The Grumman F1 “Fifi”

By Keith Ferris 
High Resolution Giclee Print on Canvas signed by the artist

The Grumman FF-1, affectionately known as “Fifi” by its pilots, the Grumman FF-1 was the first in a series of outstanding aircraft that made the name Grumman a virtual synonym for Naval Aviation. Previously a producer of amphibious floats for the Navy, Grumman used its own funds to enter the competition for a new Navy fighter. The result was the highly successful, rather revolutionary, dual-role design, setting a standard of Grumman excellence for the next 40 years.

The FF-1 proved revolutionary not only in its retractable landing gear, but also with its all metal, stressed skin fuselage and enclosed cockpit, all giant steps forward in aircraft design. Though its forward fuselage was bulbous in order to house the retracted landing gear, the FF-1’s speed belied its less than streamlined appearance.