Lockheed TF-104G Starfighter

Dutch Masters
The Lockheed F-104G Starfighter is, in my opinion, without a doubt one of the most distinctive aircraft in the history of the Royal Netherlands Air Force. Here I have built the D-5801, a TF-104G two-seat trainer. It was used for the training and conversion of Dutch Starfighter pilots.
The name “The Dutch Masters” has a rather nice origin: it refers to the cigar brand of the same name that was smoked by the instructors at the time. The name subsequently became associated with the Dutch TF-104Gs of the training unit.
The model is a 1/48 Hasegawa TF-104G, fitted with a 3D-printed drag chute and drag chute container from 3D-Chutes Expert, and a Red Fox cockpit. MRP paints were used for the finish.
One striking detail is the bare-metal engine compartment. On this early version, the engine compartment was still left in bare metal. Later, these areas were also painted in the characteristic haze grey.
A small piece of Dutch aviation history, in 1/48 scale.

Phone pic 01 TF-104G drag chute

DSC_5926 TF-104G

DSC_5922 TF-104G

DSC_5930 TF-104G

DSC_5937 TF-104G

DSC_5938 TF-104G

DSC_5942 TF-104G

DSC_5945 TF-104G

Phone pic 03 TF-104G drag chute

DSC_5951 TF-104G drag chute

Phone pic 02 TF-104G drag chute