Grumman Aviation produced the G-18, the prototype XF4F-2, which first flew in September 1937. Initial evaluation revealed several performance problems, which led the U.S. Navy to reject the G-18 in favor of the Brewster's F2A "Buffalo". The Navy asked Grumman to continue with the project, and resulted in the G-36, which flew in February 1939. The G-36 tests exceeded the performance of the F2A, resulting in the U.S. Navy approving the design and ordering it into production as the F4F-3 Wildcat. Two yeas following its deployment, during the critical stages of the Pacific War in 1942, the improved F4F-4 Wildcat was introduced. It had folding wings, and three 12.7mm machine guns in each wing, plus the more powerful 1,200 P & W R-1830-86 Twin Wasp engine, giving it a speed of 512km/h. Grumman became known as the "Ironworks" due to its strongly designed aircraft, which could absorb enormous punishment and still fly home.
Product Features
Approx 60 parts in medium grey and clear with fine recessed panel lines.
Highly detailed engine, wheel well and landing gear.
2 drop tanks included and prop rotates thanks to a polythene bushing in the engine which also lets the prop be added late in assembly.
(This makes painting easier and makes prop damage less likely).
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Customers Reviews
great kit
By illiniteach29
April 7, 2013
This was a great kit. There were zero problems with fit, decals went on nice and easy, and directions were very clear.
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3 of 3 people found this review helpful
(3 ratings)
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