The Curtiss-Wright CW-21 was an American prototype fighter of the interwar period. The machine was built in a low-wing configuration and had a classic retractable landing gear. The flight of the prototype took place in 1938. The drive was provided by one Wright Cyclone R-1820-G5 engine with a capacity of 1000 hp. Deck armament consisted of four 7.62 mm machine guns. The Curtiss-Wright CW-21 was created in connection with the attempt of the American aviation to test the concept of a light and highly maneuverable fighter, which would have small dimensions, had the best characteristics and was cheap to manufacture. The prototype lived up to the hopes placed on it, first of all, it was characterized by high speed and good maneuverability. However, the machine did not have self-sealing fuel tanks and armor, which made it very vulnerable to enemy fire. These factors, as well as the US Air Force's interest in much larger but also multirole fighters, prevented the CW-21 from being adopted by the US Air Force. However, Curtiss managed to sell aircraft to China and the Netherlands. In Dutch colors, aircraft of this type took part in battles in the Far East at the turn of 1941/1942.
