The Grumman F6F Hellcat  – Original Painting by Keith Ferris

The Grumman F6F Hellcat
Original Painting by Keith Ferris
18″ x 24″ Oil on board – Professionally Framed 

Combat experience with the F4F Wildcat led to the development of the superb Grumman F6F Hellcat. The Hellcat entered combat in August 1943 and became an outstanding fighter for US Navy carrier squadrons. It was noted for its powerful engine, firepower, long range, maneuverability and rugged construction. These elements gave the Hellcat superiority in the Pacific War.  Three out of four Navy air-to-air combat victories were credited to the Hellcat. When production ended in 1945, 12,275 Hellcat aircraft had been built.

The Grumman F6F Hellcat from the Fighter Squadron 13 (VF-13) shown here were assigned to the USS Franklin in 1944 as the primary U.S. Navy carrier fighter, known for its 6:1 kill ratio against Japanese aircraft.  VT-13’s missions included strikes in the Bonin Islands, Marianas, Palau, Formosa, and Philippines. These Hellcats provided fighter cover, strafed ground targets, and engaged Japanese aircraft, escorting VT-13’s Avengers in combat while providing Combat Air Patrols in Defense of the USS Franklin and Task Force 58/38 from air attacks.  Hellcats typically flew at altitudes of 20,000–25,000 feet, escorting Avengers at lower altitudes 5,000–10,000 feet for torpedo or bombing runs.

Painted in 1976 and Published in Aviation Week & Space Technology 1977 Keith Ferris Calander .