CF-104 "721" CAF of the 4 ATAF team during Tactical Weapons Meet 1969 (TWM69) held at Norvenich AB 1969

CF-104 Canadair Model CL-90, Lockheed Model 683-04-12, construction number 683A-1021, built by Canadair

The Canadian-built Starfighter was initially designated CF-111 by the RCAF, but this was later changed to CF-104.
They were designated CL-90 by the Canadair factory.
The CF-104 was basically similar to the F-104G, but was fitted with equipment specialized for RCAF requirements.
It differed from the F-104G in being optimized for the nuclear strike role rather than being a multi-mission aircraft.
The F-104G was fitted with NASARR F15A-41B equipment which was optimized for both air-to-air and air-to-ground modes,
but the CF-104 was fitted with R-24A NASARR equipment which was dedicated to the air-to-ground mode only.
The main undercarriage members were fitted with longer-stroke liquid springs and carried larger tires.
The CF-104 also differed from the F-104G in retaining the removable refuelling probe that was fitted to the F-104Cs and F-104Ds of the USAF.
Another difference from the F-104G was the ability of the CF-104 to carry a ventral reconnaissance pod equipped with four Vinten cameras.
The 20 mm M61A1 gun and its associated ammunition were initially omitted from the CF-104, and an additional fuel cell was fitted in their place.

copyright © Peter Doll