Archival photo of the Grumman F8F-2P Bearcat N700H, a rare photo-reconnaissance variant of the last piston-engine fighter built by Grumman. Famously flown by Stephen Grey and The Fighter Collection. Photo by Stuart H Bourne © Stuart H Bourne / Quality Aviation Photos International.
This fine art aviation print features the Grumman F8F-2P Bearcat, registration N700H, a rare postwar reconnaissance variant of Grumman’s final piston-engine naval fighter. The Bearcat was designed for speed, climb rate, and carrier agility—making it one of the most potent interceptors of its time.
The F8F-2P was a photo-reconnaissance version of the upgraded Bearcat series, equipped with camera gear and stripped of some armament to reduce weight. Powered by the Pratt & Whitney R-2800-30W, the aircraft delivered over 2,200 horsepower and could climb at over 4,800 ft/min. Though it missed combat in WWII, the Bearcat served with distinction in the late 1940s and early 1950s, including with the famed Blue Angels.
This particular aircraft, N700H, was operated by Stephen Grey and The Fighter Collection at Duxford, UK. It became a staple of European airshows, admired for its compact frame, blistering performance, and polished navy-blue livery. The image captures the aircraft on the ground, engine running, with its distinctive tall tail fin and bubble canopy.
A must-have for warbird collectors, naval aviation enthusiasts, and fans of postwar piston-engine design.
Details:
Aircraft: Grumman F8F-2P Bearcat
Registration: N700H
Variant: Photo-reconnaissance (F8F-2P)
Engine: Pratt & Whitney R-2800-30W
Operator: Stephen Grey / The Fighter Collection
Era: Late 1940s–1950s
Print Type: Archival photographic print
Finish: Gloss
Photographer: Stuart H Bourne
Copyright: © Stuart H Bourne / Quality Aviation Photos International
