The Douglas AD-1 (formerly AD) Skyraider was a U.S. single-seat attack bomber of the late 1940's, 1950s,
1960s, and early 1970s. The aircraft entered service in December, 1946. The piston-engined, prop-driven Skyraider
was a postwar follow-on to World War II dive bombers and torpedo bombers such as the Helldiver and Avenger.
The Skyraider became the backbone of U.S. Navy aircraft carrier and United States Marine Corps (USMC) strike
aircraft sorties in the Korean War. Its weapons load and 10-hour flying time far surpassed the jets
that were available at the time.
In 1965, the AD-1 Skyraider was still the medium attack aircraft in many carrier air wings, although it was
slated to be replaced by the A-6A Intruder as part of the general switch to jet aircraft. Skyraiders participated
in the first strikes against North Vietnam before they were replaced. AD-1's were adopted as the primary ground
support attack aircraft for the U.S. Air Force and
South Vietnamese Air Force (VNAF) during the Vietnam War, before being supplanted by the
jet-powered A-37 Dragonfly in USAF and VNAF and the A-7 Corsair II in US Navy service.
As they were released from Navy service, Skyraiders were introduced into the Vietnam Air Force (VNAF).
They were also used by the USAF to perform one of the Skyraider's most famous roles: the "Sandy" helicopter
escort on combat search and rescue operations.
The aircraft remained in production until February 18, 1957.
The AD-1 Skyraider was replaced in the 1960s by the A-4 Skyhawk as the Navy's primary light attack plane.
The Skyraider was retired by the U.S. military in the 1970's.
A total of 3,180 Skyraiders were built.
For more information on the AD-1 Skyraider from the free 'Wikipedia' click
here
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