BASIC BUILD
DELTA FORCE
PJ Production's replica of the Swiss Mirage IIIS is given a thorough examination by Huw Morgan
Dassault’s Mirage III is arguably one of the most significant combat aircraft in the world, as demonstrated by its longevity, reliability, flexibility, combat record and popularity with smaller air forces on the front line of local conflicts.
Developed initially as an internal programme, the MD550 design evolved into the Mirage III via several incarnations in the mid-1950s, incorporating numerous potential powerplants and new research into high-speed delta wings, plus the theory of area rule coined by the UK and USA. Ten development airframes were ordered by the French Armeé de l'Air, the first of these flying in May 1958 and designated Mirage IIIA-001. A successful development programme led to rapid adoption into operational service.
