U.S. Navy and Carrier Aviation
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The photo above shows 5 A-6B and 6 A-4E attack (bomber) aircraft, a KA-3B
tanker, and an UH-1 rescue helo in position on the flight deck of the USS
Independence prior to launch. The aircraft are armed with live ordnance for
reconnaissance and strike missions over North Vietnam. This is called the
"pre-launch spot."
With more than 90 aircraft on the ship, it takes a very precise ballet to move the aircraft in position prior to the launch and taxi them into position on the catapult. Aircraft are positioned with only inches to spare. A similiar ballet takes place during the recovery or when the aircraft land. |