Douglas A-1H Skyraider VA-25 "Mig Killer"

Plastic model kit for a Douglas A-1H Skyraider "VA-25 MiG Killer"
   Limited Edition  

• Scale: 1:72
• Dimensions (built): Length 167 mm / Wingspan 212 mm
• Includes armament parts such as rocket launcher tubes, rocket pods, and bombs
• Decals (markings)
  • US Navy, USS Midway, Attack Squadron 25 (VA-25): Aircraft "NE577", flown by Lt. Clint Johnson (shot down a MiG-17 on June 20, 1965)
  • US Navy, USS Intrepid, Attack Squadron 176 (VA-176): Aircraft "AK409", flown by Lt. William T. Patton (shot down a MiG-17 on October 9, 1966)
• Unassembled, unpainted
• Paint and glue not included

The Douglas A-1H Skyraider "VA-25 MiG Killer" is one of the most famous examples of this legendary carrier-based attack aircraft. It belonged to Attack Squadron VA-25 "Fist of the Fleet," which flew missions in the Vietnam War from the aircraft carrier USS Midway (CVA-41) in 1965. Although the Skyraider was already considered technically obsolete as a propeller-driven ground-attack aircraft, it impressively demonstrated its combat capabilities thanks to its powerful radial engine, exceptional low-speed maneuverability, and enormous weapons payload.

On June 20, 1965, four VA-25 A-1H Skyraiders engaged in aerial combat with two North Vietnamese MiG-17 fighter jets during an attack on ground targets. Pilots Lt. Clinton B. Johnson and Lt. Charles W. Hartman III succeeded in shooting down a MiG-17—an extraordinary feat in which a piston-engined attack aircraft defeated a much faster jet fighter. Both pilots were credited with the kill. It was one of only two confirmed MiG kills achieved by the US Navy using a Skyraider during the Vietnam War.

Known as the "MiG Killer," the aircraft bore the side number NE577 and later became a symbol of the Skyraider's ruggedness and combat capability. The A-1H could carry over 3,600 kg of external ordnance; its ability to loiter over the target area for extended periods made it particularly valuable for close air support, armed reconnaissance, and rescue helicopter escort missions. Despite its relatively slow propeller-driven propulsion, it remained in successful combat service until the early 1970s.

Today, the VA-25 "MiG Killer" is one of the most famous Skyraiders of all and a popular subject for scale modelers. Its markings commemorate the rare aerial victory of a propeller-driven aircraft over a jet fighter, as well as the significant role played by the Douglas A-1 Skyraider during the Vietnam War.