This is a special year for fans of one of the most popular movies of all time, Top Gun. May 16, 2021 marks the 35th anniversary of the film’s release, plus a highly anticipated sequel is also slated for release later this year. The highest grossing film of 1986, Top Gun defined and inspired a generation in many ways, including boosting the popularity of military bomber jackets like those worn by the film’s protagonist, Maverick.

Starring Tom Cruise, Top Gun tells the story of the talented but reckless fighter pilot, Lieutenant Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, who is sent to train at the Naval Fighter Weapons School, nicknamed TOPGUN, at the Miramar Naval Air Station in San Diego. Maverick goes on to compete for the school’s TOPGUN trophy, woo the school’s civilian flight instructor, Charlie (played by Kelly McGillis), and learn the value of teamwork. The movie captivated audiences upon its release on May 16, 1986 and for many months afterwards, grossing a total of $136 million. US Navy enlistment even experienced a surge after the movie’s release, with young men expressing a particular interest in becoming naval aviators.

The CWU 45/P features even more innovation in the form of a flame-resistant material called Nomex, which comprises the outer shell. This was a solution to the melting of the MA-1 nylon that pilots experienced whenever they were near a fire. The pockets also received a slight upgrade to discourage pilots from walking around with their hands in their pockets, so they were placed higher on the jacket with the opening at more of an angle. The new pockets included a velcro closure to prevent FOD (foreign object damage).

Genuine military-spec CWU 45/P jackets, like this one from Alpha Industries, are always constructed of Nomex and include all the upgraded pocket details. More commercial styles, such as Alpha Industries’ Unisex CWU 45/P Bomber Jacket, are made with a high quality, water resistant flight nylon similar to the MA-1 and other bomber jacket styles.

While the CWU 45/P was built to withstand extremely cold temperatures (“CWU” stands for “cold weather uniform”), a more lightweight version was also created to be worn by pilots in warmer temperatures. The CWU 36/P is also available through Alpha Industries in a genuine military-spec edition that is made of Nomex and includes all the standard military features. The CWU-45/P and its warm-weather version, the CWU 36/P, serve as part of the current military flight uniform, making them the prime bomber jacket choice for the most authentic look.

After 35 years, Top Gun is still inspiring generations of fans who appreciate its classic story and timeless aesthetic. The decades-long popularity of flight bombers is a testament to the enduring appeal of both this acclaimed movie and military style apparel in general. From the G-1 flight jacket to the CWU 45/P, channel your inner Maverick with any of these bombers from a truly American, military heritage brand.