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Republic RF-84F in Detail (Reprise)
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Even from the outside, the characteristic headrest tells us that the Belgian Thunderflashes flew with the same kind of old ejection seat as the Thunderjet. Drawings of the cockpits of the three main variants of the F-84 shows that they are very similar, the RF-84 differing by having a large photo sight centrally placed on the instrument panel. Thunderstreaks with high serial numbers had a different ejection seat and some of the West-German Airforce are rumoured to have been retro-fitted with Martin-Baker units. |
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From this angle, the bulged profile of the canopy is clearly seen. Also of interest is the black dielectric panel with a small airscoop for cooling the electronics. |
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An
overall view of the left hand side of the aircraft. The amount of
stenticlling is remarkable, especially around the mid fuselage. |
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Another
view giving a good impression of the "Vietnam-style"
camouflage. Note that the Thunderstreak fighter parked below
has an almost identical wing! |
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Right
wing. The colours look different due to the difficult lighting
conditions at the museum. |
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Another
view of the left wing with a close-up of the in-flight refuelling
receptacle. This was of hte same design as that of both the
Thunderjet and the Thunderstreak. |
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A close-up view of the fin. A lot of stencilling here as well! Note the natural metal sector around the stabilizer hinge. |
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