Although the Cougar retained the F9F designation that had been used by the Panther, it was a substantially new design, of which approaching 2,000 of several versions were built. This one started out as an F9F-8 delivered to the USN in September 1955 and after serving two fighter squadrons, was modified in 1957 to F9F-8B to carry nuclear weapons. After serving various attack squadrons, it was redesigned from AF-9J to TAF-9J in 1966 with VT-23 at NAAS Kingsville, TX, in whose marks it remains on display having been withdrawn from service in 1970

Seen on an early evening visit to the museum. Formerly with VT-23. Had originally arrived at MASDC for storage on 23 Apr 1970.

So many well preserved aircraft at the Pima Air Museum.

TAF-9J Cougar latterly operated by VT-23 Squadron as an advanced trainer.