The Grumman F6F "Hellcat" formed the backbone of America's carrier-based fighter force as the Allies pressed the war toward Japan. Powered by a massive and reliable "Pratt & Whitney" radial engine, the "Hellcat" racked up an incredible 19:1 kill ratio against its foes in WWII, and 305 aviators earned ace status while flying the "Hellcat". Such famed U.S. naval aces as David McCampbell, Cecil Harris, Eugene Valencia, and Alex Vraciu all flew the Hellcat. In addition to its wing-mounted .50-caliber machine guns, the F6F was equipped to carry bombs as well, allowing pilots to deliver up to 2000 pounds of bombs on targets. By the time that "Hellcat" production ended in November 1945, 12,275 examples had rolled off Grumman's Bethpage, Long Island, assembly line. Through carefully researched photos, many never before published, the history and details of this iconic aircraft are revealed.
Group
Books (first-hand)
Author
Doyle, David
Title
F6F Hellcat. Grumman's Ace Maker in World War II
Details
Englisch text, many bw- and some colour photos. 112 pages.
