The Skyhawk is a relatively lightweight aircraft with a max take-off weight of 24,500 lbs. The attack version of this aircraft could carry a bomb load equivalent to that of WW II B-17.
It was designed by Douglas aircraft’s Ed Heinemann, and because of its nimble performance and speed, picked up the nickname “Heinemann’s Hot Rod.” It was also widely known as the “Scooter.” It is small enough that its wings don’t fold. Rare among naval aircraft.
The TA-4J displayed is a dedicated trainer version based on the A-4F. It lacks a weapons system and was equipped with a less powerful J-52 engine.
The A-4 stayed in production until 1979, making it the longest continuously produced tactical bomber in US history.
TYPE: A-4 – Light Attack, TA-4 – Trainer
CREW: A-4 – One, TA-4 – Two
FIRST FLIGHT: 22 June, 1954
RETIRED: 3 May, 2003
PRODUCTION: 2,960
ENGINE: A-4 – J-65, TA-4 – J52
RANGE: 625 NMI
SPEED: 673 MPH
CEILING: 42,500 FT
LENGTH: 40 FT 3 IN HEIGHT: 15 FT
WINGSPAN: 26 FT 6 IN
EMPTY WEIGHT: 10,540 LB
MAX WEIGHT: 24,500 LB
PAYLOAD: 9,900 LB
ARMAMENT: 2-20mm Colt Mk12 Cannons Variety of External Bomb Loads
This aircraft is on loan from the National Naval Aviation Museum, Pensacola, FL.