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Grumman A-6 "Intruder"

 

Selected from several designs in 1957, the Grumman A-6 "Intruder" was to become the Navy's and Marine's anytime, anywhere, all weather precision bomber. Notable characteristics was its Short Take Off and Landing STOL capabilities for operating with U.S.Naval aircraft carriers and from U.S. Marine primitive air strips in Vietnam and Thailand. It also had state of the art, computer navigational and fire control systems setting new standards for future aircraft avionics. Built in traditional Grumman fashion on a solid airframe, the "Intruder" was powered by twin Pratt&Whitney turbojet engines each providing 9,300 lbs of thrust for a maximum air speed of 645 mph and a operating range of 1,100 miles. In-flight refueling or additional drop tanks extended its combat range and around the clock operations.

The first A-6 prototype flew in April, 1960 with the Navy possessing A-6 "Intruders" in 1963. During the Vietnam War it began combat operations from the USS Independence in 1965. Short air strips in Vietnam and Thailand utilized cable arresting egress systems similar to those on board aircraft carriers for landing. The "Intruder" built a solid reputation for precision bombing and reliability operating under severe tropical climate. Up to 18,000 lbs of conventional, "Smart Bombs", nuclear arms or surface to air missiles received pin point accuracy through Digital Integrated Attack Navigational Equipment DIANE computer systems. Approximately 500 A-6 "Intruders" were manufactured.

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Christy Butler **** www.shoeboxphotos.net **** **** butts@bcn.net