‘MODEL KIT’ CONSTRUCTION
The F-104 was designed for easy, modular construction. The fuselage split into halves along its length and the engine, cockpit and avionics were fitted inside before the halves were connected, like a full-scale model kit. The wings and tail where then fitted.
WINGS OR FINS?
The F-104 had incredibly small wings, more like rocket fins. These led to several problems, including lack of internal storage for fuel or undercarriage, and gave the aircraft a sometimes dangerously high landing speed.
WING-TIP PYLONS
Pylons on the tips of the wings could be fitted with air-to-air missiles or large external
