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Aviation History
1959
1959 - 0327.PDF
156 FLIGHT NORTH AMERICAN A3J-1 VIGILANTE (Two General Electric J79-GE-2) Span Length approximately 50ft approximately 70ft This is the most accurate and detailed three-view drawing of the A3/-1 yet to be published. Designed and produced by the Columbus Division of North American Aviation Inc., the A3J is a versatile super- sonic carrier-based attack system for the U.S. Navy, capable of conducting many kinds of low- and high-altitude operations at night or in bad weather with nuclear or conventional weapons. Unusual features include a completely integrated menial I Dopplerjradar navigation and bombing system, a drooping leading edge, blown flaps, spoilers for lateral control, slab-type horizontal and vertical tail surfaces, aiXtogen-operaVtd accessory services and a "linear bomb bay" in the form of an axial tunnel through which stores are ejected in a rearward direction. The first A3/-1 flew last August 31 and has since progressed well during an intensive programme at Lockbourne A.F.B. and Palmdale. Tandem upward-ejecting seats are provided for the pilot and navigator, and all three units of the landing gear fold into the fuselage. "Flight" copyright drawing by D. I. Punnett
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