I)()(J(.I..lIS 1I-L11~/I~ ' · 7 T 'L: I I Above, the first A4D-5 (A-4E) was BuNo 148613. It is seen here with the five weapon pylons and J52 engine th...
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I)() (J (.I..lIS 1I- L11~/I~
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I.) 20mm gunnery equipment The th horse of the War. more strike an ar Navy aircraft and its losses in amounted to 37% of all Navy losses. The Navy lost 195 A-4 530 total losses. The next losses were in the F-4 cor with 75. A-4 losses, especiall A-4E, were so heavy at tirr squadrons had to re-equip wi A-4Cs as there weren't enoug to fill the squadrons. This sm; ble, rugged, and dependable was the perfect surgical wea the day war over Vietnam. In 1 A-4E/F with its five pylons COL more than twice the tonn bombs that a B-17 or a B-2 drop on Germany. Because of the size of 1. "'"' ume, model reviews will be discussed in the volume covering the USMC A4E/Fs. This book is dedicated to the memory of Harry Gann. CONTRIBUTORS Scott Bloom, Bruce Cunningham, Warren Dunlap, Nick Knickerbocker, Craig Kaston, Clay Jansson, William T. Larkins, Bob Lawson, T. Matsuzaki, Paul Minert, Pat McGinnis, Wayne Morris, Pima Air and Space Museum, Mick Roth, Fred Roos, San Diego Aerospace Museum, Doug Siowiak, Larry Smalley, William Swisher, Tailhook Association, Norm Taylor, Kirsten Tedesco, and Nick Williams.
ISBN 0-942612-51-5 Steve Ginter, 1754 Warfield Cir., Simi Valley, California, 93063
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form by any means electronic, mechanical, or otherwise without the written permission of the publisher.
26.) 27.) 28.) 29.) 30.) 31.) 33.) 34.) 35.) 36.) 37.) 38.) 42.) 43.) 44.) 45.) 46.) 47.) 48.) 50.) 51.) 52.) 53.) 54.) 55.) 56.)
57.)
58.)
© 2001 by Steve Ginter
A-4E right-hand console Right-hand console A-4E rocket ejection seat ESCAPAC 1C-3 ejection seat, A-4F and reworked A-4Es Servicing diagram Catapult equipment Ground safety provisions A-4E nosegear A-4F nosegear A-4E/F nosegear A-4F nosegear wheel and door A-4E/F main landing gear A-4E/F external stores loading A-4E weapon systems controls AQM-37A target missile and LAU-24/A launcher Missiles AGM-12 Bullpup control system AGM-45 Shrike control system Rocket pods A/A37B-1 multiple bomb rack Multiple bomb rack loading General purpose bombs Low drag GP bombs Snakeyes & M117 demo bomb Fragmentaion bombs and MK 5/6/24 parachute flare Aero 14B spray tank, CBU cluster bombs, and MX-900 chaff dispenser Aero 7E Lazy Dog, MK 44 missile cluster adapter, and LAU-1 0/A leaflet dispenser MK 77/79 fire bombs, and MK 94 chemical bomb
I.) VC-1 "Blue Aliis" ~.) VC-2 "Blue Tails" ).) RVAH-3 "Sea Dragons" .) VX-5 "Vampires" .) VC-5 "Checkertails" .) VC-7 "TallyHOers" .) VC-12NFC-12"Fighting Omars" .) VA-12 "Flying Ubangis" .) VC-13NFC-13 "Fighting Saints" .) VA-22 "Fighting Redcocks" .) VA-23 "Black Knights" .) VA-43NF-43 "Challengers" .) VA-44 "Hornets" .) VA-45NF-45 "Blackbirds" .) VA-46 "Clansmen" .) VA-55 "Warhorses" .) VA-65 "Champions" 1.) VA-72 "Blue Hawks" 2.)VA-81 "Sunliners" 4.) VA-83 "Rampagers" 6.) VA-86 "Sidewinders" 8.) VA-93 "Blue Blazers" 112.) VA-94 "Shrikes" 116.) VF-1 01 (KW)NF-171 (KW) 117.) VA-1 06 "Gladiators" 119.) VA-113 "Stingers" 120.)VA-125 "Rough Raiders" 123.) VF-126 "Bandits" 126.) VA-127 "Batmen/Royal Blues" 130.)VA-144 "Roadrunners" 133.)VA-152 "Mavericks" 134.)VA-153 "Blue Tail Flies" 136.) VA-155 "Silver Faxes" 141.) VA-163 "Saints" 145.)VA-164 "Ghost Riders" 150.)VA-192 "Golden Dragons" 153.) VA-195 "Dambusters" 154.)VA-212 "Rampant Raiders" 158.)VA-216 "Black Diamonds" 158.)VA-776 159.) Naval Air Test Center (NATC) 160.) Naval Fighter Weapons School 162.) "Blue Angels" 164.) Naval Weapons Center China Lake (NWC) 165.) The Navy Cross 167.)A4D-4 and A4D-6 168.)Model Differences 169.) 1/72 drawings ESSENTIAL READING Dictionary of American Naval Aviation Squadrons Vol 1, VA, VAH, VAK, VAL, VAP, and VFA Squadrons. (Roy Grossnick); Tonkin Gulf Yacht Club, U.S. Carrier Operations Off Vietnam. (Rene Francillon); The Skyhawk Association Web Site, www.skyhawk.org; Osprey Air Combat, Douglas A-4 Skyhawk. (Peter Kilduff)
[
THE
Before the A4D-2N (A-4C) made Its first flight, Douglas and the Navy were gearing up for a major improvement in the Skyhawk line. This would be known, initially, as the A4D-5, but II but four would be completed as A4Es. On 30 July 1959, Douglas was given the go-ahead to produce two A4D-5 aircraft by diverting and modifying two A4D-2Ns from the production line. Besides improved avionics and electronics being installed in the new lengthened nose cone, two major improvements marked the A4D-5. These were a change in powerplants and the addition of two new wing hard points, for a total of five. The new engine was the Pratt & Whitney J52-P-6A which developed 8,500 pounds of thrust, which was an 800 pound increase over the A4D-2N. The J52 had a 27% lower fuel consumption rate than the J65-W-16A engine and therefore gave the A4D-5 a substantial increase in range over the A4D-2N. Many A-4Es received 9,300 pound thrust J52-P-8 engines later in their career and were dubbed 'Super Echos'. The original Skyhawk had been designed for the nuclear strike mission, but with the addition of the two new pylons a shift to air support and conventional bombing was made. With the five pylons, the maximum weapons load increased to 8,200
DOUGLAS
A-4E
SKYHAWK
pounds. The airframe structure was strengthened to increase the catapult gross weight to 24,500 pounds. Other new equipment included an Escapac zero altitude ejection seat, TACAN, Doppler navigation, Mk.9 toss-bombing system, radio altimeter, and the AJB-3A low-altitude bombing system. Some A-4Es were retrofitted with A4F avionics fuselage humps and canted A-4M style re-fueling probes. The first flight of the A4D-5 took place on 12 July 1961. Eventually, 500 A-4Es were built in the following blocks:
No.
Begin
End
2 20 180 180
148613 149647 149959 151022 151202-151261 151984 TOTAL
148614 149666 150138 151201 cancelled 152101
o 118 500
CARRIER SUITABILITY TESTING
By Douglas Test Knickerbocker.
Pilot "Nick"
"As Project Test Pilot for the A-4E Carrier Suitability Demonstration, I first flew BuNo. 149648 on 22 May 1962. My first impression was that the J52 engine was smoother than the J65 that was installed in previous
1
Above, the first A4D-5 (A-4E) was BuNo 148613. It is seen here with the five weapon pylons and J52 engine that would be characteristic of the A4E1F series, but fitted with an A-4C style nose cone. Aircraft was gull grey and white with da-glo red trim. (Douglas)
model A-4s. The new engine did not exhibit the high frequency grinding type vibration and associated noise level that was characteristic of the J65. Engine thrust, although higher than the J65, and engine response during accels and decels seemed to be similar. Flying qualities and controllability of the A-4E were essentially unchanged from the A-4C. This was expected since the aerodynamics and control system were the same. The Carrier Suitability Demonstration was conducted at the Naval Air Test Center, NAS Patuxent River, MD. Catapult and arresting gear, identical to that aboard ship, is installed at NATC to test and demonstrate carrier suitability aspects of the airplane before sea trials are conducted. The following tests were made: 1.) Maximum energy catapult at maximum take-off gross weight to demonstrate structural integrity of the airplane under limit catapult condi-
tlons. 2) High energy catapult with the airplane spotted 6 inches off center to demonstrate no resulting controllability and structural problems. 3.) Catapult with the nose wheel turned 90° to the catapult track to demonstrate satisfactory castering and corrective swiveling of the nose wheel with no controllability problems. 4.) High energy catapult at low gross weight to demonstrate satisfactory high speed characteristics during the catapult phase of the launch.
The second A4D-5, 148614, with 2 Bullpups on the outer wing pylons, 12500 pound bombs on the inner wing pylons and 6-750 pound bombs on the centerline pylon. The gear door stripes were red and an instrumentation test boom was fitted to the end of the refueling boom. The second A4D-5/A-4E prototype was fitted with the production type nose and was used extensively for weapons testing. (Douglas)
5.) High speed arrestment at limit conditions to demonstrate structural Integrity. 6.) Free flight engagement of the cross deck pendant (tail hook engagement before the wheels contact the deck) during an arrestment. This test demonstrates structural integrity as well as satisfactory roll-out characteristics under infrequent but critical arrestment conditions. 7.) Off-center arrestment where an
2
3
THE
arrestment is purposely made at least 10 feet right or left of the center line of the deck. This test demonstrates that no dangerous controllability characteristics develop during the rollout after tail hook engagement of the cross deck pendant. 8.) Rolled and yawed arrestment. The airplane is at a 10° bank angle conbined with a significant yaw angle to the center line of the deck at the time of tail hook engagement. This test demonstrates that the airplane can satisfactorily handle an arrest-
ment where the pilot makes a late close-in realignment back to the center line when the airplane has drifted left or right. 9.) High sink rate arrestment at a sink rate of 19 feet per second to demonstrate an arrestment at design limit conditions. This test simulates an arrestment under conditions of a pitching deck or pilot error. Due to a close-in low altitude wind shear on the day of the test, the resulting sink rate was 24 feet per second with no structural damage to the A-4E.
The results were anticlimactic as the A-4E satisfactorily completed all of the Carrier Suitability Tests and follow-on Sea Trials with no changes to the airplane."
Above, A4D-S #2 exhibits the profile that was unchanged through the entire A-4E production run. (Douglas via Wayne Morris) Below, production A-4E 149980 is ready for delivery to the Navy. White area of the canopy was the anti-radiation curtain. (Douglas)
The A-4F was ordered in 1965 to follow the A-4Es then in production. The prototype A-4F was constructed by revising the last A-4E (BuNo 152101) airframe. The A-4F made its first flight on 31 August 1966. The improvements embodied in the A-4F were: an up-rated Pratt and Whitney J52-P8A which was first introduced in the 2-seat TA-4F, steerable nose wheel, wing lift spoilers, and Escapac 1C-3 zero-zero ejection seat. These improvements were followed by the addition of an upper avionics pod to accommodate combat enhancements dictated by the Viet Nam war. Kits were supplied for aircraft already delivered to the fleet
A-4F
DOUGLAS
SKYHAWK
and for retrofitting A-4E aircraft during rework (A-4Cs converted to A-4Ls also received the electronic upgrades). Aircraft not already delivered had the avionic humps installed at the factory. Later still, Douglas supplied 100 kits that the Navy used during rework to upgrade A-4Fs with the 11,200 pound thrust J52-P408 engine. Very late in their service life some A-4Fs were fitted with ALR-45 pods on the vertical fin tip.
Above, the prototype A-4F 152101 rests on the apron at Douglas facilily at Palmdale, CA. The "F" brought a nun) ber of improvements to the Skyhu wk line, including a more powerful engln steerable nose gear, wing lift spoil rs (seen open here) and an advanc d zero-zero ejection seat. The character istic electronic hump was added later. (Douglas)
146 A-4Fs were constructed with BuNos 155051, 155052, 155055, 155060 through 155064 delivered to the Royal Australian Navy as A-4Gs. BuNos 155042 and 155049 weffi converted to A-4M prototypes.
A-4F Bureau Numbers: No. Begin End 1 152101 154217 46 154172 155049 100 154970 147 TOTAL
A-4E/F
ELECTRONICS
4
HUMP
382bS/2 -I BRACKET INSTL - D£ST DISC.
,STA /93.625
.5TA 149.438
STA 180.000
.5TA 262.000
._--- ----I
..5TA 301.250
!
'--"-'-"-=-=-~~--'--='
4
5
._--
----
Above, production A-4F with electronic hump added. (via Wayne Morris) Below, A-4F (without electronic hump) and TA-4F (right) advanced jet trainer at Palmdale, CA. Wing lift spoilers are open on the A-4F as are the speed brakes. (Douglas)
.-------- -Above and below, production A-4F 155051 taxis-out on its delivery flight from the Palmdale plant. Later aircraft were fitted with
the avionics hump during construction. Note 051 was applied to the nose gear door so that the proper nose was mated with Its corresponding tail as the fuselage was built in two parts. (Douglas)
6
7
THE
DOUGLAS
A-4E/F SKYHAWK AIRCRAFT
AIRFRAME MAJOR COMPONENTS
A-4E/F
DESCRIBED
DIMENSIONS
PRINCIPAL
9[VRUDDER
~EVATOR
FUSELAGE AFT SECTION UPPER AVIONICS PACKAGE (A-4F t A-4E REWORKED PER A-4 AFC 325)
k - - - - - - - - 42 FEET 6 INCHES --~~---+--+------- *42 FEET 9 INCHES
K~HORIZONTAL ~ STABILIZER
FUSELAGE FORWARD SECTION
~J
TAILCONE
27 FEET b INCHES
~~SPEEDBRAKE ~SPOILER ~,
I I
AILERON
I
k - - - - - - - 3 9 FEET 9 INCHES--~~--+-+---------+-1 *38 FEET 6 INCHES
r.j
NOSE LANDING
:
GEAR~'
I' I //, I~' . '0 "::--"'-.1 I II
I I
WING FILLET SLATS MAIN LANDING GEAR
~"!l2 l·I14JJ
WING FLAPS
r-==:;;;;;;~~~~~~==-
A-4E STATION OUTLINE
4 FEET 8 INCHES * 5 F5_4_IN_C_H_E_S NOTE DIMENSIONS ARE TAKEN WITH THE LANDING GEAR SHOCK STRUT AND TIRES INFLATED TO THE CORRECT PRESSURES.
U
U
I
~
~ 7 FEET
k - - - - - - - - - - 41
10 INCHES
FEET 3 INCHES -----------~
RH GJN INDEX POINT X·ZID Y"211.507
i\ -r----+-------=--,....-,--- _J..L...-
l--31.1006
~EELlIr-E LHGUN IND£X POINT
~:~fOO6
~ II~i=( ~~ I j X'~ i
/
~7A64
X-mO
ega
XP;
B3A53
l'-31JJ
~
'@"
STAnc
XFS 1130
TATIC X-46.75
'264.25
--7750
X-O Y·'23.0
XFS
1~1.250
11 FEET
-
_
--
7 FEET 7 INCHES *7 FEET 11 INCHES
XFS 171.750
11 FEET 8 INCHES 2 FEET *11 FEET 11 INCHE~ 7 INCHES *=A-4E ONLY r - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 44 FEET - - - - - - - - - - -
l'-'15AO
8
/L-_S_TA_T_IC GROUND LINE
9
A-4E/F
ACCESS
AND
INSPECTION
s
6
7
A-4E1F
PROVISIONS
ACCESS
AND
INSPECTION 52
lOA
53
54
PROVISIONS 55
59
18
17
16
15
14 13
11
59
53 75
1.) Radome Electronic Equipment Compartment 2.) 2A.) APX-64 (V) Coder 3.) Brake Reservoir Inspection 4.) Angle-of-Attack Transducer 5.) Underwater Relief Valve 6.) Fuselage Fuel Cell Fairing 7.) Fuselage Fuel Cell Gravity Filler 8.) Upper Engine Access Compartment 9.) Engine forward Attaching Bolt 10.) Hoist Aft Receptacle 10A.) Hoist Forward Receptacle 11.) Engine Access Door 11 A.) Avionics Access Door 12.) Gun Fairing 13.) Canopy External Jettison Handle 14.) Canopy External Control Handle 15.) Forward Equipment Compartment 16.) Nose Gear Forward Door 17.) Nose Opening Mechanism 18.) AN/ARA-25 Antenna 19.) Flight Control Hydraulic Reservoir 20.) Electronic Equipment Compartment
21.) 46.) 47.) 48.) 49.) 50.) 51.) 52.) 53.) 54.) 55.) 56.) 57.) 58.) 59.) 60.) 61.) 62.) 63.) 64.) 65.) 66.)
AN/APG-53A Radar Equipment Slat Inboard Track Wing Fuel Tank Vent Lines Wing Fuel Tank Gravity Filler Wing Integral Fuel Tank (51 panels) Aileron Control Bellcrank Slat Outboard Track Aileron Controls Wing Tip Aileron Tip Aileron Flutter Damper Aileron Flutter Damper Inspection Wing Tank Fuel Transfer Pump Flap Link Bolt (on flap) Elevator Tip Wing Tank Pressure and Defueling Receptacle Fuel Probe Engine Oil Tank Filler Hoist Forward Receptacle N17-2 Flush Antenna (APX-6) Emergency Generator Nose Gear Cylinder Attaching Bolt
67.) 68.) 69.) 70.) 71.) 72.) 73.) 74.) 75.) 76.) 77.) 78.) 79.) 80.) 81.) 82.) 83.) 84.) 85.) 86.)
Fuel Strainer External Power Receptacle Approach Light Main Gear Forward Door Slat Inboard Track Tie-Down Ring Slat Center Track Slat Outboard Track Slat Track Stop AN/APN-141 Radar Altimeter Aileron Trim Tab Jackscrew Main Gear Fairing Engine Aft Compartment DMNI-7-4 Antenna (APX-6) Anti-Collision Light External Stores Pylons (5) Engine Starter Engine Forward Compartment. Hydraulic Fluid Cooler and Fuel Filter Unit Nose Gear Aft Door
76.55
52 54 55
70 69 66 67
68
55
10
56
56
11
56
DOUGLAS
A-4E/F
A-4E/F SKYHAWK GENERAL ARRANGEMENT 16.) Angle-of-Attack Vane and Tranducer 17.) AN/ARN-52(V) or AN/ARN-21 B TACAN Antenna 18.) Pitot Static Orifice 10 19.) AN/ARA-50 or AN/ARA-25 (UHF-ADF) Antenna Cover
1
FUSELAGE
NOSE
RADAR ANTENNA JACKSCREW TRUNNION ACCESS PLATES (TYPICAL LEFT-AND RIGHT-HAND SIDE)
~
A-4F PITOT TUBE ELECTRON IC EQU I PMENT COMPARTMENT
20 RADOME STRUT STOWAGE CLI P
19 1.) 2.) 3.) 4.) 5.) 6.) 7.)
RADOME HINGE --=:::;~~~
18 Air Refueling Probe 17 Radome Pitot Tube Total Temperature Sensor Brake fluid Level Window Thermal Radiation Closure AN/ARC-51A or AN/ARC-27A UHF Radio Antenna
NOSE RADOME
8.) Upper Avionics Package 9,) Normal Cockpit Entry Handle
22
21
h
20.) 21.) 22.) 23.) 24.)
Nose Compartment Access Door Oil Tank Fuselage Fuel Tank Filler Cap Cockpit Canopy Air Bungee Cylinder Nose Section Electronic Equipment Compartment 25.) AN/APG-53A1B Radar Transmitter and Receiver Group
~1
38--~
~~bJ;~~~~;? • _.' . '-~~ / /
~\
ANIARA-63 INSTRUMENT LANDING SYSTEM ANTENNA (NOTE 21
NOSE COMPARTMENT COOLING DUCT ALIGNMENT PIN ELECTRON IC RADOME LATCH EQU I PMENT ECM ANTENNA COMPARTMENT RADOME (NOTE 1) ACCESS DOOR
ANTENNA
14.)
15.) 15A.)
External Canopy - Jettison Handle Approach Lights Catapult Hook External Power Receptacle and Access Door Oil Tank Pressure Filler Cap Taxilight Engine Bleed Static Port
34.) 35.) 36.) 37.) 38.)
12
BRAKE RESERVOIR INSPECTION WINDOW--
LOCATIONS
26.) Emergency Generator 23 27.) Fuselage Fuel Tank
28.) 29.) 30.) 31.) 32.) 33.)
Air Refueling Probe Light Catapult Hook Wing Tank Filler Cap Slat Barricade Engagement Detent Vortex Generators
AN/APN-154(V) RADAR BEACON ANTENNA AFT 21A OR AN/ARN-52(V) ANTENNA
AN/APR-25M ANTENNA (l)
10.) 11.) 12.) 13.)
SECTION
Integral Wing Fuel Tank Arresting Hook JATO Igniter Terminal JATO Mounting Hooks Speed brake
13
ALIGNMENT PIN <12 PLACES)
A-4F
COMMUNICATION
AND
INSTRUMENTATION
A-4E/F
RACK
ELECTRONIC
EQUIPMENT
FORWARD PREAMPLIFIER (2) (NOTE
TYPE
AM-3624/ARA 50 CONTROL AMPLIFIER
DESIGNATION
FUNCTION
RANGE
LOCATION OF CONTROLS
COMMUNICATION: /
UHF RADIO
/
---._----. -_.-
RT-728/APX-64 (VHIFF) RECEIVER-TRAN Sr,'lTTER
AN/ARC-27A (2) AN/ARC-SIA (3)
SHORT RANGE-TWO WAY VOICE COMMUNICATION
SECURITY EQUIPMENT
JULIET 28
CLASSIFIED
AUXILIARY UHF
AN/ARR-69
SHORT RANGE RECEIVER/ADF
L1NE-OF-SIGHT
I
RIGHT CONSOLE
1
ROTATES ALL-ATTITUDE INDICATOR AND 10-663 BDHI COURSE INDICATOR
360 0 0F ROTATION
LA TITUDE COMPENSATION
0° TO 90° NORTH AND SOUTH
AN/ALQ-SI AN/ALQ-IOO
ENEMY RADAR JAMMING
SEE NAVAIR OI-40AV-ITlA)
ECM CONTROL MONITOR- LIH GLAR ESHIELD
IFF RADAR
AN/APX-64 (3) AN/APX-6B (2)
IDENTIFIES AS FRIENDLY
LINE-OF -SIGHT
RIGHT CONSOLE
SIF RADAR
AN/APA-89 (2)
IDENTIFICATION CODER
UHF-ADF
AN/ARA-2S AN/ARA-SO
DIRECTIONAL HOMING
L1NE-OF-SIGHT
TACAN
AN/ARN-2IB
PROVIDES COURSE BEARING AND DISTANCE TO SELECTED STATION
L1NE-OF-SIGHT TO 200 MILES
AN/ARN-S2 (V)
PROVIDES COURSE BEARING AND DISTANCE TO SELECTED STATION AND AIR-TO-AIR RANGING INFO FROM OTHER AIRCRAFT
L1NE-OF-SIGHT TO 300 MILES
AN/AS~I9A
AUTOMATIC DEAD RECKONING
0° TO 72° NORTH AND SOUTH
GREAT CIRCLE AND PLANAR NAVIGATION
OVER 300 MILES
GROUND SPEED AND DRIFT ANGLE INCREASE GROUND RADAR RANGE
L1NE-OF-SIGHT L1NE-OF-SIGHT
AN/APG-S3A/B
TERRAIN CLEARANCE
L1NE-OF-SIGHT
AN/APN-I41
INDICATES HEIGHT ABOVE TERRAIN
COMPASS CONTROLLER
ELECTRONIC COUNTERMEASUR ES (ECM) (5)
RIGHT CONSOLE
1
IDENTIFICATION:
!
~
NAVIGA TlON:
COAXIAL CABLE-RU1295A
@
NAVIGATION COMPUTER
(4)
AN/ASN-41 (1) DOPPLER RADAR
--------
RADAR BEACON RADAR: AIR-TO-GROUND RECEIVE/TRANSMIT
RT-743/ARC-5lA (UHF) RADIO COMMUNICATION RECEIVER-TRANSMITTER
ALTIMETER
TRANSFORMER WEAPONS DELIVERY: AIR- TO-GROUND MISSILE
AN/APN-lS3(V)(1) AN/APN-IS4(V) <2-3)
SEE A-4/TA-4 TACTICAL MANUAL (NAVAIR 01-40AV-lT)
GUIDED MISSILE
I L1NE-OF-SIGHT
T751/AJB 3 GYRO A-4Fi LATE A-4E (2) A-4E; (1)
(3) A-4F (4) EARLY A-4-E
(5) A-4E REWORKED PER A-4 AFC 32S-Xlli A-4F REWORKED PER A-4 AFC 360-1.
Effectivity Note: All A-4F aircraft reworked per A-4 AFe 394-1. 14
15
RIGHT CONSOLE
LEFT CONSOLE
LEFT CONSOLE AND INSTRUMENT PANEL INSTRUMENT PANEL
LEFT CONSOLE AND CONTROL STICK
AN/APG-53B
RADAR
AN/ASN-19A
SYSTEM
ELAPSED TI ME CLOCK
NAVIGATION
COMPUTER
SET
STANDBY COMPASS
RADAR SW ITCHES RADAR INDICATOR (SCOPE) REWORKED PER A-4 AFC 387
REWORKED PER A-4 AFC 256
BEARING, DISTANCE. AND TRACK INDICATOR ( DEAD RECKONING)
RADAR CONTROL PANEL
NAVIGATIONAL COMPUTER CONTROL PANEL
/ '" RADAR POWER SUPPLY
TOTAL TEMPERATURE SENSOR
ALTITUDE COMPUTER (TERRAIN CLEARANCE)
ELECTRONIC CONTROL AMPLIFIER
AN/APG-53A RADAR RECEIVER AND TRANSMITTER GROUP AUDIO TONE TO PILOT HEADSET (l) ANGLE-OF-ATTACK TRANSDUCER AND OUTSIDE VANE (2)
(l)
SEE ALSO LABS SYSTEM
(2)
SEE ALSO ANGLE-OF-ATTACK SYSTEM
NAVIGATION COMPUTER GGl-45-A
16
17
C __---..::A....:.:...=~SN..41
NAVIGATION
COMPUTER
SYSTEM
(:
ANGLE - OF - ATTACK
APPROACH
LIGHT
INDEX CONDITIONS
DIMMING WHEEL
I , I
OPTIMUM SETTING SCREW CALLEN HEAD)
,;A )
OPTIMUM" 17
BEARING, 01 STANCE AND HEADI NG INOI CATOR
SYSTEM
ANGLE-OF-ATTACK INDICATOR (INCREMENTS ARE NOT AIRCRAFT TRUE ANGLE-
/
/
ANGLE-OF-ATTACK
TOO HIGH (LIGHT = GREEN) t* INDICATOR = 181/2 - 30) ANGLE-OF-ATTACK
HIGH
APPROACHING OR DEPARTING _ OPTIMUM (LIGHTS = GREEN-YELLOW) (* INDICA TOR = 18-18 1/2)
~-----------""'" ANGLE-OF-ATTACK
~( L :
OPTI MUM \
("BULLSEYE")
(L1G HT = YELLOW)
,
(* INDICATOR
= 17-lBl
\
I I
RADAR SWICTHES
ANGLE-OF-ATTACK
LOW
APPROACHING OR DEPARTING OPTIMUM fLl GHTS = RED - YELLOW) (* INDICATOR = 16 1/2 - 17) ANGLE-OF-ATTACK
TOO LOW (LIGHT = RED) t* INDICATOR = 0-161/2)
* ONLY IF OPTIMUM SETTING IS 17 1/2 WITH DIFFERENT OPTIMUM SETTING, BREAK POINTS CHANGE CORRESPONDINGLY.
ANGLE-OF-ATTACK TRANSDUCER AND OUTSIDE VANE
RELAY PANEL BDH RELAYS (4)
NAVIGATION COMPUTER
APPROACH LIGHTS, THREE COLORS (EXTERNALl
APN-153(v) RECEIVER TRANSMITTER
18
19
AUTOMATIC
FLIGHT
CONTROL
l
SYSTEM
IN_S_T_R_U_M_E_N_T_P_A_N_E_L
_
AUTOMATIC FLIGHT CONTROL CONSOLE PANEL
PREFLIGHT TEST PANEL AUTOPILOT OVERRIDE BUTTON (AFCS EMERGENCY DISCONNECT) STICK FORCE SENSOR/ RELAY UNIT SURFACE CONTROL AMPLIFIER RUDDER POSITION TRANSMITTER
RUDDER ELECTRONIC FILTER
~PEDAL POSITION TRANSMITTER
PITCH AMPLIFIER COMPUTER
~ I/~
ROLL AMPLIFIER COMPUTER
~HORIZONTAL STABILIZER ~ POSITION TRANSMITTER --.;:;.~-
36
RUDDER DUAL INPUT VALVE AND ACTUATOR
~ ELEVATOR SERVO ASS£MBLY FLUX VALVE (COMPASS TRANSMITTER)-----!-------:."":o------:::~:lit)1 ACCELEROMETER
'
~
HEADING FILTER TWO-GYRO MASTER REFERENCE (STABILIZED PLATFORM) SPEEDBRAKE POSITION TRANSMITTER
STICK FORCE SENSOR, TRIM SWITCH AND AUTOPILOT OVERRIDE
AIR DATA SENSOR PITCH ANGLE SELECTOR
AMPLIFIER AND RELAY CONTROL AILERON SERVO ASSEMBLY RATE GYRO 3-AXIS RATE SENSOR
20
COMPASS ADAPTER (COMPENSATED COMPASS)
18.) 19.) 20.) 21.) 22.) 23.) 24.) 25.) 26.) 27.) 28.) 29.) 30.) 31.)
Accelerometer All-Attitude Indicator Radar Scope LABS Timer 8-Day Clock Oil Quantity Indicator Switch (late A-4E) Pressure Ratio Indicator Oil Pressure Indicator Tachometer Exhaust Gas Temperature Indicator Fuel Flow Indicator Fuel Quantity Indicator Radar Altimeter Dead reckoning Indicator (early A-4E)
32.) 33.) 34.) 35.) 36.) 37.) 38.) 39.) 40.) 41.) 42.) 43.) 44.)
21
Radar Altimeter Low-Limit Warning Light Standby Attitude Indicator SIDS Cont-Norm Mode Switch Armament Panel Miscellaneous Switches Panel Aircraft Weapons Release System Panel (late A-4E) Oxygen Quantity Indicator Bearing - Distance - Heading Indicator Vertical Speed Indicator Altimeter Angle - of - Attack Indicator Caution Panel (Ladder Lights) Airspeed Indicator
A-4E
GENERAL
COCKPIT
ARRANGEMENT
[
A-4E 1.) 2.) 3.) A.) 4.) 5.) 6.) 7.) 8.) 9.) 10.) 11.) 12.) 13.) 14.)
15.) 16.) 17.) 18.) A.) 19.) 20.) 21.) 22.) 23.) 24.) 25.) 26.) 27.) 28.) 29.) 30.) 31.) 32.) 33.) 34.) 35.) 36.) 37.) 38.) 39.) 40.) 41.) 42.) 43.) 44.) 45.) 46.) 47.) 48.)
22
COCKPIT
LEGEND
I I
Shoulder Harness Control Handle Manual Canopy Control Handle Left Console Spoiler ARM-OFF Switch APC-JATO Control Panel Catapult Handgrip JATO Firing Button Emergency Landing Gear Release Handle Canopy Latch Rollers Canopy Latch Hooks Compass Deviation Card Compass Correction Card Landing Gear Control Handle Left Turn Light Marker Beacon Light (Low Altitude Warning System (LAWS) Light) (All A-4E Aircraft Reworked per A-4 AFC 333) LABS Light Wheels Warning Light Cockpit Floodlights APC Status Light Angle -of-Attack Indexer Lights Standby Compass and Elapsed Time Clock Gunsight Remote Channel Indicator Rear View Mirror Instrument Panel FIRE Warning Light OBST warning Light ARM lORD Light Right Turn Light Utility Floodlight Standby Compass Deviation Card Arresting Hook Handle Emergency Generator Release Handle Canopy Jettison Handle White Floodlights Control Right Console Harness Release Handle Alternate Ejection Handle Contol Stick WHEELS Warning Light (All A-4E Aircraft Reworked per AFC 394) LABS Light (All A-4Es Reworked per AFC 394) LAWS Light (All A-4Es Reworked per AFC 394) OBST Warning Light (All A-4Es Reworked per AFC 394) FIRE Warning Light (All A-4Es Reworked per AFC 394) Chaff Control Panel (All A-4Es Reworked per AFC 325) ECM Control Panel (All A-4Es Reworked per AFC 325) LAWS Light (All A-4Es Reworked per AFC 325) LABS Light (All A-4Es Reworked per AFC 325) WHEELS Light (All A-4Es Reworked per AFC 325) Threat Warning Light Panel (All A-4Es Reworked per AFC 394)
A-4F 1.) 2.) 3.) 4.) 5.) 6.) 7.) 8.) 9.) 10.) 11.) 12.) 13.) 14.) 15.) 16.) 17,) 18.) 19.) 20.) 21.) 22.) 23.) 24.) 25.) 26.) 27.) 28.) 29.) 30.) 31.) 32.) 33.) 34.) 35.) 36.) 37.) 38.) 39.) 40.) 41.) 42.) 43.) 44.) 45.) 46.) 47.) 48.)
23
COCKPIT
LEGEND
Shoulder Harness Control Handle Left Console Manual Canopy Control Handle Spoiler ARM-OFF Switch Nosewheel Steering Switch APC Control Panel JATO Control Panel Catapult Handgrip JATO Firing Button Emergency Landing Gear Release Handle Compass Correction Card Canopy Latch Rollers Canopy Latch Hooks Compass Deviation Card Rain Repellant Button Landing Gear Control Handle Chaff Control Panel (All A-4Fs Reworked per AFC 325-11I) ECM Control Panel (All A-4Fs Reworked per AFC 325) LAWS Light LABS Light Wheels Warning Light Threat Warning Light Panel (All A-4Fs Reworked per AFC 394-11I)\) APC Status Light Angle -of-Attack Indexer Lights Gunsight Elapsed Time Clock Standby Compass WHEELS Warning Light (All A-4F Aircraft Reworked per AFC 356) LABS Light (A-4Fs Reworked per AFC 356) LAWS Light (All A-4Fs Reworked per AFC 356 OBST Warning Light (All A-4Fs Reworked per AFC 356 IFF MODE 4 Failure Light (A-4Fs Reworked per AFC 356) FIRE Warning Light (All A-4Fs Reworked per AFC 356) Rear View Mirror Instrument Panel FIRE Warning Light OBST Warning Light Utility Floodlight Eyeball Diffuser Standby Compass Deviation Card Arresting Hook Handle Emergency Generator Release Handle Canopy Jettison Handle White Floodlights Control Right Console Harness Release Handle Alternate Ejection Handle Contol Stick
A-4F
GENERAL
COCKPIT
LEFT - HAND
ARRANGEMENT 1.) 2.) 3.) 4.) 5.) 6.) 7.) 8.) 9.)
Wheels and Flaps Panel Blank Panels (not reworked per A-4 AFC 376) LABS Control (not reworked per A-4 AFC 376) Throttle Panel Engine Control Panel Radar Control Panel (not reworked per A-4 AFC 256) ARN-n Control Selector (reworked per A-4 AFC 256) AFCS Panel GCBS Panel
CONSOLE 9A.) 9B.) 10.) 11.) 12.) 13.) 14.) 15.) 16.)
Radar Beacon Control Panel (C-4419/APN-154(V) ) Blank Panel (reworked per A-4 AFC 473) Oxygen and Anti-G Panel Antiexposure Suit Control Panel Emergency Speed brake Control Canopy Control Handle Manual Fuel Shutoff Control Lever Smoke Abatement Switch Flap Handle
2
Spoiler Arm Switch JATO Control Panel Approach Power Compensator Control Panel Oxygen, Anti-G, and Antiexposure Suit Control Panel (reworked per A-4 AFC 387)
9
8
TO AFT INITIATOR
9A GGl-51-C
24
25
A-4E
RIGHT - HAND
RIGHT - HAND
CONSOLE
CONSOLE
5 9
•
LATE CONFIGURATION
46.) 47.) 48.) 49.) 49A.) 50.) 51.) 52.) 53.)
Trim Position Indicator Panel Exterior Lights Panel Air Conditioning Panel Rain Removal Panel Fuel Transfer Bypass Switch Doppler Navigational Computer (ASN-41)(late A-4E) Spare Lamps Container (not reworked per AFC 256) AFCS Test Switch Panel (not reworked per AFC 256) Miscellaneous Switches Panel
26
54.) 55.) 56.) 57.) 58.) 59.) 60.)
Interior Lights Panel (reworked per AFC 428) Compass Control Panel (not reworked per AFC 256) IFF Control Panel (not reworked per AFC 256) SIF Control Panel TACAN Control Panel UHF Control Panel NAV Control Panel (ASN-19 early A-4E)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
(NOTE 3) TRIM POSITION INDICATOR PANEL EXTER IOR LI GHTS PANEL AIR CONDITIONING PANEL RAIN REMOVAL PANEL SPARE LIGHT BULB CONTAINER PREFLIGHT TEST CONTROL PANEL MISCELLANEOJS SWITCH PANEL I NTER I OR LI GHTS PANEL SIF RADAR CONTROL PANEL
10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
IFF RADAR CONTROL PANEL COMPASS CONTROlLER TACAN CONTROL PANEL UHF RADIO CONTROL PANEL ASN-19A NAV COMPUTER CONTROL PANEL DOPPLER CONTROL PANEL GENERATOR CONTROL SWITCH MCL CHAN SWITCH MCL PWR SWITCH
(NOTE 2)
GG2-2-22703-30
Effectivity Notes: (1) BuNo. 149647 149666, 149959-150049, 150051-150138, 151022-151081 not reworked per A-4 AFC 282 and 317. (2) BuNo. 149647-149666, 149959-150049 1500511?0138, 151022-151081 reworked per A-4 AFC 282 and 317. All A-4E aircraft and' A-4F a~rcraft reworked per A-4 AFC 387. (3) A-4F aircraft reworked per A-4 AFC 492. (4) A-4F aircraft reworked per A-4 AFC 463.
27
A-4E
ROCKET
EJECTION
CESCAPAC 1C-3 EJECTION SEAT A-4F and A-4E REWORKED PER AFC-359
SEAT
1. EJECTION SEAT CATAPULT PIN AND STREAMER 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
ROCKET CATAPULT STRIKER PLATE HARNESS RELEASE MANUAL DETENT PIN ZERO DELAY LANYARD (ZDU RING ZDL SNAP ZERO DELAY LANYARD HARNESS RELEASE ACTUATOR AND CARTRIDGE INDICATOR PIN 9. FIRING PIN SEAR 10. LAP BELT AND SHOULDER HARNESS RELEASE BELLCRANK ASSEMBLY 11. NITROGEN STORAGE BOTTLE FOR SEPARATION BLADDER OPERATIO~N __
1
1. HARNESS RESET MANUAL DETENT PIN 2. FIRING PIN SEAR 3. NITROGEN STORAGE BOTTLE FOR SEPARATION BLADDER OPERATION 4. ROCKET CATAPULT 5. ALTERNATE EJECTION CONTROL HANDLE 6. HARNESS RELEASE HANDLE
16
4
3
7 PARACHUTE ARMING LANYARD CHANNEL 8 SEPARATION BLADDER C2 PLACES) 9 SHOULDER HARNESS DISCONNECT CABLE 10 EJECTION CONTROL SAFETY HANDLE (HEADKNOCKER) 11 DUAL HEADREST PADS 12 FACE CURTAIN EJECTION CONTROL HANDLE 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18.
FACE CURTAIN CONTROL CABLES CANOPY JETTISON CONTROL CABLE CATAPULT FIRING CONTROL CABLE CATAPULT FIRING SEAR CANOPY INTERLOCK SAFETY RELEASE CABLE SEAT SEPARATION BLADDERS SHOULDER HARNESS INERTIA REEL CONTROL HANDLE 19. AL TERNATE EJECTION CONTROL HANDLE 20. HARNESS RELEASE HANDLE 21. LAP BELT TO SEAT CONNECTION 22. SHOULDER HARNESS TO SEAT CONNECTION 23. EJECTION CONTROL SAFETY HANDLE ( HEAD KNOCKER) 24. FACE CURTAIN EJECTION CONTROL HANDLE
13 INTERLOCK CABLE 14 SHOULDER HARNESS LOCKING PIN 15 RUBBER COATED PARACHUTE SUPPORT SHELF 16 LAP BELT PIN 17 INERTA REEL MANUAL CONTROL LEVER
18
28
29
SERVICING
DIAGRAM
[
C-=--A.....:...T.:....:...A_P--=U-=L:....::....T----=E=-=Q=-=U:....:.IP:.......:M:.:..::..=EN:....:...T-=-----
_
OIL TANK CAPACITY: USABLE LUBRICATING OIL 3.4 GALLONS SPEC: MIL-L-23699
SMOKE ABATEMENT ADDITIVE TANK CAPACITY: APPROX. 1.0 GALLON ADDITIVE CI-2 (COMMERCIAL) LIQUID OXYGEN BOTTLE CAPACITY: 10 LITERS GASEOUS OXYGEN SPEC: MIL-0-27210
UTILITY HYDRAULIC RESERVOIR CAPACITY 1.25 GALLONS SPEC: MIL-H-5606 COLOR: RED CONSTANT SPEED DRIVE CAPACITY: 1.0 QUART SPEC: MIL-S-81087 SILICONE FLUID FUSELAGE FUEL TANK CAPACITY 230 GALLONS
ARRESTING HOOK HOLDDOWN CYLINDER FILL TO 900 PSI WITH COMPRESSED NITROGEN FED. SPEC: BB-N-411
CANOPY AIR BUNGEE CYLINDER 2500 PSI DRY COMPRESSED NITROGEN OR AS PER INSTRUCTION PLATE ON BUNGEE
ANTI ROTATION BRACE
EMERGENCY OXYGEN BOTTLE FILL TO 1800 PSI WITH GASEOUS OXYGEN SPEC: MIL-o-27210
PRESSURE FUELING RECEPTACLE CAPACITY; 790 GALLONS
(NOTE 2)
TENSION RETAINING PLUG BLOCK
FLIGHT CONTROL HYDRAULIC RESERVOIR CAPACITY: 0.3 GALLONS SPEC: MIL-H-5606 COLOR: RED
(NOTE
WING FUEL TANK CAPACITY: 560 GALLONS TURBINE FUEL SPEC: MIL-T-5624
1)
ARRESTI NG HOOK HOLDBACK FITTING
EXTERNAL FUEL TANKS CAPACITIES: WING S 147 OR 295 GALLONS CENTER 147, 295, OR 396 GALLONS
ARRESTI NG HOOK
BRAKE FLUID RESERVOIR CAPACITY: 1.04 QUARTS HYDRAULIC FLUID SPEC: MIL-H-5606 COLOR: RED
CATAPULT HOLDBACK
NOTE: FUEL TANK CAPACITIES BASED ON USABlE FUEL AND PRESSURE FUELING.
ATTACHING FITTING
US GAL.
IMP GAL.
LITERS
FUSELAGE FUEL CELL
230
191.5
870.5
WING INTEGRAL FUEL T!,NK
560
466.2
2119.6
AFLOAT
EXTERNAL FUEL TANK, AERO lC
147
122.3
556.3
JP-5
EXTERNAL FUEL TANK, AERO lC
295
245.6
1116.8
EXTERNAL FUEL TANK, AERO 10
295
245.6
1116.5
AIR REFUELING STORE
295
245.6
1116.5
EXTERNAL FUEL TANK, (400 GALLONS)
396
329.7
1498.8
FUEL SPECIFICATIONS APPROVED FUEL
ASHORE JP-4
JP-5
i1iANKS
30
CATAPULT BRIDLE HOOK LINKAGE
--'MIN GEAR AFT DOOR
Effectivity Notes: (1) BuNo. 151022 and subsequent; and BuNo. 149647-149666, 149959149988 and 149989-150138 reworked per A-4 ASC 192-1. (2) BuNo. 149647-149666, 149959150138, and 151022-151201 reworked per A-4 AFC 412.
31
CATAPULT
EQUIPMENT TYPICAL STEAM
CATAPULT HOOKUP
[
G:....-R_O;::.....U.:.....:N....::...:D=-----=S...::.....A::..::....F.=:.ET...::.....Y-=------=-P....::...:R:....=O.....:..V..:...:IS:...:...IO=-N:....:.S=--
--.J
~FUSELAGE
CATAPULT HOOKUP conl
---....
WI«; SlAT Loac
* NOn:
AEIlO 2QA EaCTOI
SLIDE LANYARD
CATAPULT
--
-------
CATAPULT TRACK
-- - --
----
lACK SAfETY PIN
TYPICAL STEAM CATAPULT HOOKUP, TYPE C MARK 7.
HOLDBACK PENDANT AND TENSION
BAR 'MIIOH GUST Loac
CATAPULT HOOKUP
(ont.
TAlL SUPPOIT
STAND
SEE VIEW NEAREST SECURING TRACK OR OECK
FITTING-_==::==::;-~~~~_
C-C
---------~~~Da,_
32
33
A-4E
NOSEGEAR
A-4F
FORWARD LATCH MECHANISM
NOSEGEAR
FORWARD LATCH MECHANISM
NOSE GEAR UPLOCK SWITCH
NOSE GEAR UPLOCK SWITCH
DOOR ACTUATING CYLINDER NOSE GEAR DOOR POSITION SWITCH \ " ,
AFT LATCH MECHANISM
AFT LATCH MECHANISM
\
OSEWHEEL STEERIXG HYDRAU L1C SUPPLY CONTROL VALVE
LATC H ROLLER
LATCH ROLLER
NOSE GEAR FORWARD DOOR
NOSE GEAR FORWARD DOOR
TELESCOPING MECHANISM
TELESCOPING MECHANISM
HYDRAULIC FILLER CHECK VALVE
HYDRAULIC FILLER CHECK VALVE
SHOCK STRUT NOSE GEAR ACUTATING CYLINDER
SHOCK STRUT NOSE GEAR ACUTATING CYLINDER
SNUBBER ASSE.MBLY
FORK
NOSEWHEEL
A-4E AI ReRAFT
34
A-4F AI ReRAFT
35
A-4E
NOSEGEAR
A-4F
NOSEGEAR
[
A_-_4F_ _N___=.o___=.S_E~G_E_A_R_A_N_D_~D~O___=.O_R
SUPPORT FITTINGS
DOWN LOCK PIN
SHOCK STRUT
/
NOSE GEAR ACTUATING CYLINDER
NOSEWHEEL STEERING ACTUATOR TELESCOPING MECHANISM
36
37
---J
A-4E/F
LEFT - HAND
MAIN
LANDING
C__A_-4_E_I_F_R_I_G_H_T_-_H_A_N_D__M_A_IN_ _L_A_N_D_I_N-=-G_G-=-----EA R_o..:.....P=--E::::...:R:...::..:A-=-T~I_=_O..:....:N _ _
GEAR
UPLOCK SWITCH AFT LATCH MECHANISM EMERGENCY RELEASE CABLE
.
--
GEAR DOWN AND LOCKED
SPRING UP-POSITION SWITCH
~ FORWARD DOOR ACTUATING CYLINDER
NOTE RIGHT-HAND GEAR SHOWN , LEFT-HAND TYPICAL
AFT DOOR
SHOCK STRUT INSTRUCTION PLATE
RETRACTION RELEASE SWITCH (LEFT-HAND GEAR ONLY)
AFT DOOR ACTUATING CYLINDER SHOCK STRUT
JACKET JACK PAD MAIN LANDING GEAR AFT DOOR BRAKE
LH GEAR SHOWN, RH TYPICAL
Effectivity: BuNo. 149647-149666, 149959-150138, 151022-151201, 151984-152013 not reworked per A-4 AFC 262 and 272.
38
39
A-4E/F LEFT & RIGHT HAND MAIN LANDING GEAR BRAKE LINES
A-4E1F
MAIN
LANDING
GEAR
ASSEMBLY
AND
DOORS
SUPPORT INSTALLATION
BRAKE HOSE
Of
19 INCHES
JACKET
l--~~ 12 INCHES
j 4-13/16 INCHES·
I ,'.. I
ve, catapult bridle hooks were painted yellow and gear doors, both main and nose, were edged in red. The landing light fitted to the inside of the right-hand main gear door. (Douglas via Wayne Morris)
VIEW LOOKING OUTBOARD AT RIGHT-HAND MAIN GEAR CNOTE II
VIEW LOOKING OUTBOARD AT LEFT-HAND MAIN GEAR (NOTE 11
(NOTE 2)
WARNING
I
AVOID TWISTING BRAKE HOSE DURING INSTALLATlONo TWISTED BRAKE HOSE WILL foNJVE OUT OF POSITION AS GEAR IS EXTENDED, CATCH ON CATAPULT HOOK, AND IF SEVERED, WILL CAUSE LOSS OF BRAKING ACTION.
At left, left-hand main gear door. (Ginter)
40
41
----.
SELECTED
I
A-4E/F
EXTERNAL
STORES
r---I [
LOADING
WEAPON
A-4E
CONTROLS
SYSTEMS
NOTE FOR EXTERNAL STORES LIMITATIONS SEE SUPPLEMENT TO NATOPS FLIGHT MANUAL NAVAIR 01-40 AVC-1A
l)
STA 5 AERO 7E (LAZY DOG>
........................................
AERO 6A ROCKET PACKAGE • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • AERO 70 ROCKET PACKAGE • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • AERO 14B SPRAY TANK ••
.......................................
BULLPUP B AGM-12C
......................................
STA 2
STA 1
X X
X X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X X
X
MK 44 MISSILE CLUSTER • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • MK 77 MOD 1 FIRE BOMB • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • MK 79 MOD 1 FIRE BOMB • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • . • •
................................
X
X
X
X X X
X
X X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
MK 83/88 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • MK84 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • . • • • • • • • • • • • MULTIPLE BOMB RACK (MBR) ................................
X
X X
x x x
x x
X
x
X
X
X
X
x
x
X
x
MK 2" MOO 2A/3 PARACHUTE FLARE •••••••
x
X
X X
MK 76 MOD 5 •••• " • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • .
X
X
X
MK 81-GP-HE/INERT • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • MK 82 GP-HE/INERT • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • MK 86 • • • • • • • • • • • • • . . • • • • • • ' •••••• MK87 .....................................................
X
X
X
X X X
x
X X
X
X
X
X
x
x'
X
250 LB G. P. AN-M57A • • • • . • • • • • • • • • • • NAV PAC • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • SHRIKE AGM-45A • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
x
.......................................
X
X
150 LB GAL. EXTERNAL TANK • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 300 GAL. EXTERNAL TANK • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 300 GAL. AIR REFUELING STORE • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
X X
~
~SELECTOR~
O
HV D.C. CHECK
10
~F OF~STBYREADY ALTERNATE H
o
CONTROL
~
C-2612/AWW-l FUZE FUNCTION CONTROL PANEL
PANELS WEAPONS CONTROL PANEL (SHRIKE)
AQM-37A MISSILE TARGET
~N
(@
SIDEWINDER
(0)
LEFT
X
X
X
X
X X X
X X
0
RIGHT
OFF®
0
0
JETTISON
X
VOLUME
~OFF
SELECT
(@
0
0
X
X
x
SPECIAL WEAPONS • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 220 LB FRAG. AN-M88
X
~C W~
~OPTION
PRESS TO TEST
MK 6 MOD 5/6 PARACHUTE FLARE • • • • • • • • • •
.................................. ..................................
ARMAMENT PANEL
AWRS CONTROL PANEL
X X
CONTROL STICK GRIP
X
X
x
260 LB FRAG. AN-M81
EMERGENCY STORE RELEASE
X
x x
220 LB FRAG. AN-M88
X
X
x x
0 CHEMICAL TANK • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • .
MK 26 MOD 0 SIDEWINDER, TARGET ROCKET. • • • • • • •
82/87 •••••
STA 3
X
GUN POD • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • . • • • • • • • • • • • • GTC-85 STARTER POD. ......................................
MK 81/86
0
X
.......................................
LAU-10/~ROCKET PACKAGE • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
a
STA 4
..................................
BULLPUP A AGM-12B
MK 12 M
\J'U
X
ALQ-31 ECM POD • • • • . • • • • • • • • • • • • . • • • • •
CBU-1A/2A •••••••
~J)~ 'l ~
is
AQM-37/A TARGET CONTROL PANEL
AIM-9 SIDEWINDER CONTROL PANEL
X
~
PRESSURE@WARNING
POWER
S
P R A Y
~ CLOS~~3PEN OFF
@
~
TAIL VALVE
~ ARMING
~ OFF
@
BEFORE RESETTING TO SMALLER OPENING RETURN SELECTOR SWITCH TO CLOSE
AERO-14B SPRAY TANK CONTROL PANEL
BULLPUP ADAPTIVE CONTROL PANEL
42
43
~
~
AQM-37A The LAU-24/A launcher is capable of transporting and launching a single AOM-37A target missile. The launcher attaches directly to the fuselage at the centerline station and attaches to an LAU-24/A launcher adapter at each inboard wing station. The launcher consists of a structural frame, a sled mechanism, umbilical wiring, release hooks, and a cartridge-powered actuator assembly. The aft section of the launcher contains a high-pressure bottle containing dry, compressed nitrogen. The nitrogen pressurizes the AOM-37A target missile during high-altitude, captive flight to prevent arcing between target missile electronic components.
TARGET
MISSILE
AND
LAU-24/A
LAUNCHER
b:=-
BAROMETRIC BY PASS SWITCH (ON LH SIDE OF LAUNCHER)
M_IS_S_IL_E_S
_
M-12A1B BULLPUP LAU-24/A LAUNCHER
.1
MECHANICAL SAFETY PIN ARMING LANYARD EXTRACTOR MECHANISM
~ ~
I
,
TARGET SAFETY PIN
...........
AGM-12A1B (Bullpup alr-to-surface guided slle is a short-range lie powered by a sinstage rocket motor. missile is used to ck and destroy surtargets whose size, ortance or tactical disItion require highly urate delivery of a 250nd warhead.
AGM·12C BULLPUP LAU-241A LA~CHER ADAPTER
(WING STATION ONLY)
AGM-12C (Bullpup B) much larger than the IIpup A missile in both warhead and rocket t tor. The nose section, ntaining the guidance Ind control mechanism, the same for both mis. I s. The BUllpup Buses \ liquid fuel engine and, II refore, has only one ctrical cable attaching to the aircraft. t
AERO 20A-l EJECTOR RACK AND FAIRING - - - - - I
AGM-12A1B BULLPUP
MISSILE PLUG P2
AGM-12C BULLPUP
AGM-45A SHRIKE , e AGM-45A Shrike airsurface guided missile I nsists of four main secI ns. These are the guidce, armament, control, , d propulsion sections. r e missile is 120 inches Ing,8 inches in diameter, . nd weighs 400 pounds. I he missile was used in Viet Nam for eliminating AM radar sites. I
LAU-241A LAUNCHER
AGM-45A SHRIKE
IM-9 SIDEWINDER
BOMB RElEASE SW ITCH lAU - ""lAlI
lH LAUNCHER lLAU-241AI
The AIM-9 Sidewinder is a upersonic, passive infrar d homing, air-to-air uided missile. The mislie is designed for I unching from a rail-type launcher. The launcher nd missile are carried on the wing ejector racks through the use of the Aero 1A adapter, which provides the launcher with 14-inch suspension.
AIM-9 SIDEWINDER
AERO '20A-1 EJECTOR RACK AND FAIRING
AERO 3A MISSILE LAUNCHER AERO IA ADAPTER
MISSILE FIRING PANEl.
SIOEWINDER MISSILE
AQM- 37A MISSILE TARGET
44
45
AGM-12
BULLPUP
MISSILE
CONTROL
AGM-45
SYSTEMS
SHRIKE
MISSILE
CONTROL
0
__
SYSTEMS °
__0'---
_
C>
~~~ ,.......L
_
e "
SHRIKE RELAY BOX
MISSILE HARNESS
AXC-666 AIR DATA COMPUTER AMPLIFIER-POWER SUPPLY (AM 2014/AWW-1)
W
D VALUE BU
T
AR
BAL
0
'C&
f ID:dli b ~ b ~ ~ A~~F~OFT 2 MANUAL
!::::::l:l~GHJ
N
Ff;ET X
IOO~ ATTACK
MODE
WEAPON CONTROL PANEL
A '7
0WEAPON ACCELEROMETER
MISSILE GUIDANCE CONTROL SWITCH EXTERNAL STORES RELEASE SWITCH
TARGET PANEL
IN RANGE
0
CP-74I/A WEAPON RELEASE COMPUTER
ET RANGE DIVE
I \ RADIO COMMAND TRANSMITTER ANTENNA (A-4B/C)
RADIO COMMAND TRANSMITTER ( T-714/ARW-173) BULLPUP ADAPTIVE CONTROL (LOOKING FORWARD) (A-4E>
46
BOHI
SHRIKE
~ TGT
"i~:::Nf§\ ~~P=~=FI=lE=@=lO=NG===FU=El~ AV-PAC
@
~~
PLAN
SHORT
!
47
l
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _R_O_C_K_E_T_ _ P_O_D_S FRANGIBLE FAIRING
AERO 6A ROCKET LAUNCHER
14-INCH SUSPENSION LUGS
,,-------d
Aero 6A Rocket Launcher
I
The Aero 6A rocket launcher houses seven 2.75-inch folding fin aircraft rockets (FFAR). The launcher package is suspended from the Aero 20A-1 or 7A-1 14-inch suspension hooks. The package weighs 148 pounds and is 75.1 inches long and has a 9.75 inch diameter.
LAU-10/A rocket launcher a reusable dual-purpose re, which houses four 5.0, h Zuni folding fin aircraft kets which can be used for I r to-air or air-to-ground tar! ts. The rockets can be set before the flight to be fired either single or ripple des. Lugs may be threaded , to receptacles in the launchcenter section for either 30 14 inch suspension.The ds weighed 533 pounds and re 139.5 inches long and 13.9 inches in diameter.
FRANGIBLE FAIRING LAUNCHER CENTER SECTION
Aero 70 Rocket Launcher AFT ELECTRICAL REC EPTACLE WITH BREAKAWAY CONNECTOR IN PLACE
14-INCH SUSPENSION LUGS
FORWARD ELECTRICAL RECEPTACLE WITH SHORTING BUTTON IN PLACE
ASSEMBLED ROCKETS (19l
,:-:;"T-----:~~~30-INCHALTERNATE SUSPENSION LUG PROVISIONS
AU-10/A Rocket Launcher
I
The Aero 7D rocket launcher houses nineteen 2.75-inch folding fin aircraft rockets (FFAR) which can be used for air-to-ground or air-to-air targets. The launcher package may be carried on 14-inch suspens!on on the centerline or wing stations. The unit weighs 430.9 pounds and is 98.6 inches long and has a diameter of 15.7 inches.
I e LAU-32A1A rocket launchIs an expendable dual-pur~ ose store, which houses . ven 2.75-inch folding fin airraft rockets (FFAR). A shunt I ze intervalometer, located in I e aft bulkhead, converts the Iring pulse from the aircraft rmament system into ripple IIrlngs with a 10-millisecond lay interval between rocket Irlngs. Suspension lugs are hreaded into receptacles on he launcher body for 14-inch uspension. I
elow, A-4E 150102 with rockt pods fitted to the outer wing ylons and 18 bombs loaded on the other three pylons. (Douglas)
FRANGIBLE FAIRING TYPICAL BOTH ENDS
AFT ELECTRICAL RECEPTACLE
48
AFT ELECTRICAL RECEPTACLE WITH BREAKAWAY CONNECTER IN PLACE
LAU-10/A ROCKET LAUNCHER
FRANGIBLE FAIRING TYPICAL BOTH ENDS
ASSEMBLED ROCKETS (4)
~r-7.c....._-~30_INCH
ALTERNATE SUSPENSION LUG PROVISIONS
LAUNCHER CENTER SECTION
LAU-32A1A LAUNCHER
FRANGIBLE FAIRINGS (2)
LAU-3A1A Rocket Launcher
LAU-3A1A ROCKET LAUNCHER
PODS
I.AU-32A1A Launcher
ASSEMBLED ROCKETS (7)
AERO 7D ROCKET LAUNCHER
ROCKET
The LAU-3A1A launcher holds nineteen FFAR 2.75-inch rockets. The firing impulse from the aircraft armament system is distributed to the individual rockets by an intervalometer. RAD-HAZ SAFETY PIN The intervalometer converts the firing pulse into a ripple firTAIL FRANGIBLE ing sequence with ten millisecFAIRING onds delay between rocket firings. The launcher has provisions for both 14-inch and 30inch suspension through the use of threaded lugs and receptacles. Weight of the pod is 429.13 pounds and it is 94.60 inches long and 15.70 inches in diameter.
49
A1A37B-1
MULTIPLE
BOMB
RACK
ASSEMBLY INSTALLATION
BOMB
SPACING}
MULTIPLE BOMB RACK SWAY BRACE PADS 14 PlAUlI
ve, 6-500 pound bombs on the inner wing pylon on a Douglas test , s station of an A-4E Skyhawk. (Douglas)
CENTERLINE
(~MULTIPLE BOMB RACK SUSPENSION LUGS 12 PlAUlI
----~~
WING
50
RACK
LOADING
)
/
MULTIPLE BOMB RACK SUSPENSION LUGS 130 INCH
MULTIPLE
51
-4E. Below, 6-500 pound bombs on the center line
GENERAL
PURPOSE
BOMBS
AN-M General Purpose Bomb
AN-M30A1 GENERAL PURPOSE BOMB
The AN-M series general purpose bomb is a relatively thin-cased bomb with an ogival nose, parallel walls, and a tapered aft section. A conical fin assembly consisting of an elongated cone with four integral fins evenly spaced on the cone surface is attached to the tapered bomb body to increase aerodynamic performance and bombing accuracy. The bomb uses both nose and tail fuzes for the majority of operations.
131.5 pounds, 54.2 inches long, 8.19 inches diameter
:
LOW 82/83/84 Low Ora
DRAG
SERIES
GENERAL
GPB
• low drag general purpose '1 s have a slender body, a long ( d nose, and a conical type
GPB inches long, 9
AN-M57A GPB 280.35 pounds, 62.2 inches long, 10.9 inches diameter
AN-M64A1 GPB 571.1 pounds, 72.1 inches long, 14.18 inches diameter
AN-M65A1 GPB 1165.2 pounds, 91.1 inches long, 18.8 inches diameter
1
84 Low Ora
GPB
" 70 pounds, 151.5 inches mg, 18 inches diameter
AN-M66A2 GPB 2194.5 pounds, 116.80 inches long, 23.29 inches diameter
52
53
PURPOSE
BOMBS
'---
S_N_A_K_EY_E_--:G_E_N_E_R_A_L_P_U::....::.R...::...:..P--:O:......:S:....=E=-----=--B..:::..O.:...:....:M..:::..B-=..s
MK 81 Snakeye 1 Bomb
MK 81 Snakeye 1 Bomb
The MK 81 Snakeye 1 weapon is a MK 81 LDGP bomb body with a MK 14 fin assembly attached. The MK 14 fin assembly is a flight retarding fin designed to provide aircraft with a low level, high-speed bombing capability. The fins present a low drag configuration in the closed position and can be used in the same manner as a standard low drag general purpose bomb. When the retarding fin is released from the closed position, the fin assembly expands into four dive brake flaps that stabilize and decelerate the weapon by creating high drag, thereby decreasing the speed of the bomb and allowing the aircraft to avoid the bomb blast and fragment pattern. The fin release mechanism is mechanical and is actuated by an arming wire as the bomb falls away from the aircraft. The weapon may be mechanically or electrically fuzed.
Weight 300 pounds, length 75.13 inches, diameter 9 inches
AN-MB1
AND
AN-MBB
FRAGMENTATION
inches, diameter
BOMBS
AN-Maa
I
260 pound AN-M81 and 220 pound AN-M88 fragntation bombs have bodies constructed of spiralwound square steel wire. A seamless steel tube ms the basis for the outer wrapping. The steel re winding is forged at the nose and tail to form lid nose and tail sections. An AM135 conical fin I embly, consisting of an elongated cone with four I gral blades evenly spaced, is attached to the I ered aft end of the bomb bodies.
MK 5/6/24
MK 82 Snakeye 1 Bomb
AIRCRAFT
PARACHUTE
FLARE
Weight 560 pounds, length 89 inches, diameter 10.8 inches ~~
.~~ ~ l:§;:~~:':;;~: :)j"'X;:":" ,. ~..
>~~. ~-,
MK 5 AIRCRAFT PARACHUTE FLARE MK 6 is similar but with 1,000,000 candle power
SUSPENSION BAND
PUBLICATION REFERENCE OP 2213 lEADING PARTICULARS MOD WEIGHT (Ib) BURNING TIME (MIN.)
MK 82 Snakeye 1 Bomb The MK 82 Snakeye 1 is a MK 82 LDGP bomb body with a MK 15 fin assembly attached. The bomb functions in the same manner as the MK 81 Snakeye 1.
l
U
IB
10 lB'
CAND LE POWER
3 600,000
1,250,000
COLOR DELAY (ft)
YELLOW .3()0-12,000
300-12,000
SUSPENSION REQUIREMENTS
7
3 YELLOW
AlA37B-l MBR OR A/A37B-3 PBMR (single lug)
END VIEW SHOWING DELAY FUZE
M117
DEMOLITION
BOMB
III
M117 Demolition Bomb Weight 799 pounds, length 84 inches, diameter 16.1 inches. The M117 demolition bomb has a short ogival nose, a cylindrical body, and a tapered aft end to which a conical fin assembly is attached. The conical fin assembly is used to improve the aerodynamic performance and bombing accuracy of the weapon.
-----
-.
MK 24 AIRCRAFT PARACHUTE FLARE SUSPENSION BAND PUBLICA TION REFERENCE OP 2213 LEADING PARTICULARS 2A
MOD WEIGHT (lb.) BURNING T!ME (sec.)
24.0
CAND LE POWER
2,000,000
CQLOR DELAY (ft.)
YELLOW
Y~LLOW
5-30
10-30
~USPENSION
REQUIREMENTS
150
3 27.0 180 2.000.000
LANYARD ASSEMBLY
A/A37A-l MBR OR A/A37B-3 PMBR (single lug) END VIEW WEATHER CAP REMOVED
54
55
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _...:....:A:..=E:.:....::R-=O_1.:.......;4::....=B~S~P:......:R:....:..:A__=_Y~__=_TA:....::..N:....:..K
AERO
]
LAZY
7E
DOG
LAUNCHER
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTIC 525-540 lb. Weight Dimensions: Length 96.0 in. (approx.) Diameter 15.7 in.
Aero 14B Sray Tank The Aero 14B spray tank is a pressure controlied, combination storage and airborne dispenser unit for various liquid agents. T he assembly incorporates four removable fins bolted onto a semimonocoque outer shell. The tank is of all-metal construction and is designed as an external store.
AFT ELECTRICAL RECEPTACLE WITH BREAKAWAY CONNECTOR IN PLACE
14-INCH SUSPENSION FORWARD ELECTRICAL RECEPTACLE WITH SHORTING BUTTON IN PLACE~
\
~nO
FRANGIBLE FAIRING
.G;:\
Empty weight 657 pounds, length 15 feet 10 inches, diameter 22 inches.
··~"v?~7----~~~30-INCH
SUSPENSION
COMPONENTS OF COMPLETE WEAPON (TYPICAl): Modified Aero 7D Rocket Launcher Package Explosive Bolt Forward and Aft Bulkheads Tie Rod 10,000 Lazy Dog Mlssi les (Approx.) Beverage cans
CBU-1A1A
AND
CBU-2A1A
CLUSTER
BOMB
UNIT
:
CBU-1 AlA and CBU-2A1A The CBU-1A1A and CBU-2A/A cluster bomb units have approximately the same general appearance and specifications. The weapon has a cylindrically shaped body with a hemispherical nose and conical tail section. The body is made of 19 thin metal tubes shaped at the aft end to fit the conical tail assembly. A closure plug and tail cone protector are installed on the weapon during shipment and storage. Weight 730 pounds, length 118.4 inches, diameter 15.63 inches.
SUSPENSION REQUIREMENTS: 14- or 30- inch
MODIFIED FRANGIBLE FAIRING
MK
44
MISSILE
CLUSTER
ADAPTER
rI
MK missile cluster adapter is an antipersonI weapon that physically resembles a 500 p und GPB. The body of the weapon is a hollow • 11 II with the upper half acting as a lid, which is II nged at the base of the conical tail assembly. 1 e body is fitted with about 10,000 Lazy Dog 't' ssiles in paper sacks. The MK 44 is delivered as " tree-fall weapon. A mechanical time nose fuze is II ed to release the lid of the cluster adapter after .1 preselected time delay. The Lazy Dog missiles .1 dispersed when the fuze releases the weapon I . The weapon may be carried on the wing ejecI r racks with 14 inch suspension hooks. f1
MX-900
CHAFF
DISPENSER
[_-
L_A_U_-1_0_/A_ _L_E_A_FL_E_T_ _ D_IS_P_E_N_S_E_R
_
ength 137 inches, diameter 13.9 inches
MX-900 Chaff Dispenser The MX-900 chaff dispenser is a compact unit designed to carry and dispense packaged metal foil on countermeasure missions. A chaff package carton or tray, drive mechanism, stripper assembly, and rollers are housed in the dispenser center section. Parallel strips of tape secure the chaff packages together in the dispenser. The dispenser drive mechanism turns the stripper assembly, drawing the chaff packages out of the dispenser carton or tray and stripping the tape from the chaff packages. Two airscoops on the upper aft section of the dispenser funnel air through the dispenser, forcing the chaff packages out. Air current opens the packages and disperses the metal foil.
14-INCH
SUSPENSION~LUGS ~~
FORWARD ELECTRICAL RECEPTACLE WITH SHORTING DEVICE IN PLACE~
@
AFT FRANGIBLE FAIRING
~ AFT ELECTRICAL RECEPTACLE WITH BREAKAWAY CONNECTOR IN PLACE
FORWARD FRANGIBLE FAIRING
3D-INCH ALTERNATE SUSPENSION LUG PROVISIONS
56
57
MK 77
MOD 1
AND
MK 79
MOD 1
FIRE
BOMBS
AERIAL
MINES
MK 77 Mod 1 Fire Bomb The 500 pound MK77 Mod 1 fire bomb is a 75 gallon cigar-shaped, nonstabilized bomb. Igniters and fuzes are used in the nose and tail of the weapon. The bomb is filled with 75 gallons of gasoline gel; and, once filled, the bomb cannot be disassembled. The weapon must be either used or jettisoned. Weight loaded 520 pounds, length 108.59 inches, diameter 18.73 inches.
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS Weight: Dimensions: Length: Diameter:
1996 lb.
RELEASE MECHANISM
92.37 in. 22.58 in.
SUSPENSION REQUIREMENTS: Aero 7A-1 <14- or 30-in.)
SUSPENSION
LUGS~ /d.~_~-:::::-:::-ARMING
COMPONENTS OF A COMPLETE WEAPON
MK 79 MOD 1 Fire Bomb The 1000 pound MK 79 Mod 1 fire bomb is a thinskinned weapon of low-drag design. The weapon is filled with about 112 gallons of gasoline and Napalm mixture. Weight loaded 912 pounds, length 167.9 inches, diameter 19.6 inches.
NOSE FAIRING
PUBLICATION REFERENCE NAVWEPS OP 956 Vol. 1
DEVICE
MK 25 MINE
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS Weight: Dimensions: Length: Diameter:
MK 94
CHEMICAL
BOMB
2132 lb.
RELEASE MECHANISM PARAPACK
108.81 in. 22.45 in.
SUSPENSION REQUIREMENTS Aero 7A-l (30-inch)
MK 94 Chemical Bomb The MK 94 chemical bomb is basically a MK 82 LDGP bomb filled with a chemical agent. The electrical cable conduits have been removed from the MK 82 bomb and a burster and filler hole have been added. Weight loaded 488 pounds, length 88.79 inches, diameter 10.75 inches.
COMPONENTS OF COMPLETE WEAPON (TYPICAU Lugs: MK 12 Nose Fairing: MK 10 Mod 0 Fin: MK 9 Mod 0 MK 4, MK 5 Drill Kit: Anning Device: CD-12 Mod 0 Annlng Wires: MK 1 MK 2 Release Mechanism: MK 17 Mod 1, MK 19 Mod 0 MK 15 Mod 1, MK 25 Mod 1 MK 39 Mod 0, MK 40 Mod 0 MK 43 Mod 0, MK 44 Mod 0
MK 25 DRILL MINE
58
59
20MM
GUNNERY
EQUIPMENT
GUN
REMOVAL
AND
INSTALLATION L H GUN
EXTERNAL STORES RELEASE SWITC ..
fFORWARO
EACH GUN WEIGHS APPROXIMATELY 88 POUNOS ANO MUST BE INSTALLED BY AT LEAST TWO MEN POSITIONED AS SHOWN
c__
:
----
~
FLEXIBLE
AMMUNITION
CHUTES
ENGINE COMPARTMENT UPPER ACCESS DOOR
RIGHT-HAND CHUTE
GUN FORWARD MOUNT
ENGINE COMPARTMENT LOWER ACCESS DOOR GUN BARREL OPENING SEAL
60
61
COMPOSITE
SQUADRON
ONE,
VC-1
"BLUE
AlliS"
Composite Squadron One was originally established as Utility Squadron One (VU-1) on 20 July 1951. It was redesignated VC-1 on 1 July 1965. A long time user of the Skyhawk, VC-1 received its first A-4E in March 1971. 4 to 5 A-4Es were on hand through 1975 as well as 2 TA4Js. From January 1977 through 1986, the unit only operated TA-4Js. In 1987, A-4Es once again joined VC1, this time as adversary aircraft. The A-4Es were operated alongside the TA-4Js until the unit was disestablished. ft, A-4E 150056 off the coast of Hawaii on 27 August 1976 and in formation with two other A-4Es and a TA-4J. The thick lage stripe was blue with yellow VC-1 and stars surrounding a black Hawaiian's head as seen on the squadron patCh. Blue was used on the fuel tanks, slanting forward nose stripe and tail chevron. (via Tailhook Foundation) Above, A-4E 151194 • e coast of Hawaii with a buddy tank on the centerline on 28 September 1974. (USN via Fred Roos) Below, A-4E 152067 at Alameda on 23 October 1975. (Smalley via Swisher) Bottom, A-4E 151046 aggressor at NAS Barber's Point in September , 1. Colors were a dark gull grey and dark blue-grey. Note the small UA tail code below the star. (Ginter)
~~\
---
-
,.
-/
62
63
COMPOSITE
SQUADRON
TWO,
VC-2
Stationed at NAS Oceana with a permanent detachment at NAS Quonset Point, Fleet Composite Squadron Two was established on 1 July 1965 when Utility Squadron Two was resdesignated. VC-2 was initially equipped with eleven F-8C and four US-2C aircraft. The Blue Tails flew the Crusader until 1971 when they were completely replaced by Douglas A-4 Skyhawks. VC-2 provided jet and propeller services to the Atlantic Fleet and con-
"BLUE
TAILS"
ducted combat readiness traillll along the East Coast. VC-2 operah A-4C, A-4E, A-4L & TA-4F and TA Skyhawks.
Below, A-4E 151118 of VC-2, d unknown. (via Burger) Bottom, sa aircraft on 20 October 1977 with n nose number and with black fusela stripe to complement the black a white tail. (Jim Sullivan) At right, A151033 at Davis Monthan AFB in Ju 1978. (Pima Air & Space Museum)
RVAH-3
"SEA
Heavy Reconnaissance Squadron Three (RVAH-3) was the Replacement Air Group (RAG) for the North American RA-5C Vigilante. Their mission was to train aircrews and maintenance personnel on the big "Vigi". The squadron was also responsible for the training of personnel in the operation of the Integrated Operational Intelligence Center (IOIC) through the Naval Intelligence Processing System Training Facility,
64
65
DRAGONS" which operated at NAS Albany, GA, and NAS Key West, FL. The squadron was disestablished at NAS Key West on 17 August 1979.
Below, RVAH-3 operated A-4E 151084 as well as some Grumman TF-9Js. (Fred Roos via Steve Ginter)
I
AIR DEVELOPMENT SQUADRON FIVE (AIRDEVRON FIVE), VX-5 "VAMPIRES
Originally known as Air Development Squadron Five, VX-5 was established on 18 June 1951 at NAS Moffett Field, CA. Initially, its mission was to develop and evaluate aircraft tactics and procedures for the delivery of airborne special weapons. In July 1956, the squadron moved to NAF China Lake, CA, thereby enabling the unit to take advantage of the vastly improved ranges and technical facilities at China Lake. In January 1969, the unit's designation was changed to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Five.
• A-4E 149657 at Edwards AFB on 16 May 1964. The tail stripe is green. (Swisher) Below, A-4E 150023 in May 1970. (Nick s) Bottom, A-4E 152015 at Edwards AFB in May 1969. (via Norm Taylor Collection)
At top, A-4E 149655 in flight with test Shrikes, rocket pods & six Snakeyes. (Douglas) Above, A-4F 154177 with buddy ta taxis out at NAS China Lake in May 1971. (Nick Williams) Below, A-4E 149659 in flight. (via Wayne Morris)
66
67
FLEET COMPOSITE
SQUADRON
Fleet Composite Squadron Five (VC-5) was commissioned on 1 July 1965 when UTRON FIVE (VU-5) was redesignated. VC-5 is based ashore at NAS Atsugi, Japan. The squadron maintains Detachment NAHA (Det Alpha) at NAHA AB, Okinawa. Detachment CUBI PT. (Det Bravo) was assigned to NAS Cubi Point, Luzon, Philippines, until we relinquished control of our bases to the Philippine government. The squadron's mission is to provide air services for fleet training tasks.
FIVE,
VC-5
"CHECKERTAILS"
top, VC-5 line at NAF Naha on 10 " ry 1973. Rudder is checkered in red • I ustard yellow. (Hideki Nagakubo via I n) At left middle, A-4E 149658 from • 'I Det Cubi at Kadena AB in July 1977. " vertical fin was painted red. (T. I'. zaki) At left bottom, A-4E 151074 Det II At Kadena in JUly 1977. (T. Matsuzaki) v ,A-4E 151074 on 27 November 1982. tlfled tail stripe was still red and must yellow. (via Kaston) At right, A-4E , 3 in flight. Aircraft was painted in J jf ssor scheme on 10 October 1989 (T. III ,I zaki) Below, A-4E 150044 over NAF II I on 10 October 1989, (T. Matsuzaki)
The following tasks are typical of those performed by VC squadrons: 1.) To provide towed targets and target drones for surface-to-air or air-to-air gunnery and rocket or guided missile firing. 2.) To provide still photography, motion pictures and aerial photographic services as required by the fleet. 3.) To provide targets for GIG and EGM exercises and radar calibration. 4.) To perform such other utility services for the forces afloat, within the capabilities of the aircraft assigned, which will aid in the advancement in the training of these forces. 5.) To perform administrative and logistic flights within the capabilities of the aircraft assigned. 6.) To maintain pilot combat readiness training within the capabilities of the aircraft assigned. 7.) And in latter years to perform as Aggressor and as Adversary aircraft.
68
69
FLEET COMPOSITE
SQUADRON
SEVEN,
VC-7
"TALLYHOers"
Fleet Composite Squadron Seven was established on 1 July 1965 when Utility Squadron Seven was redesignated VC-7 and placed under the command of Commander Fleet Air Miramar. At that time, the squadron had a complement of four DF-8A, fourteen F-8C and thirteen A4B aircraft.
On 10 December 1965, VC (previously nameless as UTRON selected the name "TALLYHOcr' which means "Target Visuall Sighted". VC-7 pilots used the I " approximately 1500 times a m01l1 while flying practice air intercepts II various naval activities in South(', California.
VC-7 continued to fly Skyhawks until its disestablishment on 30 September 1980. It would utilize the A-4B, A-4C, A-4E, A-4F, A-4L, TA-4F and TA-4J Skyhawks.
Below, A-4E 149994 with da-glo red t in 1973. (via Burger) Bottom, A155017 flown by LT Bill Powell. Rud was red and white. The "S" on t hump was yellow. (Ginter)
VC-7 REDTAILS
..
Above, A-4F 154181 at NAS Miramar on 14 May 1977. Drop tank and tail markings were red. AN S. D. Watts was written on the nose gear door. (Swisher) At left, Dart target rig fitted to the outside pylon of a VC-7 A-4F. The target was silver and da-glo red. (Ginter) Below, VC-7 A-4F over the Pacific. Drop tank says Redtails. The UH tail code was shaded in white. (via Tailhook Foundation)
VC-7
70
71
I COMPOSITE
FIGHTER SQUADRON TWELVE, VFC-12 "FIGHTING OMARS"]
:
ATTACK
SQUADRON
In 1985, squadron assets WI" 10-TA-4Js, 2-A-4Es and 2-A-4Fs. B 1987 there were 7-TA-4Js, 5-A-4f and 2-A-4Fs. On 22 April 1988, ttl squadron was redesignated COil posite Fighter Squadron Twel (VFC-12) and they operated 7-A-4f and 7-TA-4Js. The squadron contll ued to fly Skyhawks until August 19(1 when they were replaced with ttl F/A-18 Hornet.
The squadron was originally established on 1 September 1973 at NAF Detroit as VC-12 flying the A-4B. In 1975, the squadron relocated to NAS Oceana and was equipped with the A-4L. In 1976, the TA-4J entered
the picture and in 1983 these were suplemented with remanufactured A4Es and A-4Fs. The "E"s and F"s were used extensively as Dissimilar Air Combat Trainers, Adversary aircraft, and Air Combat Maneuvering.
72
VA-12
"FLYING
These were replaced with F2H-2s in December. On 1 August 1955, VF-12 became Attack Squadron Twelve (VA-12) and converted to the F7U-3 Cutlass in December 1955. In April 1957, VA-12 received the A4D-1 Skyhawk. In January 1958, the unit received the A4D-2 and then the A4D-2N in January 1962. Following a short cruise to the Caribbean in February 1965, VA-12 returned to Cecil Field to take delivery of the new A-4E.
.. Below, A-4F 154971 was used r aggressor training. This A-4F is fitt with the fin tip mounted ALR-45 anI na usually found on A-4M Skyhawk Aircraft was painted in something akl to glossy dark engine grey. (via Gint Bottom, A-4F 155022 at NAS Miram on 30 June 1990. These "F"s had I bent refueling probes. (Ginter)
TWELVE,
Commissioned on 12 May 1945 Ighting Bombing Squadron Four -4) at NAS Alameda, CA, the Ing Ubangis'" first aircraft was the U 4 Corsair. On 15 November . VBF-4 was redesignated tar Squadron Two A (VF-2A). In '/ 1947, the unit converted to F8Farcats and a small compliment of 5P Hellcats. VF-2A was redesigd Fighter Squadron 12 (VF-12) in tember 1950 when they reipped with the F2H-1 Banshee.
A short refresher cruise in May proceeded deployment to the Med in June. While aboard the USS F. D. Roosevelt (CVA-42), VA-12 received the AI RLANT Safety award for 1965 as well as the Battle Readiness Efficiency "E" Pennant for Fiscal 1965. While in the Mediterranean, VA12 participated in an air defense exercise involving Sixth Fleet and Spanish aircraft. VA-12 conducted close air support for a joint amphibious landing exercise at Capo Teulado, Sicily, flew
73
UBANGIS"
simulated attack strikes on targets in Greece and Turkey, participated in an anti-patrol boat exercise with the Italian Navy, and provided close air support for NATO Amphibious Landing Forces near Thessaloniki, Greece. The unit returned to Mayport, FL, on 17 December 1965. VA-12 remained shore-based at NAS Cecil Field, FL, for the Christmas holidays until 24 January 1966. A two-week Caribbean cruise was conducted from 25 January through 8 February 1966. Following a change-of-command ceremony on 21 April, the squadron with her new skipper CDR R. C. Frosio, sailed again to Caribbean waters where refresher training was conducted from 21 April through 28 May 1966. The squadron returned to hangar 14 at Cecil Field for final preparation for its 21 June
Below, A-4E 150001 taxis on the USS F. D. Roosevelt (CVA-42) in the Tonkin Gulf on 10 August 1966. (via Tailhook Foundation)
a
deployment-not to the Med-but to Vietnam. CVA-42 and VA-12 arrived on station in the Gulf of Tonkin in August 1966. VA-12's first combat mission was flown on 10 August. The following five months saw VA-12 flying "around the clock" combat strikes against North Vietnamese targets. Launching daily from the deck of the F. D. R., pilots hit lines-of-communications, POL storage areas, bridges, and supply barges. On the morning of 12 November, the Commanding Officer, CDR Frosio
and his wingman, LT(JG) Jones, were lost at sea returning from a night armed reconnaissance mission. CDR G. P. Barnett became skipper on 20 November and led VA-12 through two more months of intensive combat operations. He was awarded the Silver Star for leading a 42-plane Alpha Strike against a heavily defended target in North Vietnam. On 27 December, VA-12 left the line for the last time and returned to Subic Bay after completing its first combat cruise. 2,000 combat hours and 1,068 combat missions were flown without any combat losses.
74
The squadron's second W.II cruise was aboard the USS Shangll La (CVA-38) in 1970 with A-4C replacing the A-4Es. In April 1971, III squadron transitioned to the Chane Vought A-7E Corsair II.
POSITE FIGHTER SQUADRON THIRTEEN, VFC-13 "FIGHTING SAINTS"
,I w, VC-13 A-4F at NAS Miramar in I.' Ilch 1988. Tail code UX and tail , I vron were dark grey; Navy and VCere a dirty white. (Ginter)
Composite Squadron Thirteen (VC-13) was commissioned on 1 September 1973 with the aircraft and personnel from the decommissioned VSF-76 and VSF-86. The NAS New Orleans-based squadron's primary mission was to provide Dissimilar Air Combat Training (DACT) to the fleet. Originally flying the F-8H Crusader, the squadron transitioned to the A-4L Skyhawk in 1974 and transferred its duty station to NAS Miramar, CA, in 1976. The A-4Ls were replaced with A-4Es, A-4Fs and TA-4Js. These were later supplemented with F16Ns. VC-13 was redesignated VFC13 in October 1988 and the Skyhawks and Falcons were replaced with F/A-18 Hornets in 1993.
Above, A-4E 150015 from the USS F. 0 Roosevelt (CVA-42) landing at NA Atsugi on 19 October 1966. This air. craft was fitted with a Buddy refueling store on the centerline station. (T Matsuzaki) Below, A-4E 150048 landing at NAS Atsugi on 19 October 1966. Rudder color was orange. (T. Matsuzaki)
75
I
Below, VC-13 A-4F at NAS Miramar in March 1988. Aircraft had white undersides and two-tone grey upper surfaces. (Ginter)
VFC-13
ATTACK
SQUADRON
TWO TWO,
VA-22
"FIGHTING
REDCOCKS"
At right, close-up VFC-13 tail mark· ings. The aggressor star was red and the stylized UX tail code was in dar grey. (Ginter) Below, VFC-13 A-4 155013 at NAS Miramar on 30 Jun 1990. Ai rcraft was overall two-ton grey with muted markings. VFC-13 wa painted just forward of the Navy on th tail fin in a grey just a couple of shade darker than the fuselage color. " becomes almost invisible to the cam· era's eye. (Ginter) Bottom, VFC-13 A· 4F 155037 At NAS Miramar on 30 Jun 1990. Aircraft were fitted with fin tip ALR-45 antennas. (Ginter)
Attack Squadron Twenty-Two ., s originally established as Fighter uadron Sixty-Three (VF-63) on 27 lly 1948 at NAS Norfolk, VA. The uadron's first aircraft was the F4U orsair. These were replaced with F-2/5 Panthers in November 1952, ich in turn were replaced with F9FCougars in July 1955. The uadron's mission changed to that light attack and its designation was anged to Attack Squadron Sixty-
J
-
Three (VA-63) in March 1956. In July 1957, the Cougars were replaced with the FJ-4B Fury. Then, on 1 July 1959, VA-63 was redesignated Attack Squadron Twenty-Two (VA-22). In March 1960, they transitioned to the A4D-2 Skyhawk. On 6 October 1961, the A4D-2s were replaced with A4D2Ns. The squadron flew the A-4Cs until June 1968 when they were replaced with A-4Fs and a limited
y.
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Above, VA-22 A-4F in the Tonkin Gulf over CVA-31 in August 1969. (via Tailhook Association)
Below, VA-22 CAG bird A-4F 154190 on the deck of CVA-31 in 1970. Fuselage stripe was dark blue with white stars. Rudder markings were (top to bottom) red, yellow, orange, and blue separated by white. A white star appeared on each color tab. (Warren Dunlap)
number of TA-4Fs. While equipped with the "F" version of the Skyhawk, the squadron would deploy twice to Vietnam aboard the USS Bon Homme Richard CVA-31. The
first deployment commenced on 18 March 1969 and culminated on 29 October 1969. The second was from 2 April 1970 to 12 November 1970. On 4 February 1971, the squadron transitioned to the Vought A-7E Corsair II.
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Above, the squadron was unique in operatin a small number of TA-4Fs alongside its A 4Fs. (Harry Gann) Below, A-4F 154970 at NA Lemoore on 21 September 1968. Even though the aircraft carries a 2XX modex, the tall markings and fuselage stripe were blu (Swisher) Bottom, A-4F 154217 at NAS North Island on 15 March 1969. (Swisher)
ve, VA-22 A-4F fires a Bullpup off the coast of Viet Nam in 1969. (via Tailhook Association) Below, A-4F 154207 landing at Atsugi on 10 August 1970. Drop tank tips were blue. (T. Matsuzaki) Bottom, A-4F 154217 lands at NAS Atsugi with cene Buddy tanker store. (T. Matsuzaki)
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ATTACK
SQUADRON
TWENTY - THREE,
VA-23
,..,--._..
VA-23 was originally established as Reserve Fighter Squadron Six Five Three (VF-653) at NAS Columbus, OH, in December 1949. Inititially equipped with F4U-4 Corsairs, the squadron converted to F9F-2 Panthers in August 1952. On 4 February 1953, the unit was redesignated Fighter Squadron One Five One (VF-151). On 7 February 1956, they became Attack Squadron One Five One (VA-151) and re-equipped with F7U-3 Cutlasses. In January 1957, the squadron switched to F9F8 Cougars, which were replaced with FJ-4B Furys in August 1957. On 23 February 1959, the squadron was redesignated Attack Squadron Twenty-Three (VA-23). In May 1960,
the Black Knights received the A4D-2 Skyhawk. In December 1962, VA-23 became the first fleet squadron to receive the new Douglas A-4E, sometimes referred to as the "Super Skyhawk". Deploying to NAAS Fallon, NV, in January 1963, VA-23 began developing the tactics and bomb sight settings for the improved Skyhawk. The first squadron carrier operations with the A-4E were conducted in February 1963 aboard the USS Hornet. A total of three shipboard deployments and three weapon deployments during the next six months fully proved the operational reliability of the new A-4E.
"BLACK
- - ="---="""""'"-Above, A-4E 149661 VA-23 CAG blr NAS North Island on 27 April 1963 tip was red. Rudder stripes top to tom were: yellow, blue, orange, gr insignia blue, black, maroon, red yellow. (Swisher)
r. Following several First Fleet rcises to determine the readiness CAG-2/ USS Midway team and operational capability of the A-4E, Black Knights sailed aboard the Midway in November for its ORI awaii. After completeing a sucful ORI, the carrier departed aiian waters in late November assumed its role with the enth Fleet. The squadron also icipated in exercise "Nightmare", viding close air support for Army und troops in South Korea. This rcise demonstrated the ability of A-4E as a close air support pon. The squadron also particiled in an ordance delivery accuracompetition between the Midway d the Kitty Hawk. Using tactics VAhad developed, the Midway won contest from the Kitty Hawk's ck squadrons.
In August 1963, CDR R. P. " relieved CDR Riley as commancl
Below, fully armed 149661 again VA-23 insignia added and Com man Carrier Air Group 11 painted aft of intake in 1963. A taped-on USS K Hawk was applied to the fuselage. N the squadron was never assigned CVA-63. Tail markings are as no above. (USN)
top, A-4E 149653 with 4XX modex d during VA-23's first cruise with "E" on the USS Midway. The fin tip s orange and USS Midway was .. Inted below the squadron insignia. a Harry Gann) Above right, VA-23 AI launches from USS Midway in 1964. SN) Middle right, A-4E 149964 land9 at NAS Atsugi on 9 March 1964. (T. '.' tsuzaki) At right, A-4E 149959 lands , NAS Atsugi on 30 March 1964. (T. .' tsuzaki) I
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Upon returning to the United States, the squadron was again based at NAS Lemoore, CA. After a well-deserved leave period, the Black Knights again turned to the training cycle. CDR J. R. Dewenter assumed command of the squadron on 2 July 1964. In September, a three week Fallon deployment bolstered th squadron's weapons proficiency. Tho month of October was ORI month in the Hawaiian waters aboard the USS Midway. During February 1965, VA-23 participated in Exercise "Silverlance" before departing on 6 March 1965 to the South China Sea. During the combat periods that followed, approximately 2,200 sorties were flown and 5,364,000 pounds of ordnance were expended. CDR Robert R. King relieved CDR J. R. Dewenter as Commanding Officer on 1 July 1965. In August, the squadron flew 862 combat flight hours and in October VA-23 set a new record of 1,002.4
combat flight hours. The Midway returned to CONUS in November and the squadron returned to NAS Lemoore on the 23rd. On 2 June 1965, Ltjg D. M. Christian was killed in 151144 over the north and LT J. B. McKamey jected sucessfully from 151161 and became a POW on the same night. Then, on 28 July, LTJG G. R. Townsend Jr. was shot down in 149962 by his own Mark-82 bomb exploding. Luckily, he was rescued. During the 1965 cruise, the squadron earned the dubious distinc-
tion of being the first Navy squadron to lose an aircraft to a SAM. Ltjg D. H. Brown was killed in 151185. The loss occured on the night of 11-12 August. Ironically, on 25 April, VA-23 was the first Navy squadron to use the Shrike missile in combat. The Shrike is an antiradiation missile which was used to destroy radar sites used in guiding SAMs. Early in June 1966, VA-23 departed NAS Lemoore and rejoined Air Wing Two aboard the USS Coral Sea at NAS Alameda, CA. The rest of June was spent in carrier training off the coast of California. On 1 July,
At top, VA-23 tanker fuels squadron mate over the Pacific. (SDAM) Above left, 1965 Midway cruise roster. Back row left to right: LTJG Mike Weakley, LTJG Grant Townsend, CDR Robert King CO, CDR Dick Mackell XO, LT Jim Hargrave. Middle row: LT Bob Matuika LT Bill Clark, LTJG Dan Moran, LTJG Don Brown, LCDR Dee Roberge, LTJG Bob Norquist. Front row: LT Joe CUllen, LCDR Blair Stewart, LTJG Bob Takeuchi, LCDR Bob Phillips, LTJG Mike Cronin, LTJG Jim Sloat, LTJG Dick Deters. (USN) At left, LTJG Michael Weakley can stand in the hole of his battle damaged wing on 24 September 1965. (USN)
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Above, VA-23 A-4E attacks railroad boxcars at Van Hoi, North Vietnam. (USN) Bottom, A-4E 151168 was armed with four Shrikes on the deck of the USS Coral Sea in 1966. (via Tailhook Association)
CDR King was relieved by CDR Richard A. Mackell during ceremonies conducted aboard the Coral Sea. On 29 July, the Coral Sea left for Yankee Station. During its second war cruise VA-23 flew approximately 1800 combat missions. A SAM missile killed Ltjg M. S. Confer in 151150 on 10 October 1966. On 11 January
At left, Snakeye-armed A-4E 1511 taxis forward on the USS Coral Sa 1966. (USN) Below, A-4E 151187 NAS Lemoore on 18 March 19 Aircraft assigned to LCDR 81 Stewart. (Harry Gann) Bottom, lui armed Commander Carrier Air WI Two A-4E 150039 with LT Chu Woods at the controls shares the ru way at McCarren Field, Las Vegas, wI several light aircraft in May 1967. (8 Lawson)
..
1967, during attacks on road and r targets in RPII (Route Pack) tH RPIII, Ltjg M. P. Cronin was stH down and taken prisoner. Then, on 1 January, LTJG D. H. Moran Jr. w•• hit by flak and ejected over the Gull but died of his wounds before belli recovered by helicopter. Til squadron returned to NAS Lemoor in February 1967. On 23 June 1967, CDR Chari L. Bush relieved CDR Mackell at NA Lemoore.
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The Black Knights returned to nam aboard the USS Ticonderon 28 December 1967 with A-4F raft. From 15 through 20 March 8, VA-23 took part in Operation rmation Star in the Sea of Japan lowing the capture of the USS
Pueblo (AGER 2) by the North Koreans on 23 January 1968. In April, the squadron was called upon to fly strikes against enemy troops surrounding the Marine Base at Khe Sanh. A cold cat shot claimed the life of LT Lawrence D. Gosen in 154189
85
Above, A-4E 151162 at NAS Lemoore on 22 July 1967. Intrepid's NM tail code had been added. (Swisher) Below, A4F 154201 at NAS Lemoore on 23 September 1967. CDR Phillip R. Craver CAG. (Swisher) Bottom, A-4F 154195 CDR Ted Lloyd XO. Rudder colors were yellow and black. (Harry Gann)
FIGHTER SQUADRON FOUR THREE, VF-43 "CHALLENGERS" [ ----=-.:..:::.:.-=--:...=..:....:....--.....:::....::::..=...:....:.=....:..:...=....:....:---=-=~------=....::....:....::....:::::::..!...._-------
on 23 July. On 24 July 1968, CDR Morris A. Peelle relieved CDR Bush, while at sea. The squadron returned to California on 17 August 1968. The squadron's fourth and final war cruise started on 14 April 1969 aboard the USS Oriskany. On 9 July 1969, CDR Theodore L. Lloyd, Jr. relieved CDR Peelle as Commanding Officer. On 20 July 1969, LT S. K. Smiley was killed when he was shot down in 154993 by Laotian gun fire. Another aircraft, 154184 was lost on 29 July to a non-combat accident.
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VA-23 returned to NAS Lemoore on 17 November 1969. On 1 April 1970, the Black Knights were disestablished at NAS Lemoore, CA.
Above, A-4F of CDR Chuck Bush, CO VA-23, taxis out for a mission from th Ticonderoga in early 1968. Rudder markings were red. Squadron insignl was yellow and black. (via Harry Gann) Bottom, VA-23 A-4F lands on the USS Oriskany in 1969. (USN)
~. I ~
Attack Squadron Forty-Three (VA-43) was established on 1 July 959 when VF-21 was redesignated VA-43. The squadron was formed to ke over the instrument training misIon from VA-44. The TF-9Js were placed with TA-4J instrument trainrs in June 1967. In the early '70s hey were given the added mission of roviding air combat adversary serices to the Atlantic Fleet. As a result of this, VA-43 was redesignated ighter Squadron Forty-Three (VF3) on 1 June 1973.
0116
.
,NAVY
...--_....---_. ,.
-
As an adversary squadron, the unit flew the T-38, T-2C, A-4E, A-4F, F-5E and the Israeli F-21 Kfir. Additionally, the squadron was responsible for and used the T-2C for out-of-control training for the Atlantic fleet.
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316
At top, VA-43 A-4E launches from CVA62. (via Norm Taylor) Above, VA-43 A4E 150116 on 16 January 1964. Tail bands were blue. (via Tailhook Ass.) Below, VF-43 A-4E 151072 at Scott AFB on 30 September 1973. Rudder markings were blue. AD and 322 are bordered in white. (Fred Roos)
[
VF-43 Above, VF-43 A-4 151118 at NAS Brun . wick, MA, on 13 July 1975. Aircraft was paint· ed in three-tone blue I grey aggressor schem (Tom Hildreth via Norm Taylor) At left, VF-43 A· 4E 154973 "Bandit" 22 In September 1993. (David Brown) Below, formation of VF-43 aircraft over home base in 1988: a F-5. TA-4J, and A-4E. ("Boom" Powell vi Tailhook Association)
A-=.C_K=--S.=....Q.=..:..U.=....:A~D=-..:R:....:..O=-.:N:....:.....---=-F--=O:.....=U:....:..R=----.:..-FO.:::.....=...U:....::R ,!....--V..:.:A...:..-....:..44-=----......:."H..:.:O=....:R....:..:.N..:.,:E::....:T:....::S:...."
A_T.:......:T_ _
VA-44 was established as Fighter uadron Forty-Four on 1 September 50. As VF-44, the squadron operatthe F4U-5, F4U-4, and the F2H-2. n 1 January 1956, VF-44 was designated VA-44, and began ceiving F9F-8 Cougars. In January 58, the squadron began receiving F-8Ts and in February A4D-1 s gan arriving in preparation forbeming the East Coast Replacement raining Squadron (RAG) for the new 0-1 Skyhawks. On 1 June the uadron officially became the RAG. Iso in June, TV-2 and T-28B aircraft . re acquired to help fulfill VA-44's Ission.
4F Skyhawks began replacing the TF-9Js on 3 August 1966. The squadron received A-4Fs in November 1969 and A-4Ls in December. The squadron was disestablished on 1 May 1970.
The new miSSion involved flight ining for pilots and maintenance ining for enlisted personnel prior to ir posting to their respective fleet o squadrons. VA-44 was also sponsible for instrument training for e East Coast. On 8 August 1958, e first A4D replacement pilot gradued from VA-44. In September 1958, the A4D-2 gan replacing the A4D-1s. Then, in I nuary 1959, the squadron started ceiving AD-5/6 Skyraiders, and the panded responsibility of providing placement training on this aircraft o. On 9 February 1960, the A4D-2N larted replacing the earlier A4D-2s nd on 15 February 1963 the kyraider training ceased as VA-45 . as formed to take over this function. n 18 February, VA-44 changed duty lations from NAS Jacksonville, FL, o NAS Cecil Field, FL. The newer Aarrived in October 1964 and TA-
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Above, CAG A-4E. (Ginter col.) Below, A4E 151135 at MCAAF Yuma on 3-20-65. Fin tip was orange. (Swisher) middle, A4E 149651 at Webb AFB, TX, on 5-8-65. (Norm Taylor) Bottom, A-4E 149986 at NAS Cecil Field on 5-23-67. (Swisher)
FIGHTER
SQUADRON
VA-45 was established on 15 February 1963 to take over the replacement pilot training for the A-1 Skyraiders. The squadron adopted the nickname and insignia of the previous VA-45. VA-45 was assigned to Replacement Training Carrier Air Wing Four (RCVW-4). Skyraider training was short-lived with their replacement by TF-9J Cougars in 1964 when they became an instrument training squadron. The Cougars lasted until 1968 when they were completely replaced by Skyhawks. In June 1970, the RCVW Wings were disestablished and the squadrons became known as Fleet Readiness Squadrons (FRS). The Blackbirds flew a wide variety of A-4 Skyhawks and were developed into yet another adversary squadron, being redesignated Fighter Squadron Forty Five (VF-45) in October 1985. During the Vietnam war, the USS Intrepid, a CVS, was impressed into service as a limited CVA. It conducted three war cruises with VSF and
FOUR
FIVE,
VF-45
"BLACKBIRDS"
ATTACK
low, A-4E 150047 on 25 May 1967. lay Jansson) Bottom, A-4E 150118 at • AS Cecil Field on 23 May 1967. Fin tip I nge. Lightning bolt through AA red. It stripe colors were green over red " th threads of yellow. (Swisher) I
fleet VA squadrons embarked. After these cruises concluded, the Intrepid still required a Det. of combat aircraft for protection and VA-45 fulfilled this need. They did it with A-4Cs from Det II and with humpback A-4Es from Det I. This requirement lasted into 1973. As an adversary squadron, VF-45 utilized the A-4E, A-4F, TA-4J and F16 aircraft.
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SQUADRON
FOUR
SIX,
VA-46
"CLANSMEN"
Attack Squadron Forty Six was established on 24 May 1955 at NAS Cecil Field, FL. Their first aircraft was the Grumman F9F-5 Panther which was replaced with the F9F-8 Cougar one month later. After two cruises with the Cougars, VA-46 began receiving the A4D-2 Skyhawks in March 1958. These in turn were replaced with A4D-2Ns on 29 August 1960.
rocket fired and ignited the drop tank of another aircraft. The resulting fire engulfed the after flight deck with explosions from bombs, rockets, ammo and fuel cooking-off. The damage and loss of life was enormous, 132 dead, 2 missing and 62 injured. VA-46 lost eleven aircraft, BuNos 149996, 150064, 150068, 150084, 150115, 150118, 150129, 152018, 152024, 152036 and 152040.
In January 1967, the squadron received A-4Es and deployed to Vietnam while assigned to CVW-17 on the USS Forrestal on 6 June 1967. On 29 July 1967, disaster struck! While aircraft were being prepared for the second launch of the day, a Zuni
Once back at NAS Lemoore, the squadron operated A-4Bs for a short time before transitioning to the Vought A-7B Corsair II on 15 November 1968. VA-46 continued to fly the A-7 until its disestablishment on 30 June 1991.
Below, VA-45 DET - 1 is seen whll assigned to the USS Intrepid CVS-11 on 6 September 1972 while docked Portsmouth, Great Britain. Th "Blackbird" on the fuselage side wa in black as were the drop tank markings and the fin tip. Three other A-4E thus assigned were: 149647 (665), 149647 (616) and 152008 (6000) (Moggridge via Fred Roos)
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'---
--_J
A_TT..:....:.A-=-C~K_=___S=_Q=_U=..::A:....:.:D::....:R:....:.O::....:N:...:...__=__F:....:.IV_=E~F....:....:IV~E:L, ~VA~-.:!..5~5----.:"W!..!..A~R~HO~R~SE~S~'_'
VA-55 was originally established as Torpedo Squadron Five (VT-5) on 15 February 1943. The squadron flew the Grumman Avenger throughout the war in the Pacific. VT-5 was redesignated Attack Squadron Six A (VA-6A) on 15 November 1946 and then Attack Squadron Fifty Five on 16 August 1948. The TBMs were exchanged for AD-1 Skraiders on 18 June 1949. VA-55 flew the AD-1 and AD-4 during the Korean war and
Below, armed VA-55 A-4Es in flight. Aircraft in the center (150042) was the CAG bird. It had a series of large chevrons progressing up the tail. The color of these chevrons from top to bottom were: red, blue, yellow, orange and green. (Harry Gann)
operated the AD-6 and AD-7 until November 1957 when they received the FJ-4B Fury. The A4D-2 arrived in March 1959 and the A4D-2N in January 1962. The A-4E was aquired in July 1963. VA-55 left for it first war cruise on 14 April 1964 as part of CVW-5 on board the USS Ticonderoga. During the deployment, which concluded on 15 December 1964, the squadron lost two aircraft to operational accidents. In both cases the pilots were recovered. The aircraft lost were BuNos 150033 on 19 August and 151037 on 23 November. From July through September they participated in special Yankee Team operations over Laos and South Vietnam. On 2 and 4 August, VA-55 flew air support for the
Above, A-4E 150032 with Bullpups and six bombs on the centerline. Fin tip checkerboard was white and green. Tail chevron was green. (Harry Gann)
USS Maddox (00-731) and the USS Turner Joy (00-951) while the destroyers were on Desoto Patrol missions. On 5 August, Air Wing Five struck the Vinh oil storage facility destroying some 90% of the complex. The squadron finished the cruise with more Yankee Team strikes. VA-55 re-deployed from Ranger as part of CVW-14 from 10 December 1965 through 25 August 1966. On 31 January 1966, LCDR S. G. Chumley was shot down by AAA in 152066, but
recovered. Then on 1 March Ltjg J. Wolszyk failed to return from a sion in 152057. 152025 was lost 23 April when LCDR O. A. Gray s shot down by AAA and recovd. Seven days later, flying 151145, J. S. Buzby ejected over Laos and s recovered. Then on 2 May, DR W. S. Wood lost his life to all arms fire in 151034. On 3 June, R M.J. Chewning, CO of VA-55, s hit by shrapnel and lost the use his left arm. Nevertheless, he conued his mission before returning to ship where he made a one-handlanding. He was awarded the liver Star and Purple Heart for this Ission. The losses continued when 15 June LCDR T. F. Kopfman was hot down by AAA in 152063 and ken prisoner. He too received the liver Star. On 15 July, LT J. Connell . as lost in 151024. He died in captivy. Finally, on 24 July, LT E. L. Foss st 150040 to AAA; luckily he was scued. Following this cruise, the quad ron was recognized as the top acific Fleet A-4 squadron when it on the 1965-66 NAVAIRPAC fficency "E".
by AAA. The cruise ended on 15 April 1970. The Hancock and VA-55 conducted the third war cruise with the "F" from 22 October 1970 through 5 June 1971. No aircraft were lost by the squadron during this cruise.
The squadron was so decimated hat for its third war cruise it had to requip with older A-4C aircraft. This cruise took place aboard the USS Constellation from 29 April 1967 hrough 4 December 1967. On 29 December 1967, VA-55 received the first of 15 new A-4F Skyhawks. The squadron would make six deployments with the "F", all on the USS Hancock. Five of these deployments would be war cruises. The first was from 18 June 1968 through 3 March 1969. The squadron's first loss of this war cruise occurred on 23 September 1968 when LCDR D. H. Osborne was shot down by AAA in 155015. Osborne was captured and became a prisioner-of-war. LTD. J. Wright was shot down by AAA in 155011 on 28 September, but was recovered. VA-55 returned for its second war cruise in the "F" on 2 August 1969 and lost only one aircraft, 155010, on 14 March 1970. Ltjg P. A. Schranz was recovered after being shot down
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Above, A-4E 150041 at NAS Alameda after its cruise with the USS Ranger, on 28 August 1966. (Smalley) Below, USS Hancock-based A-4Fs over San Francisco on 3 April 1968. Tail markings were black and the sqUadron insignia was missing from the fUselage side. (USN)
ecame a POW when he was shot own by a SAM in 155046. Another -4F, 154197, was lost in an operalonal accident on 27 May 1972. uckily, the pilot was recovered. During the fifth war cruise, from 8 ay 1973 through 8 January 1974, he squadron was on line for only 29 ays and no aircraft were lost. In une, VA-55 flew missions in support r Operation End Sweep, the clearing I mines from the waters of North v'ietnam. In October the Hancock was irected to leave Yankee Station and il to the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of den to monitor the outbreak of war tween Israel, Egypt and Syria. Above, A-4F 155015 at NAS Lemoor on 7 April 1968. Aircraft is loaded with Snakeye bombs and Zuni rocket pod Note absence of squadron insignia on the fuselage side. (Swisher) At left, A· 4F in flight on 4 March 1975. (Tailhook Association) Below left, A-4F 154197 taxis at NAS Lemoore in 1971. (vi Burger) Bottom, A-4F 155048 at NA Lemoore on 11 August 1971, assigned to LT Eliot Tozer. (G. Liang via Fred Roos)
The fourth "F" war cruise wa from 7 January 1972 through October 1972, during which time VA 55 lost three aircraft. CDR G. J. Fen/' in 154205 was recovered after bein shot down by AAA over Laos on March 1972. Then, on 27 May, LT T B. Latendresse became a POW alt( , being shot down over the North In 155048. On 11 July a second squadron pilot, LCDR H. D. Lesesn
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The squadron's last cruise, also oard CVA-19, was from 18 March 975 through 20 October 1975. After turning from this post-war cruise, A-55 was disestablished on 12 cember 1975.
II right top, A-4F 155013 departs NAS "sugi on 10 August 1972. (T. •1 tsuzaki) Above right, A-4F 154173 ,.nding at NAS Atsugi on 10 August t 72. (T. Matsuzaki) At right, A-4F 4203 at Misawa AB on 12 August 73. Fin markings, hump chevron and frop tank markings were black. rcraft assigned to LT Bill Hoffman. Norm Taylor) Bottom, A-4F 155000 at .11 awa AB on 12 August 1973. Aircraft .oJ s assigned to LT John Hershberger. Norm Taylor)
95
ATTACK
Ab~ve, USS Hancock-b~sed A-4F 155058 with empty triple ejector practice bomb rack on the outboard pylon Aircraft w ~SSlgnedEtoK LT Steve Gh~den, "Zipper". (Fred Roos via Ginter) Below, all-grey VA-55 A-4Fs with six centerline 'bombs ref rom an
A-3B Skywarrlor tanker from VAW-13 in 1975. (Harry Gann)
-
SQUADRON
Attack Squadron Fifty-Six was tablished on 4 June 1956 at NAS , iramar, CA. The squadron's first airraft was the Grumman F9F-3 nther, which was replaced one onth later with F9F-8B Cougars. A-56 made one cruise aboard the SS Bon Homme Richard with the ougars from 12 July through 9 ecember 1957 before transitioning o FJ-4B Fury aircraft on 29 May 958. A4D-1 Skyhawks replaced the . J-4Bs in December and the A4D-2 placed the -1 s in April 1959. Three eployments aboard the USS I iconderoga were made with the
FIVE
SIX,
A4D-2s before they were replaced with A-4Es on 15 July 1963. After workup was complete on the A-4E at NAS Lemoore, CA, the Champions set sail for their first war cruise onboard CVA-14. The Ticonderoga departed for Vietnam on 14 April 1964 and returned on 15 December 1964. In July, VA-56 participated in special Yankee Team operations, including experimenting with the tactic of employing A-4Es as armed escorts for the RF-8A and RA3B recon aircraft. After the USS Maddox (DD-731) was attacked by
----,...--: NA\} 'I
1----:-~;E:':-_:I~-'~~~~:i"1~t'1IE.....Q.~::....;= 96
VA-56
97
"CHAMPIONS"
Above, A-4E 152035 recovers on board the USS Ticonderoga off of North Island on 24 September 1965. (Swisher) Bottom, A-4E 152034 inside hanger at NAS Lemoore on 21 August 1965. (Swisher)
Torpedo Boats on 2 August, VA-56 flew CAP sorties in support of these Desoto Patrol missions. On 5 August, Operation Pierce Arrow was commenced in retaliation for the torpedo boat attacks. VA-56 was part of the first strike on the Vinh oil storage facility, eventually 90% of the facility was
destroyed during the subsequent raids. The squadron also participated in strikes against the Ben Thuy naval base. During this cruise no aircraft were lost in combat, however two aircraft were lost operationally. On 13 August 150018 was lost and the pilot was recovered. Then, on 6
September 150024 was lost as well as the pilot. VA-56's second war cruise, also on board CVA-14, was from 28 September 1965 through 13 May 1966. On 7 February 1966, LCDR R. Crayton was shot down by AAA in
Above, four VA-56 A-4Es in form tion. The rudder stripes were red was the fore and aft drop tank mark ings. The long reverse check mar on the drop tanks was black. (Harry Gann) Below, A-4E 150030 in flight over the Sierra Nevada range. (Harry Gann)
, ve, A-4E 151184 at NAS Alameda 8 December 1967 while assigned 1 USS Enterprise. Note electronic , er pod on the outer pylon. her) At right, VA-56 CAG bird " 1151 at NAS Lemoore on 21 'I tember 1968. 400 and NG were I k shaded by red. Orange placard black outline below the canopy "CDR J. L. Nicholson CommandIj Officer". Fin tip was orange. I Idder markings were: (top to bottom) .. te, red over yellow, white, light blue ~ r orange, white, green over black, .. II te, maroon over red, white, and red. on inside of all A-4 flaps were red with 'I modex number repeated in white. It rry Gann) Below, A-4E 151156 on 21 • tember 1968. Aircraft number and '.1 I code were shaded in red. Orange "I card read" LCDR W. I. Mueller Int. Officer". (Harry Gann) 0'
I.,
98
99
152027 and became a POW. For his actions on this mission he received a Silver Star. Then, on 17 April LCDR V. O. Hough was shot down by AAA in 151058 but recovered. Following the squadron's return to Lemoore, they switched to A-4C aircraft and deployed on-board CVAN-65 from 19 November 1966 through 6 July 1967. The squadron re-equipped with A-4Es again and departed on-board CVAN-65 on 3 January 1968. On 8 May 1968, LT D.A. Lawrence was shot down by AAA in 152005, but was luckily recovered. Similarly, LT J. M. Wright was downed in 149665 and recovered on 15 June. On 19 June, LCDR Crater received the Silver Star for his actions in coordinating the successful night rescue of a downed F-4 crewman in North Vietnam.
ATTACK
SQUADRON
SEVEN
TWO,
VA-72
Above, A-4E 151184 with 54 ml marks on the intake duct at Lemoore on 21 September 1 (Swisher) Below, a Sea Sparrow test fired from the Enterprise on March 1968. (USN)
1956, they became Attack Squadron
6A. VA-72's s con w I from 21 June 196 thl U February 1967 on-board the U Franklin D. Roosevelt. During August two squadron aircraft were lost, 151109 and 149992. LT A. R. Carpenter was recovered after being shot down by AAA on 21 August. On 22 August, LT K. G. Craig was recovered after he shot himself down with his own rockets. On 1 November, LT Carpenter became a POW after being shot down for a second time. He was downed by AAA in 151138.
By the time VA-72 received A-4E aircraft in May 1964, they were renamed the Blue Hawks. The first A4E cruise was conducted in the North Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea from 8 September through 5 November 1964 on-board CVA-62. ttack Squadron Seventy-Two established as Fighter Bomber dron Eighteen (VBF-18) on 25 uary 1945. VBF-18 was originally Ipped with F6F-3/5 Hellcats. On August 1945, they re-equipped F8F-1 s and took on the nicke Bearcats. VBF-18 was redested VF-8A on 15 November . Then, on 28 July 1948, VF-8A ame VF-72. In 1950, the adron adopted the nickname ks. The squadron flew F8F-1 s, , and -2s before converting to umman F9F-2 Panthers on 16 " rch 1951. Then, on 3 January
The second A-4E cruise was a war cruise, again on-board the USS Independence, from 10 May through 13 December 1965. On 13 September, Ltjg J. R. Mossman was killed in action after he was shot down in 149999. VA-72 lost a second aircraft, 151115, on 20 September, but Ltjg J. R. Harris was recovered . Executive Officer, CDR H. B. Southworth, led the first successful strike against a surface-to-air SA-2 missile installation on 17 October 1965. The strike was composed of four VA-72 A-4Es and one VA-75 A-
os ...
100
HAWKS"
Seventy-Two. The squadron was fly-
ing F9F-5s when they transitioned to A4D-1 Skyhawks in September 1956. On 12 February 1958, the squadron traded-in their A4D-1 s for A4D-2s. These in turn were replaced with A4D-2Ns in March 1961.
In January 1969, the squadron transitioned to the Vought A-7B Corsair II. VA-56 was disestablished on 31 August 1986 while flying A-7Es.
BLUE
101
CVA-42 redeployed to the Mediterranean for two more cruises starting on 24 August 1967. For these deployments, VA-72 re-equipped with A-4B aircraft. In January 1970, the squadron transitioned to Vought A-7B aircraft. These were replaced with A7Es in September 1977 and the squadron was disestablished on 30 June 1991.
Below, A-4E 150129 from the USS F. D. Roosevelt lands at NAS Atsugi on 19 October 1966. Rudder colors were blue. (T. Matsuzaki)
J
_ _ _::......:AT_T_A....:....C=--K_S_Q....:....U_A_D_R_O_N_E_IG_H_T_ _ O_N_E-"-,_V_A_-_8_1_"S_U_N_L_IN_E_R_S_'_'_ _
VA-81 was originally established as VA-66 on 1 July 1955 and redesignated that same day as Fighter Squadron Eighty One. The Crusaders of VF-81 were assigned the mission of special weapons delivery in their Grumman F9F-8 and F9F-8B Cougars. On, 4 March 1959, VF-81 was re-equiped with A4D-2 Skyhawk aircraft. On 1 July 1959, VF-81 was redesignated Attack Squadron Eighty One. The squadron received A-4Es on 3 April 1963 and was renamed the Sunliners. On 3 May, the first Echo launch took place from the USS Forrestal by the squadron's CO, CDR
R. B. Gohr. On 9 September, a twoweek cruise to Boston took place with 1,500 Navy League guests on-board. On 1 October, CDR G. K. Gregory became CO and the squadron became the CAG Eight Bullpup squadron. VA-81 fired a total of 44 Bullpup, air-to-ground missiles during the month of October. During the three week ORI cruise in November off the Virginia Capes, the pilots of VA-81 made four-out-of-four Bull'seye hits with the Bullpups. On 6 January 1964, VA-81 was on-board CVA-59 again for refresher training. On 10 February, VA-81 started Operation Springboard which lasted through 6 March. The highlight of the operation was the firing of live ordnance in support of Marine amphibious operations at Vieques Island. In April, it was back aboard the Forrestal for the first of a series of short cruises designed to bring the squadron and the rest of Air Wing Eight to a peak of operational efficiency before departing for the MED in July. During this time, VA-81 took part in the opening ceremonies of the 1964 World's Fair in New York. In June, a two-week cruise was accomplished on-board the USS Indepen-
dence. On 10 July 1964, VA-81 depart. on-board CVA-59 to the MED. 1tl cruise lasted until 13 March 196' During ORI while underway, VA-H received the highest squadron graIl in the Air Wing. VA-81 took part II Operation MEDLANDEX, providlfl close air support for amphibious land ings on Sardinia. Then, on ? September, they commenCl1 Operation FALLEX-64, a large-scal NATO exercise involving all facets ( conventional and nuclear war. em Nick Castruccio took command on October. In November, Operatlo, Poopdeck IV with Spain took pial involving all facets of convention and nuclear warfare. In January, ttl squadron participated in Ordnanc Expenditure Exercise, in which the All Wing dropped over 140 tons of liv ordnance in a ten-hour period, ttl previous record being 60 tons in fourteen hour period. Then cam Operation Poopdeck V war gam
Below, A-4E 149990 fully loaded wit 18-bombs and 2-Bullpups prepares to launch. Nose and tail chevrons we orange outlined in black. (Harry Gann)
Ith Spain. The last operation of the ruise was Operation SNOOPPEX, a . ar game between the Forrestal and e Saratoga. During June 1965, VA-81 pilots racticed with Bullpup missiles in reparation for the second Echo ruise on-board CVA-59. In July, a lose air support cruise on Forrestal ,as conducted. This was followed ,ith another pre-deployment cruise rom 16 through 20 August in prepation for the ORI. The deployment ommenced on 24 August 1965 and I sted through 7 April 1966. Operation Dense Crop was the name Of the first Mediterranean operation hich was conducted from 18 hrough 20 September. Then, from 20 hrough 23 September, Operation Diamond Blue took place. CDR Burt Shepherd took over command on 16 October. On 18 November, VA-81 ook part in Operation POOPDECK VII, a bilateral exercise with the Spanish Air Force. CVW-8 aircraft imulated attacks on Spanish land argets and the Spanish attempted to Intercept and oppose the carrier air trikes. On 14 December, Operation Quick Draw 10-66, a joint exercise with the Italian Navy, took place. On 25 February 1966, Exercise AIRGAME IV, a bilateral exercise with the French, was conducted.
38). CDR E. A. Grunwald took over VA-81 on 20 September and the squadron deployed on 29 September 1966. This MED cruise lasted through 20 May 1967. When VA-81 returned from this cruise, they re-equipped with A-4Cs as the more advanced Echos were needed as replacements for those lost in combat. The A-4Cs were replaced with A-7E Corsair II aircraft in May 1970. These were replaced with F/A-18C aircraft on 30
After their return to Oceana, the squadron packed up their gear and changed duty station to NAS Cecil ield, FL, on 29 April 1966. At Cecil, VA-81 prepared a third Echo cruise on-board the USS Shangri La (CVA102
103
March 1988 and VA-81 became Fighter Attack Squadron Eighty-One (VFA-81 ). Above, A-4E 151110 over the MED. (via Tailhook Association) Below, A-4E 150013 with orange rudder diamonds and drop tank tips. (Gene Somarich via Swisher) Bottom, CO's A-4E 151027 at NAS Cecil Field on 23 May 1967. Note small orange chevron on the drop tank. (H. Gann)
ATTACK SQUADRON
EIGHT
THREE,
VA-83
1s were replaced by A4D-2s in December 1957, which were in turn replaced with A4D-2Ns in September 1960. In May 1963, the squadron received the A-4E. On 25 November 1963, the squadron conducted operations in support of the flyover for President John F. Kennedy's funeral in Washington, D.C. In December, CDR A. H. Cummings was relieved by CDR R. G. Thomson, Jr.
The origins of VA-83 can be traced back to Fighter Squadron Nine Hundred Sixteen. VF-916, a reserve squadron, was called to active duty on 1 February 1951 while at NAS Squantum, MA, with F4U-4 Corsairs. The squadron moved to NAS Jacksonville, FL, with the Grumman F9F-2 Panther. In September 1951, VF-916 was transferred to NAS Oceana, FL, prior to receiving Grumman F8F-2 Bearcats in May 1952. In September, the Bearcats gave way to F9F-5 Panthers. In February 1953, VF-916 was redesignated Fighter Squadron EightyThree. The Vought F7U-3 became the next aircraft for VF-83 in May 1954. In February 1956, VF-83 was redesignated Attack Squadron Eighty-Three while flying F7U-3Ms. In March 1957, VA-83 began transitioning to the A4D-1 Skyhawk. The A4D-
In February 1964, VA-83 deployed to the Caribbean aboard the USS Forrestal for the exercise "Quick Kick V", and responding like true professionals, the squadron was aboard nine hours after receiving orders. After two weeks of operations, the squadron returned to NAS Norfolk. In July, the first A-4E cruise commenced aboard the USS Forrestal with an ORI inspection in the Caribbean. In September, VA-83 participated in the NATO exercise "FALLEX 64" and in November engaged in the joint US / Spanish exercise "Poopdeck IV". On 20 November 1964, LT J. F. Barr recorded the USS Forrestal's 100,000th arrested landing. The Forrestal was the first post-war attack carrier to reach this figure. In December, CDR R. G. Thomson, Jr., was relieved by CDR F. B. Bromley as Commanding Officer. VA-83 returned to CONUS on 13 March 1965 after having completed over
104
"RAMPAGERS"
1800 carrier landings with ttl "Rampager" pilots flying over 36< hours. During the next few months ttl squadron prepared for the annU,1 administrative-materiel inspection and at the same time prepared Itl pilots for the annual weapons COrll petitive exercises, both of which too place during May and June of 19 I) In August 1965, the second CVA-5 11 A-4E cruise commenced with a slOI in the Caribbean Sea for the annu,ll ORI, where VA-83 received the All Wing's highest grade. CVA-59 arrivo<1 in the Mediterranean on the 8th 01 September and, immediately aflpl departing Naples, the squadron par ticipated in a joint NATO exercise wllh the Italian Army and Air Force call
ovember, VA-83 launched simulatstrikes on preassigned targets in ain, in support of the joint US / anish exercise "Poopdeck VIII". On December 1965, CDR E. S. Carver lieved CDR F. B. Bromley as ommanding Officer of Attack quad ron Eighty Three while at nchor at Valletta, Malta. During , arch of 1966, VA-83 participated in e joint US / French exercise airgame IV". In April, Air Wing Eight turned to NAS Norfolk for the beginlng of a new training cycle. VA-83 passed two significant ilestones in June 1966: a permant change of homeport from NAS ceana, VA, to NAS Cecil Field, FL, nd the completion of an accidentr e fiscal year. Because the orrestal needed repairs, VA-83 nsferred to the USS Shangri-La for next cruise. July and August found e squadron aboard CVA-38 for a rief shake-down cruise in preparaon for deployment to the editerranean. The Rampagers left ayport on 29 September 1966 oard Shangri La for an eighonth Mediterranean cruise. On 5 ecember 1966, CDR G. F. Brummitt r Iieved CDR E. S. Carver as Commanding Officer. In February of 967, VA-83 participated in Operation Lafayette when the Sixth Fleet and
the French AF practiced offensive and defensive tactics in the south of France. April found the Rampagers flying strike missions in the NATO exercise Dawn Clear. The 5-day exercise took place over Italy and the Tyrrhenian and Adriatic Seas and included a full-scale amphibious assault. In May, VA-83 participated in Fair Game V, a joint exercise with the French Naval and Air Forces. The Shangri La returned to Mayport at the end of May and the Rampagers flew off to NAS Cecil Field for some sorely needed shore-leave. Because of the depletion of A-
Below, A-4E 152029 in 1964 while assigned to the USS Forrestal (CVA· 59). Note absence of any distinctive squadron markings or colors. (via Tailhook Association)
105
4Es in combat, VA-83 was forced to give up its Echos as replacements. They re-equipped with A-4Cs. The Charlies deployed on CVA-38 and CVA-67 before being replaced with A7Es on 19 June 1970. The squadron was redesignated Fighter Attack Squadron Eighty Three on 25 April 1988 when it received the F/A-18A. Above, CDR Bruce Jagwell's VA-83 CAG bird 152080 at NAS Cecil Field on 23 May 1967. Drop tank diamonds were blue. Diamonds on tail were colored to represent the Air Group. (Swisher) Below, A-4E 152070 on CVA-38 on 20 January 1970. (via Fred Roos)
ATTACK
SQUADRON
EIGHTY
SIX,
VA-86
was redesignated Attack Squadron Eighty Six. As VA-86 they flew the F7U-3M until 26 May 1957, when they were replaced with the A4D-1 Skyhawk. In December 1957, the A4D-2 was acquired and in September 1962 the A4D-2N/A-4C was received. These were replaced with A-4Es on 28 April 1964. After work-up on the new version, VA-86 made a short deployment to the North Atlantic and Mediterraean on board CVA-62 from 8 September through 5 November 1964. On 1 February 1951, Reserve Fighter Squadron VF-921 was called to active duty in response to the Korean War. The squadron flew the F4U-4, F8F-2 and F9F-5 before being redesignated VF-84 on 4 February 1953. On 1 July 1955, the squadron
On 10 May 1965 as part of CVW7, VA-86 sailed to the Pacific and the Vietnam War aboard the, USS Independence. The squadrons first combat mission was flown against targets in South Vietnam on 1 July 1965. On 1 November 1965, VA-86
106
VA-86
"SIDEWINDERS" lost its first aircraft when LCDR (l Wheat was shot down by AAA r over North Vietnam in 151142. squadron returned to CONUS all December 1965.
'I
The squadron made one nl' deployment on CVA-62 with If Echo. That cruise was to If Mediterraneum from 13 June 1lit through 1 February 1967. Up, return the squadron transitioned I the A-7A Corsair II. On 8 Febru,1I 1989, VA-86 was redesignated Vf A 86 and transitioned to the F/A-lIl( Hornet.
Below, VA-86 CAG bird, A-4E 1511 launches from the USS Independen off the coast of Vietnam. (Tailhoo Association)
right, CDR W. W. Bowers Imbs out of A-4E 151166 I er returning to NAS Oceana m VA-86's war cruise in cember 1965. Note combat n ssion marks on the fusee aft of the intakes and the 'onkin Gulf Yacht Club , ignia below the windreen. (USN) Below, F-4B hantom from VF-41 launches 10m the angle deck of the SSlndependence on 11 tober 1965. VA-86 A-4E I 1149 is being positioned on the forward port catapult. In the right foreground a VA-72 -4E is being positioned on the forward starboard catault. (McDonell Douglas via red Roos)
107
ATTACK
SQUADRON
VA-93 was originally established as Fighter Squadron Ninety Three (VF-93) on 26 March 1952. VF-93 was initially equipped with FG-1 D Corsairs and F9F-2 Panthers in September 1953 and then with F9F-8 Cougars in January 1955. On 15 September 1956 VF-93 was redesignated Attack Squadron Ninety Three (VA-93) and on 26 November 1956 received the A4D-1 Skyhawk. The A4D-2 replaced the -1 s on 25 May 1958 and in turn were replaced with the A4D-2N on 1 September 1960. Ironically, the A-4Cs (A4D-2Ns) were traded-in for A-4Bs (A4D-2s) on 15 October 1963. The squadron transitioned to the A-4E in September
NINETY
THREE,
VA-93
1966. VA-93 made one war cruise with the A-4E while aboard the USS Hancock (CVA-19) as part of CVW-5 from 5 January 1967 through 22 July 1967. The squadron's first loss of the cruise took place on 6 May. LTJG R. E. Wideman became a POW after 151002 was hit by AAA. Three more pilots became POWs. These were: LTJG R. B. McCleary in 152022, CDR J. P. Mehl in 151049, and LCDR J. G. Pirie in 151106. Another aircraft was lost, but the pilot was recovered when LTJG M. Alsop was hit by AAA in 151076 on 24 May. During this cruise, VA-93 pilots flew a total of 1,867 combat sorties, delivered over 5,250,000 pounds of ordnance against enemy targets, and logged over 3,100 combat flight hours. Once back at NAS Lemoore, VA93 transitioned to the A-4F Skyhawk starting in September 1967. After work-up on the new type, the Blue Blazers left on their only A-4F cruise on board the USS Bon Homme Richard (CVA-31) from 27 January through 10 October 1968. On 11 April VA-93 lost a pilot to an operational accident in 154995. The Air Group's first combat loss was LTJG B. E. Karger who was killed over the North in 154198 on 14 May 1968. Seven
108
"BLUE
BLAZERS"
days later, LTJG J. A. Douglass W,I shot down by AAA over the North 1/ 154988, but was recovered. LCDR I E. Fullerton went missing in action 01 26 July when he was downed by hi own bomb explosion in 154182. 0, 30 August LCDR H. A. Eikel Wd' recovered after being shot down b AAA in 154981. The squadron 10'.1 one last aircraft on 6 September 19 H when 154187 was lost to an opera tional accident. As a member of All Wing Five, VA-93 participated in thl defense of the Khe Sanh MarinI Base and, later in the North Vietnamese panhandle, they d stroyed or damaged 285 trucks an
VA-93 USS HANCOCK OPERATIONS Above, two VA-93 A-4Es armed with Snakeyes prepare for a misIon over Vietnam on 31 May 1967. he rudder stripes were blue and the stylized aircraft on the fuselage were blue. The contrails following the stylized aircraft were red. (USN) At right, bombed-up VA-93 A-4E on the USS Hancock. (USN) Bottom, A-4E 151105 is positioned for launch on the USS Hancock on 31 May 1967. Aircraft was armed with Shrikes on the outboard pylons and two 4-shot Zuni pods on the centerline pylon. (USN)
109
Above, A-4E 151081 at NAS Alameda in January 1967 just prior to the 1967 Hancock cruise. (Smalley via Swisher) Below, VA 93 A-4E is lowered to the hangar deck by the ship's forward elevator while another VA-93 Skyhawk awaits launch from the star
" ove, A-~F 154195 at NAS Lemoore on 23 September 1967. Drop tank markings were in blue. Fuselage markings were blue .lyllzed .alr~raft followed by red exhaust trails. (Swisher) Below, A-4F 154195. (Harry Gann) Bottom, VA-93 CAG bird, CDR ., lIer. Fin tiP was blue. Rudder colors were: White, red, White, yellow, white, orange, white, blue, and white. (Harry Gann)
board catapult on 31 May 1967. (USN)
110
111
ATTACK
SQUADRON
NINETY
FOUR,
VA-94
"SHRIKES"
The squadron's first A-4E cruise was on board the USS Bon Homme Richard (CVA-31) from 27 January through 10 October 1968. During this war cruise the squadron lost none of its aircraft, compared to six lost by its sister squadron, VA-93. During this cruise, VA-94 pilots dropped an impressive 8,708,974 pounds of ordnance while flying nearly 4,000 combat sorties during 6,593.6 flight hours.
Fighter Squadron Ninety Four (VF-94) was established on 26 March 1952. VF-94 flew F4U Corsairs, FJ-3 Furys, F9F-8B Cougars before being redesignated Attack Squadron Ninety Four on 1 August 1958. As VA-94, the squadron transitioned to the FJ4B Fury. In January 1959, A4D-2s replaced the Fury Bravos. In September 1960, A4D-2Ns were acquired to replace the A4D-2s. On 23 October 1967,' the A-4E replaced the squadron's A-4Cs and on 16 November they received their first "Super Echo".
The second war cruise took place from 18 March through 29 October 1969, again on board CVA-31. During this cruise, one aircraft, 152043, was lost to an operational accident on 6 May 1969.
VFA-94 on 28 June 1990. ave, A-4E 152080 at NAS Lemoore on 26 October 1968, just after returning from Vietnam. The Shrike and fin tip were orange. lsher) Below, CAG bird A-4E 152031 at NAS North Island on 15 March 1968. Commander Air Wing Five is written on the ,t mp. Modex number and tail code are shaded in orange. Rudder stripes were white, red, white, yellow, white, blue, white, I roan, and white. (Harry Gann) Bottom, A-4E 152014 at NAS Barber's Pt. in April 1969. (Nick Williams)
The third A-4E war cruise was from 2 April through 12 November 1970, and no aircraft were lost either to combat or to operational causes. After returning to NAS Lemoore, the squadron transitioned to the Vought A-7E Corsair in January 1971. The Corsairs were replaced with F/A-18C Hornets in May 1990 and the squadron was redesignated
112
Below, bomb carts are pushed aero the deck of CVA-31 so that arming A-4E 151084 can commence in pre ration for a 1968 mission again Vietnam. Sister squadrons VA-93 a VA-212 operated A-4Fs during th cruise. (USN)
113
Above, A-4E 152064 taxis the deck of CVA-31 in 1970 During this cruise the aircr carried personal names sten ciled on their humps. This 0 was "Jeanie II". Note wing t1pt were orange. (Weldon Dunlap) At left, A-4E 152017 "litt , Bug" belonging to LCDR John McDaniel in 1970. (Weldon Dunlap) Bottom, A-4E 151187 with centerline refueling store patrols over the USS Bon Homme Richard in the Gulf of Tonkin on 20 August 1969. (USN via Fred Roos)
ove, A-4E 151162 lifts off from NAS Atsugi on 12 August 1970. (T. Matsuzaki) Below, A-4E 151084 "Pinochle" over NAS ugi on 12 August 1970. Note chaff dispenser on lower fuselage just above tailhook. (T. Matsuzaki) Bottom, CAG bird again "Ith "Bobbie" replacing Commander Air Wing Five on the hump. 152031 is being prepped for a tanker mission aboard CVAIn 1970. (Weldon Dunlap)
. -'1',
-
114
,
8D
203' N.A-VY
'(
115
FIGHTER
SQUADRON
VF-101(KW) I VF-171 (KW)
VF-101 was the Atlantic Fleet F-4 Phantom RAG and had a secondary mission of providing adversary training for the F-4 squadrons. As such, A4s were used by VF-1 01 Detachment Key West (KW). In September 1977 the mission was transferred to VF171 Key West.
TTACK
SQUADRON
Bomber Fighter Squadron venteen (VBF-17) was established 2 January 1945 and equipped with F-5 Hellcats. It was redesignated hter Squadron Six B (VF-6B) on November 1946 with F4U-4 rsairs. The squadron was redesigted VF-62 on 28 July 1948 after eiving F8F-2 Bearcats. They then w F8F-1 Bs and F2H-2 Banshees fore being redesignated Attack uadron One Hundred Six (VA-106) 1 July 1955 after receiving F9F-8B ougars. On 4 June 1958, the luadron converted to A4D-2 yhawks which were replaced with 4Cs on 18 December 1962. In . ovember 1966 the A-4E took over.
At top, VF-101 A-4E 149666 in 1974. (via Burger) Above right, A-4E 152067 from VF-171 KW in aggressor paint scheme in 1978. (via Burger) At right, A-4E 152067 with VF-171KW replacing the VF-101KW designation on the fuselage on 29 October 1977. (via Kaston) Bottom, VF101 KW A-4E 152067 at Scott AFB on 12 June 1977. Stars on tail were red. Tail chevrons were blue-white-red. The detachment's shield I insignia was red and white stripes with white stars on a blue background. DET KEY WEST and F-4, ACM, and either VF-101 or VF-171 were in black. (L. Reynolds via Roos)
ONE
ZERO
VA-106
dead, and 62 injured. Those killed were: Petty Officers H. Fontenot, W. W. Stewart, R. N. Plesh, J. A. Earick and Airmen C.R. Rich, J. A. Velez, A. R. Metz, and G.E. Wall. The squadron lost eleven A-4Es in the fire: BuNos 149996, 150064, 150068, 150084, 150115, 150118, 150129, 152018, 152024, 152036 and 152040.
VA-1 06 deployed twice to letnam with the A-4Es. The first was part of CVW-17 during the ill-fated 55 Forrestal cruise from 6 June rough 15 September 1967. After ur days on Yankee Station, on 29 uly 1967 an accidental Zuni launch reated a fireball which threatened e very existence of the Forrestal. uring the explosion and following refighting effort, VA-106 lost eight men, two missing and presumed
A ove, A-4E 152036 assigned to the USS Forrestal (CVA-59) at NAS Cecil leld on 23 May 1967. Fin tip was blue. Note VA-106 was repeated on the airrafts drop tanks. (Swisher) At right, ASuper Echo 152069 prepares to I unch from the USS Intrepid (CVA-11) n 1968. Rudder was yellow with blue ribs. Squadron insignia was blue. (via ailhook Association)
116
SIX,
117
"GLADIATORS"
The squadron re-grouped and commenced a second A-4E war cruise on board the USS Intrepid (CVS-11) from 4 June 1968 through 8 February 1969. The squadron lost one of its pilots to an operational accident in 152091 on 23 September 1968. On 21 October 1968, LT K. K. Knabb went missing in action after being hit by AAA over the North in 151160.
ATTACK
ONE
ONE
Fighter Squadron One Hundred hirteen (VF-113) was established on 15 July 1948 with F8F-1 Bearcats. VF-113 then flew F8F-2s, F4U-4Bs, 9F-5s, F9F-2s, F9F-8s, and finally the F9F-8B before being redesignatd Attack Squadron One Hundred hirteen (VA-113) in March 1956. he squadron received the A4D-1 on 29 April 1957 and the A4D-2 on 8 September 1958. VA-113 upgraded to the A4D-2N on 29 March 1961 and received the A-4F in October 1967.
VA-106 INTREPID OPERATIONS Above, two VA-106 A-4Es over CVA-11 in 1968. (USN) At right, A-4E 152091 being pulled into launching position aboard the USS Intrepid in September 1968. (USN) Below, 1968 squadron officers pose on the deck of the USS Intrepid in front of CDR J. A. Chalbeck's A-4E. The shield on the fuselage side was for CVW-10 and was blue with red CVW-10, yellow laural leaves and a white explosion in the center of the shield. (USN)
SQUADRON
,
o -
The squadron made one war cruise with the A-4F. This was from 3 January through 18 July 1968 with CVW-9 and the USS Enterprise (CVAN-65). The carrier was diverted enroute to the Sea of Japan for operations following the seizure of the USS Pueblo (AGER-2) by the North Koreans. The "Big E" arrived on station on 22 February and commenced combat operations. On 7 May LCDR P. W. Paine was killed in action over the North in 154214. Then on 23 June LT E. E. Christensen was recovered after being shot down by AAA in 154216. After returning to NAS Lemoore, the squadron transitioned to the Vought A-7B Corsair. The F/A-18A Hornet was acquired and the squadron was redesignated VFA-113 on 24 August 1983. At top, A-4F 154217 on 28 November 1967 at NAS Alameda. Fin tip was metallic blue. (Swisher) At right, Bullpup launch and Zuni launch. (USN)
118
119
THREE,
VA-113
"STINGERS
I ATTACK
SQUADRON
The first VA-125 was originally established as Reserve Attack Squadron Fifty Five E (VA-55E) in 1946 and was in an inactive status until January 1950. VA-55E became VA-923 and was called up during the Korean War while flying the Martin AM-1 Mauler (see Naval Fighters #24 Martin AM-1 Mauler). The squadron converted to Skyraiders in September 1950, and was still flying the AD when it was redesignated VA-125 on 4 February 1953. Cougars replaced the Skyraiders in 1956 and the squadron was disestablished on 10 April 1958. The second VA-125 started out as VA-26 on 30 June 1956 flying F9F88 Cougars. VA-26's mission was changed to the indoctrination and training of pilots and enlisted personnel in attack aircraft for the fleet. The
ONE
TWO
FIVE,
VA-125
squadron was redesignated VA-125 on 11 April 1958, and the A4D-1 replaced the Cougars on 10 June 1958. The A4D-2 was added in August 1958 and the A4D-2N was added to the training syllabus on 3 March 1960. The AD-5 was added in September 1960 and the A-4E in December 1962. The TA-4F arrived on 19 May 1966 and the A-4F was acquired in February 1968. A-7 Corsairs were added in 1969 and the squadron was disestablished on 1 October 1977 at NAS Lemoore, CA. In June 1966, the first of several groups of Australians arrived for training on the A-4 Skyhawk. These first pilots were to form the nucleus of the Aussie's first A-4 squadron that was slated for assignment to HMAS Melborne. Tragedy struck the
"ROUGH
RAIDERS"
I
Above, A-4E 149660 at MCAAS Yum on 24 March 1964. Nose and tail wer da-glo red. (Swisher) Below, VA-125 flightline with five different Skyhawk posing in the front row. Right to left: A· 4A, A-4B, TA-4F, A-4C and A-4E. (Harry Gann)
squadron on 13 March 1967 when VA-125's Commanding Officer, CDR J. D. Shaw, was killed during carrier
aooo
NAVY
At right top, A-4E 149660 at NAS Lemoore on 21 August 1965. Fin tip was black. (Swisher) At right middle, A-4E 150000 at NAS Lemoore on 12 March 1966. (Swisher) At right bottom, A-4E 151099 in July 1968. The last two digits of the nose number were repeated in white on the tip of the tail. (Nick Williams)
522
120
121
FIGHTER
qualifications on the USS Kearsarge (CVS-33). The lasl fleet A-4 replacement pilot c1as began on 31 March 1969. The squadron transferred to A-7s in 1969 and F/A-18s in 1981, and VA-125 became VFA125.
Above, VA-125 A-4E during CarQuals on the USS Franklin O. Roosevelt in 1965. (R. Volker via Fred Roos) Above left, A-4E Super Echo 150035 at NAS Lemoore on 4 May 1969. (Swisher) At left, A-4F 154181 in overall grey scheme with dark grey lettering, national insignia and intake markings in January 1981. (Ginter) Below, VA· 125 A-4Es, A-4F and TA-4F in flight in 1969. (Harry Gann)
122
SQUADRON
VA-126 was established on 6 April 1956 and assigned to CVG-12. The squadron was originally equipped with the F7U-3 Cutlass, which it flew until March of 1957. Transition to the F9F-8B occurred in early 1958 and shortly thereafter the FJ-4B Fury took over. In 1959, the Navy established the Fleet Replacement Air Groups and VA-126 became the training squadron for Pacific Fleet FJ-4Bs. Then, in 1960 the squadron took on the added responsibility of providing jet transition and instrument training to the
ONE
TWO
SIX,
Pacific Fleet. To fulfill this mission the squadron received the F9F-8T twoseat Cougar. The squadron was redesignated VF-126 in October 1965 and received the TA-4J in 1967. In February 1970 they received four A-4Es to support Miramar squadrons in air combat maneuvering training. With TA-4Js and A-4Es, the squadron assumed the adversary role. In January 1972, the Navy Fighter Weapons School (NFWS) was established as a detachment under VF-126. NFWS was com-
123
VF-126
"BANDITS"
missioned as a separate command in July 1972 and the A-4Es were turned over to that command. A-4Es and A4Fs returned to the squadron and the squadron continued on at NAS Miramar until its disestablishment.
Below, 150073 in 1988. Aggressor aircraft at VF-126 were painted in extremely diverse and colorful schemes. This one was: dark 00, tan and grey. The electronics pod was orange with a black tip. (VF-126)
Above, A-4E 149990 in 1970. Color unknown. (via Burger) At left, A-4F 145064 in standard low-visibility grey scheme on 30 June 1990. VF-126 wa on spine. 25 was red outlined in white. (Ginter) Below, VF-126 A-4F at NAS Miramar on 30 June 1990. Colors: two tones of green, brown and tan. (Ginter) Bottom, A-4F 155018 in grey and green color scheme on 30 June 1990. Small lettering at the top of the tail was NJ624 (Ginter)
VF-126 At top, A-4F in two-tone brown scheme in March 1988. (Ginter) Above, 151059 in brown and tan lizard scheme at NAS Miramar in November 1989. (Ginter) At right, A4F two-tones of brown, tan and green scheme in Novem-ber 1989. (Ginter) Below, VF-126 flight of A4Fs and TA-4Js in a blue and grey scheme in 1993. (VF-126)
124
125
ATTACK SQUADRON ONE TWO SEVEN, VA-127 "BATMEN I ROYAL BLUES"
From July 1961 through 15 June 1962, VA-127 was operated as VA126 Detachment Alpha. It was redesignated VA-127 on 15 June 1962. The squadron's primary mission was to provide advanced all-weather jet instrument training for fleet replacement pilots and refresher training for light jet attack pilots. A secondary mission included jet transition and refresher training. On 1 May 1970, the unit became the only A-4 replacement training squadron in the Navy. In April 1971, the squadron started training Argentine Navy personnel. It also trained pilots from Singapore from November 1973 through July 1976 and provided transition training for Blue Angel Skyhawk pilots. In 1975, the squadron's mission changed to include basic refresher all-weather jet instrument training, air
combat maneuvering adversary training, foreign pilot training and jet transition / refresher training. On 1 October 1983, all the squadron's misions except Dissimilar Air Combat Maneuvering were dropped. On 1 March 1987, VA-127 became VFA127.
VA 127
.-
126
Above, A-4E 150026 in 1971. Drop tank markings and fin tip were in black. (vi Burger) Below, A-4F 154983 during CarQuals on CVA-14 in 1973. (vi Burger) Bottom, A-4F 154196 at NAS Lemoore, CA, in 1970. Note the larg VA-127 insignia on the fuselage side. This aircraft was the mount of CDR. Dierdorff. (Harry Gann)
4186
NAVY
=
127
Previous page top, A-4F 154976 fires 2.75" FFR rockets on 27 October 1971. (Harry Gann) Previous page middle, A-4F 154976 in the for· ground launches on a live rocket firing training mission on 27 October 1971. (Harry Gann) Previous page bottom, three VA-127 A-4Fs and one VA-127 TA-4F depart NAS Lemoore on joint training flight on 10 October 1971. Aircraft tails and rudder ribs were black. (Harry Gann) Above, A-4F 154976 returns from the live fir training mission on 27 October 1971. (Harry Gann) At left, A-4F 154190 in standard low-visi· bility grey scheme in June 1982. VA-127 on th fuselage side and the small NJ and 701 on th tail were medium blue. (Ginter) Bottom, A-4F 154209 on 12 October 1975. (Swisher)
128
Above, VA-127 aggressor A-4F 154973 at NAS Lemoore on 18 October 1974. (Swisher) Below, VA-127 A-4F, VA-122 TA-7C and VFA-125 F/A-18A in flight over the Sierra Nevada. (via Tailhook Association)
129
I ATTACK
SQUADRON
ONE
FOUR
FOUR,
VA-144
"ROADRUNNERS"
d
r A-4E 151176 in flight on 11 June 1969. (USN via Tailhook Association) B~low, A· 1 Bottom, A-4E 151191 in flight on 24 February 1969. FlO tiPS were bl
~~~~~'~,oi~ ~~~~~NiCk Williams) VA-144 was originally established as VA-116 with the F7U-3M on 1 December 1955, and transitioned into the FJ-4B Fury in 1958. The squadron was redesignated VA-144 on 23 February 1959. This was a highly unusual event, as it occurred half-way through a deployment aboard the USS Ranger (CVA-61). On 4 June 1962, VA-144 received A4D-2Ns followed by A-4Es in July 1967. Two A-4E cruises took place, the first from 18 November 1967 through 28 June 1968 as part of CVW-11 aboard the USS Kitty Hawk (CVA63). On 20 December 1967, CDR J. R. Powell Jr. and CDR R. C. Bos were awarded Silver Stars for planning and leading a successful strike
against the heavily defended Haiphong Thermal Power Plant (west). On 5 January 1968, CDR R. J. Schweitzer became a POW after being shot down by AAA in 152074. Then, on 13 March LT R. E. Curtis was recovered after being shot down by AAA over Laos in 152088. Death hit the squadron on 27 April when LCDR R. Saavedra was killed in action in 151070 while over the North. VA-144 lost one aircraft, 151055, to an operational accident on 29 January 1968.
After returning to NAS Lemoor VA-144 was disestablished on 29 January 1971.
The second A-4E cruise was from 18 March through 29 October 1969 with CVW-5 aboard the USS Bon Homme Richard (CVA-31). During this cruise, only one aircraft and pilot were lost in combat. It was LTJG L. C.
Above, A-4E 152059 at NAS Alameda on 20 October 1968. (Smalley) Below, A-4E 151990 at NAS Lemoore on 26 October 1968. Lightning bolts were red. (Swisher)
Sage from VA-144, while flylJlll 152029 over Laos on 22 June.
Association)
The squadron re-equipped Witt A-4Fs and redeployed on CVA-31 from 2 April through 12 Novembl'1 1970. Air Wing Five had no combd! losses during this cruise, but VA-14·1 lost one aircraft to an operational accident, 154215.
-
USS ll("l I"Jt.lME" I.:;";,rm
VA-/44 RO"ORUNNERS
130
131
ATTACK SQUADRON
Above, A-4F 154192 taking off in June 1971. (via Nick Williams) Below, A-4F 154974 departs NAS Atsugi on 12 August 1970. (T. Matsuzaki) Bottom, A-4F 154971 at Chu Lai in 1970. (Weldon Dunlap)
Reserve Fighter Squadron Seven Hundred Thirteen (VF-713) was called to active duty on 1 February 1951 and received F4U-4s as replacements for their F8Fs. On 4 February 1953, VF-713 was redesignated VF-152 and transitioned to F2H-3s in October 1953. VF-152 was redesignated Attack Squadron One Hundred Fifty Two (VA-152) on 1 August 1958. The squadron received AD-6 and AD-7 aircraft in 1959 and 1962 respectively. These were replaced with A-4Bs in February 1968 and A-4Es in May 1969.
ONE
FIVE
1970 with CVW-8. During the cruise, VA-152 lost one aircraft, 149993, to operational reasons on 26 May 1970. After this cruise, VA-152 was disestablished on 29 January 1971.
VA-152 deployed the A-4E aboard the USS Shangri-La (CVS-38) from 5 March through 17 December
'"'
Nf 4971
~
NAVY ••
132
~.t
.-)
TWO,
5\2 4 ~~-
133
VA-152
"MAVERICKS"
Above, A-4E 151178 taxis at NAS Atsugi on 20 July 1970. (T. Matsuzaki) Below, A4E 150044 from the USS Shangri-La departs NAS Atsugi on 24 July 1970. The squadron insignia has not been applied to the fuselage. (T. Matsuzaki) Bottom, A-4E 149977 at NAS Alameda on 31 January 1969. (Swisher)
I ATTACK
ONE
SQUADRON
Reserve Fighter Squadron Eight Hundred Thirty One (VF-831) was called to active duty on 1 February 1951 with the F9F-2. VF-831 was redesignated Fighter Squadron One Hundred Fifty Three (VF-153) on 4 February 1953. VF-153 transitioned to F9F-6 Cougars in October 1953 and FJ-3 Furys in March 1955. In November 1955, F9F-8s were received and in April 1956 the F9F-8B was acquired. With this aircraft, VF153 was redesignated Attack Squadron One Hundred Fifty Three (VA-153) on 15 December 1956. A4D-1 s arrived on 12 February 1957, and A4D-2s on 27 October 1958. The
FIVE THREE,
VA-153
A4D-2N replaced the A4D-2 on 20 June 1961 and the A-4E arrived in January 1967. The A-4Es deployed from 26 July 1967 through 6 April 1968 aboard the USS Coral Sea (CVA-43). Air Wing Fifteen's first loss was that of LT M. J. Allard who was killed in action over the North in 151025 on 29 August 1967. VA-153 lost another pilot to operational causes in 150037 on 25 November 1967. The last loss of the cruise took place when CDR T. E. Woolcock lost 150057 to a SAM on 25 January 1968. Luckily CDR Woolcock was recovered.
"BLUE TAIL
FLIES"
During the first line period till squadron flew a total of 728 comboll hours over a 34 day period. The pilot, dropped over 435 tons of ordnancf on these raids, which included 83 SOl ties on the Haiphong area. The se< ond line period of this cruise wa', characterized by a good deal of inclement weather, but the squadrol
Above, A-4E 151036 at NAS Lemoor on 18 March 1967 assigned to LTJG Newell. (Swisher) Below, A-4E 149959 on 22 July 1967. USS Coral Sea and VA-153 has been added to the fuselag side. (Swisher)
was still able to fly nearly 300 sorties. Highlights of this period included the dropping of the Hai Duong railroad bridge and strikes on the Haiphong railroad yard. On one raid to the Van Diem military storage area, the pilots encountered some twenty SAMS. The third line period commenced on 12 November, and once again bad weather limited most strikes to the DMZ. Despite the weather, VA-153 completed 123 Alpha strikes and 436 sorties. Night work was a major part of the fourth line period. The heavy movement of trucks in North Vietnam just prior to the Christmas ceasefire provided the squadron with a great many targets. In addition to inflicting heavy truck damage, the squadron proved its ability with Walleyes. With these weapons they scored direct hits on the Quang Suoi and Cho Ganh cave storage areas. The fifth line period started on 16 January 1968. Major strikes were flown against the Than Hoa highway / railroad bridge and the Vinh transshipment point, but the majority of operations were conducted in South Vietnam and Laos after the bombing restrictions were imposed by President Johnson. It was the capture of the USS Pueblo that provided much of the activity for the squadron on this cruise; the Coral Sea steamed from Sasebo on March 3rd for the Sea of Japan to be ready for action in the event of retaliatory strikes against North Korea. The strikes never occurred, however, and the squadron returned to NAS Alameda.
The squadron transitioned to the A-4F in April 1968 and deployed aboard the USS Coral Sea from 7 September 1968 through 18 April 1969. During this cruise, the squadron lost no aircraft to any cause. During this cruise, the squadron expended over 3,000 tons of ordnance. On 14 September 1969, VA-153 transitioned to Vought A-7As. The squadron flew Corsairs until its disestablishment on 30 September 1977.
-l VSs CqH..~ S£A
VA·IS,
;1
134
135
Above, A-4E 150083 from the USS Coral Sea landing at NAS Atsugi on 10 March 1968. (T. Matsuzaki) Below, A-4F 155027 on display at NAS Lemoore with Shrikes on the outer pylons, 2.75" rocket pods on the inner pylons and Zuni pods attached to the center pylon. (Harry Gann) Bottom, A-4F 155026 at NAS Lemoore on 1 June 1968. (Swisher)
ATTACK SQUADRON
Attack Squadron Seventy One E (VA-71 E) was established in 1946. It was redesignated VA-58A on 1 October 1948, VC-772 on 1 November 1949, and finally VA-728 on 1 April 1950. They re-equipped with AD Skyraiders in 1951 when they were called to active duty on 1 February 1951. While flying AD-6s, VA-728 was redesignated VA-155 on 4 February 1953. AD-7s were received in November 1957 and the A4D-2 Skyhawk arrived on 8 October 1958. The squadron graduated to the A-4E in December 1963. VA-155's first war cruise occurred in the A-4E from 7 December 1964 through 1 November 1965 aboard the
ONE
FIVE
FIVE,
VA-155
USS Coral Sea (CVA-43). VA-155 participated in Flaming Dart I and II, reprisal strikes against targets in North Vietnam following a Viet Cong attack on the American advisors' compound at Pleiku and the American billet in Qui Nhon, South Vietnam. On the first day of these strikes, LT E.A. Dickson was killed in action in 150075. In March, the squadron began participation in Rolling Thunder operations, the bombing of military targets in North Vietnam. During Rolling Thunder, CDR J. H. Harris was shot down by AAA in 150078 and recovered on 29 March 1965. LT W. T. Fidelibus was rescued after being downed by AAA in 150067 on 12 August. LCDR W. B.
136
"SILVER
FOXES"
]
Rivers became a POW on 10 September when AAA downed A-41 149991. VA-155's last aircraft los~. during this cruise was when 15201 h
Above, A-4E 150072 at NAS Lemoor on 31 October 1964. Tail checkmark was green. (Swisher) Below, flight of VA-155 A-4Es in 1963. Aircraft have green fin tips. (USN) At right top, VA· 155 CAG bird, A-4E 151073 on 12 March 1966. Fuselage stripes were, top to bottom: orange, maroon, yellow, blue, red, and green. (Swisher) Middle, A-4E 151074 in the test green camou· flage scheme on 1 May 1966. (Swisher) Bottom, A-4E 150124 at NAS Lemoore on 1 May 1966. (Swisher)
137
was hit by AAA while piloted by LCDR P. M. Moore, who was luckily rescued. The second war cruise was from 12 May through 3 December 1966 aboard the USS Constellation (CVA64). VA-155 arrived on station with squadron aircraft painted in camouflage green upper surfaces and white undersides. The new scheme was nicknamed "Flying Mulberrybushes". The scheme was tested as well on A4Cs, RA-5Cs, and F-4s. The Navy decided against usage and the scheme was dropped. This cruise proved costly for VA-155 as five pilots were killed. On 27 June, LCDR G. A. Smith was lost in 152073. On 1 July, the squadron's Commanding Officer, CDR C. H. Peters, was killed in 150017. Then, on 29 July LTJG V. K. Cameron was lost in 152045. The fourth pilot was lost in an operational
accident on 10 August 1966 in 151065. Additionally, LT N. E. Holben was shot down in 151026 by a North Vietnamese gunboat on 4 July. Lt Holben was recovered. The squadron returned to the Coral Sea for its third war cruise from 26 July 1967 through 6 April 1968. On 17 October, LTJG F. J. Fortner was killed in action after being shot down by his own 2.75" rockets. CDR V. W. Daniels became a POW when he was hit by a SAM in 150059 on 26 October. CDR W. H. Searfus, Commanding Officer of VA-155, was lost at sea after losing hydraulic pressure while taxiing. When he attempted to brake, the aircraft veered off the deck and fell into the sea. On 22 December, VA-155 lost another pilot, LCDR W. P. Cook, who was killed in action after taking shrapnel from his own Mk-82 bombs over the North in
138
Above, A-4E 152017 at NAS Lemoor on 22 July 1967. Rudder tabs wer green. (Swisher) Bottom, A-4F 155062 at Edwards AFB on 19 May 1968, wa assigned to VA-155 with an "AH" tall code. The squadron deployed aboard the USS Ranger and the tail code wa changed to "NE". (D. Kasulka via Norm Taylor)
152071. During this cruise, the squadron flew 2,185 combat sorties and 90 combat support sorties. This totalled over 3,400 hours of flying and over 2,500 carrier landings. VA-155 expended more than six million pounds of ordnance during this period.
Above and at right, A-4F 155057 fitted with a Walleye on the centerline, Mk. 82s on the inboard pylons, and Bullpups on the outer pylons. (via Harry Gann) Below, three VA-155 A4Fs in flight over California. (via Harry Gann)
10 ..
After returning to CONUS, the squadron transitioned to the A-4F
139
Skyhawk and re-deployed from . October 1968 through 17 May 1'/I aboard the USS Ranger (CVA I) No combat losses were experienl I by the squadron on this CrLW,1 However, VA-155 did lose a pil 1 I an operational accident on 1• January 1969 in 155059.
ATTACK
SQUADRON
ONE
SIX
THREE,
VA-163
"SAINTS"
On 29 September 1969, VA-l',' re-equipped with the Vought A II Corsair. They continued to fly A /. until being decommisstioned on :\( September 1977.
Above right, A-4F 155050 at NAS Lemoore on 1 June 1968; rudder markings and fin tip were green. (Clay Jansson) Below A 4F 155060 belo~ged ~o VA~155's Commanding Officer, CDR Reynolds, on 11 October 1969. "NE" tail code and fuselage stri~ were green outlined In white. Rudder ribs and fin tip were green, too. (Harry Gann) Bottom, A-4F 155058 at NAS Lemoore on 21 September 1968. Rudder stripes and fin tip was dark green. "NE" tail code was painted in a lighter green. (Swisher)
;
~
#tt,
1
•.•.•.•. 5060
VA-163 was established on 1 September 1960 at NAS Cecil Field, FL, with the Douglas A4D-2 Skyhawk, In March 1964, the A-4E replaced the A-4B. In February 1965, the squadron participated in Operation Silver Lance, the largest amphibious exercise conducted by the Navy / Marine Corps since World War II.
AV¥
The squadron's first war cruise took place from 5 April through 16
140
December 1965 as part of CVW-16 aboard the USS Oriskany (CVA-34). During June, the squadron's Commanding Officer, CDR Jenkins, led the first major POL (petroleum, oil, lubricants) strike of the war against the Dam Dinh, North Vietnam storage facility. A VA-163 pilot was killed in 151089 during an operational accident on 18 July. On 9 September, CAG-16, CDR J. B. Stockdale, was shot down in 151134 by AAA and became a POW. For his actions while in captivity CDR (later RADM)
141
Stockdale received the Congressional Medal of Honor. On 7 November, LCDR Charles G. Wack was awarded the Silver Star for his action in leading a sortie against SAM sites south of Nam Dinh, North Vietnam. He pressed his attack even
Above, A-4E 151083 on 31 October 1964. Drop tank, rudder and fin markings were blue. (Swisher) Below, two VA-163 A-4Es prepare to launch from the USS Oriskany in 1965. (USN)
of 20mm. They flew over 2,700 com bat sorties against targets in Vietnam while logging over 6,400 flight hours.
Above, CDR Wynn Foster, CO, poses outside cockpit of his VA-163 A-4E on the deck of the USS Oriskany. (USN) Below, CDR Foster, later "Captain Hook", heads north in #301 with Snakeyes loaded in July 1966. (USN)
though his aircraft was badly damaged by antiaircraft fire and successfully completed his mission before being forced to eject from the aircraft (150071) when it caught fire. VA-
163's Commanding Officer, CDR Jenkins, was shot down while conducting an armed reconnaissance mission a few miles north of the DMZ and was captured. He remained a POW until his release in February 1973. On 17 November, LCDR R. H. Bowling became a POW, too, when he was hit by AAA in 151083. While deployed, the Saints dropped over 2,400 tons of bombs and expended some 60,000 rounds
The squadron's second war cruise was from 26 May through 1 November 1966. On 23 July, during successful POL mission over Vinh North Vietnam, CDR W. F. Foster' aircraft was hit by antiaircraft fire. H took a 57mm shell through the star board side of the cockpit. The shel severed CDR Foster's right arm ju below the shoulder. He flew on hold ing the stick in his knees and applyin pressure on the bleeding stump wit his left hand. Once out to sea, h ejected alongside the USS Reev (DLG-24) and was recovered by th ship and evacuated to the carrier fo surgery. What followed was a com pelling story of dogged determinatio to remain on active duty, best told b "CAPT Hook" himself in his boo Captain Hook. CDR Ron Caldw took over as Commanding Offic The squadron lost two other aircr during this cruise. 150079 was lost an operational accident on 27 Augu as was 150072 on 23 October. On 26 October 1966, a fire sta ed in a flare locker aboard tt Oriskany. The resulting conflagrati cost the life of 44 officers and enlist men and injured 38. Material loss included three A-4s damaged. A151075, UH-2A 149774 and UH150183 were destroyed. VA-163 10 a number of personnel in the fir including ENS Ron "Chico" Tardl LTJG Tom Spitzer, Dale "Batm Miller, and Clem Morisette t squadrons Operations Officer.
the North. During the month of August, VA-163 lost three aircraft to SAMs. They were: 150052 on 4 August (LTJG R. C. Bisz, POW), 152028 on 31 August (LTJG D. J. Carey, POW), and 149975 on 31 August (LCDR R. C. Perry, KIA). On 21 August, Commanding Officer, CDR Bryan Compton and LCDR James Busey earned Navy Crosses for leadership and coordination skills in the successful destruction of the Hanoi thermal power plant. On 10 September, 150047 was lost in an operational accident. SAMs struck again on 22 October, when LTJG James E. Dooley was killed in action In 150116. Two days later, LTJG R. A. Foulks successfully ejected from 149963. On the 25th 150086 was shot down by AAA and LT J. M. Krommenhoek went missing in action. Then on, 26 October 1967, LCDR John S. McCain III (2000 Presidential hopeful) became a POW after being shot down by a SAM in 149959. The last of eight pilots downed was LTJG R. A. "Skip" Foulks who was killed in action in 150131.
VA-163 deployed one last time to Vietnam from 18 July 1968 through 3 March 1969 as part of Air Wing 21 aboard the USS Hancock (CVA-19). No combat losses or operational losses occurred during this cruise. After returning to NAS
During a training deployment to NAAS Fallon in April 1968, the Saints logged 1,053 hours and dropped 2,716 bombs in preparation for their next cruise.
----
The third war cruise, also abo CVA-34, was from 16 June 1 through 31 January 1968. T squadron lost its first aircraft of I cruise, 150102, to an operatio accident on 12 July. On the 17 CDR Marvin Reynolds earned t Navy Cross for leading and coordin ing a dangerous, complex, and s cessful rescue of a pilot downed North Vietnam. On 20 July, LT R. Kuhl was recovered after being s down by AAA over the North. Th on 25 July, LCDR D. V. Davis w killed in action by small arms fire ov 142
Above, A-4E 151075 on 12 March 1966. (Swisher) Below, A-4E 150134 On 1 May 1966. (Swisher) Bottom, LTJG Earl catches the barrier on 20 November 1967. (USN via Tailhook)
143
I ATTACK
Lemoore, VA-163 was placed on inactive status with a complement of one officer on 1 April 1969. Then, on 1 July 1971 the squadron was disestablished.
Above, VA-163 A-4E date unknown. (via Tailhhok Association Below, A-4E 150132 at NAS Alameda on 11 May 1967. CDR H. Shepard CAG. (Swisher) Bottom, A-4E 149998 on 1 Jun 1968 while assigned to the USS Hancock. (Swisher)
SQUADRON
VA-164 was commissioned on 1 September 1960 at NAS Cecil Field, FL, as one of five squadrons in the newly recommissioned Carrier Air Wing Sixteen. The squadron's first aircraft was the Douglas A4D-2 Skyhawk. On 13 March 1964, the A4E replaced the A4D-2. During work up on the A-4E two Ready Strike competitive exercises took place. These were in the delivery of conventional weapons and the Ghost Riders won top honors in both contests. In February 1965, the squadron participated in Operation Silver Lance, the largest amphibious exercise conducted by the Navy / Marine Corps since World War II. During the first war cruise from 5 April through 16 December 1965
144
ONE
SIX
FOUR,
VA-164
aboard the USS Oriskany (CVA-34), VA-164 expended over 2,500,000 pounds ordnance. All pilots became Centurions and many completed more than 100 combat sorties. The Commanding Officer, CDR J. D. Shaw, was awarded the Silver Star for successfully leading a strike against a SAM site in North Vietnam on 7 November. The squadron lost two aircraft on this cruise. The first, 152042, was lost to AAA on 6 September, but LT J. L. Burton was rescued. The second, 151173, was also lost to AAA but LCDR T. R. Powers died in captivity. He was shot down on 31 Octobe r 1965. The second war cruise, also aboard CVA-34, was from May through 16 November 1966. On 28 July, ENS G. P. McSwain became a
145
"GHOST
RIDERS"
POW after his A-4E was hit by a SAM in 152077. The next day, VA-164 lost a pilot to an operational accident in 152095. A second pilot was lost on 25 August in 152084, again in an operational accident. The next day 152093 was lost to an operational accident, but the pilot was recovered. 152075 was lost to a SAM on 12 October and LT F. C. Elkins went MIA. The third A-4E war cruise occurred from 16 June 1967 through
Above, A-4E 151134 at NAS Lemoore on 31 October 1964. Tail and drop tank markings were orange outlined in black. (Swisher) Below, A-4E 151107 on 31 October 1964. Centerline buddy tank had a blue bumblebee painted on it, signifying ownership of VA-153. (Douglas)
I
31 January 1968. In October, CDR D. F. Mow, commanding, received the Silver Star for his actions during a combat mission over North Vietnam. VA-164 lost eleven aircraft during this cruise and the Air Wing lost thirtynine. VA-164 lost four pilots and Air Wing Sixteen lost twenty. The first aircraft, 152049, was lost on 14 July to AAA, but LTJG L. J. Cunningham was rescued. On the 18th, 151986 was
lost to AAA and LCDR R.D. Hartman was killed in captivity. Also on the 18th, LTJG L. J. Duthie was downed by AAA in 151175 and recovered. A third aircraft went down on the 18th; it was 152034 with LTJG B. T. Woods at the controls. Fortunately, he was rescued. On 31 August, LCDR R. C. Perry was killed by a SAM in 151991. Another pilot, LTD. L. Hodges, was killed on 7 October while flying
Above, A-4E 151194, assigned to the' USS Oriskany, over the Tonkin Gulf " 21 November 1967. CDR William Sp XO, heads north with one Bullp three MK. 82s and two MK. 83s. (U r via Fred Roos) Below, A-4E 1511 first of many aircraft named "L j Jessie", on a strike in Vietnam. Bon11 ordnance consisted of one 2,000 III MK.84, two 1,000 lb. MK.83s and t , 500 lb. MK. 82s. (USN)
ell""
152086. Two days later, LTJG Cunningham in 152085 was shot down and recovered a second time. Another death occurred on 18 October, when LCDR J. F. Barr was lost in 152048. The last pilot killed in action was LTJG F. W. Knapp, who was lost in 151985. 151133 was lost to an operational accident on 1 January 1968. The last aircraft lost was 151152, with LCDR D. R. Weichman being recovered on 11 January 1968.
146
4IJIJ
The squadron transferred to the USS Hancock (CVA-19) for its fourth and final A-4E war cruise. This cruise was from 18 July 1968 through 3 March 1969 as part of CVW-21. On 2 October 1968, CDR D. E. Erwin was killed in action while flying 151126. Another pilot was lost in 151103 to an operational accident on 8 February 1969. Back at NAS Lemoore, the squadron re-equipped with newer A-
147
Above, A-4E 151098 after the squadron was reassigned to the USS Hancock. (Clay Jansson) At left, A-4C 147727 painted as a VA-164 A-4E and displayed at Porterville, CA, in 1984. (Ginter) Bottom, A-4E 151079 at NAS Lemoore on 4 May 1969. (Harry Gann)
4Fs before sailing once again aboard the Hancock. The first A-4F cruise was from 2 August 1969 through 15 April 1970. No combat losses and only one operational loss, 155023, on 10 February 1970, occurred. The squadron re-deployed with CVA-19 from 22 October 1970 through 3 June 1971. Again, no combat losses occurred, but one aircraft, 154930, was lost to an operational accident on 26 January 1971. For the squadron's last full war cruise, VA-164 flew a mixed bag of A-
4Fs and TA-4Fs. This cruise wa from 7 January through 3 October 1972. No aircraft or pilots were los during this cruise, while the Air Win lost twelve aircraft and three pilots. In April, the squadron participated in Operation Freedom Train and in May Operation Linebacker I. In August TA-4Fs acquired from MCAS Iwakunl were used for the first time oper tionally in a combat roll off a carrier.
U55kANCOCK
At top, A-4F 154193 on 13 August 1973 at Misawa AB, Japan. Aircraft was assigned to LT Steve Glidden. Pilot's name placard was orange. (Norm Taylor) Above, A-4F 155034 at NAS Atsugi in June 1973. (B. Trombecky via Norm Taylor) Bottom, CAG bird, A-4F 155026 on 26 October 1975. CDR Paul Stephenson CAG 21. Rudder stripes were top-to-bottom: red, white, yellow, white, blue, white, orange, white, and green. (Fred Roos)
148
The squadron returned to the w r zone briefly at the start of its 8 Ma 1973 through 8 January 1974 cruis aboard CVA-19. Air combat had offl cially ended, and carriers were st tioned to help cover the drawdow and Operation End Sweep, th removal of mines from Nortt
Vietnamese waters. In October, CVA19 left Yankee Station for the Gulf of Aden to monitor the outbreak of war between Israel, Egypt and Syria. The squadron flew one last cruise with the A-4F and TA-4F Skyhawks. This, too, was aboard the Hancock and took place from 18 March through 20 October 1975. After this cruise, VA-164 was disestablished on 12 December 1975.
Above, the fourth aircraft to be named "Lady Jessie", A-4F 155022, approaches the USS Hancock in 1973. The first aircraft was 151160, the second was 152048 and the third aircraft was A-4F 155018. (USN via Tailhook Association) Bottom, A-4F 155022, still named "Lady Jessie", at NAS Lemoore on 26 October 1975. ALR-45 fin tip antenna had been added. Aircraft was assigned to CDR F. P. Meyers, CO. (Fred Roos) The legacy of "Lady Jessie" started when Jessie Beck and her husband Fred of Reno befriended a future Navy pilot Dick Perry. Dick reported to VA-164 in January 1966, and Jessie kept him well supplied with pastries and other goodies. These gifts from Jessie were shared by the squadron and Dick arranged a squadron party in Reno where Jessie owned the Riverside Hotel and Casino. Dick named his A-4E "Lady Jessie" and a tradition was begun. Dick Perry was killed in action on 31 August 1967, and after his loss each CO's aircraft would sport the nickname. In May 1968, "Lady Jessie" hosted a party for both VA-163 and VA-164. In July 1971, the NAS Fallon Admin Building was named for LCDR Dick Perry.
149
I.
ATTACK SQUADRON
ONE
NINE TWO , VA - 192
" G OLDEN
DRAGONS" I
Above, LCDR Mike Estocin received the Congressional Medal of Honor posthumously for his actions on 20 April and 26 April 1967 against SAM sites in North Vietnam. (USN) Above right, LCDR Estocin's burnt A-4E Skyhawk after landing on the USS Ticonderoga on 20 April 1967. (USN) Bottom, CDR Phil Craven CAG 19's A4F 154186 at NAS Lemoore on 22 July 1967. Rudder stripes top-to-bottom were: white, red, white, blue, white, orange, white, and green. (Swisher)
VF-153 was established on 26 March 1945 with F6F-3 Hellcats. They were redesignated VF-15A on 15 November 1946 and received F8F-1 Bearcats in November 1947. On 15 July 1948, they became VF151 and transitioned to the F8F-2 in July 1949. Then, on 15 February 1950, they became VF-192 . As VF192 the squadron flew F4U-4s F9F2s, F9F-5s, and F9F-6s. On 15 March 1956, VF-192 was redesignated Attack Squadron One Hundred Ninety Two (VA-192). In June, they received F9F-8s and F9F-8Bs. These were replaced with FJ-4B Furys on 10 December 1967. The A4D-2 Skyhawk entered the scene in July 1959 and the A4D-2N arrived in June 1960. The A-4E replaced the A-4C in June 1966.
Stratton became a POW on 5 January 1967 after succumbing to his own rocket fire in 151136. Small arms fire downed LT S. N. Young in 152087 on 7 March. LT Young was recovered, but CDR E. M. Moore Jr. was not so lucky. He became a POW after being hit by a SAM in 151108 on 11 March. LCDR G. W. Shattuck was
The Golden Dragons deployed to Vietnam with their A-4Es from 15 October 1966 through 29 May 1967 aboard the USS Ticonderoga (CVA14). On 23 November 1966, CDR A. E. Hill was recovered after being shot down by AAA in 151172. LCDR R. A.
rescued after being hit by AAA in 151200 on 10 April. On 25 April, LCDR F. J. Almberg was also rescued after going down in 151116 after being hit by a SAM. The next day, LT J. W. Cain was recovered after AAA hits downed 152076. During this cruise, for actions on 20 April and 26 April 1967, LCDR M. J. Estocin was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. On 20 April Mike Estocin lead a three-plane Iron Hand flight against SAM sites guarding Haiphong. His flight had taken out three sites when Mike pulled off target to check battle damage to his aircraft. Satisfied he could stay in the air, he reentered the fray and launched his last Shrike, thus ensuring the safety of strike aircraft from CVA-14 and CVA-63. By the time he egressed he was losing fuel at a tremendous rate and only
At top, VA-192 A-4E landing aboard CVA-14 in 1966. (USN) Middle top, A-4E on 4 149989 over NAS Atsugi November 1966. (T. Matsuzaki) Lower middle, A-4E 149666 landing at NAS Atsugi on 1 November 1966. (T. Matsuzaki) At right, A-4E 152094 hooked up to a starter cart at an airshow. Fuselage and drop tank markings were yellow outlined by black. (via Clay Jansson)
150
151
had about 5 minutes fuel remaining. He was able to make it to a KA-3B tanker and hook up, but had to remain plugged into the tanker all the way to the ship. They flew a straightin approach, and when about three miles from the boat, the tanker unplugged and Mike made a successfullanding. Upon landing, his aircraft caught fire, but Mike popped open the canopy, threw out his helmet, and jumped to the deck. Six days later, LCDR Estocin, with CDR John B. Nichols flying wing in an F-8, once again engaged SAM sites over Haiphong. On this day Mike's luck ran out. He pressed his attack after being hit by a SAM and was able to launch his Shrike from his burning aircraft. He was able to pull off target and head for the beach, but lost control and went down some three miles short of the water.
ATTACK
After returning to CONUS, the squadron transitioned to the newer A4F Skyhawks. They departed with the "F"s aboard CVA-14 from 28 December 1967 through 17 August 1968. In March 1968, CVW-19 conducted flight operations in the Sea of Japan as a continuing show-of-force following the capture of the USS
Pueblo (AGER-2). Only one aircraft was lost during this cruise, 155002. It was lost to an operational accident on 4 July 1968.
squadron lost two aircraft to opera tional accidents during this cruise Both 155003 and 154199 were lost on 21 July 1969.
The last VA-1 92 Skyhawk deployment took place aboard the USS Oriskany (CVA-34) from 14 April through 17 November 1969. The
The squadron transitioned to th Vought A-7E Corsair on 26 February 1970 and was redesignated VFA-19~ on 10 January 1986. As VFA-1 92, th Golden Dragons flew the FI A-18A Hornet.
Above, A-4F 154181 from the US Ticonderoga at NAS Lemoore on 2 July 1967. (Swisher) At left, A·41 154194 while assigned to LT Ph I Rooney on the USS Oriskany on 2 October 1968. (Swisher) Bottom, COil Bill Gurek CAG 19's A-4F 154998 on 2 October 1968. (Swisher)
152
SQUADRON
Torpedo Squadron Nineteen (VT19) was establishedon 15 August 1943 with TBM Avengers. VT-19 was redesignated Attack Squadron Twenty A (VA-20A) on 15 November 1946 and received AD-1 Skyraiders on 3 May 1947. They became VA-195 on 24 August 1948 and flew various versions of Skyraiders until 1 July 1959, when the squadron received the A4D-2 Skyhawk. The A4D-2N arrived in May 1960 and the A-4E in
ONE
NINETY
FIVE,
VA-195
"DAMBUSTERS"
was lost in an operational accident on 21 July 1969.
September 1968. VA-195 only made one cruise with the A-4E. It was aboard the USS Oriskany (CVA-34) from 14 April through 17 November 1969 as part of Air Wing Nineteen. Only one aircraft was lost during the cruise. 154206
At top, A-4E 150022 at NAS Barber's Point in 1969. Drop tank and eagle markings on the tail were green. Eagle's beak was yellow/cream. (Nick Williams) At right, A-4E 150013 at NAS Lemoore on 26 October 1968. Aircraft was assigned to CDR Jorgenson, XO. (Swisher) Below, A-4E 150060 was assigned to CDR Bill Gureck, CAG 19. Eagle's feathers top-to-bottom were red, white, yellow, white, blue, white, green, white, and orange. (Swisher)
153
The Vought A-7E replaced the Skyhawks in February 1970 and the F/A-18A replaced the A-7Es in September 1985. VA-195 was redesignated VFA-195 on 1 April 1985.
I
ATTACK
SQUADRON TWO
Attack Squadron Two Hundred Twelve was established on 22 June 1955 at NAS Moffett Field, CA, as an F7U-3 Cutlass squadron. F9F-8B Cougars replaced the Cutlasses in April 1957. Three months later, the FJ-4B was received and was used until 20 June 1961 when the A4D-2 was received. On 2 January 1964, the squadron received the new A-4E. VA-212 deployed aboard the USS Hancock (CVA-19) from 21 October 1964 through 29 May 1965. On 7 February 1965, following the shelling of an American advisors'
ONE
TWO,
VA-212
compound at Pleiku by the Viet Cong, VA-212 participated in reprisal attacks against targets in North Vietnam. During the strikes, named Flaming Dart I, the squadron struck the Dong Hoi Barracks. On 11 February, VA-212 participated in Flaming Dart II, reprisal attacks against the barracks at Chanh Hoa. In March through May, the squadron participated in the Rolling Thunder campaign. During this campaign, on 26 March 1965, CDR K. L. Shugart was rescued after going down in 150130 due to AAA fire.
.~~
"RAMPANT
RAIDERS" I
A second A-4E cruise aboard Hancock took place from 10 November 1965 through 1 Augus 1966. During March 1966, VA-212 participated in Operation Jackstay, providing combat air support for amphibious operations that c1eare
Above, A-4E 150131 at NAS North Island on 2 May 1964. (Swisher) Below, A-4E 150130 on CVA-19 in 1964. This' the aircraft CDR Shugart, CO, was sh t down in on 26 March 1965. Fin tip an ' squadron shield were yellow. (W. Larkins)
the Rung Sat zone southeast of Saigon. On 27 March 1966, 150128 was lost to an operational accident and on 6 April 152052 was also lost and the pilot was killed. The first combat loss occurred on 1 May 1966 when LT R. H. Mainsfield was downed by his own rocket in 151179. One more aircraft was lost to operational causes. 150000 was lost on 27 June. During this cruise the squadron flew 2,625 combat sorties and expended six million pounds of ordnance on enemy targets. The squadron's next combat cruise was aboard the USS Bon Homme Richard (CVA-31) from 26 January through 25 August 1967. For the cruise, VA-212 aircraft were modified to incorporate the Walleye weapons system which they deployed to Vietnam. Commanding Officer, CDR Homer L. Smith, conducted the first Walleye attack, strik-
ing the Sam Son Army Barracks on 11 March. The first aircraft lost was 151102 on 25 April, when LTJG A. R. Crebo was shot down by a SAM and rescued. On 20 May, the Commanding Officer, CDR H. L. Smith, was shot down by AAA in 149652 during an attack on the Bac Giang Thermal Power Plant. He died in captivity. LCDR A. R. Chauncy became a POW when he was hit by AAA in 151113 on 31 May. The same day, LTJG M. T. Daniels was hit by AAA in 151183, but he was rescued. During July, LCDR J. H. Kirkpatrick was recovered after being hit by AAA in 151181, on the 12th. Then on the 20th, CDR F. H. Whittemore was recovered after AAA got 151119. During this cruise the squadron flew 81 major strikes against Vietnam. After returning to NAS Lemoore, VA-212 re-equipped with the newer A-4F Skyhawk in October 1967. The
0\30
NA\I'l uss
BON HOMMe RlCH4Inl ' -
~
~
.~-----.;.:
154
155
1.-
squadron deployed the "Fils aboard the USS Bon Homme Richard (CVA31) from 27 January through 10 October 1968. From February through March, the squadron flew combat support missions for the Marines under siege at Khe Sahn. Three aircraft were lost during this cruise. These were all lost during May. 154974 was shot down by AAA on the 22nd. LCDR R. S. Thomas was rescued. On the 28th, 154982 was lost to an operational accident and on the 30th 154174 was lost. LT E. Killian was recovered, but the cause of the loss was unknown.
Above, A-4E 150006 launches off t~ USS Bon Homme Richard in 19'66. (USN) Bottom, A-4F 155020 at NAS Lemoore on 26 October 1968. The squadron's shield on the side of the fuselage was black with a yellow lion. (Harry Gann)
---CVW-21 and VA-212 redeployed from 2 August 1969 through 15 April 1970 aboard the USS Hancock (CVA19). Three aircraft were lost during this cruise. 155005's pilot was killed during an operational accident on 9 February 1970. 154994 was lost operationally on 8 March and 155044 was lost to AAA on 15 March. The pilot, LCDR R. W. Hunter, was rescued.
Another Hancock deployment occurred from 22 October through 3 June 1971. No aircraft were lost during this cruise. The squadron's last war cruise took place aboard CVA-19 from 7 January through 3 October 1972. In April, the squadron concentrated its strikes in the area of An Loc, South Vietnam, in an attempt to defend the city during the Easter Offensive. In
Above, A-4F 155019 at NAS Lemoor on 4 May 1969. Tail checkmark w black outlined in yellow. Fin tI checkerboards were yellow and black (Swisher) Below, A-4F 155061 (300/NP and A-4F 155045 (301/NP) in flight In 1970. (via Wayne Morris)
May, VA-212's Commanding Officer, CDR H. H. Strong, was shot down by AAA in 155045 and killed in action. CDR F. C. Green was downed on 9 July in 154972; he too was killed. The last aircraft lost was 155021 on 6 September. LT W. F. Pear was rescued.
The squadron deployed two more times aboard the Hancock before being disestablished on 12 December 1975. These were from 8 May 1973 through 8 January 1974 and from 18 March through 20 October 1975. From October through December 1973, the Hancock and VA-212 operated in the Indian Ocean during the
war between Israel, Syria, and Egypt.
Above, A-4F 154975 over NAS Atsugi in December 1970. (T. Matsuzaki) Below, A-4F 155047 at Misawa AB, Japan, on 13 August 1973. (Norm Taylor) Bottom, A-4F 154992 at NAS Lemoore on 26 October 1975. (Roos)
May, they participated in Operatio Linebacker I, in strikes against Nort Vietnam. During these strikes, on 2
.
156
157
I ATTACK
SQUADRON TWO
ONE
SIX,
VA-216
Attack Squadron Two Hundred Sixteen (VA-216) was established on 30 March 1955 with AD-4Bs. They later flew AD-5s, AD-6s and AD-7s until being replaced with A4D-2s on 16 February 1959. These were replaced five months later with FJ-4B Furys. On 4 September 1962, the A4C replaced the Fury. The squadron's "C"s were exchanged for "B"s in August 1966 and then they received the "C"s again in 1968. On 13 June 1969, the A-4E replaced the A-4C.
"BLACK
DIAMONDS"
I
NAVAL
WEAPONS
CENTER
CHINA
LAKE
(NWC)
The A-4Es deployed aboard the USS Forrestal from 2 December 1969 through 8 July 1970. VA-216 was disestablished on 1 August 1970.
Below, A-4E 152058 was VA-216's CAG bird assigned to CDR C. A. L. Swanson in 1970. Rudder stripes were white with a black diamond, red, yellow, blue, green, and four black stripes. (Clay Jansson)
Above, A-4E 149969 at NAS China Lake, CA, on 9 May 1970. (Ray Lock via Nick Williams) Below, A-4E 152072 in May 1970. (Nick Williams collection) Bottom, A-4F 154172 at Scott AFB, IL, on 12 April 1969. (J. Wible via Norm Taylor)
ATTACK
SQUADRON
SEVEN
SEVEN
SIX,
VA-776
]
!" - - - - -
. ',-
CHIM ::.
LAK
7 '~
-
Reserve Attack Squadron Seven Hundred Seventy Six (VA-776) was called to active duty on 27 January 1968 following the capture of the USS Pueblo (AGER 2) by a North Korean patrol boat on 23 January. The squadron was called-up flying A-4Bs but received A-4Es in June 1968. The
squadron was deactivated on 18 October 1968 and returned to reserve status.
158
Above, A-4E 152029 from VA-776 wit out its NR tail code on 22 May 19 (Smalley via Swisher)
159
NAVAL
FIGHTER
WEAPONS
SCHOOL,
The first Top Gun class was begun on 3 March 1969 as a Detachment of VF-126. On 7 July 1972, the Naval Fighter Weapons School was established as a separate command. A-4Es and A-4Fs were utilized by the unit until 1994. Below, A-4E in a three-tone blue/grey scheme assigned to CAPT Richard in 1975. Bottom, A-4E 149656 assigned to LCOR Jerry Sawatzky at NAS Miramar in 1975. Aircraft was in a twotone blue and dark grey paint scheme. (Fred Roos via Ginter)
160
TOP
GUN
Next page top, A-4E 150023, in March 1988, in two-tone grey scheme with all other markings in dark grey. (Ginter) Upper middle, A-4E 151095 at NAS Miramar in March 1988. Color scheme was light brown, tan, and dark green 00. (Ginter) Lower Middle, A-4F 154172 at NAS Miramar on 30 June 1990. Color scheme was light grey and dark green with all stenciling opposite the background color. Aircraft assigned to LT Mark "Pokey" Maltier. (Ginter) Bottom, A-4F 154173 in standard low visibility scheme on 30 June 1990. Aircraft assigned to LT Mark "Action" Jackson. (Ginter)
161
BLUE
ANGELS
I
BLUE ANGELS I
Previous page, Blue Angels train on their new mounts at NAS China Lake prior to the 1974 season. The grey and white airplane was A-4F 154177, which was acquired from VX-5 at China Lake (see page 66). (via Wayne Morris) At right, ships one through four in a slow-speed pass in 1982. (Ginter) Below, side views of ships one through six showing tail number styles as used during the 1982 season. The landing gear was white, the aircraft was Blue Angel blue and all other markings were yellow. (Ginter)
The A-4F Skyhawk replaced the McDonnell F-4J Phantom II for the 1974 season. Although the Skyhawk did not possess the raw power that the Phantoms brought to the air show scene, they brought a much tighter routine, which rarely left the confines of the airfield. The A-4's roll rate was incredible and its turning radius was far superior to that of the Phantom's. The Blues flew the nimble A-4F until 1986, when the F/A-18 Hornet took over. During the A-4 years, three aircraft were lost and two pilots perished. In 1978, LT Mike Curtain was practicing a high-speed rolling pass down the flight line at NAS Miramar when he struck the runway and was killed. On 13 July 1985, LCDR Robert Gershon and LT Anthony Caputi had a mid-air at the Niagara Falls Airport. LT Caputi was able to eject, but LCDR Gershon could not and he perished when his aircraft impacted the ground. A-4 commanding officers were: CDR Tony Less (74-75), CDR "Casey" Jones (76-77), CDR Bill Newman (78-79), LCDR Jim Horsley, (80-81), CDR Dave Carroll (82-83), and CDR Larry Pearson (84-85). Blue 154175, 154180, 154983, 154992, 155056.
Angels A-4Fs included: 154176, 154177, 154179, 154217, 154973, 154975, 154984, 154985, 154986, 155029, 155033, and
162
163
NAVAL
AIR
TEST
CENTER
(NATC)
NAVY
CROSS
A-4E
AWARDS TO
SKYHAWK PILOTS
CRITERIA: "Any person while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps who distinguishes himself with extraordinary heroism not justifying the award of the Medal of Honor. 1.) while engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States; 2.) while engages in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force; or 3.) while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party. To warrant this distinctive decoration the act should involve risk of life so extraordinary as to set the person apart from his contemporaries. An accumulation of minor acts of heroism does not justify the award."
The Naval Air Test Center (NATC) is located at NAS Patuxent River, MD, and is responsible for determining an aircraft's suitability for use with the fleet. The A-4E and A-4F versions of the Skyhawk were not subjected to the usual high scrutiny that new aircraft go through at NATC. The improvements, although increasing performance and range, had little effect on the aircraft's handling qualities. Most of the test work revolved around the increased weapons capability.
Congress also specified that the Navy Cross was to rank as the second highest honor the nation can bestow for combat heroism.
7
FEBRUARY
1965,
EDWARD
A.
DICKSON,
VA-155
CITATION: For extraordinary heroism on 7 February 1965 while serving as a jet attack pilot with Attack Squadron One Hundred Fifty-Five, aboard the USS Coral Sea (CVA-43), during a retaliatory air strike against the Dong Hoi Army Barracks and staging area in North Vietnam. When his aircraft was struck by intense enemy antiaircraft fire on the low-level run-in to the target area and burst into flame. Lieutenant Dickson elected to remain with his burning plane until he had released his bombs on the target area. Following his attack, he headed toward the sea where he ejected from his flaming aircraft. By his inspiring and courageous devotion to duty, Lieutenant Dickson upheld the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (KIA)
31
Above, Flight Test (FT) A-4E 151130 at NAS Lemoore on 10 September 1966. The tail boomerang was yellow outlined in black. (Swisher) Below, Weapons Test A-4E 151064 at NAS Patuxent River, MD, on 21 April 1971. Tail and nose markings were red I orange. (Roger Besecker via Norm Taylor)
OCTOBER
1965, TRENT
R.
POWERS,
VA-164
CITATION: For extraordinary heroism on 31 October 1965 while serving as a pilot of jet attack aircraft with Attack Squadron One Hundred Sixty-Four, embarked in USS Oriskany (CVA-34) during a combat mission over hostile territory in North Vietnam. Captain (then LCDR) Powers was assigned the demanding and unusual task of leading a two-division, United States Air Force flight into an area heavily defended by antiaircraft artillery and surface-to-air missiles, with the mission of locating and destroying the missile installations. He planned the attack route and led the eight plane group over more than six hundred miles of unfamiliar, cloud shrouded, mountainous terrain, arriving in the target area precisely at a prebriefed time that had been selected to coincide with the strikes of two carrier air wings against a bridge. The target area was the scene of an intense air-to-ground battle, many surface-to-air missiles were being fired and heavy enemy antiaircraft fire was observed in all directions. With full knowledge of the serious hazards involved, Captain Powers courageously led the Air Force aircraft into battle. His bombs and those of the Air Force aircraft which he led inflicted severe damage to both missile sites. By his superior aeronautical skill and valiant determination, Captain Powers upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (killed in captivity)
19 - 20
MAY
1967,
HOMER
L,
SMITH,
VA-212
CITATION: For extraordinary heroism on 19 and 20 May 1967, while serving as Commanding Officer of Attack Squadron Two Hundred Twelve, embarked in USS Bon Homme Richard (CVA-31), during aerial attacks on two strategically important and heavily defended thermal power plants in Hanoi and Bac Giang, North Vietnam. As strike leader in each of these actions against the enemy, Captain (then CDR) Smith was faced with adverse weather and difficult terrain, formidable opposition from the enemy, and the necessity for violent, evasive maneuvering. Despite these obstacles, he expertly led his strike groups in executing brilliantly successful attacks which subsequently hindered the enemy in his efforts to make war. By his heroic actions, superb airmanship, and inspiring devotion to duty throughout, Captain Smith reflected great credit upon himself and his squadron, and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
17
JULY
1967, MARVIN
D.
REYNOLDS,
VA-163
CITATION: For extraordinary heroism on 17 July 1967 as a pilot in Attack Squadron One Hundred Sixty-Three, embarked in USS Oriskany (CVA-34). As the leader of a section of A-4E aircraft conducting a search and rescue mission for a pilot downed the previous day, thirty-two miles southwest of Hanoi, North Vietnam, Lieutenant Commander Reynolds proceeded seventy miles inland through darkness and heavy antiaircraft-artillery fire to the search area where he succeeded in establishing contact with the downed pilot. When the Search and Rescue Commander informed him that positive voice contact with the pilot must be established before the helicopter could cross the beach, Lieutenant Commander Reynolds 164
165
reentered the area and established voice contact. Due to his low fuel state, he was forced to aerial refuel before returning to the scene, this time leading the rescue forces. Maneuvering so as to evade three surface-to-air missile launchings, he led the flight to the rescue scene. He attacked and silenced a large flak site endangering the helicopter. Lieutenant Commander Reynolds then made repeated, dangerously low passes over the pilot to ensure successful pickup. During egress, he successfully attacked and silenced one of the most menacing flak sites on the helicopter's egress route. By his courageous conduct, exceptional skill, and fearless devotion to duty, he was primarily responsible for the successful rescue of the downed pilot, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
21
AUGUST
1967,
JAMES
B.
BUSEY
IV,
VA-163
CITATION: For extraordinary heroism on 21 August 1967 as a pilot in Attack Squadron One Hundred Sixty-Three, embarked in USS Oriskany (CVA-34). During a combat mission over North Vietnam, Commander (then LCD) Busey was the leader of a section in a six-aircraft bombing element which attacked the Hanoi Thermal Power Plant in the face of the enemy's most sophisticated and complex arsenal of air defense weapons. As he commenced his attack, Commander Busey sustained antiaircraft hits to his aircraft. He skillfully regained control of his aircraft and, although his plane was severely damaged, renewed his attack, placing his weapon precisely on target. Subsequent bomb damage assessment photography confirmed that he inflicted heavy damage to his assigned portion of the thermal power plant. Although still severely handicapped by his damaged aircraft, Commander Busey evaded four surface-to-air missiles during his egress from the target area. Then, through skillful airmanship, he returned his crippled aircraft to the aircraft carrier. By his tenacious aggressiveness, professionalism, and heroic actions in the face of the enemy's massed and determined defenses, Commander Busey upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
21
AUGUST
1967,
BRYAN
w.
COMPTON,
ATTACK
The 1958 A4D-4 proposal had a striking resemblance to the Grumman F11 F Tiger. It was designed for long-range attack under all-weather conditions. The primary mission was to be the low-altitude delivery of a Special Weapon (nuclear weapon). For conventional attack, the aircraft was to have had seven external pylons. The engine was to be the Pratt & Whitney J52-P-6 of 8,500 Ibs at military power. Dimensions were: span 37.33', length 47.5', height 15.5', tread 10', wing area 348 sq. ft., maximum design weight 20,086 Ibs.
A4D-6
SKYHAWK
ATTACK
AIRCRAFT
The proposed A4D-6 was to be an advanced version of the A4D-5, which incorporated an enlarged fuselage and wing, and a JTF1 OA-8 turbofan engine with a military rating of 11,350 Ibs. Further improvements were nose wheel steering, wing tank compartmentation, increased internal fuel, and enlarged canopy. Dimensions were: span 30.5', length 47.4', height 15.8', tread 10.8', wing area 308 sq. ft., maximum design weight 25,531 Ibs.
-166
AIRCRAFT
VA-163
CITATION: For extraordinary heroism as a pilot and as Commanding Officer of Attack Squadron One Hundred Sixty-Three, embarked in USS Oriskany (CVA-34), on 21 August 1967. As the strike leader of a major coordinated air attack against the Hanoi Thermal Power Plant, Hanoi, North Vietnam, Commander Compton, with precise navigation and timing, led the strike group to the target area through an extremely intense array of sophisticated enemy defenses, including at least twenty-eight surface-to-air missiles and heavy, accurate antiaircraft fire. Despite the continuing heavy enemy opposition in the target area, Commander Compton skillfully maneuvered his strike forces and led them in an attack which inflicted major damage upon the target. During the attack, strike aircraft incurred extensive battle damage from the heavy flak opposition. With complete disregard for his own safety, Commander Compton remained in the vicinity of the target until the damaged aircraft exited the area safely. In addition to assisting the egressing strike pilots by calling evasive maneuvers necessary for them to avoid surface-to-air missiles and heavy concentrations of antiaircraft artillery fire, he succeeded in taking seventeen pictures with a hand-held camera which provided immediate and invaluable damage assessment of this most significant target. By his superb leadership, outstanding courage and inspiring devotion to duty in the face of extremely heavy enemy opposition, Commander Compton contributed greatly to the success of a most hazardous mission and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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A4D-4
167
FRONT COVER VA-81 A-4E 149990 with weapons load. (Harry Gann)
MAIN DIFFERENCES BETWEEN AIRCRAFT A-4C
A-4E
A-4F
TA-4F
TA-4J
ENGINE
J65-W-16A J65-W-20
J52-P-6A/B J52-P-8A/B
J52-P-8A/B J52-P-408
J65-W -20
J52-P-408
J52-P-6A/B J52-P-8A/B
J52-P-6A/B
THRUST
7700 LB 8400 LB
8500 LB 9300 LB
9300 LB 11,200 LB
8400 LB
11 ,200 LB
8500 LB 9300 LB
8500 LB
YES YES FLUSH
YES YES SEPARATED
YES YES YES YES SEPARATED FLUSH
FUSELAGE Fueling Probe Air Refueling Store Inlake Ducts UPPER AVIONICS COMPARTMENT AFCS RADAR
VIDEO IP-936/AXQ
NO
YES APG-53A
NO
SOME
YES
YES
YES
APG-53A
APG-53A
SOME
SOME
A-4l
YES YES APG-53A
YES
A-4M
YES YES YES YES YES YES SEPARATED SEPARATED SEPARATED YES
NO
YES
YES
APG-53A APG-53A (PROVISIONS)
YES
SOME
NAVIGATION COMPUTER
ASN-19A
ASN-19A ASN-41 (EARLY A-4E) ASN-41
ASN-19A
ASN-41 ASH-41 (PROVISIONS)
LABS
AJB-3
AJB-3 AJB-3A
AJB-3A
AJB-3A
CP-741/A
CP-841/A
OXYGEN SYSTEM
10 LITER
EXTENDABLE CONTROL STICK FUEL GAGING Fuaelage Wing Drop Tanks FUSELAGE FUEL CELL CAPACITY ELEVATOR BOOlIted Powered AILERON POWER STABILIZER TRIM 12 Degrees Noseup 1 Degree Nosedown 11 Degrees Noseup 1 Degree Noeedown 12·1/4 Degrees Noeeup 1 Degree Nosedown BOMB RACKS ROCKET EJECTION SEAT
NO
AJB-3A
YES 10 LITER
YES 10 LITER
NO
NO
CP-841/A 10 LITER NO
YES 10 LITER NO
AJB-3A YES 10 LITER NO
NO
YES APG-53A
NO 10 LITER NO
1 PROBE 6 PROBE YES
1 PROBE 6 PROBE YES
1 PROBE 6 PROBE YES
1 PROBE 6 PROBE YES
1600 LB
1600 LB
1600 LB
1600 LB
1600 LB
700 LB
700 LB
NO YES
NO YES
NO YES
NO YES
TANDEM
TANDEM
TANDEM
TANDEM
TANDEM
TANDEM
NO YES TANDEM
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NC·
N!)
YES
NO
NO
YES
NO
NO
NO
NO
YES
YES
NO
YES
YES
YES
3
5
ESCAPAC !AI ESCAPAC lA-l STENCEL MOD STENCEL MOD
5 ESCAPAC lC-3 WITH ACC 254 OR IF-3/1G-3
3 5 ESCAPAC !AI ESCAPAC STENCEL lC-3/1F-3/ MOD IG-3
5 ESCAPAC lC-3/1F-3/ IG-3
5 ESCAPAC lC-3 WITH ACC 254 OR IF-3/1G-3
NOSEWHEEL STEERING
NO
NO
YES
NO
YES
YES
YES
SPOILERS
NO
YES
YES
YES
YES
YES
YES
DRAG CHUTE
NO
NO
NO
NO
YES
NO
ARC-27A
ARC-27A
ARC-51A ARR-69
AR~51A
RADAR IDENTIFICATION (IFF)
APX-6B
APX-6B
APX-64(V)/ 72(V)
APX-64(V)
APC
YES
YES
YES
YES
PROVISIONS
YES
PROVISIONS ONLY
DOPPLER APN-153
NO
SOME
YES
NO
PROVISIONS
YES
YES
ARC-SIA ARC-114 *ARC-IS9(V) ARR-69
ARC-51A ARR-69
ARC-51A ARR-69
APX-72(V)
APX-64(V)/ 72(V)
APX-64(V)/ 72(V)
TACAN
ARN-21B
ARN-52(V) ARN-21B (EARLY A-4E) ARN-84 ARN-52(V) ARN-84
ARN-52(V)
ARN-52(V) ARN-84
ARN-52(V)
ARN-52(V)
ADF
ARA-25
AHA-25
AHA-50
AHA-50
AHA-SO
AHA-SO
168
Right side top to bottom: VA-22 A-4F 154190 CAG bird on the USS Bon Homme Richard off the coast of Vietnam in 1970. (Weldon Dunlop) VA-163 A-4E 149998 at NAS Lemoore on 1 June 1968. (Clay Jansson) VA-94 A-4E 152031 CAG bird at NAS North Island on 15 March 1968. (Harry Gann) VA-46 A-4E 150047 at NAS Cecil Field on 23 May 1967. (Swisher) VA-55 A-4F 154209. (Peter Lewis via Doug Siowiak) VA-164 A-4F 155026 CAG bird at NAS Lemoore on 26 October 1975. (Fred Roos)
NO
COMMUNICATIONS
ARA-50
BACK COVER Left Side top to bottom: VA-56 A4E 151151 CAG bird at NAS Lemoore on 26 October 1968. (Harry Gann) VA-164 A-4E 151098. (Clay Jansson) VA-192 A-4F 154186 CAG bird at NAS Lemoore on 22 JUly 1967. (Harry Gann) VA216 A-4E 152058 CAG bird. (via Craig Kaston) VA-153 A-4F 155026 at NAS Lemoore on 1 June 1968. (Harry Gann) VA-23 A-4F 154195. (Harry Gann)
NO
1 PROBE 6 PROBE YES
NO
Douglas A-4E/F Skyhawk in navy service
ASN-41
1 PROBE 6 PROBE YES
YES
5
Steve.
NO
1 PROBE 6 PROBE YES
NO YES
Ginter,
1/72 SCALE
A-4E
