The Super Tomcat-21 was a promising upgrade to the F-14 that could have ensured no gaps formed in the defenses of carrier groups. However, these warbirds were not cheap.

When the Grumman F-14 Tomcat first flew in 1970, it was a marvel. With its variable-sweep wing, twin tail, and sleek lines, it quickly became one of the most iconic jet fighters of the era — and ...