This was the prototype YF-84F (originally designated YF-96A). It was later converted into the YRF-84F for the FICON program. As of 2022 this a/c is in storage at the USAF Museum. This slide was taken at the outdoor aircraft display area at the original museum on Patterson AFB.

Operated experimentally as a parasite fighter from a modified GRB-36B bomber. Project discontinued. Despite designation, not a Thunderflash.

This is the unique FICON (FIghter CONveyor) modification of the prototype Thunderflash, designed to operate as a parasite fighter from a mother-ship B-36 (in fact GRB-36F) using a trapeze mechanism. Whilst technically successful, the operation was very challenging even for experienced pilots with several near disasters while unhooking or recovering. After a number of RF-84Ks were trialled by SAC in 1955-56, the project was dropped. The aircraft is now displayed indoors in the 91st SRS markings carried in the mid-1950s