Grumman F8F Bearcat
The Bearcat was designed as an interceptor fighter, with emphasis placed on excellent maneuverability, good low-level performance, and a high rate of climb. It used the same engine as its predecessor the Hellcat, but being smaller and 20% lighter, had a 30% better climb rate than the Hellcat. Its first flight was in August 1944, and while the first squadron of Bearcats was heading for the Pacific, the war ended before this excellent fighter could see operational use.
Additional information on this aircraft
can be found at Wikipedia
here.
(updated February 2009)
Grumman F8F-1 Bearcat
Type: Fighter
Crew: Pilot
Armament: four 20mm cannon
Specifications:
Length: 27' 6" (8.38 m)
Height: 13' 8" (4.17 m)
Wingspan: 36' 6" (11.12 m)
Wing area: 244 sq. ft (22.67 sq. m)
Empty Weight: 7070lbs (3206 kg)
Gross Weight: 9386lbs (5871 kg)
Max Weight: 12947lbs (5871 kg)
Propulsion:
No. of Engines: 1
Powerplant: Pratt & Whitney R-2800-34W
Horsepower: 2100 hp
Performance:
Range: 1105 miles (1779 km)
Cruise Speed: 163 mph (262 km/hr)
Max Speed: 434 mph (698 km/hr)
Climb: 4570 ft/min (1392.87 m/min)
Ceiling: 38900 ft (11856 m)
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