AV-19 SkyHawk

SkyHawk jump jet The Skyhawk is a United Nations Space Command fighter/interceptor.

Background
They are equipped with four 50mm cannons, as well as 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 the SPARTAN-117 and Cortana during their test of the MJOLNIR Mark V Battle Armor and its new shield technology in 2552. Skyhawks are VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) aircraft, meaning they don't need a runway to land or take off.

Trivia

 * The Skyhawk is commonly mistaken for the Shortsword in the trailer for Halo Wars.
 * It has only been referenced in the Halo novels, it is not included in any of the games.