FSX AD-4N FAF EC 2/20 Algeria 1960

This meticulously crafted repaint showcases the Douglas AD-4N variant operated by the French Air Force’s Escadron de Chasse 2/20 "Ouarsenis" in Algeria during 1960. It is specifically designed for Tim Conrad’s A-1H Skyraider freeware package, which you must acquire first from the Fly Away Simulation library before applying this repaint. Created by Michel Gerard, this texture update integrates French modifications and markings that differ from the original U.S. Navy Skyraider configuration, ensuring heightened realism in Microsoft Flight Simulator X.

French Modifications and Unique Airframe Notes

The French Air Force received ex-U.S. Navy AD-4s before the official designation changed to A-1. These aircraft, commonly known as “Spads,” served in various ground-attack and close-support roles. France equipped these models with a unique radio suite, repositioned antennas, and removed most naval carrier components. However, they often retained folding wings to simplify maintenance and storage. Although Tim Conrad’s base model represents an A-1H (formerly AD-6), this repaint sets certain visual features to approximate an AD-4N, including locked or removed airbrakes depending on the sub-variant. Moreover, the inboard wing pylons on actual French AD-4Ns differed in appearance, but for simplicity, these remain natural metal in this repaint.

Installation Strategy

Because the AD-4 and AD-4N series either locked or eliminated airbrakes, you should consider creating a separate “AD-4” aircraft folder rather than using the standard A-1H folder. This approach avoids unexpected airbrake animations. Copy everything from the A-1H folder, except the existing “texture” subfolders, into your newly formed “AD-4” directory. Then extract the repaint contents into that same “AD-4” folder, allowing overwrites as necessary. This process implements a slightly adjusted aircraft.cfg file where the airbrakes remain closed by default.

If you have installed any of Michel Gerard’s previous French Skyraider repaints, you may already have the “AD-4” folder and its modified aircraft.cfg. In that case, do not overwrite your existing aircraft.cfg. Instead, insert the text below into your current configuration, making sure to replace [fltsim.XX] with the next available number:

[fltsim.XX]
title=AD-4N_EC 2/20
sim=AD-4
model =
panel =
sound =
texture =20-QS
panel_alias =
sound_alias =
kb_checklists =
kb_reference =
atc_id =126901
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-4N
ui_variation = French Air Force EC2/20 "Ouarsenis" Algeria 1960
description =Prop Driven naval CSAR and Close Support Aircraft
visual_damage = 1

Typical Armament and Loadout Details

During operations in Algeria, French AD-4Ns frequently carried bombs ranging from 500 lb to 1000 lb on the inboard pylons, supplemented by 5-inch HVAR or 105 mm T.10 rockets on outboard pylons. The centerline drop tank was utilized primarily for ferry flights, often retaining its original dark Navy finish. The standard ferry configuration included one 300 US Gal Mk. 8 centerline tank along with two Mk. 12 tanks (150 US Gal each) on the inboard pylons. These modifications let the Spad remain airborne for extended durations across Algeria’s demanding terrain.

Additional Visual Notes

French Skyraiders typically showed distinctive exhaust discoloration patterns, which varied based on maintenance schedules. Some aircraft were heavily stained, while others were meticulously cleaned by ground crews. You can easily fine-tune your personal installation to reflect unique weathering effects by modifying the texture files, although this repaint already includes realistic wear. Tim Conrad kindly provided a comprehensive paint kit that made these refinements possible.

Credit and Support

Michel Gerard is the creator of this texture set, extending gratitude to Tim Conrad for the original Skyraider model and detailed paint resources. A special acknowledgment goes to Frank Safranek, whose guidance has always been instrumental. Since this repaint alters certain aircraft behaviors, you should carefully review these notes. If something goes awry—such as your computer inexplicably bursting into flames or your pet gnawing through the joystick—Michel cannot provide compensation.

Should any issues arise, feedback is encouraged. Enjoy replicating historic French Air Force missions in Algeria with this authentic AD-4N repaint for Microsoft Flight Simulator X. Keep your Skyraider at the ready, and fly with confidence amid North African skies.

Repaint date: May 2010
By Michel Gerard