The F9F-2P aerial reconnaissance version of the Panther had the 4 x 20mm nose guns replaced with cameras leaving them defenseless. Wearing white letters PP on the tail and wings VC-61, “Eyes of the Fleet” were assigned this task during the Korean Conflict. VC-61 flew over enemy territory, took pictures

and returned them to be analyzed. Armed aircraft would deploy to destroy the targets and once more VC-61 Panthers would fly over the target taking pictures so the extent of damage could be determined. VC-61 lost 4 pilots while performing their duty.