The RAF could bridge to jets with existing late-mark land fighters, but the Royal Navy faced a different inventory problem: its Lend-Lease Corsairs had to be returned and its Seafires wore out quickly in carrier service. The Sea Fury therefore filled an urgent requirement rather than duplicating an adequate fleet. Export demand helped sustain production until 864 aircraft had been built for British, Commonwealth, European, Middle Eastern, Asian, and Cuban operators. Its proven design and accessible supply chain also offered advantages over alternatives whose spare parts were harder to obtain.
Chapter · 26:38-29:38
Why the Royal Navy retained the Sea Fury after 1945
Short-lived Seafires, the return of Lend-Lease Corsairs, and strong overseas demand made continued Sea Fury production a practical postwar choice.