The North American A-5 Vigilante is an American carrier-based supersonic bomber designed and built by North American Aviation (NAA) for the United States Navy. Before the 1962 unification of Navy and Air Force designations, it was designated A3J. [1]

The North American A-5 Vigilante was a supersonic bomber designed for the United States Navy in the late 1950s. Manufactured by North American Aviation it was originally designed as a carrier-based nuclear strike bomber, it was later adapted for reconnaissance missions.

Jan 28, 2019 · When the program was cancelled, North American reconstituted the aircraft's fuselage, its systems, and weapons suite into a new form to interest the United States Navy as a carrier-based, supersonic, nuclear-capable strike bomber.

Mar 20, 2025 · Built by the now-defunct North America Aviation —most famous for building the legendary P-51D Mustang fighter and B-25 Mitchell medium bomber of World War II—the Vigilante made its maiden flight on...

Apr 8, 2025 · The North American A-5 Vigilante was a Cold War era carrier based supersonic bomber that entered service for the US Navy in 1961. Capable of attaining speeds of Mach 2 and carrying nuclear...

The North American A-5 Vigilante stands as an emblem of Cold War-era naval aviation. Originally envisioned as a strategic nuclear bomber, its role later shifted to reconnaissance. This article explores the development, design, performance, and military use of this versatile aircraft.

One such aircraft was the North American A-5/RA-5 "Vigilante". The Vigilante was designed as a carrier-based strategic nuclear bomber, but would see action over Vietnam as a fast reconnaissance aircraft. This document provides a history and description of the Vigilante. A list of illustrations credits is included at the end.

Oct 14, 2021 · English: The North American A-5 Vigilante was designated A3J with the U.S. Navy until 18 September 1962 when, with the introduction of the Tri-Service aircraft designation system, all Vigilantes in service were redesignated A-5.

After the decision was made to end the A-5 strategic bombing mission, the A-5A's were quickly relegated training roles, and removed from the active inventory as heavy attack aircraft.

Most military pay increased 4.5% for 2025, compared to 2024 levels. The military pay charts linked below apply to active members of the Navy, Marine Corps, Army, Air Force, Coast Guard and...