AV-19 SkyHawk

SkyHawk The Skyhawk is a United Nations Space Command Strike Fighter.

Background
The SkyHawk is equipped with four 0.50 caliber cannons, which are much larger more powerful than standard infantry chain-guns. They also carry Scorpion Anti-Tank missiles. Several of these craft were located at Fairchild Field on Reach, and one was dispatched by Colonel James Ackerson to attack SPARTAN-117 and Cortana during their test of the MJOLNIR Mark V Battle Armor and its new shield technology in 2552. Despite all expectations, the Spartan and Cortana managed to avoid it's guided anti-tank missiles by simply deflecting it at the last moment, proving the Spartan-AI team far more successful than ever expected. These aircraft are capable of supersonic flight and can execute quick turns at maximum speed.

Trivia

 * It has only been referenced in the Halo novels and does not appear in any of the games.
 * It shares its name with a real life fighter jet, named the A-4 Skyhawk, and may be its spiritual successor, since both have a similar role in their respective military. Its name, like very many other vehicles in the Halo universe, is based off an animal.