Maverick Act

Space and Rocket Center could get F-14s

If enacted, the Navy would be allowed to give three surplus F-14D Tomcats (Bureau Nos. 164341, 164602, 159437) to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center Commission in Huntsville, Alabama by a conditional deed of gift. The planes would be stripped of munitions-release and other combat capability. The Commission would pay all costs for transfer, compliance checks, upkeep, and operations; the United States would pay none and would not be liable for later use. The Navy would not have to repair the planes, and would provide F-14D manuals it can share. It would be allowed to provide excess spare parts to make one plane flyable or complete a display, but the Commission would replace any part taken from Navy stock at fair market value and would receive no other parts or support. The Commission would have to follow all FAA limits and maintenance rules and would not be allowed to transfer the planes without the Secretary’s approval. If those conditions are broken, title would revert to the United States, which would have the right to take immediate possession. With Navy approval, the Commission would be allowed to work with qualified nonprofits to restore and operate the planes for public display, airshows, and commemorations. All transfers and uses would remain subject to export, arms control, sanctions, and espionage laws.