The speed with which the Corsair was rushed into service as a land-based fighter obliged the pilots to learn on the job.

The aircraft soon proved to be superior to the Japanese Zero and played a major part in the destruction of Japan's elite air forces in the South Pacific. Later, in an effort to counter the Kamikaze threat, the Corsair was once again hurriedly pressed into service; this time in its originally intended role as a shipboard fighter. This versatile aircraft saw service with the US Navy and Marines, the British Fleet Air Arm and the RNZAF.

Within these pages, real 4FU pilots recount their experiences flying what they call the best all-round fighter in the Pacific theatre.

Illustrated by: Mark Styling, Iain Wyllie, John Weal, Mike Chappell