[squidly]

What the heck did the gubmint want with it anyway?

[rogue yam]

The gubmint wants things like a two-year-old wants things. They don't want them. Rather, they want to want them.

[Arthalion]

What the heck did the gubmint want with it anyway?

According to the article, it's because this particular plane is one of a kind. Most of the Corsairs that fought in WWII were Chance Vought Corsairs, but there were a small number built by other manufacturers. This plane is a Brewster Corsair, and is believed to be the last one in existance. While the Navy does assert rights over all of their former property, I'm sure the uniqueness of this particular plane contributed to their zeal in filing suit.