The U.S. Naval Aircraft Factory was established during World War I to assure a reliable source of specialized aircraft, generate cost data as a check on private manufacturers, and maintain control over design and development. On August 10, 1917, less than eight months after the start of construction, the factory began turning out planes, including the H16 flying boat. By October 1918 the workforce had grown to 3,640, including 890 women. Following the war, the facility shifted toward aircraft overhaul and repair and experimental research in all-metal construction, retractable landing gear, anti-blackout equipment, and compressed-air and flush-deck hydraulic catapults. By the mid-1930s the factory was again preparing to produce aircraft and aircraft engines, including the N3N primary trainer, while research also advanced radio equipment for remote control of aircraft and missiles, radar and airborne television for planes, drones, and bombs, and high-altitude pressure suits and cabins. Although aircraft production ended in 1945, experimental research continued, including development of a high-energy-absorption arresting gear for large carrier planes. In 1956 the factory was renamed the Naval Air Engineering Facility (Ships Installations), reflecting the end of its manufacturing, overhaul, and repair functions. In all, it produced 63 types of aircraft and 33 types of catapults and arresting gear.
