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Action Asia Photo

© 2002-8

Action Asia Photo

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Scale 1:32   Length 15.5"   Wingspan 12"

In June 1947 Douglas Aircraft Corporation received a Navy contract for the study of a delta-wing fighter. Approval of preliminary designs and engineering concepts 18 months later led to a contract for two prototypes (XF4D-1s) that were delivered and first flown in 1951.

The XF4D-1 proved not to be a true delta-wing but rather a swept-wing with low aspect ratio. Testing trials followed by carrier suitability tests proved quite successful and full scale production of 420 F4D Skyrays commenced thereafter. During test phases the XF4D-1 prototypes established speed records over the International 3 km course (755 mph) and the 100 km closed circuit course (728 mph).

Armed with 20 mm cannons and Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, the F4D was capable of carrying a weapons load to fit its mission of intercepting enemy aircraft before they reached their target. As an interceptor, the F4D established five world rate-of-climb records which, in turn, led to the assignment of a Navy all-weather F4D squadron at San Diego and one at Key West with the USAF's North American Air Defense Command.

The last of the short-ranged Skyrays served until 1964.

Crew:         Pilot only
Length:
Wingspan: 33 ft
Weight:      25,000 lbs gross
Engine:       P&W J-57-P-8B @ 10,500 lbs w/afterburner
Speed:        695 mph maximum
Range:       600 miles tactical

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