US Air Force reveals X-1 Mustang and Vapor Challenger

With enlistment slowing down in previous years, the US military has been forced to enhance its advertising capabilities and speak more convincingly to those who are likely to join its ranks. One of the strategies they have come up with is to build cars that would serve as a come on to potential enlistees.

To create these appealing cars, the US Air Force has acquired the expertise of the California-based firm Galpin Auto Sports. Their assignment was to change a regular Ford Mustang and Dodge Challenger into highly appealing supercars. The end products are called X-1 Mustang and Vapor Challenger. Externally, the cars appear to slightly resemble other extensively revised models with features like scissor doors, carbon fiber trim and elegant wheels. However, on the inside of the X-1 the influence of the Air Force becomes apparent with its jet cockpit-like cabin, ejection seat and instrument panel that is obviously patterned after the jet-fighter’s. On the other hand, the Vapor comes with a two-seater style design, an extra steering wheel for the passenger and an exhaust system that is equipped with a stealth mode. Additional elements consist of a one-off carbon fiber wheel set, a shaker hood, paint finish that absorbs radar, proximity sensors and a 360-camera with a range of a quarter mile. The car, called the 2009 Super Car Tour will be utilized by the Air Force in schools and different events that it sponsors and events that are community-based. Photo gallery after the jump!

US Air Force Vapor Challenger