Overview
The E-flite F4U-4 Corsair 1.2m BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select represents the pinnacle of scale warbird RC aircraft design for enthusiasts seeking authentic WWII aesthetics combined with modern flight technology. This updated and upgraded version of the iconic F4U-4 Corsair has been engineered to be the smartest, most powerful, and easiest-to-fly scale model of this popular warbird yet, delivering capabilities that range from scale-like flying to high-speed performance and higher energy aerobatics. If you're looking for a ready-to-fly RC aircraft that combines historical authenticity with cutting-edge stabilisation technology, this brushless RC warbird offers an exceptional balance of sophistication and accessibility for pilots of varying experience levels.
Due to its unique inverted gull wing design, the F4U Corsair stands as one of the most recognisable and iconic U.S. Navy and Marine fighter aircraft of World War II. This particular model captures that legendary silhouette while incorporating factory-installed systems that make it significantly easier to operate than traditional RC aircraft. The composite-reinforced EPO foam airframe is finished in an iconic all-blue trim scheme, with included decal sheets allowing you to customise the markings with MARINES, NAVY and other authentic designations. For RC enthusiasts in the UK looking for a high-quality, feature-rich warbird that doesn't require extensive building or modification, this Bind-N-Fly Basic model arrives almost completely ready to fly.
What sets this aircraft apart from other scale RC models is the integration of Spektrum's exclusive AS3X and optional-use SAFE Select technologies, combined with a specially tuned 3S and 4S compatible brushless power system. The factory-installed rotating retracts with scale-like strut covers and operational flaps take your scale warbird experience to another level, whilst the telemetry-capable Spektrum AR631 receiver provides real-time flight data. Whether you're an experienced RC pilot seeking a versatile scale model or a dedicated warbird collector looking to expand your hanger, this E-flite Corsair delivers on multiple fronts.
Key Features
- AS3X Stabilisation Technology — The Spektrum AR631 receiver is equipped with Artificial Stabilization–3-aXis technology that works behind the scenes to smooth out the effects of wind and turbulence, delivering a locked-in feel that makes the aircraft seem larger and more stable than its actual size, even in challenging flying conditions.
- Optional-Use SAFE Select Flight Envelope Protection — This innovative technology offers pitch and bank angle limits to prevent excessive climb or dive angles, plus automatic self-levelling that returns the aircraft to level flight when the sticks are released and centred, making it ideal for pilots who want an extra margin of safety whilst familiarising themselves with the aircraft.
- Spektrum Avian 70A Brushless Smart Lite ESC — This exclusive electronic speed controller delivers real-time telemetry data including motor RPM, current draw, battery voltage and more via compatible Spektrum receivers and AirWare-equipped transmitters, allowing you to monitor vital power system information whilst flying.
- 3S and 4S Battery Compatibility — The specially tuned brushless motor and ESC combination work seamlessly with standard 3S 11.1V or 4S 14.8V 2200–3200mAh LiPo batteries without requiring any modifications or upgrades, delivering an abundance of thrust on 3S or more speed and nearly unlimited vertical performance on 4S.
- Factory-Installed Rotating Retracts with Strut Covers — These operational landing gear systems feature scale-like strut covers that enhance the authentic warbird appearance whilst maintaining full functionality, allowing for proper runway operations and contributing to the overall scale aesthetic.
- Operational Flaps for Enhanced Control — The functional flap system enables shorter takeoffs and landings whilst improving slow-speed handling characteristics, giving you greater control flexibility across the entire flight envelope.
- Composite-Reinforced EPO Foam Airframe — The lightweight yet durable airframe construction features abundant scale detail including panel lines and a pilot figure, with an all-blue factory-applied paint finish that can be further customised using the included decal sheets for MARINES, NAVY and other authentic markings.
- Six-Channel Full-House Control — Six factory-installed micro servos and linkages provide complete control authority across all aircraft functions, with no additional assembly or configuration required.
- Fast Glue-Free Assembly — The aircraft requires less than one hour of assembly time with no glue required, meaning you can have the F4U-4 Corsair ready to fly in less time than it takes to charge a battery, with the additional convenience of being able to remove the wing for transport and storage.
- Bind-N-Fly Completion Level — With the power system, servos and Spektrum 2.4GHz DSMX receiver already installed, you need only bind the receiver to a compatible transmitter, finish final assembly, and fly, making this an ideal choice if you already own a Spektrum radio system.
- DSMX Protocol and Extended Range Telemetry — The AR631 receiver features industry-leading DSMX technology with fly-by range capability, ensuring reliable control at extended distances and compatibility with a wide range of Spektrum transmitters including the DXS, DX6e, DX8e, DX6 G2/3, DX8 G2, DX9, NX6, NX8, NX10, iX12 and iX20.
Technical Performance
The E-flite F4U-4 Corsair 1.2m represents a mature engineering design that balances authentic scale appearance with practical performance requirements. With a wingspan of 1220mm (48.03 inches) and length of 970mm (38.19 inches), the airframe occupies a sweet spot that makes it manageable for transport whilst remaining large enough to deliver genuine flying presence. The aircraft weighs 1475g (52 oz) without battery, and the composite-reinforced EPO foam construction provides an excellent strength-to-weight ratio that enables both the scale-like flying manoeuvres and higher energy aerobatics the model is capable of. The brushless outrunner motor paired with the Spektrum Avian 70A Smart Lite ESC creates a power system that delivers impressive performance across the 3S and 4S battery range. On 3S power, the model offers abundant thrust for scale-like flying, whilst 4S configuration enables higher top-end speed capability and nearly unlimited vertical climb performance, giving pilots the flexibility to tailor their flying style. The factory-installed 4-blade propeller is specifically matched to this power system and battery configuration, ensuring optimal efficiency without requiring any modifications. The IC3 battery connectors provide standardised compatibility with the extensive range of Spektrum Smart and non-Smart LiPo batteries available through RC retailers across the UK. This aircraft is particularly well-suited for pilots seeking versatility, as the combination of functional retracts, operational flaps, and full six-channel servo control enables everything from realistic formation flying and approach procedures to dynamic sport flying and aerobatic manoeuvres. The integration of telemetry capability means you can monitor power consumption, motor performance and battery voltage in real time, adding a layer of information that helps you understand and optimise your flying sessions.
What's in the Box
- E-flite F4U-4 Corsair 1.2m airframe
- Spektrum AR631 6-channel receiver (pre-installed)
- Spektrum Avian 70A Brushless Smart Lite ESC (pre-installed)
- Brushless outrunner motor (pre-installed)
- Six micro servos (pre-installed)
- Product manual
What You Need to Complete
- Full-range 6–7+ channel Spektrum DSMX or DSM2 compatible transmitter (such as DXS, DX6e, DX8e, DX6 G2/3, DX8 G2, DX9, NX6, NX8, NX10, iX12 or iX20)
- 3S 11.1V or 4S 14.8V 2200–3200mAh LiPo battery with EC3 or IC3 connector
- Compatible LiPo charger
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the E-flite F4U-4 Corsair 1.2m suitable for beginners? — This model carries a Skill Level 3 designation, making it suitable for intermediate and experienced pilots rather than absolute beginners. However, the optional-use SAFE Select flight envelope protection technology (available on the BNF Basic version) can significantly assist newer pilots by providing automatic self-levelling and angle limits, making it easier to learn recovery techniques and build confidence. If you're new to flying but have access to experienced RC pilots for initial instruction and supervision, this aircraft's sophisticated stabilisation systems could work well with proper guidance. The fast assembly time and ready-to-fly nature of the BNF Basic model removes building complexity, leaving only the flying to learn.
- What batteries does the E-flite F4U-4 Corsair require? — This aircraft is compatible with both 3S 11.1V and 4S 14.8V LiPo batteries in the 2200–3200mAh capacity range with IC3 or EC3 connectors. A 3S battery delivers abundant thrust for scale-like flying, whilst a 4S battery enables higher top-speed performance and nearly unlimited vertical climb capability without any modifications to the aircraft. Flight times will vary depending on battery capacity and your flying style, but these capacity ranges represent the sweet spot for this airframe size. You should purchase the battery separately, along with a compatible LiPo charger.
- Does this aircraft need a transmitter, or is one included? — The BNF (Bind-N-Fly) Basic version does not include a transmitter, only the receiver. If you already own a full-range 6–7+ channel Spektrum DSMX or DSM2 compatible transmitter (such as the DXS, DX6e, DX8e or any modern Spektrum AirWare radio), you can simply bind this aircraft to your existing radio and begin flying. If you don't have a transmitter, several completion packages are available that bundle this aircraft with a compatible transmitter, charger and battery to get you flying with minimal additional purchases.
- What is the difference between AS3X and SAFE Select? — AS3X (Artificial Stabilization–3-aXis) is active on this receiver at all times and works continuously in the background to smooth out the effects of wind and turbulence, delivering a locked-in, stable feel. SAFE Select is an optional feature that can be enabled or disabled via a transmitter switch and provides additional envelope protection including pitch and bank angle limits and automatic self-levelling. You can bind this receiver to operate with AS3X only, or you can enable both AS3X and SAFE Select for additional safety and stability assistance. The choice is yours and can be changed simply by adjusting the binding sequence.
- Can this aircraft be hand-launched, or do I need a runway? — Whilst the F4U-4 Corsair 1.2m can technically be hand-launched due to its brushless power system and aerodynamic design, the aircraft still requires a suitable landing area. The built-in rotating retracts are designed for runway operations, and the aircraft's size and mass mean it will need adequate space to touch down safely. A proper airfield or flying site with suitable runway space is the recommended approach for this model.
- Does this aircraft include telemetry capability? — Yes, the Spektrum Avian 70A Smart Lite ESC can provide real-time telemetry data including motor RPM, current draw, battery voltage and other power system information. This data can be displayed on compatible Spektrum AirWare-equipped transmitters (including the DXS, DX6e, DX8e, DX6 G2/3, DX8 G2, DX9, NX6, NX8, NX10, iX12 and iX20) whilst you fly, allowing you to monitor vital information and optimise your flying sessions. The system works with both Smart and non-Smart LiPo batteries.
Why Buy from RC Model Shop?
RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Based in Walsall, we have a physical store where customers are welcome to come in, view products and purchase in store. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the E-flite F4U-4 Corsair 1.2m BNF Basic with AS3X and SAFE Select today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Shop online or visit us in Walsall — we look forward to helping you get the most out of your RC experience.
