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Description
The first export customer for the Saab 35XC proved to be Canada. Needing a fighter-bomber to replace the ageing Sabre and the unserviceable Starfighter, a production licence was arranged for Canadair to build one hundred Drakens. A mix of F.52 fighter-bombers, FR.52A reconnaissance fighters and T.53 conversion trainers, the type was initially known in service by its Canadair company designation, CL-90 Dragon, when it entered service in 1966. After the unification of the Canadian Armed Forces and adoption of US-style codes, the Dragon became known as the CF-116: single-seat fighters became the CF-116A; the single-seat recce aircraft CR-116A; and the combat-capable trainer CF-116B. The Starfighter and a significant portion of Sabre units were re-equipped with the Dragon; although Sabres remained in service to provide a lower-cost counterpart until a cheaper aircraft could be adopted.

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Feeling generous? Buy me a coffee

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You can see the rest of the stuff in this AU here: The October War, 27-10-1962

Description
The first export customer for the Saab 35XC proved to be Canada. Needing a fighter-bomber to replace the ageing Sabre and the unserviceable Starfighter, a production licence was arranged for Canadair to build one hundred Drakens. A mix of F.52 fighter-bombers, FR.52A reconnaissance fighters and T.53 conversion trainers, the type was initially known in service by its Canadair company designation, CL-90 Dragon, when it entered service in 1966. After the unification of the Canadian Armed Forces and adoption of US-style codes, the Dragon became known as the CF-116: single-seat fighters became the CF-116A; the single-seat recce aircraft CR-116A; and the combat-capable trainer CF-116B. The Starfighter and a significant portion of Sabre units were re-equipped with the Dragon; although Sabres remained in service to provide a lower-cost counterpart until a cheaper aircraft could be adopted.

* * *

Feeling generous? Buy me a coffee

* * *

You can see the rest of the stuff in this AU here: The October War, 27-10-1962