Classic • Grumman • F6F-3, F6F-5, F6F-5N, F6F-3E, F6F-5E
| Manufacturer | Grumman |
| Model | F6F Hellcat |
| Category | Classic |
| Variants | F6F-3, F6F-5, F6F-5N, F6F-3E, F6F-5E |
| Production Years | 1942 – 1945 |
| Seating | 1 seats |
| Typical TTAF | 2,200 hours |
| Markets | United States, United Kingdom, France |
| Price Range | $3.5M – $8.5M |
The Grumman F6F Hellcat is a single-seat carrier-based fighter aircraft that served as the primary fighter for the United States Navy during World War II. First introduced in 1942, the Hellcat quickly became legendary for its exceptional combat performance against Japanese aircraft, particularly the Mitsubishi A6M Zero. Powered by a Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp radial engine, the Hellcat featured robust construction, excellent visibility, superior armor protection, and powerful armament. The aircraft's design emphasized durability and pilot survivability, with self-sealing fuel tanks and protective plating that gave pilots confidence in combat. The Hellcat's climb rate, speed, and maneuverability proved decisive in the Pacific Theater, earning it a kill ratio exceeding 19:1 against enemy aircraft. Today, restored F6F Hellcats are highly prized by collectors and aviation enthusiasts. Several examples remain airworthy and are featured at air shows and museums worldwide, including the Smithsonian Institution and the Naval Aviation Museum. The aircraft represents a pinnacle of 1940s fighter design and remains an icon of American aviation heritage.
Maximum Speed: 417 mph at 17,300 feet
Service Ceiling: 37,500 feet
Range: 945 miles (combat radius approximately 175 miles)
Engine: Pratt & Whitney R-2800-10W Double Wasp (2,000 hp)
Maximum Takeoff Weight: 15,413 pounds
Wingspan: 42.8 feet
Length: 33.1 feet
Armament: Six .50-caliber machine guns plus up to 2,000 pounds ordnance