Douglas built 2,960 A4D/A-4 Skyhawks between 1954 and 1979. It was the most numerous jet built by Douglas. The small, lightweight, high-speed A-4 bombers were affectionately nicknamed "Heinemann's Hot Rod" (after Douglas designer Ed Heinemann), the Bantam Bomber, Mighty Mite and Scooter.

Upgraded Skyhawk models had improved engines, a drogue parachute, new avionics displays, larger cockpit canopies, and more ammunition for the two cannons.