McDonnell-Douglas TA-4J Skyhawk

This aircraft was built primarily as an advanced pilot trainer for the U.S. Navy. Its earlier single seat cousins the “B, C, E, & F” model’s, were used extensively in the Vietnam War along with the U.S. Marines “M” model. The Skyhawk saw many different roles in the US military and foreign countries as well. Nearly 3,000 were built. As an “Aggressor” the A-4 pilots would train F-18 and F-14 pilots air combat techniques and also play adversary with Air Force bombers, and foreign Air Forces as well. With a 720 degree per second roll rate, the A-4 “Scooter” could “roll over” and get a clear shot from behind before the larger fighter could see him. This aircraft was one of the last active Skyhawks in service. Her last flight was April 24th, 2003, flying from NAS Roosevelt Roads,VC-8, Puerto Rico, to March Field Air Museum.