The F-104C (Lockheed Model 483-04-05) was the tactical strike version of the Starfighter. It was designed to meet the needs of the Tactical Air Command (TAC), which had earlier found the F-104A to be unacceptable because of its low endurance and its inability to carry significant offensive payloads. This aircraft is from 435th TFS/479th TFW based on George AFB, CA, in 1958. In 1959 it was transfered on Moron AB, Spain. In 1962, during the Cuba Crisis, it was transfered at Key West to protect USA air space. In 1965 it was transeferd in Middle East on the Da Nang Air Base, during Viet Nam Conflict, whit MiGCAP mission.