“The Douglas A-3 Skywarrior was originally designed as a strategic bomber for the United States Navy and was among the longest serving carrier-based jet aircraft in history. It entered service in the mid-1950s and was retired in 1991. For many years, it was also the heaviest aircraft to operate from an aircraft carrier, earning it the unofficial nickname “The Whale”. Its primary function for much of its later service life was as an electronic warfare platform, tactical air reconnaissance platform, and high capacity aerial refueling tanker.“(Wikipedia)

On june 30, June 2011, the last flyable  Skywarrior, arrived at NAS Pensacola, Florida for retirement at the National Naval Aviation Museum. It is now on display in front of Hanger Bay One.

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