Douglas A-1H Skyraider
This project is build No.51 by DJFERRISBUELLER

ln a war like Vietnam conflict, in which there has been the nearly absolute triumph of the Jet, a big propeller plane, with piston-engine, which seemed to be issued from skies of 2nd World War, distinguished itself for strength and variety of employments: it's the Douglas Skyraider.

History of the Skyraider began in an unusual way, in 1944. U.S. Navy had announced a competition for a new attack plane, substituting the old Dauntless and the first project presented by Douglas under the name of BTD, had already been rejected. The staff of Technicians of that Air Company had to review the whole project in the course of only one night, not to lose such an opportunity. That's the birth of the Destroyer II, then renamed Skyraider.

In April, 1945, it was consigned to Flight Evaluation Division of U.S. Navy and in May of same year there was an order for 548 airplanes, subsequently reduced to 377. First mass produced version, the AD-I, was consigned in 1946 and, starting from 194 7, the Skyraider took officially service with the V A-19 A. Squadron. Some years later, in 1950, the Korean conflict was the first and severe test for this plane.

During that war, the Skyraider was engaged in numerous support and attack missions, often with prohibitive weather conditions, reaching notable successes. In the meantime, development of various versions continued: AD-2, 3, 4, 5 (this last one with notably enlarged cabin and various structural alterations), AD-6 and AD-7. To the above principal versions, many other "under-versions" have been added, especially equipped for anti-submarine fight, radar control, electronic countermeasures, and ... troops transport!

The Skyraider could again demonstrate its qualities during war in Algeria, under French colours. Then, in 1964, this "strong" Douglas plane was adopted both by U.S. Navy and U.S. South Vietnam Air Forces in Vietnam. This conflict constituted its swansong, particularly for the terrible environment conditions it had to face.

In return, it gained the admiration and fondness by pilots and all troops, that every time saw its impressive arsenal under the wings appear when situation became difficult. "Spad" for Navy, it was called "Sandy" by Aviation, whose Skyraiders took many times part in one of the most dangerous tasks: the convoy to Rescue Helicopters for pilots downed in the enemy territory. Low speed did allow this plane to surround the area it had to "cover" and to remain on same longer than Jets.

Perfect target for enemy anti-aircraft artillery, many times the Skyraider took the pilot home, in spite of terrible damages suffered. Now the Skyraider is no more flying; its lengthy career, passed through 3 wars, is finished, but its reputation, won during so many years, remains.