In June 1947 Douglas Aircraft Corporation
received a Navy contract for the study of a delta-wing fighter.
Approval of preliminary designs and engineering concepts 18
months later led to a contract for two prototypes (XF4D-1s) that
were delivered and first flown in January 1951. The XF4D-1
proved not to be a true delta-wing but rather a swept-wing with
low aspect ratio. Testing trials followed by carrier suitability
tests proved quite successful and full scale production of 420
F4D "Skyrays" commenced thereafter. During test phases
the XF4D-1 prototypes established speed records over the
International 3 km course (755 mph) and the 100 km closed
circuit course (728 mph).
Armed with 20 mm cannons and Sidewinder
air-to-air missiles, the F4D was capable of carrying a weapons
load compatible with its mission to intercept enemy aircraft
before they reached their target. As an interceptor, the F4D
established five world rate-of-climb records which, in turn, led
to the assignment of a Navy all-weather F4D squadron at San
Diego and one at Key West to the Air Force's North American Air
Defense Command in an interceptor role. The San Diego unit
earned honors as the best in NORAD for two years running. The last of the short-ranged "Skyrays"
served until 1964.
F4D-1 Skyray,
USN
Premier Series. 1/34th scale. 12.75 wingspan x
15.5" long
No. AFN2D-AL. Only $194.95
F4D-1
Skyray, USMC
Premier Series. 1/34th scale.
12.75 wingspan x 15.5" long
No. AFN2D-BL. Only $194.95
F4D-1
Skyray, USN
Deluxe Series. 1/32nd scale.
12.85" wingspan x 16.75" Long.
No. AFN2D-DX. Only $139.95
