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Viper Mk II Set Mock-up: Details

Control Column [a.k.a. Stick]

The stick, also known as the control column, forms part of the hands on throttle-and-stick (HOTAS) concept, which enables the pilot to operate the Viper Mk II in high-pressure situations that require lighting-quick reflexes. In addition to controlling the Mk II's pitch (nose-up nose-down) and roll (tilting left or right), the stick contains many of the HOTAS switches that allow the pilot to control weapons and sensors.

Viper Control Stick

This behind-the-scenes photo clearly shows the Viper Control Column. Presumeably this is a computer flight simulator joystick.

Viper Control Stick

The Viper Mk II mock-up uses the Control Column similar to that of a CF-18 Hornet Fighter Jet.

Canadian CF-18 Control Column

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Single Arm Throttle

Having all switches on the stick and throttle allows the pilot to keep his "hands on throttle-and-stick", thus eliminating the need to take his eyes off the horizon and HUD. This should improve the pilot's situational awareness, improve his ability to change switch settings in turbulence and high acceleration maneuvers, and improve his reaction time.

Viper Throttle

The Viper's throttle control is a PC video game joy-stick made by InterAct Game Products. This particular joy-stick is the "PC Commander Plus" model.

PC controler joy-stick

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Rescue Points

On Vipers a Rescue Arrow will indicate the rescue points. Instructions are stenciled at this arrow for the jettisoning of canopies or hatches.

The Rescue Point on the Viper Mk II, as seen in the Miniseries, was a simple vinyl graphic.

Viper Rescue Point from Miniseries

In season one episode "33" we see the Rescue Point is replaced with an automotive fuel door cover.

Viper Rescue Point from 33

In this close up of the Rescue Point you can clearly read the word "Fuel" on the center tab.

Viper Rescue Point

This carbon fiber and chrome fuel door cover (sticker) is available from most automotive parts stores. At this point the exact brand is unknown.

Auto Part's Fuel Door Cover

In Season Four we see once again that the Rescue Point has been changed to a machined "aircraft style" aluminium fuel cap.

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Canopy

This is the cockpit/canopy area of one of the Viper set mockups.

Canopy Area of Viper

Close up detail of the screws on the canopy of the "Hero" version of the Viper set from Season Four.

Viper Canopy Detail Close-up

The round head washer self tapping screws as used to add realistic detail to the canopy.

Round Head Washer Self Tapping Screws

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