North American FJ Fury

The North American FJ Fury was a series of carrier‑capable jet fighters developed by North American Aviation in the early Cold War era. Originating from the company’s renowned F‑86 Sabre airframe, the first prototype, the XFJ‑1, flew in 1949, marking North America’s entry into naval jet aviation. Subsequent variants—FJ‑1, FJ‑2, FJ‑3, and the swept‑wing FJ‑4—incorporated progressive improvements such as a more powerful General Electric J47‑19 engine, fuel‑efficient wings, and reinforced undercarriage for catapult launches. The FJ‑1, the first jet ever to operate from a U.S. aircraft carrier, entered service with the Navy in 1951, while the later FJ‑4, introduced in 1954, featured a redesigned nose, increased internal fuel capacity, and the ability to carry rockets and bombs, expanding its role to fighter‑bomber missions.

Although quickly eclipsed by newer supersonic designs, the Fury series proved crucial in transitioning the Navy from propeller‑driven aircraft to jet power. It provided valuable data on carrier‑based jet operations, aerodynamics, and weapons integration, influencing later aircraft such as the F‑8 Crusader and F‑4 Phantom. The FJ Fury remains a notable milestone in naval aviation history, symbolizing the rapid technological shift of the 1950s.

North American Aviation

North American FJ Fury

Classification

Production & History

Design & Classification