VA-46 Fires Live Bullpup Missiles

LT W.H. Byng Sets Highest Mark

Attack Squadron 46 became the first jet attack squadron in the Fleet Air Jacksonville area to fire live Bullpup air-to-surface guided missiles.

The squadron was notified it had been selected as a Bullpup carrier in October (1960). In November, a Martin field representative moved a Bullpup trainer-simulator into the "Clansmen's" ready room and training began.

Each pilot was graded on 16 test runs so a measure of proficiency could be obtained. Lt. W.H. Byng, squadron safety officer, rated highest with an average error- from-target of 11:57 feet. All other squadron pilots were considered Bullpup-qualified by the end of the training period.

Naval Aviation News April 1961

Provided by John "Gabby" Gabbard.