Welcome to Warbird Wednesday! Today we are looking at the Douglas A-3 Skywarrior, affectionately known as ‘The Whale.’ Originally developed in 1949 as a nuclear bomber for the Navy, this aircraft set a new standard for size and capability. At the time, the Whale design held the distinction of being the largest operational aircraft ever launched from an aircraft carrier. Its first flight took place in 1952, and it was officially commissioned into the fleet in 1956, with a total of 282 units being built. However, what is interesting about this aircraft is the absence of ejection seats.