Douglas A-4K Skyhawk NZ6207 of 75 Sqn, RNZAF 1982

Hobby Master 1/72 scale HA1439: Douglas A-4K Skyhawk NZ6207 of 75 Sqn, RNZAF, New Zealand 1982

Length 6.75 inches Wingspan 4.75 inches

The Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) 75 Squadron operated the A-4K Skyhawk, a variant of the renowned light attack aircraft. The A-4K variant was a key component of New Zealand’s air combat capability, known for its agility and effectiveness in various roles such as close air support and air defence. Stationed at Ohakea Air Base, 75 Squadron utilized the A-4K extensively for training exercises and operational deployments, contributing to New Zealand’s defence readiness and regional security. The squadron’s operations with the A-4K underscored its role in maintaining air superiority and supporting ground forces, highlighting the aircraft’s versatility and the RNZAF’s commitment to defence excellence.

Designed to replace the antiquated, propeller-driven AD Skyraider, the A-4 Skyhawk was first flown on June 22, 1954. Douglas exceeded the original design requirements by delivering a carrier-capable aircraft that was only half the Navy’s weight specification and so compact that it did not need folding wings. The A-4 was the first to use “buddy” air-to-air refuelling (an A-4 could refuel other aircraft of the same type), which was helpful when operating in remote locations where dedicated tankers were impractical. The A-4 served the US Navy until 2003 and remained the preferred warplane for the Marine Corps until the 1980s, even after the introduction of the A-7 Corsair II.