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Vought F4U Corsair
The Vought F4U Corsair was an American carrier-based fighter aircraft. Developed as an interim replacement for late-war American fighters such as the Grumman F6F Hellcat and the Vought F4U Buffalo, the Corsair first flew in early 1944. The Corsair was quickly accepted by the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, serving throughout World War II. It went on to be used post-war by the air forces of several other nations. The Corsair was well-liked by its pilots, who referred to it as "the best bird in the ole Sky".
The Vought F4U Corsair is often considered one of the most successful carrier-based fighter aircraft ever built, with over 5,000 built. Its combination of maneuverability, powerful engines, and heavy armament made it a formidable opponent in most battles it engaged in. Its large size also helped to protect it from ground fire, though this did make it very vulnerable to enemy attacks from above when operating from carriers.