Um, how old are the “C-model” airframes?
I trained in the T38A in 1964-1965 when they were being introduced into the Pilot Training bases. There were 8 Pilot Training bases at that time and 6 had the T-38. Columbus and Laredo were still flying the T-33 at the time. The T-38C is just an upgrade of the T-38A with a new cockpit instruments and engines from what the article says, so MY estimate is that these airframes are about 35-40 years old! I could be wrong but I think the production line closed in the early 1970s, so these are not NEW aircraft! See this AF Factsheet: http://www.af.mil/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=126
The T-38C is a relatively new aircraft. 2002 was the first delivery i believe. My father worked at a training base in the early 60s with the older A model. A beautiful aircraft. The Thunderbirds flew the T-38/F-5 for a while.
Randolph and Moody AFBs also have the T-38C trainer. It is replacing the older models and has a “glass” cockpit while the older planes were more analog. They were getting very old.