The Douglas A2D was an early turboprop attack fighter developed for the US Navy. It’s development was delayed by engine problems and it did not enter production because it was overtaken by more modern jet aircraft

In June 1945 the US Navy asked Douglas for a turboprop attack aircraft which resulted in the A2D.

Although it looked similar to the earlier Douglas AD Skyraider, it was substantially different due to its much more powerful turboprop engine.

However, engine development problems meant that the prototype did not fly until 26 May 1950.

That prototype crashed in December that year due to engine failure and another was lost during test flights due to gear box failure.

Delays and other problems meant only two prototype and ten pre-production aircraft were made because, by then, new pure jet aircraft such as the Douglas A4D Skyhawk were entering development.

This model represents the first production aircraft in about 1952.

Mach 2 1/72 kit completed by Leigh Edmonds in June 2021.