The TA-4G Skyhawk, operated by the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), represented the two-seat training variant of the well-known Douglas A-4, developed specifically to support embarked operations of the Fleet Air Arm aboard the aircraft carrier HMAS Melbourne. Although primarily conceived as an advanced trainer, the TA-4G retained full operational capability, allowing the RAN to employ it in secondary light attack and support roles.
Derived from the TA-4F, the TA-4G preserved much of the performance and characteristics of the single-seat A-4G, including full carrier compatibility. It was powered by the Pratt & Whitney J52-P-8A engine, enabling a maximum speed of approximately 675 mph (1,086 km/h). The tandem two-seat configuration allowed for operational pilot training while maintaining a high degree of logistical and technical commonality with the single-seat Skyhawk fleet.
Although some TA-4G airframes lacked internal cannons, the aircraft was capable of carrying external stores and weapons on five hardpoints, with an overall payload capacity comparable to the A-4G. This made it suitable for armed training missions and simulated attack profiles.
Key features and adaptations of the TA-4G included:
Two-seat configuration for advanced training, operational conversion, and carrier qualification.
Navalized structural reinforcements, including strengthened landing gear and an arrestor hook for operations aboard HMAS Melbourne.
High commonality with the A-4G, simplifying maintenance, logistics, and pilot transition between variants.
Residual operational capability, enabling support missions, tactical training, and combat familiarization.
The TA-4G was primarily operated by No. 805 and No. 816 Squadrons RAN, playing a crucial role in the training of Fleet Air Arm pilots throughout the 1970s and early 1980s. Reliable, agile, and cost-effective, the TA-4G Skyhawk proved to be an essential asset in maintaining the effectiveness and continuity of Australian naval aviation until the Skyhawk’s retirement from RAN service.

Controls:
AG1: Jettison fuel tank
AG7: Extend tail hook
AG8: Light
VTOL: Flaps
Trim: Elevator Trim