Dann, Richard S. Grumman FF/SF

Plus G-23 Delfín/Goblin and Prototypes

Volume 121 in the Naval Fighters series is an in-depth study of the design and development of the FF-1 and its derivatives. The first half of the book describes in detail the XFF-1, FF-1, XSF-1, SF-1, XSF-2, GG-1, and XSBF-1 with photos and drawings, while the second half of this book covers their use. While service with the US Navy was limited to two fleet squadrons, the FF-1 and SF-1 enjoyed a long career in naval and marine reserve squadrons until mid-1942. Perhaps the most interesting aspect of this series was the G-23, a licensed derivative manufactured by Canadian Car & Foundry in Fort William, Ontario, Canada. A total of 52 G-23s were built, of which 34 were used in combat by Republican forces during the Spanish Civil War. The Spanish Delfin, as they were known, continued in service long after the war, with the last being retired in early 1954, almost 22 years after the XFF-1's first flight. 15 G-23s were acquired by the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1940 as Goblin, and their service is also covered in this book. This book is a fascinating, in-depth study of a little-known naval fighter that laid the foundation for Grumman's more than 50 years of dominance in carrier-based naval aircraft.