World War Photos

First General Motors FM-1 1942

The General Motors FM-1 Wildcat represents a key transitional aircraft in the history of American naval aviation during World War II. It was produced by General Motors’ Eastern Aircraft Division, which took over Wildcat production from Grumman to allow the latter to focus on the development and production of the more advanced F6F Hellcat.

General Motors FM-1 Wildcat Overview:

1. Development and Background:

   • As Grumman shifted its focus to the F6F Hellcat, the responsibility for producing Wildcats was transferred to General Motors’ Eastern Aircraft Division. This move was crucial to maintaining the supply of carrier-based fighters while the Hellcat was being ramped up for production.
   • The FM-1 was essentially a continuation of the F4F-4 Wildcat, with some modifications to streamline production and improve performance.

2. First Flight:

   • The FM-1 Wildcat’s first flight took place on September 1, 1942.

3. Production Details:

   • Total Number Built: 1,060 units
   • USN Bureau Numbers: 14992 through 15951 (960 units); 46738 through 46837 (100 units)

4. Physical Characteristics:

   • Wingspan: 38 feet
   • Wing Area: 260 square feet
   • Length: 28 feet 10 inches
   • Height: 11 feet 9 inches

5. Powerplant and Propulsion:

   • The FM-1 was powered by the Pratt & Whitney R-1830-86 Twin Wasp, a 14-cylinder twin-row radial air-cooled engine that produced 1,200 horsepower at takeoff and 1,000 horsepower at 19,000 feet. The engine featured a two-stage, two-speed supercharger, which enhanced its high-altitude performance.
   • The aircraft utilized a Curtiss 3-blade constant-speed propeller with a diameter of 9 feet 9 inches.

6. Armament:

   • The FM-1 Wildcat was armed with four .50 caliber machine guns mounted in the wings.
   • It could also carry two 100-pound bombs or six 5-inch rockets under the wings, making it versatile for both air-to-air combat and ground attack missions.

7. Weight and Performance:

   • Empty Weight: 5,895 pounds
   • Gross Weight: 7,975 pounds
   • Maximum Gross Weight: 8,762 pounds
   • Maximum Speed: 320 miles per hour at 18,800 feet; 284 miles per hour at sea level (Economical cruise speed was 162 miles per hour)
   • Normal Range: 830 miles
   • Maximum Range: 1,275 miles
   • Initial Climb Rate: 3,300 feet per minute
   • Service Ceiling: 34,000 feet

8. Design and Modifications:

   • While the FM-1 retained the folding wings introduced in the F4F-4, the primary difference was the reduction in the number of machine guns from six to four. This change was made to simplify the design, reduce weight, and increase the aircraft’s overall reliability.
   • The FM-1 also featured improved avionics and internal systems to enhance operational efficiency.

9. Operational History:

   • The FM-1 was widely used by both the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, as well as by the British Royal Navy under the Lend-Lease program, where it was known as the Martlet V.
   • Despite being outclassed by newer enemy aircraft like the Japanese Zero, the FM-1 Wildcat continued to serve effectively in various roles, including convoy protection, ground attack, and as a carrier-based fighter.
   • The FM-1’s durability, ruggedness, and ability to operate from small escort carriers made it a valuable asset throughout its service life.