One of the most colorful users of the Skyray was VF(AW)-3 "Blue Nemesis", which had the distinction to be the only Navy Unit within NORAD and the biggest operator of the Skyray by numbers.
Kits,
Pictures & Text by Peter Mojzisek
Douglas
F4D-1 (F-6) Skyray
1.
Page
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Although
the first flight occurred 1951, the F4D-1 or
"Ford" arrived in the first operational fleet
squadron not before 1956, and retired in 1964. In 1953
the Skyray gained fame for breaking the World Speed-,
Altitude- and Time-to-Climb-records. One of the most colorful users of the Skyray was VF(AW)-3 "Blue Nemesis", which had the distinction to be the only Navy Unit within NORAD and the biggest operator of the Skyray by numbers. |
| This model is in 1/48 scale (Tamiya # 61055), which has been molded in 1998 for the first time. I've heard in some magazines of flaws, which have to be corrected by use of filler-putty - but my kit went together like a "piece of cake". |  |
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The
complete engine and jet-pipe section has been reworked
with the photo etched set from Eduard (48-241). As the nozzle from the kit was not accurate, I've used the PE-set to depict the feathers of the afterburner. The decals are from Cutting-Edge (48091 & 092). |
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The
cockpit has been enhanced with the same Eduard-set. Then,
some careful painting and dry-brushing did the job. This aircraft (#32) has been flown by Capt R.A.Sweatt at NAS Miramar in August, 1961. |
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I have more pictures of the top- and underside. Please go to the second Page of the Skyray. |
