Grumman G-36A Martlet I

Described by Phil Evans

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Here are a few photographs of a Grumman G-36A Martlet I, delivered under British Contract No:F292.

The aircraft is one of the machines diverted from a French order not delivered before the surrender of France. The Aircraft arrived at Prestwick on the 29th of August 1940. (This information came from the excellent "Fleet Air Arm Aircraft 1939 To 1945", published by Air-Britain, Author Ray Sturtivant with Mick Burrow.)

The upper/lower surface colour demarcation is of interest.

The photos are dated (31st) January 1941.

Editor's Note:

Although the camouflage on the upper surface seems to be a dark, solid colour, there is evidence of camouflage demarcation on the fin and in front of the roundel on the starboard side.

According to Dana Bell, in "Aviation Color Primers No. 1: US Export Colors of WWII", the 91 G-36A Wildcats delivered to Britain were finished in Dark Sea Grey, Light Sea Green and Duck Egg Blue. Considering the date of the photo and the new condition of the aircraft, it is very likely that this Martlet I was finished in this unusual, low contrast scheme.

The US Navy style of propeller painting is very interesting too. The colours would have been red, yellow and blue.
 

Text and Images Copyright © 2003 by Phil Evans
Page Created 26 March, 2003
Last Updated 19 April, 2004

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