The Navy requested two prototypes, naming them the XF5U-1. Layout was similar to the V-173, but instead of using fabric covering, a material known as "Metalite" was used to cover the airframe.

Zimmerman pushed the limits with the XF5U, as his goal was to give it a speed range of 40 to 460 miles per hour. However, by the time 1945 strolled around, the Navy was already investing boat ...