Douglas EKA-3B Skywarrior 142404 United States Navy

These are 1/72 scale decals for Douglas EKA-3B Skywarrior 142404, assigned to VAQ-135 (Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 135), operating from the USS Forrestal (CVA-59).

The EKA-3B was a dual-role conversion of the Skywarrior combining electronic countermeasures (ECM) and aerial refueling capabilities in a single airframe — a uniquely versatile and valuable asset in the increasingly complex electronic warfare environment of the Vietnam era. With its bomb bay converted to carry ECM jamming equipment and a hose-and-drogue refueling system, the EKA-3B could simultaneously suppress enemy radar and communications while topping off the fuel tanks of strike aircraft heading feet-dry over North Vietnam.

VAQ-135, the “Black Ravens,” was one of the Navy's premier tactical electronic warfare squadrons, and its EKA-3Bs were among the most sought-after assets on any carrier air wing's manifest during Vietnam-era deployments. The USS Forrestal (CVA-59) — the Navy's first purpose-built supercarrier and known throughout the fleet as the “FID” (First in Defense) — was one of the iconic carriers of the Cold War and Vietnam era.

A fascinating and operationally important variant of the Whale family, capturing the Skywarrior in its mature multi-mission role. Please allow some time for decal printing and shipping.