Special Effects

Special Effects seem to be a whole field of their own. I would like to add sounds to some afterburners. I like the effect and system Mig29ful uses, but as yet have been unable to dplicate it. I'm a jet fan and I want to hear thunder when I flip that switch!!
How would I go about such a task? Or, where should I go to find out?
How would I go about such a task? Or, where should I go to find out?