The Grumman F6F Hellcat is an American carrier based fighter aircraft that entered United States Navy service in 1943, developed specifically to counter the Japanese Mitsubishi A6M Zero after early Pacific War combat experience. It became the dominant American carrier fighter of the Pacific War, credited with the majority of United States Navy aerial victories against Japan during the conflict.
Facts
SignificanceCredited with destroying more enemy aircraft than any other Allied naval fighter of World War II. 1 Manufacturer or Builder Connections
Sources
1. Wikipedia: Grumman F6F Hellcat Encyclopedia Article
WikipediaDesign and development section
Grumman had been working on a successor to the F4F Wildcat since 1938, and the contract for the prototype XF6F-1 was signed on 30 June 1941.
Lead section
The F6F made its combat debut on 31 August 1943 during raids on Marcus Island.
Lead section, fourth paragraph
Hellcats were credited with destroying a total of 5,223 enemy aircraft while in service with the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, and Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm (FAA). This was more than any other Allied naval aircraft.
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