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Identification & Site Information – F-106 Delta Dart Crash Site

  • Crash Date: 1974
  • Location: Near Marquette, Michigan, Lake Superior
  • Coordinates: N 46° 31.710 W 087° 23.275
  • Aircraft Type: Convair F-106 Delta Dart
  • Role: Supersonic interceptor aircraft for the United States Air Force (USAF)
  • Primary Mission: High-speed interception of enemy aircraft in air defense missions

Aircraft Description

The F-106 Delta Dart was a single-seat, supersonic interceptor designed in the 1960s specifically for the United States Air Force’s air defense program. With a delta-wing configuration, the F-106 was capable of achieving impressive speeds, reaching up to Mach 2 (twice the speed of sound). Its primary mission was intercepting and neutralizing high-altitude threats with minimal engagement, making it one of the USAF’s most advanced air defense interceptors of its time. Key characteristics of the F-106 included:

  • Speed: Capable of speeds exceeding Mach 2, providing rapid response capability for intercept missions.
  • Armament: Equipped with a mix of air-to-air missiles and rockets to intercept and destroy enemy aircraft quickly and effectively.
  • Advanced Radar: Fitted with state-of-the-art radar systems for target acquisition and tracking at high altitudes and speeds.
  • Interceptor Focus: Designed specifically for air defense rather than close-quarters dogfighting, with speed and altitude performance prioritized.
  • Distinctive Tail Fin: The F-106 featured a large, prominent tail fin, aiding in stability at high speeds and altitudes.

Crash Details

In 1974, an F-106 Delta Dart crashed near Marquette, Michigan, close to the shores of Lake Superior. Specific details regarding the cause of the crash are scarce, but the location, as marked by the coordinates N 46° 31.710 W 087° 23.275, is a noted crash site in the Great Lakes region. Given the aircraft’s high-performance capabilities and complex systems, potential causes could include mechanical failure, adverse weather conditions, or pilot error. No detailed records specify whether the pilot survived or the extent of any attempted salvage operations.

Legacy and Historical Significance

The F-106 Delta Dart crash near Marquette is a significant part of Great Lakes aviation history, reflecting the Cold War-era military presence and the risks faced by pilots flying high-performance aircraft. The F-106 was a critical component of U.S. air defense strategy during a period when the risk of high-altitude interceptions was a priority. This incident is among several known military crashes in the Great Lakes region, underscoring the challenges and hazards associated with supersonic flight and the vital role of interceptors in U.S. air defense strategy during the 20th century.

Resources & Links

For more information on the F-106 Delta Dart and aviation incidents in the Great Lakes region:

  • National Museum of the United States Air Force: Provides detailed histories and technical specifications on the F-106 Delta Dart and other Cold War interceptors.
  • Aviation Safety Network: Database for military and civilian aircraft incidents worldwide, including historic crashes.
  • Local Historical Societies and Aviation Museums in Michigan: May offer more specific records on military operations and accidents in the Marquette area.