RA-5C "Vigilante" Desk Mat

Sale price$19.99 USD

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The North American RA-5C Vigilante was a supersonic reconnaissance aircraft used by the U.S. Navy during the Cold War and the Vietnam War. Originally developed in the late 1950s as the A-5 Vigilante, a carrier-based nuclear bomber, it was later converted to the RA-5C configuration for tactical reconnaissance when the Navy shifted its nuclear strike role to submarines. The RA-5C was renowned for its sleek design, powerful twin General Electric J79 engines, and cutting-edge reconnaissance systems. Capable of speeds over Mach 2 and altitudes exceeding 50,000 feet, it was one of the fastest aircraft ever operated from aircraft carriers. Equipped with sophisticated cameras, infrared sensors, and radar, the Vigilante excelled in providing detailed intelligence on enemy positions and movements. The aircraft saw extensive action during the Vietnam War, flying high-risk missions over heavily defended areas to gather critical intelligence. Despite its capabilities, the RA-5C was challenging to maintain and operate, leading to its retirement in 1980.