Korean Cats

Fishers’ 1/32 F9F-2 Panther

- Steven J. Corvi

Kit No: 3206

Scale: 1/32

Type: Resin

Manufacturer: Fisher Models http://fishermodels.indiemade.com/

The USN issued a contract on 22nd April1946 for the XF9F-1, which was to become the Panther. This was the early era of jet power and reflected a steep learning curve in both technology and actual capabilities. The inefficiencies of first generation centrifugal flow and axial flow jet engines provided the Grumman team with a challenge. The Westinghouse J30 produced 1,500lb of thrust and to have adequate power in this airframe four engines were needed. This would produce an airframe much larger and heavier, which would hinder or prohibit use on an aircraft carrier during this era. Grumman decided to adopt the Rolls-Royce Nene centrifugal flow engine for the Panther with a conventional fuselage installation. This was designated XF9F-2 day fighter. The prototypes made their maiden flight on 24th November 1947.

The production aircraft adopted the Allison J33-A-8 engine, which produced 4,600lb of thrust. After production commenced it was discovered that the Allison J42 was a superior engine in power and reliability and this was to be fitted in all subsequent Panther -F9F-2s and 3s. The aircraft was also fitted with permanent wing tip tanks, which extended the range.

The final and most successful variant was the F9F-5, which was fitted with the J48 engine (versions P-2, P-4 and P-6A) that produced 6,250lb of thrust. The F9F-5 had a two foot extension of the fuselage, wing fences and a taller tail fin to accommodate the new engine. The airframe and power plant changes made for a better performing airframe but performance wise it still lagged behind the swept wing configurations of the USAF F-86 Sabre family and the Russian designed MiG-15. This would lead to the F9F-6 and 8 Cougar family of Grumman jet fighters, though that’s another story…