The swept-wing F-84F evolved from the straight-wing F-84. The prototype first flew on June 3, 1950 and deliveries began in 1954, primarily to the tactical Air Command as a ground support fighter bomber.

Republic built 2,112 "-F"s while General Motors fabricated an additional 599. Of these, 1,301 were delivered to NATO air forces. Production of a reconnaissance version, the RF-84F, totaled 718 aircraft, including 386 for allied countries. The RF-84F featured engine air intakes at the wing roots plus cameras in the nose.

F-84Fs gradually were replaced by supersonic F-100s in the late 1950s and were turned over to Air National Guard units. However, some F-84Fs were called back to temporary USAF service in the early 1960s due to the Berlin Crisis.

TThis kit was recently reissued by R-M and judging from the rapidity with which it left the shelves, I'd say that it was quite well received. It is typical Monogram in every respect. By that, I mean that it has excellent detail, though the panel lines are raised. It will also undoubtedly have a few fit problems, as I've not built an older Monogram kit that didn't. It also has a nicely done cockpit, a canopy that can be displayed open, and a number of under wing tanks for options. It also includes a nuke, as the F-84F was capable of carrying a tactical nuclear weapon. Finding places for nose weight will require a bit of creative work, but it can be done.

As for aftermarket, I'm sure that there are brass sets and perhaps a resin cockpit. For sure there are aftermarket decals, including fairly recent ones from Superscale. This plane was used by a lot of foreign countries so getting decals for them is an option one needs to consider as well. The instructions are typical for Monogram in that they are well done with many construction steps. Colors are given in generic terms as well as FS 595 standard where applicable. This boxing only offers one option, and that is for the 78th TFS, 20th TFG when based in the UK in the 1950s.  The decals are very glossy and may or may not work well. One thing for sure, you apply setting solution to these old Monogram kit decals at your own peril.  The few times I've done so have been a disaster.

If you have any experience with older Monogram kits, this one will not be a surprise. It isn't the only game in town as Heller also produced a 1/48 F-84F and it is quite similar in design and concept. One thing for sure, it is a model that one doesn't see that often and can be done in a plethora of different markings and schemes.

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