The Douglas A-1J Skyraider, nicknamed Dauntless II, AD, A-1 Able Dog and Spad, enjoyed a long operational life of almost three decades. Design work started in June 1944 but the type missed World War II and entered combat service during the Korean War in 1950. Production exceeded 3,200 airframes across a range of variants, with the AD-6 being the most produced.
The last production update, the AD-7 reclassified as the A-1J, featured strengthened wing spars and robust landing gear. Fitted with the Wright R-3350-26WB engine, it was capable of reaching around 285 knots. The A-1J was heavily used in Vietnam, especially by the 14th and 56th Special Operations Wings, configured to carry bombs, cannon and rockets.
The Tamiya 1/48 Douglas Skyraider A-1J kit gives model makers the parts and detail needed to assemble an accurate representation. Fit and surface detailing reflect the prototype and the build is suited to hobbyists who enjoy careful painting and weathering to bring out rivet and panel lines.
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