In the early 1960’s the US Navy began a program for a carrier-based attack aircraft to replace the A-4 Skyhawk. Two requirements were specified to ensure a lethal platform at the lowest possible cost: accurate weapons delivery and a design based on an existing aircraft. The Ling-Temco-Vought team’s winning proposal, based on Vought’s F-8 Crusader, became the LTV A-7 Corsair II.

This week, retired US Navy Captain Tom “Demon” Mitchell joins us to describe the single-engine Corsair II—including the variants, armament, strengths & weaknesses, and more. You’ll be amazed at Demon’s stories, not just of the Corsair II but of the life and experiences of a career carrier aviator during the tumultuous 60s and 70s.

During the listener question segment, we discuss mishap involvement, faith, the importance of FCLPs, and how improperly dispensed expendablesA generic term for inflight-deployable countermeasures such as chaff, flares, and jammer decoys. Also known as "items." are handled. Don’t forget to check out the SHOP page on our website for Fighter Pilot Podcast-themed apparel and household items.

Bumper music by Jaime Lopez. Episode art by Janek Krause.