US NAVY XF5F 1 SKYROCKET

Academy Plastic Model Kit

US Navy XF5F-1 Skyrocket (1/48) 12363

The Academy 1/48 scale XF5F-1 Skyrocket kit brings to life Grumman’s unusual twin-engine experimental fighter developed for the US Navy in the late 1930s. This reissue includes both early and late prototype parts, covering the truncated-nose/short nacelle and long-nose/extended nacelle configurations. Finely moulded with accurate detail, this kit highlights the unique design features of a one-of-a-kind aircraft that served as a valuable research platform.

• 1/48 scale plastic model kit
• Grumman XF5F-1 Skyrocket prototype fighter
• Includes parts for both early and late versions
• Powered by twin Wright R-1820 Cyclone engines
• Reissue of Minicraft tooling with Academy decals

History

The Grumman XF5F-1 Skyrocket was conceived as a twin-engine carrier-based fighter during the Navy’s push for advanced designs in the late 1930s. Featuring counter-rotating Wright R-1820 radial engines and a distinctive nose configuration, the aircraft offered strong climb performance, reaching 10,000 feet in just over four minutes, and achieved a top speed of 358 mph. In diving trials, the Skyrocket pushed speeds of 485 mph, making it one of the fastest prototypes of its time. Although its unusual layout showed promise, the Skyrocket was ultimately outclassed by other designs, and only one prototype was ever built. It first flew on 1 April 1940 and remained in testing roles until being dismantled in 1944 after an accident. While it never entered production, the XF5F-1 contributed to the development of Grumman’s future carrier fighters and remains an intriguing chapter in aviation history.

Note: This model kit requires assembly and painting. Glue, paints and tools are not included and must be purchased separately.