Douglas A-4B Skyhawk

The Douglas A‑4B Skyhawk, the second production version of the carrier‑based attack aircraft developed by Douglas Aircraft Company in the mid‑1950s, entered service with the United States Navy in 1956. Designed by Ed Heinemann, the A‑4 series emphasized simplicity, lightweight construction, and remarkable maneuverability, traits that the B model refined with a strengthened airframe, upgraded Pratt & Whitney J52‑7 turbo‑jet engine delivering 7,200 lbf thrust, and a revised avionics suite. The aircraft’s compact delta‑wing layout and a single‑seat cockpit allowed operation from the cramped decks of aircraft carriers, while its 12,000‑pound payload capacity enabled delivery of conventional bombs, rockets, and later tactical nuclear weapons. The A‑4B saw extensive combat during the Vietnam War, where its agility and low operating cost made it a dependable close‑air‑support platform. Beyond the U.S., the model was exported to several allied navies, influencing carrier aviation worldwide. Its robust design and adaptability also led to a long civilian career as an aggressive aerobatic trainer and warbird. The A‑4B’s blend of performance, economy, and versatility cemented the Skyhawk’s legacy as a cornerstone of Cold‑War naval air power.

Douglas

Douglas A-4B Skyhawk

Classification

Production & History

Design & Classification