NORD NIL 1 "Harpon" British Jet Fighter Concept (1953)

Scale: 1/72
Initial Release: 2010
Kit Rarity: 2
Length: 7.5"

About the Design

The Nord NIL 1 Harpon was the first in a series of lightweight interceptor concepts developed by France's Nord Aviation beginning in 1953 and culminating with the Dassault Mirage III later in that decade. Although they first conceived the Harpon as a rocket-powered interceptor, Nord engineers ultimately settled on more conventional jet propulsion for the aircraft. The Harpon was distinguished by its double-delta wings and sharp swept-back canards.

The Harpon made it as far as a full-sized flying wooden model before the project was cancelled.

About the Kit

Sharkit's 'Harpon" was released in 2010. Although the kit featured landing gear and a full cockpit, I decided to build it in its in-flight configuration and blacked out the clear vac canopy to facilitate assembly.

Also, the kit did not come with French Air Force roundels; I had to swipe these from my stash of "junk" kits..