F4U-4 Corsair

The Vought F4U‑4 Corsair, an evolution of the iconic World War II fighter, entered service in 1944 and quickly became one of the most effective carrier‑borne aircraft of its era. Developed from the earlier F4U‑1 and F4U‑3 models, the -4 incorporated a more powerful Pratt & Whitney R-2800‑18W Double Wasp engine delivering 2,450 hp, a larger 13‑inch propeller, and a strengthened airframe that allowed higher speeds—up to 447 mph at 26 000 ft. Its distinctive inverted gull wing, designed to accommodate the massive propeller while keeping the landing gear short enough for carrier decks, remained a striking visual hallmark. Armament was upgraded to six .50‑caliber machine guns and provisions for rockets or bombs, giving the Corsair a versatile ground‑attack capability in addition to air superiority. The aircraft saw extensive combat in the Pacific, where its speed, ruggedness, and climb rate gave pilots a decisive edge against Japanese aircraft. Post‑war, the F4U‑4 served with the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and numerous allied air forces, influencing later carrier fighter designs and cementing its legacy as a symbol of American naval aviation power throughout history and continues to inspire enthusiasts.

Vought

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