Nothing encourages new decal sheets like new kits and this is the first I've seen for tne new Meng 1/72 F-106A. Caracal Models has had this in the works for a while and those who also model 1/48 will find that, aside from the Edwards AFB plane, all the markings are those used on their 1/48 sheet.

I'm sure that folks will be wondering if these markings can be used on the venerable Hasegawa offering. That I can not say for sure, but it would be worth a go as I know lots of folks have this kit in their stash. However, keep in mind that it is sized for the Meng kit.

There are five options on this sheet with sufficient insignia and data markings for one aircraft.

F-106A 59-0129, 159th FIS, Florida Air National Guard

F-106A 57-2494, 101st FIS, Massachusetts Air National Guard

F-106A 58-0772, 171st FIS, Michigan Air National Guard

F-106A 58-0782, 194th FIS, California Air National Guard

F-106A 59-0061, B-1B development program chase plane markings

The decals themselves are printed by Cartograf so you know you are getting the best. I'm sure that the second sheet will include additional ANG markings and I would very much like to see information as to whether the planes carried the gun pack or not. Thanks to the wing tanks, it is often difficult to see from photos whether it was carried. It would also be great if some early schemes were included in a future sheet as the Meng kit offers the ability to build the 106 as it was at any time of it operational life. Instructions are in full color and include some information on each aircraft.

Here is some additional info on options. In flight refueling was first developed in 1967 so prior to that there was none. The first gun installed in late 1969 though fleet-wide use did not start until 1972 or so. This time also saw the first installations of the clear vision canopy as it was part of the 'Six Shooter' upgrade. The gun was only fitted on planes that had been upgraded with the strip instrumentation. The Weber zero-zero seat was contracted in 1965 as the Convair seat resulted in several unsuccessful ejection attempts. 

 April 2016

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