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10 Second War Stories brings military history to life through stories, veteran profile, force profiles, and equipment guides across all nations and conflicts.

What is the Douglas A-4KU Skyhawk?

The A-4KU Skyhawk is a small, fast attack jet built in the United States. Kuwait first started flying these planes in 1977. They were specially made to be strong and simple to fly, which helped Kuwait protect its land.

What was the main job of this plane?

These jets were used for light attacks and close air support. Their main goal was to fly low and drop bombs on enemy tanks and groups of soldiers on the ground. Because they were so nimble, they could easily hit targets that were hard to reach.

How did the Kuwaiti air force use these planes during the war?

When the invasion began in August 1990, pilots bravely took off from highways to strike enemy tanks. Later, they moved to Saudi Arabia to keep fighting. They flew over one thousand missions to help Coalition forces destroy enemy supply lines and win the war.

What is a cool fact about the Kuwaiti Skyhawks?

The pilots gave their planes the proud nickname of 'Free Kuwait' jets during the war. These planes were well-liked because they were easy to fix when they broke. They were also very quick in the air, making them hard for the enemy to catch.

What is the legacy of the A-4KU Skyhawk?

The Skyhawk is remembered for being very reliable and tough during the Gulf War. It proved that a smaller, simpler jet could do a very big job in a major fight. It remains a famous symbol of how Kuwait fought back to save their home.

Home Library KuwaitDouglas A-4KU Skyhawk

Attack Aircraft

Douglas A-4KU Skyhawk

A small, agile American-built attack jet used by Kuwait to bomb advancing enemy forces during the Gulf War.

Kuwait Introduced 1977 McDonnell DouglasRole: Light attack and close air support aircraft

Specifications

Top Speed

670 mph

Crew

1 pilot

Combat Range

720 miles

Armament

Two 20mm cannons and 9,900 lbs of bombs

History

The A-4KU Skyhawk was a customized light attack jet bought by Kuwait from the United States in the 1970s. Nicknamed the 'Free Kuwait' planes during the war, these jets were simple to maintain and very nimble in flight. They were designed specifically to bomb ground targets and support troops.

During the initial invasion of Kuwait in August 1990, Kuwaiti Skyhawks flew combat sorties straight from highway airstrips to strike invading armored columns. After intense fighting, surviving jets flew to airfields in Saudi Arabia to avoid capture.

Under the Coalition banner in early 1991, Kuwaiti Skyhawks flew over one thousand strike missions. Their successful bombing raids destroyed Iraqi artillery, supply lines, and military headquarters across Kuwait.