Unique Ford Mustang GT celebrates 60th anniversary of U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds

Ford has just produced a one-of-a-kind U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Edition 2014 Ford Mustang GT. This unique Mustang features an exterior design inspired by the 60th anniversary of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the fastest multijet flight demonstration team in the world, recognizable by the design of its F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter aircraft.

The flight demonstration squadron currently employs a total of eight F-16 Fighting Falcons, and the Ford Mustang GT features a red, white, and blue paint scheme similar to that used on the actual planes.

This year's unique Ford Mustang GT will be sold at a charity auction at this year's EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, with proceeds benefitting the Experimental Aircraft Association's Young Eagles Program. Since 1992 the Young Eagles organization has introduced more than a million young people to the thrill of flying by offering free introductory flights.

The additions made to the Ford Mustang GT don't end with the custom paint scheme. In addition to a widebody modification, the Mustang GT received a specially designed belly pan made by Creations n' Chrome created to emulate the jet intake on the F-16 fighter. Wheel manufacturer Forgiato has created a special set of wheels for this unique Mustang GT, with TS Designs being responsible for the custom front and rear body elements on the vehicle.

On the inside, Recaro seats feature embroidered Thunderbirds design elements, with a modified navigation screen for the pilot.

Underhood, a Ford Racing supercharger and a suspension handling pack improve power and maneuverability, along with Brembo brakes to let the car cool its jets in a hurry.

The design of this car was overseen by Mustang chief nameplate engineer Dave Perica and Ford design manager Melvin Betancourt, and is the sixth custom vehicle that Ford has created over the years for the EAA Young Eagles Auction. In 2008 an F-22 themed Mustang AV8R was hammered for more than $500,000, and in 2010 the late Carroll Shelby joined forces with Jack Roush to create an SR-71 themed Mustang for the charity auction.

This unique Mustang GT will be sold at auction on Aug. 1, at the 2013 EAA AirVenture. The 2013 edition of the AirVenture festival, which attracts more than 500,000 people each summer, will take place from July 29-Aug. 4 at the Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisc.

By Jay Ramey