Republic F-84F Thunderstreak – HAF 340 Squadron | Italeri 1/48

Republic F-84F Thunderstreak – HAF 340 Squadron | Italeri 1/48

Historical Background – F-84F in Hellenic Air Force Service

The Republic F-84F Thunderstreak played a critical role in the modernization of the Hellenic Air Force (HAF) during the Cold War. Entering service in the early 1960s through NATO’s Mutual Defense Assistance Program (MDAP), it remained active until the late 1970s. The aircraft was assigned to Fighter-Bomber Squadrons, with 340 M.D.B (Mira Dioxis-Vomvardismou) being one of the primary operators.

Characterized by swept wings and a robust airframe, the F-84F served both in ground attack and strike missions. While maintenance-heavy, it laid the groundwork for the upcoming F-104G Starfighter era in Greece.

The Kit – Italeri/Kinetic 1/48

The Italeri 1/48 kit is a reboxed version of the original Kinetic mold. Though aging, it still offers decent detail and ease of assembly. Some surface textures are a bit rough and require cleanup. A notable inaccuracy is found in the vent shape, which is rendered overly rounded in the kit. The real aircraft featured a more parallel and rectangular intake, which was corrected by sanding the internal curve and reshaping it.

Bare Metal Finish with Aluminum Foil

From the beginning, the modeling goal was to avoid painting the aircraft and instead replicate the bare metal finish (BMF) using real aluminum foil. This technique was applied panel by panel, using Micro Metal Foil Adhesive for bonding.

The process is time-consuming, but the payoff is exceptional. No paint can truly match the authentic reflectivity of real metal foil.

Tip: Sand the plastic with 1200 grit and clean thoroughly with isopropyl alcohol before applying foil for maximum adhesion and smoothness.

Varnishing and Decal Protection

The biggest challenge with aluminum foil surfaces is sealing decals without destroying the metallic effect. After extensive testing, the solution came in the form of Vallejo Matt Acrylic Varnish combined with Airbrush Thinner (follow application instructions precisely). This combo preserved the metallic sheen and offered a gentle, non-reactive finish.

The decals are from Icarus Decals, featuring accurate HAF roundels and 340 Squadron insignia.

Weathering – Less is More

Since bare metal aircraft don’t weather like painted ones, minimal weathering was applied. Select areas were shaded using oil paints (Raw Umber & Ivory Black), blended subtly into panel lines and access areas. Additionally, WR Hobby pigments in Dark Brown and Charcoal Black were used to replicate engine grime, exhaust staining, and operational wear.

Advanced tip: Mix pigment with gloss medium for layered oil-burning effects around the engine exhaust.

Final Thoughts – A Classic Hellenic Warrior in Scale

This F-84F build captures the Cold War-era Hellenic Air Force aesthetic and delivers an impressive balance between technical modeling skill and historical authenticity. Despite the age of the mold, the model showcases the Thunderstreak’s iconic lines and celebrates a unique period in Greek aviation history.

Materials Used

Recommended Tools

• Sharp hobby knife & foil burnisher

• Microset/Microsol for decals

• Airbrush (for varnish)

• Q-tips & fine brushes (weathering)

• Cotton gloves to avoid fingerprints on foil

The Republic F-84F Thunderstreak played a critical role in the modernization of the Hellenic Air Force (HAF) during the Cold War. Entering service in the early 1960s through NATO’s Mutual Defense Assistance Program (MDAP), it remained active until the late 1970s. The aircraft was assigned to Fighter-Bomber Squadrons, with 340 M.D.B (Mira Dioxis-Vomvardismou) being one of the primary operators.

Characterized by swept wings and a robust airframe, the F-84F served both in ground attack and strike missions. While maintenance-heavy, it laid the groundwork for the upcoming F-104G Starfighter era in Greece.