TOP ACES

The Dornier Alpha Jet is a versatile and agile aircraft, originally developed as a light attack and advanced jet trainer. Its compact size, coupled with its powerful twin-engine configuration, allows it to perform a wide range of missions, including close air support, reconnaissance, and training exercises. The Alpha Jet's modular design enables quick reconfiguration between roles, making it a flexible and cost-effective asset for air forces around the world. Despite being introduced in the 1970s, the Alpha Jet's performance and capabilities remain relevant, showcasing its enduring legacy as a capable and reliable aircraft in both training and combat roles.

General characteristics

• Crew: 2 (in tandem seating)
• Length: 13.23 m (43.4 ft)
• Wingspan: 9.11 m (29.7 ft)
• Height: 4.19 m (13.75 ft)
• Empty weight: 3,205 kg (7,075 lb)
• Maximum takeoff weight: 7,500 kg (16,535 lb)
• Powerplant: 2 × SNECMA/Turbomeca Larzac turbofan engines, 14.12 kN (3,175 lbf) thrust each

Performance

• Maximum speed: 1,002 km/h (541 kts)
• Range: 2,940 km (1,587 nmi) with external fuel tanks
• Service ceiling: 13,720 m (45,000 ft)
• Rate of climb: 51.2 m/s (10,080 ft/min)

Armament

• Guns: None (training version); up to 4× 30 mm DEFA 553 cannons (attack version)
• Hardpoints: 5 total (3× under-fuselage, 2× under-wing) with a capacity of up to 2,800 kg (6,173 lb) of stores, including:
  • Air-to-air missiles: AIM-9 Sidewinder, Matra Magic, Python 3
  • Air-to-surface missiles: AGM-65 Maverick, AS-30L, AS-37 Martel
  • Bombs: Various unguided and guided bombs

The A-4 Skyhawk is a legendary aircraft known for its compact size, exceptional agility, and reliability. Designed as a light attack aircraft, the Skyhawk was remarkably versatile, serving in roles ranging from ground attack and close air support to reconnaissance and training. Its robust construction and powerful engine allowed it to carry a significant payload relative to its size, making it a formidable opponent in combat. The Skyhawk's service spanned several decades, with various models serving with the United States Navy, Marine Corps, and numerous air forces worldwide. Despite its retirement from active military service in many countries, the A-4 remains a popular choice for private and civilian use, testament to its enduring legacy as an iconic aircraft of the 20th century.

General characteristics

• Crew: 1 (pilot)
• Length: 12.57 m (41.25 ft)
• Wingspan: 8.38 m (27.5 ft)
• Height: 4.57 m (15 ft)
• Empty weight: 4,410 kg (9,724 lb)
• Maximum takeoff weight: 11,113 kg (24,500 lb)
• Powerplant: 1 × Pratt & Whitney J52-P-6A turbojet engine, 4,200 lbf (18.7 kN) thrust

Performance

• Maximum speed: 1,114 km/h (602 kts)
• Range: 2,560 km (1,380 nmi)
• Service ceiling: 12,800 m (42,000 ft)
• Rate of climb: 7,620 m/min (25,000 ft/min)

Armament

• Guns: 2 × 20 mm Colt Mk 12 cannons
• Hardpoints: 5 total (3× under-wing, 2× under-fuselage) with a capacity of up to 4,536 kg (10,000 lb) of stores, including:
  • Air-to-air missiles: AIM-9 Sidewinder
  • Air-to-ground missiles: AGM-12 Bullpup, AGM-45 Shrike
  • Bombs: Various unguided and guided bombs

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