Conceived as a catapult launched observation floatplane, the Vought Kingfisher was a compact single engine monoplane, with one large single float and two smaller floats under-wing to act as stabilisers. Operated in the scout and air sea rescue role, the Kingfisher proved to be a vital and excellent tool in locating and rescuing downed airmen and marooned sailors from the inhospitable waters of the Pacific Ocean.

The Kingfisher was the US Navy’s first catapult-launched monoplane observation floatplane aircraft. It came in both float and land-based configurations, and served as observer, anti-submarine, and rescue aircraft. A total of 1519 Kingfisher were built.