Encyclopedia - Grumman Bearcat

The Grumman Bearcat was the last piston-engined carrier-based fighter built by Grumman. Two prototypes, with the designation of XF8F-1, were ordered in November 1943, of which the first flew on 21 August 1944.

After proving to be an excellent powerplant in the Hellcat and Tigercat, the decision was made to use the Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp radial engine. By using a very light airframe, Grumman produced a highly maneuverable, fast airplane with a 30% increase in the rate of climb compared to the Hellcat.

Only six months after the first flight of the prototype production started on the F8F-1. The first aircraft was delivered to the VF-19 squadron of the US Navy on 21 May 1945. The Navy ordered a total of 2,033 aircraft. Grumman contracted with General Motors to build the Bearcat under license. These aircraft had the designation of F8FM-1. The end of the war halted production after only a few Bearcats had been delivered. General Motors cancelled their entire order of 1,876 aircraft, and Grumman cancelled 1,258.

After the war production was resumed, and several more variants were produced. At least 24 US Navy squadrons flew the Bearcat, up to 1952. Some aircraft were then sold to the French Arméé de I’Air for combat operations in Indo-China. Another 129 aircraft were sold to the Thai Air Force.

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