Today In History:  15 October  [1955]   --  A4 Skyhawk sets a new closed course world speed record

A Douglas A4D "Skyhawk" sets a new closed course world speed record of 695.163 mph.

The Skyhawk is a single-seat subsonic carrier-capable light attack aircraft designed and produced by the American aerospace manufacturer Douglas Aircraft Company, and later, McDonnell Douglas. It was originally designated A4D under the United States Navy's pre-1962 designation system.

The Skyhawk proved to be a relatively common US Navy aircraft export. Due to its small size, it could be operated from older, smaller World War II-era aircraft carriers still used by smaller navies during the 1960s. These older ships were often unable to accommodate newer and larger fighters such as the F-4 Phantom II and F-8 Crusader.

PHOTO: ex-RNZAF A-4 Skyhawk

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Photo Attribution:  Copyright © Historical Aviation Film Unit