Vought DF-8F Crusader 143703

United States Navy - Vought DF-8F Crusader 143703 (call-sign 103'), target tug, of the Pacific Missile Centre, at Point Mugu Naval Air station, on 15 May 1965. At least forty-five F-8A's were modified to serve as target-director aircraft; designated DF-8F. In practice the DF-8F pilot spooled out a target on a cable from the port wing, which was towed at a safe distance behind. While in tow, fighters would practice gun-and missile-firing exercises, shooting at the target in tow. After the practice, the pilot retrieved the target, or empty cable. 143703 is currently aboard the USS Hornet Museum, Alameda, CA, on loan from National Naval Aviation Museum

Alameda Call-sign Crusader Currently Designated Exercises Forty-five Hornet Least Loan Missile Modified Mugu Retrieved Safe Serve Target Towed Vought

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