Iran's 'Top Gun' F-14 fleet, retired from the world but now on the verge of end
Digital Desk, New Delhi. Why does Iran remain the only country in the world that still operates the 'Top Gun' famous F-14 Tomcat fighter aircraft? This unique story is an example of geopolitics, sanctions and Iran's technological stubbornness. As of 15 January 2026, Iran's fleet is now much limited and vulnerable, but it still does not fly anywhere else in the world.
The F-14 Tomcat, made famous by the 1986 and 2022 'Top Gun' films, was retired by the US Navy in 2006. Only Iran in the world still flies it. The US sold 79 aircraft to Shah Iran in the 1970s, but relations broke down after the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
The US seized parts, destroying many of the planes, but Iran kept them alive through cannibalization, reverse engineering, and local efforts. However, with Israeli attacks in 2025 and the upcoming delivery of the Russian Su-35, its end is near—now only a handful (estimated at between 5-20) remain airworthy.