Duke Hawkins Saab 37 Viggen

Unique. Distinctive. Quirky. Sexy. All of these adjectives have been used to describe Saab’s double-delta Viggen (OK, maybe I’m the only one to use the last.) I’ve been fascinated by the jet’s seemingly back-to-front layout since I saw it on a Matchbox kit box wearing the Swedish air force’s sharp splinter camouflage. That kit is tough to find these days, but if you plan on building the terrific Tarangus or Special Hobby kits, pick up Duke Hawkins Aircraft in Detail 007: Saab 37 Viggen.

Filled with photos, this premium 84-page softcover book offers inspiring images of the Viggens in flight as well as getting into the nitty-gritty with detailed walkaround photos showing the landing gear from all angles and revealing the plumbing and staining inside the gear bays. There are 11 pages devoted to the cockpit, individual shots of various fuselage vents and intakes, and great photos of the engine exhaust nozzle and its characteristic three-petal thrust reverser. Clear, comprehensive captions accompany each image, providing context, and making an essential reference.

~Aaron Skinner - Editor, FineScale Modeler

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