Grumman F6F Hellcat Fighters Take To The Air!

The Big Brawlers That Left A Path Of Destruction

Introduced ‘a little late’ to the Pacific theater, the F6F Hellcats were fighters that reigned supreme over all other fighters. These rugged yet well-designed machines were produced in 1942 and made operational later that year at a total cost of $35,000 per plane (roughly $530,000 today.) Having improved the landing capability of its rival, the F4U Corsair, these planes became the Navy’s primary fighters and were in demand!

• 12,200 units were built in just two years
• They were so effective they were the least modified fighters in WW2
• Hellcats remained in service until 1954

These fast and agile ‘nightmares’ were powered by a 2,000 hp Pratt & Whitney R-2800 engine, which you can clearly hear in the video. These restored fighters were taped at the Southern California Warbirds event.  Enjoy the takeoff!