The F-84F Thunderstreak grew out of the F-84 program designed by Republic Aviation Corporation in 1944 and first flown in 1946 as the Thunderjet. A swept-wing version was created in 1948, became operational in 1954, and joined the Thunderjet in post-war jet aircraft deterrence during the early years of the Cold War with the USSR. Armed with six .50-caliber M-3 aircraft machine guns, twenty-four 5-inch rockets, and 6,000 pounds of bombs, it was designed as a fighter-bomber capable of attacking ground targets and intercepting high-altitude Soviet bombers. At least 2,711 examples were produced, with 2,112 built by Republic and 599 by General Motors. NATO allies received 1,301 aircraft, while the rest went to the United States Air Force's Tactical Air Command. After the USAF Thunderbirds began air shows in the early 1950s with the F-84G Thunderjet, they adopted the swept-wing F-84F Thunderstreak in 1955 as their new aircraft. The F-84F left USAF active service in 1964 and continued in the Air National Guard until use ended in 1971. The aircraft at Blacksville was bought by Carley McCoy at an open auction at Morgantown Airport in 1963 for fifty dollars, and he erected its stand so it could serve as a landmark for the town. It is one of 46 F-84F aircraft on display in the United States and 74 in the world.