Leadership

At Starfighters, we believe that exceptional leadership drives innovation and success. Our leadership team is composed of visionaries and industry experts dedicated to advancing aerospace technology while preserving the legacy of the legendary F-104 Starfighter. With a deep commitment to excellence, safety, and groundbreaking exploration, our leaders guide Starfighters' mission to the forefront of aerospace development. Through strategic direction and unwavering passion, we continue to inspire the next generation of aviation enthusiasts and professionals, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the skies and beyond.

Rick Svetkoff is the Founder and CEO of Starfighters International, a pioneering force in the aerospace industry. Under his visionary leadership, the company has evolved from its initial concept into a cutting-edge enterprise based at Kennedy Space Center, transitioning from a pilot training platform to a leader in airborne testing. Rick's forward-thinking approach continues to propel the company toward significant achievements in space exploration and technology.

Rick's aviation career began as a U.S. Navy pilot, followed by a tenure with Continental Airlines. His passion for aviation led him to acquire an F-104 Starfighter, which he initially flew at air shows. As his fleet grew to three jets, he established the Starfighters Demonstration Team. With a strategic vision, Rick transformed his F-104 fleet into the cornerstone of a dynamic aerospace company, capable of executing a wide array of complex missions today and tomorrow with an expanding fleet of aircraft specifically selected to achieve aerospace goals.

Rick “Comrade” Svetkoff is the Founder, President and CEO of Starfighters International, a pioneering force in the aerospace industry. Under his visionary leadership, the company has evolved from its initial concept into a cutting-edge enterprise based at Kennedy Space Center, transitioning from a pilot training platform to a leader in airborne testing. Rick's forward-thinking approach continues to propel the company toward significant achievements in space exploration and technology.

Rick's aviation career began as a U.S. Naval Aviator, followed by a tenure with Continental Airlines. His passion for aviation led him to acquire an F-104 Starfighter, which he initially flew at air shows. As his fleet grew to three jets, he established the Starfighters Demonstration Team. With a strategic vision, Rick transformed his F-104 fleet into the cornerstone of a dynamic aerospace company, capable of executing a wide array of complex missions today and tomorrow with an expanding fleet of aircraft specifically selected to achieve aerospace industry goals and U.S . strategic interests.

Mr. Franta has been the Vice President of Development for Starfighters since September 2022. He is currently developing the smallest rocket capable of making it to low earth orbit by using a Lockheed F-104 as the launch platform. Mr. Franta has served in many technology and policy leadership roles. Prior to Starfighters, Mr. Franta was the deputy director of Energy Florida based in Cape Canaveral from October 2018 to September 2022 and Director of Special Projects from 2012 to October 2018. He specialized in space and energy business development by translating financial and physical requirements into fundable business plans. Mr. Franta is also an expert at coordinating public policy with private and governmental financing for mutually beneficial projects. Previously, Mr. Franta has worked for the Florida Legislature and was chief of staff for the Florida Space Authority. He was instrumental in drafting space transportation legislation which was considered and eventually adopted by the Florida Legislature, managed two launch pads and helped fund more than $300 million of space and ground infrastructure.

Michael "Smitty" Smith is the Senior Vice President of Operations at Starfighters International. With a distinguished background as a former Naval Aviator and retired USAF fighter pilot, Smitty has logged more than 15,000 flight hours in both military and civilian aviation. His military experience includes piloting the F-14 Tomcat, F-16 Viper, F-104 Starfighter, and other tactical jet aircraft. Previously, as one of the original founders of a billion-dollar multi-national company with the 11th largest private tactical jet fleet, Smitty demonstrated exceptional leadership and operational expertise. He has has been an integral part of Starfighters International as it rises to new heights, leveraging his skills in asset management and operational integration. A native of Marlin, Texas, Smitty began flying as a youth with his Dad, a CFII and is a graduate of Texas A&M and the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets.

Piero is the Director of Flight Operations at Starfighters. He is a former Italian Air Force pilot who flew multiple fighter jet types and served as the Training Supervisor and Aerobatic Instructor at the “Frecce Tricolori” Italian National Aerobatic Team, where he flew all eight positions of the 10 aircraft formation for 7+ years. Piero has a wealth of experience in creating and managing flight and R&D projects, including custom modifications of aeronautical parts, experimental hardware design, integration, and videography.

As the Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Starfighters International, Fen leads the strategic planning and execution of the organization's corporate information technology, systems, and compliance initiatives. A results-oriented leader with a background in innovation-driven and high-stakes corporate environments, Fen specializes in strategic and tactical technology operations—driving initiatives that increase efficiency, support mission-critical objectives, and ensure organizational resilience.

With expertise in IT systems design, integration, operational alignment and the safeguarding sensitive data across communications security (COMSEC), he fosters a culture of collaboration and forward-thinking to meet the demands of an ever-changing technological landscape. Combining technical expertise with strategic foresight, Fen delivers impactful results while maintaining a secure, scalable and agile digital ecosystem.

Beyond his professional role, he is passionate about exploring creative endeavors, mentoring emerging talent, and contributing to community-driven projects. As CIO, Fen continues to champion Starfighters International's pursuit of excellence, innovation and security through technology.