2/3 Originally designed to meet a USN requirement for a carrier-based, fast, high-altitude jet-powered nuclear bomber, the A-3 first flew in October, 1952 & stayed in service to September, 1991 & a further 20 years as a trials workhorse. Quite a record.

3/3 Photo is the original XA3D-1, BuNo 125412, powered by soon-to-be replaced Westinghouse XJ-40 engines, on its first flight, October 28, 1952.

@aniemyer I love that for some of the crews, A3D meant “All 3 Dead”.

@KnappJW Very sadly so. Goes to the dilemma as to who to transition to the A3D, AJ (prop) aviators or early jet (almost all smaller, single seat) aviators?

@aniemyer @AncientSubHunt All naval aviators were / are brave souls but especially those who were onboard the Whales.

@QuantaWave @AncientSubHunt We just didn’t know any better

@aniemyer Those things looked huge on the flight deck.

@aniemyer @AncientSubHunt I would love this to be a regular feature for Wednesday! Will surely keep my eyes here...watching :-)

@aniemyer Always pleased to see one ...

@aniemyer The Whale seemed to lift the starboard main gear when taking the wire.