During December 1947, the newly minted USAF issued an RFP for a multi-role airplane, it's primary mission to escort SAC bombers. In addition to this, secondary roles of photo recon, interception, and ground attack would be required.
North American Aviation was successful in drawing on the experience gained with its revolutionary Twin Mustang in meeting these requirements. The resulting F-82K was dubbed Tri-Stang, it's designation due to a budgetary funding issue. 513 units of all variants were produced, and it went on to serve with distinction during the post war period. The superiority of emerging jet performance, plus the capability of in-flight refueling brought about the retirement of the Tri-Stang from active units, beginning in 1959. It continued to serve with the ANG into the mid-sixties. Only a handful of these elegant birds remain preserved today in aviation museums around the world.
The F-82K pictured here, 'Ole 97, served with the 27th Fighter Escort Wing, stationed at Ladd AFB in Alaska.
And, seen here with a standard F-82G
A pretty easy conversion of the old Monogram F-82. Starfighter decals were used, along with some checkerboard decals. Extending the wings and dealing with the contra prop were probably the most tedious items to deal with.
Best regards,
Kem