This VF-41 Grumman F4F-4 Wildcat flown by Lt(jg) “Windy” Shields took part in Operation Torch, the landings in North Africa in November 1942. The aircraft was based on the USS Ranger, and received a yellow ring around the US roundel for better recognition.

Some 11 years after having created my first F4F Wildcat profiles, I’ve had the opportunity to create a brand-new template for Grumman’s very under-rated fighter. For the moment, I’ve only created the base template for the late FM-2 variant, but the more classic F4F-4 and F4F-3 should follow next. Click on the image to view it…Continue reading F4F Wildcat revisited

11. FM-2 of VC-12 based on USS Core, 1945. The Dark Gull Grey over White was the typical paint scheme for all escort Wildcats in the Atlantic. 12. A Martlet Mk II of 881 squadron, HMS Illustrious. 13. Martlet Mk II AM978 of 888 Sqdn, HMS Formidable, Madagascar, May 1942. This aircraft participated in the…Continue reading More Grumman F4F Wildcats

The Wildcat was the US Navy’s primary fighter at the beginning of World War II. Although it was outmaneuvered by its principal opponent, the Japanese A6M Zero, but could take far more damage and was a sturdy aircraft. Tactical improvements such as the famous Thach Weave levelled the field somewhat and allowed the Wildcat to…Continue reading Grumman F4F Wildcat