AETC began receiving T-38C models in 2001, with further modernization programmes then expected to extend the type's service life to 2020. In 2024, the majority of them were still operational. Insiders do mention their age is evident from the number of technical malfunctions, but Cobra 19 did not appear to have any this day.

On short final for runway 33R here as Brew 45, this former T-38A was rebuilt to a C model during the first two months of 2004 at Williams Gateway.