Monday, July 29, 2013

Airfix Model World 09/2012

Reconnaissance has had a long history in the Hellenic Air Force (HAF), and it began when 335 Squadron of 112 Combat Wing fitted a camera in the tip tank of an F-84G Thunderjet. Positive results led to the delivery of the RT-33A (a T-33A trainer with cameras in a modified nose). The new aircraft prompted 335 Squadron to form the 348 Tactical Reconnaissance Flight which, on July 7,1954, was relocated to 110 Combat Wing in Larissa, after being supplied with the new RT-33A. These aircraft were eventually replaced by the RF-84F Thunderflash, which was acquired in August 1956. Until autumn 1978, the RF-84F was the only type in the squadron. Then, the RF-4E Phantom II ushered in a new era of air reconnaissance with the HAF. On March 29,1991, the RF-84F was withdrawn after 34 years' active service, and left the squadron with just a handful of RF-4Es. However, in August 1993, numbers were increased with the addition of surplus RF-4Es from German Air Force stocks, and the unit is now known as 348 Mira 'Mafia' (eyes).

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