The F4U Corsair is one of the most iconic and formidable fighter aircraft of World War II, instantly recognizable by its distinctive inverted gull wings and aggressive stance. Designed for speed, power, and durability, the Corsair became a dominant force in the Pacific Theater, flown by legendary Marine and Navy pilots.
Nicknamed the “Whistling Death” by its adversaries, the Corsair combined raw horsepower with rugged engineering, making it equally effective in air-to-air combat and ground attack missions. Its unmistakable sound, produced by air rushing through its wing intakes, became synonymous with its fearsome reputation.
Today, the Corsair stands as a symbol of American ingenuity and aviation excellence—an aircraft that pushed the limits of piston-engine performance and helped secure Allied victory.
Manufacturer: Vought Aircraft
First Flight: 1940
Role: Carrier-based Fighter / Fighter-Bomber
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Engine: Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp radial engine
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Horsepower: ~2,000 HP
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Top Speed: ~446 mph (717 km/h)
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Range: ~1,000 miles (1,600 km)
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Service Ceiling: ~36,900 ft
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Rate of Climb: ~3,000 ft/min
Dimensions:
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Wingspan: 41 ft (12.5 m)
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Length: 33 ft 4 in (10.2 m)
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Height: 16 ft 1 in (4.9 m)
Armament (typical WWII configuration):
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6 × .50 caliber machine guns
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Bombs and rockets for ground attack missions
