Advanced computerized avionics were incorporated while the design moved quickly through mock-up review, first flight, testing, and production. Selection came in 1958, production began in 1962, and service followed in 1963. Modern aircraft demand more complex solutions, while today's narrower supplier base also limits the number of independent approaches available. Eight design teams had tackled the original requirement from different directions, creating more opportunities to identify and solve problems. The A-6 development story ties industrial capacity directly to development speed and force structure.
Notable Point · 12:25-15:24
Rapid development backed by industrial breadth
The Intruder moved from selection to production in roughly four years, illustrating the problem-solving capacity of a broad aerospace industry.