The first prototype of this carrier-based attack bomber was flown on September 27, l965, almost four weeks ahead of schedule, and initial deliveries to the Navy began on October 14, l966. The Navy flew more than 90,000 combat missions during the Vietnam War with 27 Corsair II equipped squadrons. This airplane was a valuable light attack aircraft in both USAF and USN service. In numerous bombing and gunnery competitions it constantly underlined its reputation as one of the most accurate strike aircraft ever built. The A-7 was powered by a Pratt & Whitney TF30 turbofan. The A7E Corsair II was powered by one 14,500-lb. thrust Allison TF41-A-2 turbofan, with a maximum speed (clean) of 698 mph at sea level, and tactical radius with typical weapon load of 700 miles. Airplane armament was one 20-mm M61A1 multi-barrelled cannon, plus up to 15,000 lb. of mixed stores carried externally.