Description

This publication focuses on the six Marine operational and one training all-weather attack squadrons that flew the Intruder. These squadrons are legendary, from the “Double Eagles’ of VMAT(AW)-202, through the “Bengals” of VMA(AW)-224, and to the “Hawks” of VMA(AW)-533. For each of these seven squadrons, a brief history is provided, followed by a gallery of photographs that traces the unique evolution of how each unit marked their aircraft, including all the major changes that occurred over that squadron’s operational service flying the A-6.

This is followed by a chapter that presents similar treatment for each of the Navy test & evaluation units and facilities that flew the A-6, starting with the East Coast squadrons that focused on aircraft and aircraft systems testing, and followed by those on the West Coast that concentrated on weapons and weapons integration testing. Additionally, the Naval Strike and Warfare Center (NSAWC), sometimes referred to as “STRIKE U,” is also covered.

The book concludes with an Intruder Markings Appendix. This section provides comprehensive information on the many informational, safety, and warning markings that were applied to the aircraft beyond the unit markings that are the primary focus of the book. This section will be especially valuable to scale modelers.