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F-102A Delta Dagger, USAF
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Photography by Action Asia Photo
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The F-102 Delta Dagger was the world's first supersonic all-weather jet interceptor making its maiden flight in October 1953. Built by Convair (General Dynamics) it uses a delta wing which eliminates the need for horizontal control surfaces (stabilizer and elevators). Importantly, it was the first aircraft to use the 'area rule' design concept that pushed the speed beyond the sonic barrier. The Delta Dagger was also the USAF's first delta-wing aircraft - becoming operational with Air Defense Command in 1956 and equipping more than 25 squadrons at the peak of deployment in the mid-1960s. Its primary mission was as an interceptor. Electronic equipment on board the F-102 located enemy aircraft and radar would guide it into position for attack. At the proper moment, the electronic fire control system would automatically fire the F-102's air-to-air rockets and missiles. The F-102 was superseded by the more advanced F-106 Delta Dart which could exceed 1,000 mph. By 1974 surviving F-102s - called "Deuces" - had all been assigned to the ANG and to the air forces of Greece and Turkey. Convair built 1,000 F-102s, 875 of which were F-102As. The USAF also bought 111 TF-102s as combat trainers with side-by-side seating. Crew:
Pilot only
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