The F8F was the last of a long line of piston-engined carrier-based
fighters built by Grumman. Designed to be capable of operation from
aircraft carriers of all sizes and to serve as an interceptor, the Bearcat
had excellent maneuverability and a high rate of climb.
The prototype first flew in 1944 with the first production aircraft
being delivered in 1945. They did not see action in WWII and were
withdrawn by late 1954.
