Winning the JSF
competition, the Boeing X-32 became the F-32 upon entering service. Seen here is
the US Navy variant, the F-32A aboard the USS William J Clinton, first of the
new Fast Deployment CVNs, in the markings of VFA-22, the Fighting Redcocks.
While ungainly and
decidedly odd looking, the F-32As have run up an impressive record. Their
characteristic gaping mouthlike intake has been a hazard on flight decks
however, having swallowed sailors upon more than once.
Click on
images below to see larger images
The F-32A has a variety of names,
ranging from the official "Manta" to the unofficial "Guppy",
or "Dub-U" (Double Ugly). One of the more common ones is
"Monica", apparently in respect for a character of an old sitcom.
Apparently, since whenever a crewmember is asked why "Monica" was
chosen, they double over in laughter...
The kit used was the
1/72 scale Italeri X-32, with aftermarket and custom inkjet decals. Twin nose
wheels were added, as was the tailhook. Inspiration was the
"discussions" online several months ago about the naming of Nimitz
Class carriers...
Alvis
3.1
|