FSX AD-4 FAF EC 1/20 Algeria 1961

This repaint showcases a Douglas AD-4 in French Air Force markings from Escadron de Chasse 1/20 “Aurès-Némentcha,” operating in Algeria in 1961. Created by Michel Gerard, it tailors Tim Conrad’s original A-1H Skyraider freeware model (A-1HSYRAIDER_NAVY.ZIP) to reflect a unique moment in military aviation history. The base airframe is available in the Fly Away Simulation library, and you will need that installed prior to adding this package. Although it is intended for Microsoft Flight Simulator X, it represents a faithful depiction of the AD-4 variant flown by France during that era.

Distinctive Algerian-Era Livery and Markings

This livery emphasizes the roundels, unit emblems, and color schemes characteristic of mid-twentieth-century French service. Extensive modifications were performed on the real-world airframes once delivered from the US Navy, including removal of naval-specific components such as the arrestor hook, while preserving the folding-wing mechanism. The cockpit equipment was refitted with French radios, reflected in external antenna placements. Notably, many machines retained their inboard pylons in natural metal, even though their shape differed from the later Skyraider iterations.

Technical Adjustments to Reflect the AD-4

In order to prevent unintentional airbrake deployment—which was inoperative or absent on French AD-4 and AD-4N/NA airframes—this repaint installs a modified aircraft configuration. Though you can incorporate the repaint by simply adding a new texture folder and editing your aircraft.cfg, it is generally recommended to create a dedicated AD-4 folder. Transferring files in this manner guarantees that airbrakes remain fixed in a closed position, which aligns more closely with French configurations of the era.

Preferred Installation Method

• Create a folder named AD-4 in your “SimObjects/Airplanes” directory inside Microsoft Flight Simulator X.
• Copy all content from the original A-1H folder, except its texture subfolders, into your new AD-4 folder.
• Extract the contents of this repaint’s archive, ensuring the path is set to the AD-4 folder, and allow overwriting if prompted. This copies in the livery files and a suitably edited configuration file.

If you have previously installed another French Skyraider repaint, you likely already possess an adjusted aircraft.cfg. In that situation, simply paste the following entry (inserting the next sequential [fltsim.X] number) rather than overwriting the file:

[fltsim.XX]
title=AD-4_EC 1/20
sim=AD-4
model=
panel=
sound=
texture=20-LI
panel_alias=
sound_alias=
kb_checklists=
kb_reference=
atc_id=123832
atc_id_color=
atc_parking_types=
atc_parking_code=
atc_airline=
atc_flight_number=
ui_manufacturer=Douglas
ui_createdby="Piglet's Peculiar Planes"
ui_type=AD-4
ui_variation=French Air Force EC 1/20 "Aures-Nementcha" Algeria 1961
description=Prop Driven naval CSAR and Close Support Aircraft
visual_damage=1

Real-World Modifications and Intended Payload

The French AD-4 was acquired before the official US designation changed to A-1H (AD-6). Airframes typically underwent large-scale changes during their integration into French service. Once orphaned of their naval components, these single-seat attack aircraft carried bombs or rockets on outboard pylons, plus a centerline fuel tank mainly used for ferry flights. Although you may load additional underwing ordnance in the simulator, historically only centerline drop tanks and inboard pylons with bombs or napalm were common in Algeria. The outboard pylons generally hosted US 5-inch HVAR or French 105 mm T.10 rockets, bolstering the Skyraider’s formidable strike potential.

Additional Notes and Acknowledgments

Exhaust soot patterns varied widely from one AD-4 to the next, particularly as maintenance crews sometimes cleaned or repainted them. Feel free to experiment with wear and fuel staining in the simulator if you enjoy customizing your military repaints. This project would not have been possible without Tim Conrad’s detailed paint kit. Thanks also go to Frank Safranek for his valuable guidance throughout the process.

As a final disclaimer, please note that the author (Michel Gerard) assumes no responsibility if computer hardware is damaged, if a pet decides to chew on your peripherals, or if any other unforeseen calamities arise upon installation. Your feedback is always appreciated.

First released in May 2010 by Michel Gerard.