Brewster F2A Buffalo

The Brewster F2A Buffalo was the U.S. Navy's first monoplane carrier fighter, ordered in 1938 and first flown the year before. A stubby, barrel-shaped aircraft, it was advanced when introduced but was quickly outclassed as fighter design rapidly progressed. American Buffalos performed poorly against Japanese fighters early in the Pacific war, most notably suffering heavy losses with Marine squadrons at the Battle of Midway, and were soon withdrawn from frontline U.S. service.

The type fared better with Finland's air force, where lighter early models achieved a remarkable combat record against the Soviets. Around 500 were built. The Buffalo is best remembered as an example of how rapidly aircraft technology advanced in the years surrounding World War II.