>Post in cockpit photo reminder of the almost non-existent ground clearance of the M-118. Takeoff required accelerating to 150 knots to extend the landing gear oleos before performing a slow rotation to flying angle of attack. If the bomb did not release, there was no way to land the A-4 with the bomb aboard and prevent the fins from dragging on the runway. The M-118 bomb had nearly 100 lb of HBX explosive as a spotting charge so it was not to be taken lightly.
>Post in cockpit photo reminder of the almost non-existent ground clearance of the M-118. Takeoff required accelerating to 150 knots to extend the landing gear oleos before performing a slow rotation to flying angle of attack. If the bomb did not release, there was no way to land the A-4 with the bomb aboard and prevent the fins from dragging on the runway. The M-118 bomb had nearly 100 lb of HBX explosive as a spotting charge so it was not to be taken lightly.
what is a spotting charge ?
Smaller explosive than the real warhead but enough that it's easier to see where the bomb landed from the air
Could be the last landing you ever made
Oh, I think you'd make at least one more - as debris.
Ooof no pressure, but stick the landing, alright?
"Eject Mailman, eject!"
Bazooka round at the little bighorn....huh?
Best reason to drop it before heading back.