1/48 F4U-5.5 Corsair Bipe  

by Charles "BlackCat" Sickels

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Silly Week 2006

 

There has not been much written about the F4U-5.5. Though many consider the biplane offshoot of the F4U-5 to be a resounding success, the attention of historians has focused on the rise of jet power in the late forties and fifties. Some have labeled the F4U-5.5, "A step back, not an improvement." But I believe the capabilities and service record of the Corsair Bipe speaks for itself.

The need for a heavily armed, low altitude ground attack aircraft with good carrier "manners" was desired by the navy for use in the Korean conflict. Though other versions of the Corsair were adequate for this role, Chance Vought developed the F4U-5.5 with cantilevered biplane wings. It was dubbed the "Corsair Bipe," and featured eight (yes, eight) 20MM cannons mounted in the wings and provisions for up to 6000 pounds of bombs. Though visibility was reduced from the upper wing, pilots learned to love the low speed characteristics, maneuverability, and heavy armament that the biplane version offered. But due to the desire of Navy leadership to implement jets, only 150 Corsair Bipes were built.

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After the Korean conflict, most of the Corsair Bipes were scrapped. Only a few were purchased by civilians, usually making spectacular airshow appearances. This F4U-5.5 was purchased by "Silly" Willy Stumpford in the sixties. He consulted his 10 year old son for the creative paintjob, meant to draw attention during air airshow routines. His performances throughout the 60's and 70's were impressive, often performing maneuvers that were not capable by other high powered piston aircraft.

This kit was built for a "Flights of Fantasy" group build for my local model club. We had approximately 40 unbuilt Lindberg F4U-5's that were left over from a "make and take" project for youngsters. The kit was very primitive, featuring only a pilot and a seat for cockpit details. The wheel wells are non-existent, being covered over. It did have landing gear, but I chose not to install them. 

It was fun to do this, and I think I have an utterly unique model now!  Enjoy!

Charles

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Photos and text © by Charles Sickels