The F5F Tiger II: A Rare and Forgotten US Navy Fighter Aircraft
The F5F Tiger II is a rare and relatively unknown US Navy fighter aircraft that was designed and built by Grumman in the late 1930s. Although it never entered mass production or saw combat, the F5F played an important role in the development of naval aviation and paved the way for future Grumman fighter designs.
Design and Development
In 1935, the US Navy issued a request for proposals for a new fighter aircraft that could operate from the decks of its aircraft carriers. Grumman, which had already established itself as a major manufacturer of naval aircraft, submitted a design for a single-seat, single-engine fighter that would eventually become the F5F.
The F5F was designed to be a highly maneuverable and versatile aircraft, with a strong focus on performance and durability. It featured a sleek, streamlined fuselage and a distinctive “gull-wing” design, which allowed for a wide field of view and excellent low-speed handling.
Key Features and Specifications
- Length: 23 ft 9 in (7.24 m)
- Wingspan: 32 ft 6 in (9.91 m)
- Height: 9 ft 6 in (2.90 m)
- Empty weight: 4,418 lb (2,005 kg)
- Gross weight: 6,415 lb (2,910 kg)
- Powerplant: 1 × Wright XR-1820-78 radial engine, 1,200 hp (895 kW)
- Maximum speed: 264 mph (425 km/h)
- Range: 1,700 mi (2,700 km)
- Service ceiling: 33,000 ft (10,668 m)
Flight Testing and Evaluation
The first prototype of the F5F, designated XF5F-1, made its maiden flight in April 1939. Flight testing revealed a number of issues with the aircraft’s performance and handling, including a tendency to stall and spin. However, the F5F also showed great promise, with excellent climb rates and maneuverability.
Despite its potential, the F5F was ultimately rejected by the US Navy in favor of the Brewster F2A Buffalo and the Grumman F4F Wildcat. The F5F’s poor stall characteristics and limited range were seen as major drawbacks, and the aircraft never entered mass production.
🛠️ Note: Although the F5F was not adopted by the US Navy, it played an important role in the development of future Grumman fighter designs, including the F6F Hellcat and F8F Bearcat.
Legacy and Preservation
Today, only a handful of F5F Tiger IIs remain in existence, with most of them on display in museums and collections around the world. The National Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola, Florida, has a beautifully restored XF5F-1 on display, which is one of the few remaining examples of this rare and historic aircraft.
Comparison with Other Fighter Aircraft of the Era
| Aircraft | Maximum Speed | Range | Service Ceiling |
|---|---|---|---|
| F5F Tiger II | 264 mph (425 km/h) | 1,700 mi (2,700 km) | 33,000 ft (10,668 m) |
| Brewster F2A Buffalo | 313 mph (504 km/h) | 965 mi (1,552 km) | 33,700 ft (10,281 m) |
| Grumman F4F Wildcat | 318 mph (512 km/h) | 840 mi (1,352 km) | 39,500 ft (12,042 m) |
In Conclusion
The F5F Tiger II may not have been a successful production aircraft, but it played an important role in the development of naval aviation and paved the way for future Grumman fighter designs. Its unique design and impressive performance make it a fascinating footnote in the history of military aviation.
What was the main reason for the F5F’s rejection by the US Navy?
+
The F5F’s poor stall characteristics and limited range were seen as major drawbacks, leading to its rejection by the US Navy.
How many F5F Tiger IIs were built?
+
Only two F5F prototypes were built, designated XF5F-1 and XF5F-2.
Where can I see a restored F5F Tiger II?
+
The National Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola, Florida, has a beautifully restored XF5F-1 on display.
Related Terms:
- US 2 1 juta Rp32 51 Miliar F 5E
- Indonesia
- Brasil
- Amerika Serikat
- Canadair CF 5
- F 20 Tigershark
