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Build one of World War II's most successful carrier-based fighters with this highly detailed 1/72 scale model of the Grumman F6F Hellcat from Academy Models. This kit represents both the F6F-3 and F6F-5 variants, the dominant US Navy fighters in the second half of the Pacific War that achieved an impressive 19:1 kill ratio against Japanese aircraft and helped turn the tide of the war in the Pacific.
The Grumman F6F Hellcat was an American carrier-based fighter aircraft of World War II designed to replace the earlier F4F Wildcat and to counter the Japanese Mitsubishi A6M Zero. It became the United States Navy's dominant fighter in the second half of the Pacific War, achieving an incredible combat record. Hellcat pilots shot down an estimated 5,223 enemy aircraft while losing only 270 Hellcats in aerial combat, resulting in a kill ratio of 19:1. In gaining that role, it prevailed over its faster competitor, the Vought F4U Corsair, which initially had problems with visibility and carrier landings. The Hellcat participated in every major carrier operation from 1943 through the end of the war, including the Marianas Turkey Shoot, Leyte Gulf, and the final strikes on Japan.
The F6F-3 was the initial production variant that entered service in January 1943, powered by the Pratt & Whitney R-2800-10 Double Wasp radial engine producing 2,000 horsepower. Armed with six .50 caliber M2 Browning machine guns and capable of carrying up to 2,000 pounds of bombs or six 5-inch rockets, the Hellcat was a formidable opponent. The F6F-5, introduced in 1944, featured improved armor protection, a strengthened tail, revised cowling for better engine cooling, and provision for carrying heavier ordnance loads. Both variants featured excellent visibility from the raised cockpit, rugged construction that could absorb significant battle damage, and superb handling characteristics that made them ideal for carrier operations. The Hellcat's combination of speed, firepower, durability, and ease of maintenance made it the most successful naval fighter of World War II.
This unassembled plastic model kit requires plastic cement, paint, and modeling tools. We recommend using authentic USN colors including Gloss Sea Blue, Intermediate Blue, and White for tri-color schemes, or overall Glossy Sea Blue for late-war finishes.
Enhance your F6F Hellcat build with these related items from our store:
Academy Models is a renowned South Korean manufacturer of high-quality plastic model kits. With decades of experience, Academy produces accurate, well-engineered kits across multiple scales and subjects. Visit Academy's official website to learn more about their complete product line and company history.
