The A-4E Skyhawk, operated by Marine Attack Squadron 211 (VMA-211), was a versatile and reliable light attack aircraft designed by Douglas Aircraft. Known for its compact size, agility, and ease of maintenance, the A-4E was a significant upgrade in the Skyhawk series, tailored for demanding combat and support missions. Powered by a Pratt & Whitney J52-P-6A turbojet engine, the A-4E had a top speed of 675 mph (1,086 km/h) and a maximum ordnance capacity of 9,900 lbs (4,490 kg), spread across five external hardpoints. This enabled the aircraft to carry a wide variety of weapons, including bombs, rockets, missiles, and external fuel tanks. Its armament also included two fixed Colt Mk 12 20mm cannons for close-in engagements.
Key upgrades in the A-4E included:
More powerful engine, allowing greater payloads and enhanced performance.
Improved avionics, featuring a bombing computer and updated navigation systems for precision strikes.
Additional wing-mounted hardpoints, offering expanded ordnance configurations.
VMA-211, known as the "Wake Island Avengers", utilized the A-4E Skyhawk extensively during the Vietnam War. The squadron conducted ground-attack and close air support missions, demonstrating the aircraft's adaptability and effectiveness in diverse combat scenarios. The A-4E’s robust design and the squadron's operational excellence made it a formidable force on the battlefield.
Controls:
AG1: Jettison fuel tank
AG2: Jettison Mk.20 Rockeye
AG7: Extend tail hook
AG8: Light
VTOL: Flaps
Trim: Elevator Trim
Credits: @Inuyasha8215
Specifications
General Characteristics
- Predecessor A-4F Skyhawk VA-164
- Created On Android
- Wingspan 17.2ft (5.2m)
- Length 26.8ft (8.2m)
- Height 12.2ft (3.7m)
- Empty Weight N/A
- Loaded Weight 6,502lbs (2,949kg)
Performance
- Power/Weight Ratio 1.43
- Wing Loading 21.4lbs/ft2 (104.6kg/m2)
- Wing Area 303.4ft2 (28.2m2)
- Drag Points 1414
Parts
- Number of Parts 308
- Control Surfaces 9
- Performance Cost 1,400