It was a test performed to simulate the effects of a few ounces of C4 explosive at altitude (don't remember the pressure they chose but not too high). The pressure differential and a tiny bit of C4 did that. I cannot remember if it was a few ounces or grams of C4. The lesson learned...it takes VERY little to cause total failure. (i don't remember crap, do I...LOL)

The F-14 knife edge shot was neither a dumb pilot stunt nor a photoshop job. It was a planned photo shoot with Dale Snodgrass, considered the Navy's very best, at the stick. He was not flying a knife edge but was flying a planned turn with an almost 90 degree bank. The manuever was planned so that the apex of the turn would put him in photo position right alongside the ship. It seems to have worked exactly as the F-14 demo pilot planned.

Mark

I love critique. Its easier than being an artist!!!