The A-4M Skyhawk Early, operated by the United States Marine Corps, represented a crucial transitional phase in the final development of the Skyhawk family, combining the proven A-4 airframe with increasingly advanced precision-strike capabilities. In this configuration, the aircraft was fully optimized for close air support (CAS) and tactical strike missions, meeting Marine Corps operational requirements from the late 1960s through the early 1970s.

Powered by the Pratt & Whitney J52 turbojet engine, the A-4M Early retained the Skyhawk’s excellent agility and high thrust-to-weight ratio, enabling operations from short runways and forward operating bases. Its external payload capacity exceeded 9,000 pounds, carried on five external hardpoints, making the aircraft highly flexible across a wide range of mission profiles.

As shown in the photo, the A-4M Early could be armed with the AGM-65E Maverick, a laser-guided variant of the well-known air-to-surface missile. The AGM-65E provided the Skyhawk with a precision-strike capability against armored vehicles, fortified positions, and high-value targets, significantly reducing pilot exposure while increasing effectiveness in support of ground forces. The integration of the Maverick marked a major qualitative leap beyond conventional unguided ordnance.

Key features of the A-4M Skyhawk Early included:

Improved avionics compared to earlier variants, though without the full systems of later A-4M models

Compatibility with guided weapons, including the AGM-65E Maverick

Reinforced airframe optimized for low-altitude, high-threat environments

Excellent visibility and maneuverability, ideal for close air support missions

Ability to operate in close coordination with USMC ground units

In this configuration, the A-4M Early reaffirmed the Skyhawk philosophy: a lightweight, economical, yet highly lethal aircraft, capable of remaining relevant even in the emerging era of precision-guided munitions.

Controls:
AG1: Jettison AGM-65E Maverick
AG7: Extend tail hook
AG8: Light
VTOL: Flaps
Trim: Elevator Trim