How much did Top Gun: Maverick pay the navy?

"Top Gun: Maverick" has made headlines for its grand scale and realistic portrayal of fighter jet operations. To achieve this, the studio behind the film went to great lengths to secure authentic military aircraft for filming.

Reportedly, the production team paid the U.S. Navy an impressive amount of money for the use of their F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jets. The cost per hour for these flights exceeded $11,000, showcasing the dedication and financial investment in the film's authenticity.

Despite the high price tag, the Navy's cooperation was essential to the film's success. The F/A-18 Super Hornets provided a realistic backdrop for the intense aerial sequences, adding a level of thrill and excitement to the movie.

However, even with the Navy's support, there were certain restrictions in place. Lead actor Tom Cruise, who reprises his role as Maverick in the sequel, was not allowed to touch the controls of the fighter jets. This decision was made for safety reasons, ensuring that only trained military pilots operated the aircraft.

Despite this limitation, Cruise's passion for the role and the film was evident. He underwent extensive training and preparation to accurately portray a fighter pilot, including learning how to fly in a high-performance simulator.