controversy in Canada about their adoption. Although they never fired a weapon in wartime, the CF-101 served as Canada's primary means of air defence from Quick Reaction Alert facilities at [[Canadian Forces base|Canadian airbases]]. The CF-101s were retired in the 1980s and replaced with [[McDonnell Douglas CF-18 Hornet]] fighters. Many examples are preserved in museums and parks in Canada and the [[United States]].
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===Origins===
===Origins===
After the cancellation of the [[Avro Canada CF-105 Arrow|CF-105 Arrow]] program in February 1959, [[George Randolph Pearkes|George Pearkes]], the Canadian [[Minister of National Defence (Canada)|Minister of National Defence]] officially maintained that the existing Avro CF-100 interceptors and the [[Bomarc Missile Program|Bomarc]] [[missile]]s that had been ordered in September 1958 would be adequate for Canada's air defense needs. Unofficially, it was recognized that there was still a [[bomber]] threat, and discussions had been underway since before the formal conclusion of the Avro Arrow program concerning the RCAF acquiring an "off-the-shelf" interceptor from the United States.
After the cancellation of the [[Avro Canada CF-105 Arrow|CF-105 Arrow]] program in February 1959, [[George Randolph Pearkes|George Pearkes]], the Canadian [[Minister of National Defence (Canada)|Minister of National Defence]], officially maintained that the existing Avro CF-100 interceptors and the [[Bomarc Missile Program|Bomarc]] [[missile]]s that had been ordered in September 1958 would be adequate for Canada's air defence needs. Unofficially, it was recognized that there was still a [[bomber]] threat, and talks had been underway prior to the Avro Arrow's termination on the RCAF acquisition of an "off-the-shelf" interceptor from the United States.


The USAF indicated that it was prepared to make 56 F-101B interceptors and 10 F-101F trainers available (by employing [[Convair F-102 Delta Dagger]]s in less demanding [[North American Aerospace Defense Command|NORAD]] sectors) for Canadian purchase. The deal was delayed for over a year by negotiations over acquisition costs and offsets, as well as debate within the [[John George Diefenbaker|Diefenbaker]] government about Canada adopting nuclear weapons systems, which had been agreed to, in principle, in 1958. The financial arrangements were sorted out by Canada taking over the staffing and funding of 11 [[Pinetree Line]] [[radar]] stations within Canada that had formerly been operated and funded by the USAF. A detailed agreement signed in June 1961 covered the transfer of the aircraft, meant to equip five front-line squadrons (replacing nine CF-100 squadrons) and an Operational Training Unit (OTU).
The USAF indicated its readiness to supply 56 F-101B interceptors and 10 F-101F trainers (by employing [[Convair F-102 Delta Dagger]]s in less demanding [[North American Aerospace Defense Command|NORAD]] sectors) for Canada. The deal was delayed by over a year by negotiations over offsets and acquisition costs, as well as debate within the [[John Diefenbaker|Diefenbaker]] government about Canada adopting nuclear weapons systems, which had been agreed to in principle in 1958. The financial arrangements were settled by Canada taking on the staffing and funding of 11 [[Pinetree Line]] [[radar]] stations within Canada that had formerly been operated and funded by the USAF. An agreement signed in June 1961 covered the transfer of the aircraft, meant to equip five front-line squadrons (replacing nine CF-100 squadrons) and an Operational Training Unit (OTU).


===Nuclear weapons controversy===
===Nuclear weapons controversy===
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==Operational history==
==Operational history==
[[File:RCAF CF-101B Voodoo.jpg|thumb|CF-101B Voodoo 17395 at the Bagotville Air Pageant, summer 1962. Notice the old-style [[Canadian flag]].]]
[[File:RCAF CF-101B Voodoo.jpg|thumb|CF-101B Voodoo 17395 at the Bagotville Air Pageant, summer 1962. Notice the old-style [[Canadian flag]].]]
On 24 July 1961, the first two aircraft were transferred to Canada in a ceremony at [[CFB Uplands|RCAF Uplands]] in [[Ottawa]], marking the beginning of Operation Queen's Row. [[No. 425 Squadron RCAF|425 Squadron]] officially began Voodoo operations at [[CFB Edmonton|RCAF Namao]], [[Alberta]], on 15 October 1961, initially acting as the conversion training squadron for 410, 416, 409, and 414 Squadrons. No. 425 Squadron then became an operational unit itself, turning the conversion role over to No. 3 All Weather OTU at [[CFB Bagotville|RCAF Bagotville]], [[Quebec]]. By the end of 1962, the squadrons were operating out of [[CFB Comox|RCAF Comox]], [[British Columbia]], ([[No. 409 Squadron RCAF|409 Squadron]]), [[CFB North Bay|RCAF North Bay]], Ontario, ([[No. 414 Squadron RCAF|414 Squadron]]), RCAF Uplands, Ottawa, Ontario, ([[No. 410 Squadron RCAF|410 Squadron]]), RCAF Bagotville, Quebec, (425 Squadron), and [[CFB Chatham|RCAF Chatham]], [[New Brunswick]], ([[No. 416 Squadron RCAF|416 Squadron]]). Defence cuts in 1964 eliminated Nos. 410 and 414 Squadrons (although a reformed 414 Squadron would operate the Voodoo years later).
On 24 July 1961, the first two Voodoos were transferred to Canada in a ceremony at [[CFB Uplands|RCAF Uplands]] in [[Ottawa]], marking the beginning of Operation Queen's Row. [[No. 425 Squadron RCAF|425 Squadron]] officially began operations at [[CFB Edmonton|RCAF Namao]], [[Alberta]], on 15 October 1961, initially acting as the conversion training squadron for 410, 416, 409, and 414 Squadrons. No. 425 then became an operational unit itself, turning the conversion role over to No. 3 All Weather OTU at [[CFB Bagotville|RCAF Bagotville]], [[Quebec]]. By the end of 1962, the squadrons were operating out of [[CFB Comox|RCAF Comox]], [[British Columbia]], ([[No. 409 Squadron RCAF|409 Squadron]]), [[CFB North Bay|RCAF North Bay]], Ontario, ([[No. 414 Squadron RCAF|414 Squadron]]), RCAF Uplands, Ottawa, Ontario, ([[No. 410 Squadron RCAF|410 Squadron]]), RCAF Bagotville, Quebec, (425 Squadron), and [[CFB Chatham|RCAF Chatham]], [[New Brunswick]], ([[No. 416 Squadron RCAF|416 Squadron]]). Defence cuts in 1964 eliminated Nos. 410 and 414 Squadrons (although a reformed 414 Squadron would operate the Voodoo years later).


[[File:CF-101B CFB Moose Jaw 1982.JPG|thumb|CF-101 Voodoo 101060 from [[No. 409 Squadron RCAF|409 "Nighthawk" Squadron]], [[CFB Comox]] on the ramp at [[CFB Moose Jaw]] in 1982]]
[[File:CF-101B CFB Moose Jaw 1982.JPG|thumb|CF-101 Voodoo 101060 from [[No. 409 Squadron RCAF|409 "Nighthawk" Squadron]], [[CFB Comox]] on the ramp at [[CFB Moose Jaw]] in 1982]]
Each Voodoo base was laid out to allow aircraft to be kept at immediate readiness at all times. A Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) facility was positioned at the end of the main runway to allow alert aircraft to launch as quickly as possible. Two aircraft and their crews were always on "five minute" alert — the aircraft were to be in the air, en route to intercept unknown aircraft, within five minutes of receiving the order. In one instance, 416 Squadron was able to get two alert aircraft in the air only 57 seconds after receiving the alert. Voodoos were dispatched with some regularity to intercept unidentified NORAD radar contacts, usually [[airliner]]s flying off course, although 416 and 425 occasionally intercepted [[Soviet Union|Soviet]] [[Tupolev Tu-95|Tu-95 Bear]] bombers flying along the [[Atlantic ocean|Atlantic]] coast to [[Cuba]]. Fortunately, no situation ever arose in which a CF-101 pilot fired his weapons in anger.
Each Voodoo base was laid out to allow aircraft to be kept at immediate readiness at all times. A Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) facility was positioned at the end of the main runway to allow alert aircraft to launch as quickly as possible. Two aircraft and their crews were always on "five minute" alert — they were to be in the air, en route to intercept unknown aircraft, within five minutes of receiving the order. In one instance, 416 Squadron got two alert aircraft in the air only 57 seconds after receiving the alert. Voodoos were regularly dispatched to intercept unidentified NORAD radar contacts, usually off course [[airliner]]s, although 416 and 425 occasionally intercepted [[Soviet Union|Soviet]] [[Tupolev Tu-95|Tu-95 Bear]] bombers flying along the [[Atlantic Ocean|Atlantic]] coast to [[Cuba]]. Fortunately, no situation arose in which a CF-101 pilot fired his weapons in anger.


Between 1970 and 1972, Canada traded the 56 survivors of the original CF-101 fleet back to the USAF for 66 replacements under Operation Peace Wings. The "new" replacement aircraft were actually manufactured earlier than the original fleet, but the "new" airframes had a lower number of hours, plus the "new" Voodoos received updates which the original Canadian Voodoos had not received (including the addition of an [[Infra-red search and track|IR tracking system]]). [[Bristol Aerospace]] of [[Winnipeg, Manitoba]], performed modifications on the incoming fleet, which involved transferring some specifically Canadian items of equipment, including engines, from the "old" aircraft to the "new." Many of the "old" Canadian Voodoos were scrapped when they returned to the U.S., but 22 were converted to RF-101B photo-[[reconnaissance]] versions and flew with the [[Nevada]] [[Air National Guard]] until 1975.
Between 1970 and 1972, Canada traded the 56 survivors of the original CF-101 fleet back to the USAF for 66 replacements under Operation Peace Wings. These replacement aircraft were actually manufactured earlier than the original fleet, but the "new" airframes had a lower number of hours and had received updates that the original Canadian Voodoos had not (such as an [[Infra-red search and track|IR tracking system]]). [[Bristol Aerospace]] of [[Winnipeg, Manitoba]] performed modifications on the incoming fleet such as transferring some specifically Canadian equipment, including engines, from the old aircraft to the new. Most of the old Canadian Voodoos were scrapped in the US, but 22 were converted to RF-101B photo-[[reconnaissance]] versions and flew with the [[Nevada]] [[Air National Guard]] until 1975.


[[File:McDonnell CF-101B (101057).jpg|thumb|CF-101B (101057) from 409 Squadron in an airshow flypast on 13 June 1982 at CFB Edmonton]]
[[File:McDonnell CF-101B (101057).jpg|thumb|CF-101B (101057) from 409 Squadron in an airshow flypast on 13 June 1982 at CFB Edmonton]]


During its service, the CF-101 was a popular performer at [[airshow]]s and other events in Canada and the United States; displays ranged from a single aircraft's appearance to an entire squadron. In 1967, a CF-101 flew (in company with a CF-104 and [[The Red Knight (aircraft)|The Red Knight]] [[Lockheed T-33|T-33]]) in the [[Golden Centennaires]] display team to mark the nation's Centennial. In 1984, each squadron painted a special "show" aircraft to commemorate the type's impending retirement. 409 Squadron produced "Hawk One Canada," 416 Squadron produced "Lynx One Canada," and 425 Squadron produced "Lark One Canada/Alouette Un Canada."
During its service, the CF-101 was a popular performer at [[airshow]]s and other events in Canada and the United States. In 1967, a CF-101 flew (in company with a CF-104 and [[The Red Knight (aircraft)|The Red Knight]] [[Lockheed T-33|T-33]]) in the [[Golden Centennaires]] display team to mark the nation's Centennial. In 1984, each squadron painted a special "show" aircraft to commemorate the type's impending retirement.


===Obsolescence and retirement===
===Obsolescence and retirement===
Through the 1970s, the increasing obsolescence of the CF-101 and the [[Canadair CF-104|CF-104]] led to the [[New Fighter Aircraft program]]. Launched in 1977, the program sought a replacement for the [[Canadair CF-5|CF-5]], [[CF-104 Starfighter]], and CF-101 Voodoo. The [[Grumman F-14 Tomcat]], [[McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle|F-15 Eagle]], [[General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon|F-16 Falcon]], [[McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet]], [[Panavia Tornado]], [[Dassault Mirage F1]], and the [[Mirage 2000]] were evaluated as potential replacements. Cost considerations reduced the choice to the F-16 and F-18; the F-18 was ultimately selected in April 1980. The Voodoo OTU converted to [[CF-18 Hornet]]s in June 1982; 409 and 425 Squadrons also stood down in June 1984. In 1985 416 Squadron stood down before re-constituting with the CF-18 Hornet in
Through the 1970s, the increasing obsolescence of the CF-101 and the [[Canadair CF-104|CF-104]] led to the [[New Fighter Aircraft program]]. Launched in 1977, the program sought a replacement for the [[Canadair CF-5|CF-5]], [[CF-104 Starfighter]], and CF-101 Voodoo. The [[Grumman F-14 Tomcat]], [[McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle|F-15 Eagle]], [[General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon|F-16 Falcon]], [[McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet]], [[Panavia Tornado]], [[Dassault Mirage F1]], and the [[Mirage 2000]] were evaluated as potential replacements. Cost considerations reduced the choice to the F-16 and F-18; the F-18 was ultimately selected in April 1980. The Voodoo OTU converted to [[CF-18 Hornet]]s in June 1982; 409 and 425 Squadrons also stood down in June 1984. In 1985, 416 Squadron moved from CFB Chatham, New Brunswick to CFB Cold Lake, Alberta and converted from the Voodoo to the Hornet.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.canadianwings.com/Squadrons/squadronDetail.php?No.-416-Squadron-75|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130201103633/http://www.canadianwings.com/Squadrons/squadronDetail.php?No.-416-Squadron-75|url-status=dead|archive-date=1 February 2013|title=No. 416 Squadron|author=Bob Hurst|work=canadianwings.com|access-date=4 June 2015}}</ref> With the stand down, the last nuclear weapons in Canada were returned to the US.
[[File:Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum (7242809834).jpg|thumb|320x320px|A CF-101 (background) on display at [[John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport|Hamilton International Airport]]. A [[Canadair CF-104 Starfighter|CF-104]] is in the foreground.|left]]
1989 at CFB Cold Lake, Alberta. With the stand down, the last nuclear weapons in Canada were returned to the United States.
⚫
Two Voodoos remained in service after the stand-down: the unique ''EF-101B'' "Electric Voodoo" electronic jamming aircraft and a single CF-101F trainer with 414 Squadron at North Bay, Ontario. The EF-101B was a conversion of a regular F-101B, incorporating the electronic jamming suite from an [[B-57 Canberra|EB-57E Canberra]]. Only one aircraft was converted before the program was cancelled and this sole example was leased to Canada.{{Citation needed|date=January 2017}} The EF-101B was returned to the United States on 7 April 1987, while CF-101F 101006 made the world's last Voodoo flight on 9 April 1987, as it made a delivery flight from CFB North Bay to CFB Greenwood via CFB Bagotville and CFB Chatham for eventual display at [[CFB Cornwallis]], [[Nova Scotia]], where it decorated the parade square at the Recruit School.{{Citation needed|date=January 2017}} After CFB Cornwallis closed in 1995, 006 was moved to the Cornwallis Military Museum; in October 2013, due to corrosion and security concerns, 006 was donated to the Jet Aircraft Museum in London, Ontario, where it is presently undergoing refurbishment.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://jetaircraftmuseum.ca/projects/mcdonnell-cf-101-voodoo/|title=McDonnell CF-101 Voodoo – Jet Aircraft Museum|website=jetaircraftmuseum.ca|language=en-US|access-date=2017-06-29|archive-date=29 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170629193357/http://jetaircraftmuseum.ca/projects/mcdonnell-cf-101-voodoo/|url-status=dead}}</ref>

⚫
Two Voodoos remained in service after the stand-down: the unique ''EF-101B'' electronic jamming aircraft (also known as the "Electric Voodoo") and a single CF-101F trainer, in service with 414 Squadron at North Bay, Ontario. The EF-101B was a conversion of a regular F-101B, incorporating the electronic jamming suite from an [[B-57 Canberra|EB-57E Canberra]]. Only one aircraft was converted before the program was cancelled and this sole example was leased to Canada.{{Citation needed|date=January 2017}} The last two Voodoos continued to fly until April 1987, when they were finally retired.{{Citation needed|date=January 2017}} The EF-101B was returned to the United States on 7 April 1987, while CF-101F 101006 made the world's last Voodoo flight on 9 April 1987, as it made a delivery flight from CFB North Bay to CFB Greenwood via CFB Bagotville and CFB Chatham for eventual display at [[CFB Cornwallis]], [[Nova Scotia]], where it decorated the parade square at the Recruit School.{{Citation needed|date=January 2017}} After CFB Cornwallis closed in 1995, 006 was moved to beside the Cornwallis Military Museum, located in the old St Georges Chapel on base. In October 2013, because of corrosion and security concerns, the museum donated 006 to the Jet Aircraft Museum in London, Ontario, where it is presently undergoing refurbishment.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://jetaircraftmuseum.ca/projects/mcdonnell-cf-101-voodoo/|title=McDonnell CF-101 Voodoo – Jet Aircraft Museum|website=jetaircraftmuseum.ca|language=en-US|access-date=2017-06-29}}</ref>


==Variants==
==Variants==
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==Operators==
==Operators==
;{{flagicon|Canada|1921}} / {{CAN}}
;{{flagicon|Canada|1921}} / {{CAN}}
*[[Royal Canadian Air Force]]/[[Canadian Forces]]<ref>Baugher, Joe. [http://www.joebaugher.com/usaf_fighters/f101_4.html "Voodoos for Canada."] "USAF fighters,'' 7 January 2003. Retrieved: 6 October 2011.</ref>
*[[Royal Canadian Air Force]]/[[Canadian Forces]]<ref>Baugher, Joe. [http://www.joebaugher.com/usaf_fighters/f101_4.html "Voodoos for Canada."] ''USAF fighters'', 7 January 2003. Retrieved: 6 October 2011.</ref>
**[[No. 409 Squadron RCAF]] – [[CFB Comox]]
**[[No. 409 Squadron RCAF]] – [[CFB Comox]]
**[[No. 410 Squadron RCAF]] – [[CFB Uplands]]
**[[No. 410 Squadron RCAF]] – [[CFB Uplands]]
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[[File:CF-101B- WCAM.jpg|thumb|CF-101B at the [[Western Canada Aviation Museum]], [[Winnipeg|Winnipeg, Manitoba]], c. 2005.]]
[[File:CF-101B- WCAM.jpg|thumb|CF-101B at the [[Western Canada Aviation Museum]], [[Winnipeg|Winnipeg, Manitoba]], c. 2005.]]
[[File:Cf101 borden 1.jpg|thumb|CF-101 displayed at [[CFB Borden]].]]
[[File:Cf101 borden 1.jpg|thumb|CF-101 displayed at [[CFB Borden]].]]
[[File:CF-101F.jpg|thumb|CF-101F S/N 101022 at [[McChord Air Force Base]]]]


Over 30 Canadian and ex-Canadian CF-101s are preserved in museums and as memorials in Canada and the United States.<ref>Keenan, Martin. [http://www.coastcomp.com/av/pres/Preserved_Canadian_Voodoo_Page_version_3.htm "Preserved Canadian (or ex-Canadian) Voodoo Page."] ''coastcomp.com''. Retrieved: 5 April 2010.</ref>
Over 30 Canadian and ex-Canadian CF-101s are preserved in museums and as memorials in Canada and the United States.<ref>Keenan, Martin. [http://www.coastcomp.com/av/pres/Preserved_Canadian_Voodoo_Page_version_3.htm "Preserved Canadian (or ex-Canadian) Voodoo Page."] ''coastcomp.com''. Retrieved: 5 April 2010.</ref>
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|climb rate ftmin=36,500
|climb rate ftmin=36,500
|climb rate ms=185
|climb rate ms=185
|climb rate note=<ref>https://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.asp?aircraft_id=73</ref>
|climb rate note=<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.asp?aircraft_id=73|title=McDonnell F-101 Voodoo}}</ref>
|wing loading lb/sqft=124
|wing loading lb/sqft=124
|wing loading kg/m2=607
|wing loading kg/m2=607
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{{reflist}}
{{reflist}}
;Bibliography
;Bibliography
⚫
* Green, William and Gordon Swanborough. ''The Great Book of Fighters''. St. Paul, Minnesota: MBI Publishing, 2001. {{ISBN|0-7603-1194-3}}.
{{refbegin}}


===Further reading===
* Clearwater, John M. ''Canadian Nuclear Weapons: The Untold Story of Canada's Cold War Arsenal''. Toronto: Dundurn Press, 1998. {{ISBN|1-55002-299-7}}.
* Clearwater, John M. ''Canadian Nuclear Weapons: The Untold Story of Canada's Cold War Arsenal''. Toronto: Dundurn Press, 1998. {{ISBN|1-55002-299-7}}.
* Dempsey, Dan. ''A Tradition of Excellence: Canada's Airshow Team Heritage''. Victoria, BC: High Flight Enterprises, 2002. {{ISBN|0-9687817-0-5}}.
* Dempsey, Dan. ''A Tradition of Excellence: Canada's Airshow Team Heritage''. Victoria, BC: High Flight Enterprises, 2002. {{ISBN|0-9687817-0-5}}.
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* Dorr, Robert F. "McDonnell F-88/F-101 Voodoo Variant Briefing." ''Wings of Fame, Vol 1''. London: Aerospace Publishing Ltd., 1995. {{ISBN|1-874023-68-9}}.
* Dorr, Robert F. "McDonnell F-88/F-101 Voodoo Variant Briefing." ''Wings of Fame, Vol 1''. London: Aerospace Publishing Ltd., 1995. {{ISBN|1-874023-68-9}}.
* Francillon, René J. "It's Witchcraft: McDonnell's F-101 Voodoo." ''Airpower: Vol. 10, no. 3''. May 1980.
* Francillon, René J. "It's Witchcraft: McDonnell's F-101 Voodoo." ''Airpower: Vol. 10, no. 3''. May 1980.
⚫
* Green, William and Gordon Swanborough. ''The Great Book of Fighters''. St. Paul, Minnesota: MBI Publishing, 2001. {{ISBN|0-7603-1194-3}}.
* Keenan, Martin. "Voodoo Magic." ''Air Force, Vol. 27, #1 (Spring 2003)''. Ottawa: Canadian Air Force Association, 2003.
* Keenan, Martin. "Voodoo Magic." ''Air Force, Vol. 27, #1 (Spring 2003)''. Ottawa: Canadian Air Force Association, 2003.
* Knaack, Marcelle Size. ''Encyclopedia of US Air Force Aircraft and Missile Systems: Volume 1 Post-World War II Fighters 1945–1973''. Washington, DC: Office of Air Force History, 1978. {{ISBN|0-912799-59-5}}.
* Knaack, Marcelle Size. ''Encyclopedia of US Air Force Aircraft and Missile Systems: Volume 1 Post-World War II Fighters 1945–1973''. Washington, DC: Office of Air Force History, 1978. {{ISBN|0-912799-59-5}}.
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* [[Larry Milberry|Milberry, Larry]]. ''Canada's Air Force at War and Peace, Volume 3''. Toronto: CANAV Books, 2000. {{ISBN|0-921022-13-1}}.
* [[Larry Milberry|Milberry, Larry]]. ''Canada's Air Force at War and Peace, Volume 3''. Toronto: CANAV Books, 2000. {{ISBN|0-921022-13-1}}.
* Rankin-Lowe, Jeff and Andrew Cline. ''The Aircraft of the Canadian Armed Forces''. Toronto: Sirius Publications (independently published), 1996. No ISBN.
* Rankin-Lowe, Jeff and Andrew Cline. ''The Aircraft of the Canadian Armed Forces''. Toronto: Sirius Publications (independently published), 1996. No ISBN.
{{refend}}


==External links==
==External links==
{{Commons category|McDonnell CF-101 Voodoo}}
{{Commons category|McDonnell CF-101 Voodoo}}
* [https://torontoaviationhistory.com/preserved-canadian-voodoos/ A list of preserved Canadian Voodoos] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190424145832/https://torontoaviationhistory.com/preserved-canadian-voodoos/ |date=24 April 2019 }}
* [http://www.coastcomp.com/av/pres/Preserved_Canadian_Voodoo_Page_version_3.htm List of preserved Canadian Voodoos]
* [https://torontoaviationhistory.com/preserved-canadian-voodoos/ Another list of preserved Canadian Voodoos]


{{McDD aircraft}}
{{McDD aircraft}}
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[[Category:Twinjets]]
[[Category:Twinjets]]
[[Category:Mid-wing aircraft]]
[[Category:Mid-wing aircraft]]
[[Category:Canada–United States military relations]]

Latest revision as of 09:04, 10 September 2024

CF-101 Voodoo
McDonnell CF-101 Voodoo
General information
TypeInterceptor aircraft
National originUnited States
ManufacturerMcDonnell
Statusretired
Primary usersRoyal Canadian Air Force
Number built132 (two batches of 66)
History
Introduction date1961
First flight29 September 1954 (F-101)
Retired1987
Developed fromMcDonnell F-101 Voodoo

The McDonnell CF-101 Voodoo was an all-weather interceptor aircraft operated by the Royal Canadian Air Force and the Canadian Forces between 1961 and 1984. They were manufactured by the McDonnell Aircraft Corporation of St. Louis, Missouri for the United States Air Force (as F-101s), and later sold to Canada. CF-101s replaced the obsolete Avro CF-100 Canuck in the RCAF's all-weather fighter squadrons. The Voodoo's primary armament was nuclear AIR-2A Genie unguided air-to-air rockets, and there was significant political controversy in Canada about their adoption. Although they never fired a weapon in wartime, the CF-101 served as Canada's primary means of air defence from Quick Reaction Alert facilities at Canadian airbases. The CF-101s were retired in the 1980s and replaced with McDonnell Douglas CF-18 Hornet fighters. Many examples are preserved in museums and parks in Canada and the United States.

Acquisition

[edit]

Origins

[edit]

After the cancellation of the CF-105 Arrow program in February 1959, George Pearkes, the Canadian Minister of National Defence, officially maintained that the existing Avro CF-100 interceptors and the Bomarc missiles that had been ordered in September 1958 would be adequate for Canada's air defence needs. Unofficially, it was recognized that there was still a bomber threat, and talks had been underway prior to the Avro Arrow's termination on the RCAF acquisition of an "off-the-shelf" interceptor from the United States.

The USAF indicated its readiness to supply 56 F-101B interceptors and 10 F-101F trainers (by employing Convair F-102 Delta Daggers in less demanding NORAD sectors) for Canada. The deal was delayed by over a year by negotiations over offsets and acquisition costs, as well as debate within the Diefenbaker government about Canada adopting nuclear weapons systems, which had been agreed to in principle in 1958. The financial arrangements were settled by Canada taking on the staffing and funding of 11 Pinetree Line radar stations within Canada that had formerly been operated and funded by the USAF. An agreement signed in June 1961 covered the transfer of the aircraft, meant to equip five front-line squadrons (replacing nine CF-100 squadrons) and an Operational Training Unit (OTU).

Nuclear weapons controversy

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CF-101B firing AIR-2 Genie in 1982

The issue of nuclear weapons in Canada had not been resolved in June 1961, thus the CF-101s were armed only with their secondary AIM-4D Falcon missiles. In April 1963, the issue led to the collapse of the Diefenbaker government. The succeeding Pearson government signed an agreement with the United States concerning nuclear arms for Canada on 16 August 1963. The agreement did not actually state that Canada was acquiring nuclear weapons; the Canadian government usually refused to confirm or deny that there were any nuclear arms in Canada. The agreement specifically stated that the AIR-2A Genie rockets were the property of the United States and would only be released to Canada for actual use with the joint agreement of Canada and the United States through NORAD. The stringent training requirements meant that it took until June 1965 for the Genies to become operational in Canada. The Genies were kept in the custody of the USAF, with detachments of the 425th Munitions Support Squadron located at each of the Canadian bases.

Operational history

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CF-101B Voodoo 17395 at the Bagotville Air Pageant, summer 1962. Notice the old-style Canadian flag.

On 24 July 1961, the first two Voodoos were transferred to Canada in a ceremony at RCAF Uplands in Ottawa, marking the beginning of Operation Queen's Row. 425 Squadron officially began operations at RCAF Namao, Alberta, on 15 October 1961, initially acting as the conversion training squadron for 410, 416, 409, and 414 Squadrons. No. 425 then became an operational unit itself, turning the conversion role over to No. 3 All Weather OTU at RCAF Bagotville, Quebec. By the end of 1962, the squadrons were operating out of RCAF Comox, British Columbia, (409 Squadron), RCAF North Bay, Ontario, (414 Squadron), RCAF Uplands, Ottawa, Ontario, (410 Squadron), RCAF Bagotville, Quebec, (425 Squadron), and RCAF Chatham, New Brunswick, (416 Squadron). Defence cuts in 1964 eliminated Nos. 410 and 414 Squadrons (although a reformed 414 Squadron would operate the Voodoo years later).

CF-101 Voodoo 101060 from 409 "Nighthawk" Squadron, CFB Comox on the ramp at CFB Moose Jaw in 1982

Each Voodoo base was laid out to allow aircraft to be kept at immediate readiness at all times. A Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) facility was positioned at the end of the main runway to allow alert aircraft to launch as quickly as possible. Two aircraft and their crews were always on "five minute" alert — they were to be in the air, en route to intercept unknown aircraft, within five minutes of receiving the order. In one instance, 416 Squadron got two alert aircraft in the air only 57 seconds after receiving the alert. Voodoos were regularly dispatched to intercept unidentified NORAD radar contacts, usually off course airliners, although 416 and 425 occasionally intercepted Soviet Tu-95 Bear bombers flying along the Atlantic coast to Cuba. Fortunately, no situation arose in which a CF-101 pilot fired his weapons in anger.

Between 1970 and 1972, Canada traded the 56 survivors of the original CF-101 fleet back to the USAF for 66 replacements under Operation Peace Wings. These replacement aircraft were actually manufactured earlier than the original fleet, but the "new" airframes had a lower number of hours and had received updates that the original Canadian Voodoos had not (such as an IR tracking system). Bristol Aerospace of Winnipeg, Manitoba performed modifications on the incoming fleet such as transferring some specifically Canadian equipment, including engines, from the old aircraft to the new. Most of the old Canadian Voodoos were scrapped in the US, but 22 were converted to RF-101B photo-reconnaissance versions and flew with the Nevada Air National Guard until 1975.

CF-101B (101057) from 409 Squadron in an airshow flypast on 13 June 1982 at CFB Edmonton

During its service, the CF-101 was a popular performer at airshows and other events in Canada and the United States. In 1967, a CF-101 flew (in company with a CF-104 and The Red Knight T-33) in the Golden Centennaires display team to mark the nation's Centennial. In 1984, each squadron painted a special "show" aircraft to commemorate the type's impending retirement.

Obsolescence and retirement

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Through the 1970s, the increasing obsolescence of the CF-101 and the CF-104 led to the New Fighter Aircraft program. Launched in 1977, the program sought a replacement for the CF-5, CF-104 Starfighter, and CF-101 Voodoo. The Grumman F-14 Tomcat, F-15 Eagle, F-16 Falcon, McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet, Panavia Tornado, Dassault Mirage F1, and the Mirage 2000 were evaluated as potential replacements. Cost considerations reduced the choice to the F-16 and F-18; the F-18 was ultimately selected in April 1980. The Voodoo OTU converted to CF-18 Hornets in June 1982; 409 and 425 Squadrons also stood down in June 1984. In 1985, 416 Squadron moved from CFB Chatham, New Brunswick to CFB Cold Lake, Alberta and converted from the Voodoo to the Hornet.[1] With the stand down, the last nuclear weapons in Canada were returned to the US.

A CF-101 (background) on display at Hamilton International Airport. A CF-104 is in the foreground.

Two Voodoos remained in service after the stand-down: the unique EF-101B "Electric Voodoo" electronic jamming aircraft and a single CF-101F trainer with 414 Squadron at North Bay, Ontario. The EF-101B was a conversion of a regular F-101B, incorporating the electronic jamming suite from an EB-57E Canberra. Only one aircraft was converted before the program was cancelled and this sole example was leased to Canada.[citation needed] The EF-101B was returned to the United States on 7 April 1987, while CF-101F 101006 made the world's last Voodoo flight on 9 April 1987, as it made a delivery flight from CFB North Bay to CFB Greenwood via CFB Bagotville and CFB Chatham for eventual display at CFB Cornwallis, Nova Scotia, where it decorated the parade square at the Recruit School.[citation needed] After CFB Cornwallis closed in 1995, 006 was moved to the Cornwallis Military Museum; in October 2013, due to corrosion and security concerns, 006 was donated to the Jet Aircraft Museum in London, Ontario, where it is presently undergoing refurbishment.[2]

Variants

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The EF-101B "Electric Voodoo" on its final deployment, 1987
  • CF-101B : Two-seat all-weather interceptor fighter aircraft.
  • CF-101F : Two-seat, dual control training aircraft.
  • EF-101B : Electronic jamming aircraft.

Operators

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Canada /  Canada

Aircraft on display

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Main article: List of surviving McDonnell F-101 Voodoos
Royal Canadian Air Force McDonnell CF-101 Voodoo at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum.
CF-101B at the Western Canada Aviation Museum, Winnipeg, Manitoba, c. 2005.
CF-101 displayed at CFB Borden.
CF-101F S/N 101022 at McChord Air Force Base

Over 30 Canadian and ex-Canadian CF-101s are preserved in museums and as memorials in Canada and the United States.[4]

Specifications (F-101B)

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Data from The Great Book of Fighters[5]

General characteristics

  • Crew: Two
  • Length: 67 ft 5 in (20.55 m)
  • Wingspan: 39 ft 8 in (12.09 m)
  • Height: 18 ft 0 in (5.49 m)
  • Wing area: 368 sq ft (34.20 m2)
  • Airfoil: NACA 65A007 mod root, 65A006 mod tip
  • Empty weight: 28,495 lb (12,925 kg)
  • Gross weight: 45,665 lb (20,715 kg)
  • Max takeoff weight: 52,400 lb (23,770 kg)
  • Powerplant: 2 × Pratt & Whitney J57-P-55 afterburning turbojets, 11,990 lbf (53.3 kN) thrust each dry, 16,900 lbf (75 kN) with afterburner

Performance

  • Maximum speed: 1,134 mph (1,825 km/h, 985 kn) at 35,000 ft (10,500 m)
  • Maximum speed: Mach 1.72
  • Range: 1,520 mi (2,450 km, 1,320 nmi)
  • Service ceiling: 54,800 ft (17,800 m) [6]
  • Rate of climb: 36,500 ft/min (185 m/s) [7]
  • Wing loading: 124 lb/sq ft (607 kg/m2)
  • Thrust/weight: 0.74

Armament

  • Rockets: two AIR-2A Genie unguided nuclear rockets with 1.5 Kt warhead
  • Missiles: Two AIM-4D Falcon heat-seeking air-to-air missiles

Avionics

  • Hughes MG-13 fire control system

See also

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Related development

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era

Related lists

References

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Notes
  1. ^ Bob Hurst. "No. 416 Squadron". canadianwings.com. Archived from the original on 1 February 2013. Retrieved 4 June 2015.
  2. ^ "McDonnell CF-101 Voodoo – Jet Aircraft Museum". jetaircraftmuseum.ca. Archived from the original on 29 June 2017. Retrieved 29 June 2017.
  3. ^ Baugher, Joe. "Voodoos for Canada." USAF fighters, 7 January 2003. Retrieved: 6 October 2011.
  4. ^ Keenan, Martin. "Preserved Canadian (or ex-Canadian) Voodoo Page." coastcomp.com. Retrieved: 5 April 2010.
  5. ^ Green and Swanborough 2001
  6. ^ CF-101 Voodoo - Canadian Profile, Aircraft No. 2 Robert McIntyre SMS Publishing
  7. ^ "McDonnell F-101 Voodoo".
Bibliography
  • Green, William and Gordon Swanborough. The Great Book of Fighters. St. Paul, Minnesota: MBI Publishing, 2001. ISBN 0-7603-1194-3.


Further reading

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  • Clearwater, John M. Canadian Nuclear Weapons: The Untold Story of Canada's Cold War Arsenal. Toronto: Dundurn Press, 1998. ISBN 1-55002-299-7.
  • Dempsey, Dan. A Tradition of Excellence: Canada's Airshow Team Heritage. Victoria, BC: High Flight Enterprises, 2002. ISBN 0-9687817-0-5.
  • Dorr, Robert F. McDonnell F-101 Voodoo. London: Osprey Publications, 1987. ISBN 0-85045-752-1.
  • Dorr, Robert F. "McDonnell F-88/F-101 Voodoo Variant Briefing." Wings of Fame, Vol 1. London: Aerospace Publishing Ltd., 1995. ISBN 1-874023-68-9.
  • Francillon, René J. "It's Witchcraft: McDonnell's F-101 Voodoo." Airpower: Vol. 10, no. 3. May 1980.
  • Keenan, Martin. "Voodoo Magic." Air Force, Vol. 27, #1 (Spring 2003). Ottawa: Canadian Air Force Association, 2003.
  • Knaack, Marcelle Size. Encyclopedia of US Air Force Aircraft and Missile Systems: Volume 1 Post-World War II Fighters 1945–1973. Washington, DC: Office of Air Force History, 1978. ISBN 0-912799-59-5.
  • McIntyre, Robert. CF-101 Voodoo: Canadian Profile. Ottawa: SMS Publishing, 1984. ISBN 0-920375-01-4.
  • Milberry, Larry. Canada's Air Force at War and Peace, Volume 3. Toronto: CANAV Books, 2000. ISBN 0-921022-13-1.
  • Rankin-Lowe, Jeff and Andrew Cline. The Aircraft of the Canadian Armed Forces. Toronto: Sirius Publications (independently published), 1996. No ISBN.
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