1:72 Mirage IVP n°57 CD Dissolution EB 2/91 Bretagne 1964-1996

A flying carrier that could not do without tanker machines

Range was the weakest point of this aircraft from the start. In order to reach distant targets, the doctrine reckoned with refueling in flight even twice during a single task: from tankers derived from a four-engined transport airframe and, at a pinch, also from another example of the same bomber type adapted for passing fuel on. A whole group of machines thus worked for a single strike and the flight plan was more a logistical exercise than plain navigation.

During the service the doctrine turned by a hundred and eighty degrees. The original arrival at high altitude proved untenable after the arrival of capable anti-aircraft missiles, and so the crews switched to an approach right above the terrain, where the surface of the earth shields them. For a thin delta wing that meant flying in permanent turbulence and a rapid using up of the fatigue life of the airframe, which was later reflected in the extent of the repairs during the rebuilds.

The sheet carries the coloring tied to the disbandment of the squadron, as the word in the name describes. The years 1964 and 1996 bound the time the unit used the type, and so they are not an anniversary count but the span of service. The code CD and the sequence number n°57 denote one definite aircraft.

The print is made on film for models in 1:72 scale. A gloss base under the motif is recommended, and a softener on the riveted surfaces, so that the film is drawn into the relief. Extensive lettering on the fin surface is better divided at the place of a dividing line and joined only on the model, where the position can be fine-tuned.