F4F Wildcat RC Airplanes: UMX to Large Scale Options
The Grumman F4F Wildcat, the stubby US Navy fighter of the early Second World War, is a popular RC warbird. Small and ready-made, E-flite’s UMX F4F Wildcat spans 515 mm, weighs about 106 g, uses a 180-size 3000 kV brushless motor with a 3-blade prop and AS3X stabilisation, and runs on 2S 200–280 mAh batteries. Larger foam Wildcats around 1.2 m span and balsa kits for glow or electric power cover the bigger end. Its short, barrel-like fuselage and narrow landing gear give it character, and some challenges.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20263 min read
Options
| Model | Span | Power | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| E-flite UMX F4F Wildcat | 515 mm | 180 BL 3000 kV, 2S | 106 g, AS3X, removable gear, 3-blade prop |
| Larger foam Wildcats | about 1.2 m | Brushless, 3S–4S | More stable, more detail |
| Balsa kits and plans | Varies | Glow or electric | Build-it-yourself scale |
UMX specs from Horizon Hobby/E-flite listings, checked October 2026.
Flying a Wildcat
The real Wildcat’s landing gear retracted into the fuselage, giving it a narrow track, and many models copy this, which makes ground handling twitchy. Use rudder carefully on take-off, keep the tail down until speed builds, and consider hand launching small models from grass. The short fuselage makes it sensitive in yaw, so smooth inputs and some rudder in turns help. Once up, Wildcats are agile and fun, with a stocky look that’s easy to recognise in the air.
The UMX Wildcat
The UMX version is a Bind-N-Fly Basic model: you supply a compatible transmitter and 2S 200–280 mAh batteries. AS3X smooths out gusts and makes the tiny warbird fly like a bigger plane. It suits calm days in a park or large field, and experienced indoor flyers in big halls. Small planes in general are covered in micro remote control airplanes.
Tips
- Check the CG with your battery; warbirds hate being tail-heavy.
- Use low rates and expo at first.
- Take off with gradual throttle and right rudder as needed.
- Land with some power and a gentle flare.
- Carry spare props and landing gear for small models.
Scale details
Wildcat fans often add Navy markings, weathering and pilot figures. Larger models can include working flaps, sliding canopies and scale gear. Be mindful of weight: every gram added to a small warbird raises its stall speed.
The real Wildcat
The F4F was the US Navy’s main carrier fighter early in the Pacific war, known for its toughness. It was later replaced by the F6F Hellcat but remained in service on escort carriers. That history makes it a favourite among scale and Navy aircraft fans.
Choosing a Wildcat
- Small and convenient: UMX version.
- Stable and detailed: larger foam versions.
- Build project: balsa kit or plans.
- Check parts availability for gear and props.
For more foam warbirds, see Dynam planes.
Hand launching small Wildcats
Small Wildcats, including the UMX, can be hand launched by removing or keeping the gear and giving a firm, level throw into the wind at full or near-full throttle. Let the plane gain speed before climbing. Landing on grass with the gear removed is often easier than a rolling landing on a short, bumpy field, and it saves the small wheels and struts from damage. If you can, ask a helper to launch so both your hands stay on the sticks.
FAQ
How big is the UMX Wildcat?
515 mm span, about 106 g.
What battery does it use?
2S 200–280 mAh LiPo.
Is the Wildcat good for beginners?
No, it’s a warbird for pilots past the trainer stage.
Why is it twitchy on the ground?
Its narrow landing gear, copied from the real plane.
More on this topic: the complete RC Airplanes guide covers the basics behind this article.
About 20 years in RC. Mostly boats in the NAVIGA Mini Eco Expert class, with many self-made parts; also a King Motor Baja 5B, a home-built electric plane, home-built nitro planes he has flown, and an RC helicopter. More about SwellRC
