It wasn't that long ago that there were dedicated fighter interceptor squadrons all over the US, waiting for the day that Soviet aircraft would be streaming across our borders to bring nuclear death. Fortunately for all of us, that scenario never did take place and the daily threat of nuclear war is now a fading memory.

Amongst the many aircraft that were designed specifically to combat that threat was the F-102A. This interesting delta winged aircraft at one time was the most numerous of our aerial defenders, equipping over 35 squadrons in the US and overseas. Like many old warriors, when their time had passed, they were given to the Air National Guard and finally used as targets for the newer breed of interceptors.

One of Microscale's earlier sheets was for the 'Deuce'. Interestingly, there is still only one kit of this aircraft in 1/72, the rather long in the tooth Hasegawa kit that was first released in the late 1960s. Though accurate in outline, it is totally devoid of the kind of detail that we expect from a modern model.

This particular sheet has three aircraft on it. There are enough data stencils and general markings for all three aircraft, however insignia will have to come from the kit or another source.

First aircraft is from the 16th FIS. This plane has a nice checkertail. The bands on the tail and wing fences will need to be painted light blue.

Next is a 64th FIS Deuce with a red, white and blue arrow motif on the tail. The wing fences need to be painted yellow and the speed brakes are red.

Finally, one from the 57 FIS, the last active USAF unit to use the F-102A. This has arctic orange tail and wing markings. The instructions state it to be red, but I'm not positive about that. Check photo references to be sure.

A fine sheet for that old F-102 that is hiding in your kit collection.

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