Q&A ยท 3:13:44-3:14:02

The Bearcat's place in the Hellcat's retirement

The Bearcat's availability helps explain the Hellcat's retirement while the Corsair remained in service.

Question

Why did the United States retain the Corsair while retiring the Hellcat?

Short answer

The Bearcat was available to replace the Hellcat.

Notes

The Bearcat provided a successor to the Hellcat. The newer fighter allowed the Hellcat to retire while the Corsair remained in service.