Main menu	Larger image	Next Robinson photo Robinson menu
08/31/2006. Remarks by Jack McKillop: "The Douglas A-26 Invader was redesignated B-26 Invader when the Attack category was deleted in 1948. In the new designation system introduced in 1962, the "A" was reinstated to accommodate the Navy's attack aircraft and was officially Tactical Support Aircraft. By the 1960s, the A/B-26 Invader had been replaced by jets but in the 1960s, the USAF used B-26s to develop counter insurgency tactics but the wings of these aircraft were developing cracks and they were taken out of combat. Because this aircraft showed such promise in the counter insurgency role, the USAF gave On Mark Engineering Company a contract to modify an existing aircraft in this role. This aircraft became a prototype and was designated YB-26K. The USAF was impressed and in 1964 ordered 40 modified B-26Ks from On Mark. There was a political problem when the aircraft were sent to Thailand to support the war in Vietnam. The Thais did not want "bombers" on their territory so the aircraft were redesignated A-26A-OM. This A-26A was assigned to the 603d Air Commando Squadron, 1st Special Operations Wing, USAF Special Operations Force, ca. 1968-69. The squadron was based at Hurlburt Field, Fort Walton Beach, Florida, USA, and also flew from England AFB, Alexandria, Louisiana; Cannon AFB, Clovis, New Mexico, all in the USA."