The Lockheed F-104 Starfighter was a supersonic interceptor aircraft that served in the West German Air Force (Luftwaffe) from 1959 to 1991. It was known for its sleek design, high speed, and impressive climb rate. However, it also had a reputation for being difficult to fly and prone to accidents.

The Luftwaffe acquired 916 F-104s, and over 100 pilots were killed in crashes during its service life. This led to the "Starfighter Affair," a political scandal that highlighted safety concerns and procurement practices. Despite its troubled history, the F-104 remained a significant part of the Luftwaffe's inventory for many years, serving in various roles including air defense, reconnaissance, and training.