Douglas A-3 Skywarrior

3h ago · © Unknown

Douglas A-3 Skywarrior on static display in US Navy markings with Vietnam-era livery; a rare and historic heavy jet from the carrier air wing era.

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North American A-5 Vigilante (RA-5C Vigilante)

Aircraft

A-3 Skywarrior A3D

US Navy (Vietnam-era markings, checkered tail)

Airline

United States Navy

Manufacturer

Douglas

Gear

Apple iPhone 14 Apple iPhone 14 back dual wide camera 1.54mm f/2.4

Achievements

Rare Bird, Vintage Voyager, Airbus Aficionado, Military Maverick

4 badges earned

Photo grade

Bronze

Score: 75.0

Museum placard and crowded background distract, but the Vigilante detail and sharp paintwork are nicely captured.

Insights

Aviation History

Known as the heaviest carrier-based aircraft routinely operated from aircraft carriers (hence its nickname \'The Whale\'). Played major roles as a strategic bomber, aerial refueler, reconnaissance, and ECM platform for the US Navy.

Fleet Rarity

Very rare; all retired from military service. A handful are preserved at museums and on display at locations like the USS Lexington (museum ship).

Record Flights

Famous for its long over-water missions during the Vietnam War. No specific record flights.

Safety & Events

The A-3 was involved in multiple electronic warfare and reconnaissance missions over Vietnam. Notably used for dangerous jammer missions and crew recovery duties. No catastrophic accidents unique to this airframe are widely publicized.

Future Outlook

This specific airframe is preserved on static display as a museum exhibit.

Specifications

2x Pratt & Whitney J57 turbojets

Engine

22.1 meters

Wingspan

23.3 meters

Length

3,219 km

Range

802 km/h

Speed

Crew of 3 (sometimes up to 7 in roles as ECM/photorecon)

Capacity

37,194 kg

MTOW

7.2 meters

Height

44.48 kN (10,000 lbf) each

Thrust

Not specified (pre-ICAO modern civil standards)

Noise