Monogram / Squadron Encore 1/48 scale
F-102A Delta Dagger

by John Trueblood

This 1/48 F-102A Delta Dagger was built utilizing a wing and decal swap between the Squadron Encore and Monogram Pro Modeler kits. Monogram produced two versions of the “Deuce”; the 1st featuring the early Case X wing and secondarily, the Case XX wing which was introduced later in the F-102 production run. The Pro Modeler Delta Dagger decals feature a Connecticut Air Nation Guard Dagger with a Stylized Raptor tail motif, the Case X wing, crew figures and a boarding ladder. The Connecticut ANG decals are high quality Scale Master.   The Encore kit provides extensive resin including a replacement cockpit, wheels, ejection seat, corrected nose, AIM-4 Flacon missiles and one piece intakes (not used due to poor fit). Also included are Eduard colored photo etch and masks.  

The Connecticut ANG “Deuce” of the 118th Fighter Interceptor Squadron is shown as it appeared in 1969 at Bradley Field, Winsor Locks, Connecticut. The squadron is a descendant organization of the 118th  Aero Squadron, established in 1917. The Squadron motif is “The Flying Yankees”.

The kit scores well in terms of accuracy and features restrained raised panel lines. It is comprised of about 100 parts. I encountered no serious fit issues. Tamiya putty was used on the underwing joint between the upper and lower wing halves.  My technique is to apply the Tamiya White Putty to the joint and let it dry for about 2 hours. I then soak a Q-tip (cotton bud for the international crowd) in Gunze Leveling Thinner and rub it along the puttied joint. After a few passes the putty softens and settles into the gap.  The excess putty surrounding the join is wicked away by the solvent without damaging the plastic surface.  I used an aftermarket resin exhaust but in hindsight I realize the kit parts would have sufficed nicely. 

The model was painted with Testors Acryl ADC Gray (FS 16473). I choose not to accent the panel lines since period photos of the beautifully maintained Connecticut “Deuces” showed the panels to be almost imperceptible from more than a few feet away.     

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Model, Images and Text Copyright © 2021 by John Trueblood
Page Created 22 June, 2021
Last Updated 22 June, 2021

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