Grumman FM-2 “Wildcat” The Grumman Wildcat was an American carrier-based fighter that saw service in 1940 with the U.S. Navy and the British Royal Navy (as the “Martlet”). In the Pacific, it was the only fighter available in the early war, and its ruggedness helped it achieve a 6:1 kill ratio. The Wildcat served throughout the war on “jeep” carriers that were too small for larger aircraft. This particular wildcat was built by General Motors/ Eastern Aircraft plant in New Jersey in 1944 and painted in Atlantic colors. After a short time in San Pedro, California, it was assigned to a small training field here in Pungo, Virginia. It was assigned to the Norfolk region as a training aircraft. In July 1945 it was transferred to the Pungo Airfield in Princess Anne County. It was finally released from the Navy in 1952.
Military Aviation Museum
www.MilitaryAviationMuseum.org
SPECIFICATIONS: Country of Manufacture: U.S.A Manufacturer: General Motors Engine: Pratt & Whitney 1830 Horsepower: 1,200 hp Empty Weight: xxx pounds Max Weight: 8,271 pounds Max Speed: 332 mph Ceiling: 39,500 feet Crew: One Armament: 4 x .50 cal MGs 6 x H.V.A.R rockets