A-4E Skyhawk (VA-94) OverviewThe A-4E Skyhawk, flown by Attack Squadron 94 (VA-94), marked a significant advancement in the Skyhawk series. Developed by Douglas Aircraft, the A-4E was designed to enhance combat effectiveness with more powerful engines, improved avionics, and increased ordnance capacity. Compact, agile, and reliable, the A-4E was well-suited for carrier-based operations, excelling in attack and close air support roles.Powered by the Pratt & Whitney J52-P-6A turbojet engine, the A-4E reached a top speed of 675 mph (1,086 km/h) and could carry up to 9,900 lbs (4,490 kg) of ordnance. It featured five external hardpoints, allowing it to deploy a wide variety of bombs, rockets, missiles, and external fuel tanks. The A-4E retained its two fixed Colt Mk 12 20mm cannons, providing robust firepower for ground-attack missions.

Key upgrades in the A-4E included:

Increased engine thrust, enhancing performance and payload capacity.

Improved avionics suite, including a bombing computer and navigation systems for precision strikes.

Additional wing hardpoints, expanding the range of weapons configurations.

VA-94, known as the "Mighty Shrikes", played a crucial role in the Vietnam War, conducting ground-attack missions and close air support with the A-4E. The squadron’s aircraft became iconic for their resilience and adaptability in high-stress combat environments, further solidifying the Skyhawk's reputation as a cornerstone of U.S. naval aviation.

Controls:
AG1: Jettison fuel tank
AG2: Jettison AG-12B
AG7: Extend tail hookA
G8: Light
VTOL: Flaps
Trim: Elevator Trim