Vought treated photo reconnaissance as a planned role, replacing guns and missiles with cameras in the relevant variant. Extensive testing was intended to make the airframe rugged and reliable. Major John Glenn then flew a Crusader from California to New York in 3 hours, 23 minutes, and 8.3 seconds. The record demonstrated the speed and reach available from a carrier aircraft, qualities that could widen a carrier air wing's operating area.
Notable Point · 16:00-17:39
Reconnaissance design and supersonic range
Vought proposed a camera-equipped F-8 from the outset, and John Glenn's transcontinental flight demonstrated the aircraft's speed and operational reach.