Fighter value depends on production and support as well as performance

The opening separates individual fighter performance from the wider demands of naval service. The Corsair may be the better aircraft in an overall comparison, while the Hellcat offered the production scale, support, and role coverage the fleet required. That distinction sets the standard for the Bearcat discussion. Speed and maneuverability alone do not determine naval usefulness. Carrier fit, industrial capacity, service timing, and the mission environment decide whether an impressive fighter becomes an effective fleet system.