JRF-2 Goose

The Grumman JRF‑2 Goose, introduced in 1937, is a rugged twin‑engine amphibious transport that served the United States Navy, Coast Guard, and civilian operators for decades. Developed from the original JRF‑1, the JRF‑2 incorporated a larger 450‑hp Pratt & Whitney R‑985 Wasp Junior radial engine on each wing, strengthening the airframe and expanding payload capacity to 2,200 lb. Its high‑mounted wing, all‑metal hull with corrosion‑resistant anodized aluminum, and retractable landing gear allowed seamless operation from both water and prepared runways. The cockpit featured dual controls and an enclosed cabin that could accommodate eight passengers or a mixed cargo‑crew load, making it popular for remote island service, search‑and‑rescue missions, and wartime logistics. During World War II the Goose proved indispensable for transport in the Pacific theater, ferrying personnel, supplies, and medical evacuations to forward bases lacking airstrips. Post‑war, its reliability and versatility cemented its legacy as a pioneering amphibian, influencing later designs such as the Grumman Albatross. Today, restored JRF‑2s are prized by vintage aircraft enthusiasts, symbolizing the ingenuity of early amphibious aviation and the enduring impact of Grumman’s engineering. Its iconic silhouette remains a tribute to pioneering maritime aviation.