Kennedy, Robert C. The Last of the Red Hot Cats

The Story of the Civilian Grumman Bearcat

Grumman's F8F Bearcat was the company's last piston-engine aircraft and entered service with the US Navy at the end of the Second World War. It was considered the smallest single-seat aircraft designed for use with the fastest engine of its time. After entering service, it quickly gained a reputation as a Red Hot Cat. This fast interceptor aircraft was extremely manoeuvrable and set new climb records that even surpassed some of the speed records, as it often flew faster than the first jet aircraft. In 1953, the Bearcats were withdrawn from service by the US military and many were sold to other countries. Fifty remained in storage. Of these, 24 received civil certification, with the number of civil aircraft rising to 29 with the addition of aircraft salvaged from various regions of the world. These remaining warbirds are the subject of this book. Many eventually found their way onto air race circuits, setting records and thrilling audiences. Robert C. Kennedy has researched the history of each individual Bearcat and provides its post-military service history, detailing each change of ownership and the purpose for which it was purchased. The flying hours of the engines and airframes are listed. Also included are photographs of all the aircraft, many of which have been converted or modified for various purposes, as well as the exploits of the pilots who flew them.