Jonathan Beckett

Flight Simulation and Aviation Enthusiast

Grumman F3F-2

The Real Aircraft

The Grumman F3F was the last biplane fighter delivered to the United States Navy. Entering service in 1936, it was the culmination of Grumman’s barrel-fuselage biplane fighter line and served aboard carriers until replaced by the monoplane F4F Wildcat.

Key Specifications:

  • Manufacturer: Grumman Aircraft
  • First Flight: March 1935
  • Introduction: 1936
  • Type: Single-seat carrier fighter
  • Engine: Wright R-1820-22 Cyclone (950 hp)
  • Max Speed: 418 km/h (260 mph)
  • Range: 1,609 km (1,000 miles)
  • Armament: 1× .50 cal, 1× .30 cal machine gun

The F3F’s distinctive compact, barrel-shaped fuselage housed a massive radial engine that gave it exceptional performance for a biplane. Though obsolete before the war, F3Fs trained many of the pilots who would fly their monoplane successors into combat.

The Simulation

The Aeroplane Heaven Grumman F3F-2 brings this distinctive Navy fighter to Microsoft Flight Simulator.

Features:

  • Detailed biplane structure and rigging
  • Authentic open cockpit experience
  • Powerful radial engine simulation
  • Historical U.S. Navy markings
  • Carrier operations compatible
  • Compatible with MSFS 2020/2024

Developer: Aeroplane Heaven

Developer

Aeroplane Heaven specializes in classic and warbird aircraft.

See Also