The Grumman F8F was a fast, agile, carrier-borne fighter aircraft
developed as the ultimate dogfighter for the Pacific theater. Although
the plane did make it into production, with some examples even being
delivered before the Japanese surrender, there is no evidence to suggest
that the Bearcat ever saw combat during the Second World War. With the
jet age on the horizon, and the specific threat of Japanese fighters a
thing of the past, the Navy canceled a large portion of its order, and
the F8F had a short, low-profile career. The Bearcat did finally see
combat with the French military in Indochina, in relatively small
numbers and without particular acclaim. The type would have likely faded
into total obscurity, but thanks to its incredible raw performance it
became a popular air show performer and racer. This is the most complete
collection of Bearcat photography in print. The 200 images show the
Bearcat both in military service and in civilian use; close-ups and
diagrams illustrate the various details of its construction.
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