Douglas Skyraider

The Douglas AD-1 Skyraider, later redesignated A-1, was a single‑engine, propeller‑driven attack aircraft built by the Douglas Aircraft Company during the final years of World War II. First flown in 1945, it entered service with the United States Navy in 1946 and later served the U.S. Air Force, Marine Corps, and numerous allied air forces. Its robust airframe, large internal fuel capacity, and ability to carry up to 8,000 pounds of ordnance on twelve pylons made it exceptionally versatile for close‑air support, reconnaissance, and anti‑submarine missions. Powered by a Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp radial engine, the Skyraider could loiter for hours, a trait highly valued during the Korean and Vietnam wars where it performed night interdiction, forward‑air‑control, and rescue‑escort duties. The aircraft’s simple yet sturdy design allowed rapid field maintenance and survivability under heavy fire. Its legacy lies in proving that a well‑armed, prop‑driven platform could outperform early jets in certain low‑speed, high‑payload roles, influencing later attack aircraft concepts and cementing the Skyraider as an iconic symbol of relentless air‑ground support. It remained in active service with the U.S. Navy until 1971, and several airframes continue to appear in museums and airshows, preserving its storied heritage.

Douglas

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