#blackhawk comics

[redarmyscreaming]

Grumman XF5F-1 Skyrocket. It was a one-off prototype built for the US Navy with a very unusual configuration. The wing’s leading edge extended forward of the fuselage nose giving it a bizarre look. It was the first twin-engine fighter intended for carrier use, but it never saw service. The type did however see lengthy operational service in Quality Comics “Blackhawk” series (later acquired by DC).  This series was originally published from the ’40s to ’60s; the Skyrocket was the only piston engine aircraft used by the Blackhawk squadron until they re-equipped for the jet-age.

[redarmyscreaming]

XF5F, in its original configuration was a snub-nosed, twin-engine, twin-tail design.  It was powered by two Wright R-1830’s of 1200 horsepower, rotating in opposite directions to eliminate torque.The fuselage nose, ending nearly a foot behind the leading edge of the wing, allowed for unobstructed forward visibility by the pilot and also the placement of engines in close to the centerline of the aircraft.  So distinctive was the design that it became the "super weapon" of the 1940's comic book hero "Blackhawk".  Readers of that time saw an entire squadron of  Skyrockets fighting evil in each episode, when in reality, only one aircraft was ever built.