TOPGUN aviators posing in front of an F-16N fighter

Flights of Analysis

As an analytical organization, TOPGUN is a model.

Jason Thomas
September 2019
Three U.S. Navy F-5 Tiger II adversary aircraft in flight

TOPGUN’s Impact

From 1969 to 2019, TOPGUN has remained laser focused on naval aviation’s mission.

September 2019
Closeup of a fighter pilot sitting in a cockpit

The Importance of Culture

Winning in combat requires more than superior technology, it requires a culture of adaptability.

Commander Greg “Drano” Malandrino, U.S. Navy
September 2019
Captain Frank Ault climbing out of a cockput

TOPGUN: The Navy’s First Center of Excellence

Years before the term “center of excellence” became common, a group of Navy fighter pilots and radar intercept officers established just such a place.

Commander David “Bio” Baranek, U.S. Navy (Retired)
September 2019
Four Navy Fighter Weapons School (TOPGUN) F-5s cruise above Southern California on the way to an early morning showdown with some F-14 Tomcats.

TOPGUN Turns 50

The Navy Fighter Weapons School story—told here in five articles by TOPGUN graduates—is one of innovation, hard work, and dedication.

September 2019