Douglas A-4C Skyhawk

The Douglas A‑4C Skyhawk, a single‑seat, carrier‑capable attack aircraft, entered service in 1960 as the third production variant of the A‑4 series. Developed by Douglas Aircraft Company in the mid‑1950s, the Skyhawk was designed to be a lightweight, cost‑effective replacement for the older AD‑1 Skyraider, emphasizing simplicity and agility. The A‑4C introduced several improvements over earlier models: a more powerful Wright R‑1820‑97A turbo‑shaft engine delivering 3,250 lb of thrust, upgraded avionics including a Norden T‑30 bombing computer, and expanded ordnance capacity—up to 5,000 lb of weapons on eight underwing pylons. Its compact, delta‑wing design, nicknamed “the needle,” gave the aircraft an exceptional roll rate and allowed operation from the cramped decks of naval carriers. The Skyhawk proved its combat worth in the Vietnam War, where it flew thousands of sorties, delivering bombs, rockets, and guided missiles with striking accuracy. Later, A‑4Cs were exported to allied forces and later adapted for airborne weapons training and aggressor roles, influencing modern light attack concepts. Its blend of low operating cost, robust construction, and combat versatility cemented the A‑4C Skyhawk’s lasting legacy in naval aviation history.

Douglas

Douglas A-4C Skyhawk

Classification

Production & History

Design & Classification