F-106A

The Convair F-106 was introduced in the late 1950s as one of the fastest fighters in the world. An extensive redesign of the F-102, it had twice its speed, met all requirements for a manned interceptor to defend North America, and became a favorite of many pilots who flew it. The 95th Fighter Interceptor Squadron was stationed at Dover AFB from 1963 until January 1973, and this F-106 was assigned there from April 1972 until the 95th was deactivated and all aircraft were transferred to the 177th Fighter Group, an Air National Guard unit at Atlantic City, New Jersey. The 177th was the last unit to operate F-106s in national defense, retiring the last ones in 1988. More than 200 F-106s were then assigned to the drone target program and used as full-size supersonic targets for more modern fighters, but they proved difficult targets even for the latest technology. In 1988 they were retired again, and this aircraft was flown to Dover in February 1998.

Dover, Delaware · United States