McDonnell Douglas F3-H Demon US Navy

General Product Description

Our PlaneArt McDonnell Douglas F3-H Demon US Navy model exhibits unique, unrivaled quality and detailed design to come as close as possible to the accuracy of the actual plane. It comes as standard with a robust, durable base or stand which is available in a variety of different finishes designed to match your own personal requirements including solid wood, wood with polished metal supports or adjustable wood wall mount and will be ready within about 9-10 weeks from placement of order.

The McDonnell Douglas F3-H Demon US Navy model is made of the finest kiln dried renewable mahogany wood (commonly known as Lauan or Meranti) which has undergone many stages of carving and meticulous and careful sanding giving the beautiful, finished museum quality masterpiece. Many collectors and model connoisseurs demonstrate their preference for genuine handmade and hand painted mahogany wood models rather than plastic or die cast (diecast) alternatives due to the overall look and totally different feel of the item - we trust you will find the same. We can however, if required produce the same model in Solid Cast Resin so just click and contact us for further information. Our craftsmen and gifted artisans ensure that our finely handcrafted model airplanes match the precise blueprint details of the original aircraft. The paint scheme, markings and parts are closely matched, reflecting the original aircraft. This stylish top-quality desktop replica model will surely enthrall anyone who receives this as a gift and for sure one of the most appropriate and desirably collectable gifts for any aviation enthusiast or avid military jet aircraft collector whilst also displaying a perfect resemblance to the actual real life version.

There are many types of military jet aircraft, but the basic types are bombers, fighters, fighter bombers, spotter planes, transporters, patrol aircraft, trainers, and reconnaissance and observation aircraft. All these types of aircraft are used for different types of missions. If you're a fan of historic or present-day military aviation, our model aircraft will bring the excitement and character of these aircraft right into your own home.

If you require, we can also make the McDonnell Douglas F3-H Demon US Navy model in any other military, government or even private livery or colour scheme you require and if necessary, in a different size or scale. Just click here to contact us with a description or photographs of what you require, and we will let you have a quotation for the necessary customization by return email. We can also make bespoke scale replicas of any other private / civil commercial airliner or airliners, helicopter, glider, gliders with engines, military propeller, warplane jets, biplane, triplane, tail fin, spacecraft, rocket or NASA model you require in any airline, military or civilian livery or colors. We also produce model airships, blimps, dirigibles, blimps, boats, and ship collectibles. Wall plaque or seal for military, government or private customers. Again, by clicking here to contact us just let us know exactly what you need.

McDonnell Douglas F3H Demon: The Evolution of US Navy Jet Fighters

The McDonnell Douglas F3H Demon is a significant piece of U.S. naval aviation history, representing a critical transitional period as the Navy moved from propeller-driven aircraft to sophisticated jet-powered fighters. Developed in the early 1950s, the Demon was designed to meet the Navy’s need for a high-performance all-weather interceptor capable of carrying advanced radar and air-to-air missiles. Although its operational career was beset by challenges, the F3H Demon contributed valuable lessons that influenced future designs.

Development and Design:

The McDonnell Aircraft Corporation, which later merged with Douglas Aircraft to form McDonnell Douglas, initiated the development of the F3H Demon as a response to the Navy’s 1948 specification for a jet-powered all-weather fighter. The Navy sought a capable platform to carry the newly developed radar and missile technology, ensuring robust defense capabilities against Soviet bombers during the Cold War.

The F3H Demon was a single-seat fighter featuring a swept-wing design, which was becoming the norm for jet aircraft of the era. Its initial powerplant was the Westinghouse J40 turbojet engine, which promised high performance. However, the J40 engine became one of the aircraft’s major downfalls due to reliability issues, leading to several fatal accidents.

Operational History:

The F3H Demon entered service with the U.S. Navy in 1956, after a series of redesigns and improvements, including a switch to the more reliable Allison J71 engine. This change resolved many of the power and reliability issues but came too late to fully restore the aircraft’s reputation.

The Demon’s primary role was as an all-weather interceptor. It was equipped with radar in a large nose cone, which allowed it to locate and track enemy aircraft in all weather conditions. It was also one of the first U.S. Navy fighters to be armed with air-to-air missiles, namely the AIM-7 Sparrow, in addition to conventional guns. This armament significantly enhanced its combat capabilities, allowing engagements at longer ranges than were possible with guns alone.

Technical Specifications and Features:

• Crew: 1 (Pilot)
• Length: 59 feet
• Wingspan: 35.3 feet
• Height: 14.7 feet
• Engine: Allison J71-A-2 (after engine replacement)
• Maximum Speed: Approximately 715 mph
• Range: 1,370 miles
• Service Ceiling: 42,000 feet

The aircraft’s design featured a high-mounted swept wing and a tailplane, characteristic of fighters designed for high-speed jet performance. The large radar dome at the front was a distinguishing feature, as was its relatively large size compared to other fighters of the era.

Legacy and Impact:

Although the F3H Demon was never used in combat, its development and operational use helped the U.S. Navy gain valuable experience with jet fighters and airborne radar technology. The challenges and shortcomings of the Demon directly influenced the design of subsequent aircraft, leading to the development of more successful models like the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II, which became one of the most iconic and widely used fighters in the U.S. military.

In conclusion, the McDonnell Douglas F3H Demon holds a crucial place in naval aviation history. Despite its operational difficulties, the Demon was a stepping stone that helped shape the future of U.S. naval air power, paving the way for more advanced and capable jet fighters. Its legacy is a testament to the evolution of military aviation technology and strategic defense during the Cold War era.