My first bomber i've ever built

The G4M "Hamaki" was a Japanese twin-engine, long-range medium bomber used primarily during World War II by the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service. Its official designation was Mitsubishi G4M, and it was nicknamed "Betty" by Allied forces. The term Hamaki (meaning "cigar") was used by Japanese pilots due to its elongated, cylindrical shape.

Key Features and Characteristics:

1. Role: Long-range medium bomber, primarily for naval operations.
2. First Flight: October 23, 1939.
3. Service Period: 1941–1945.
4. Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.
5. Crew: Typically 7 members.

Design and Performance:

• Engines: Powered by two Mitsubishi Kasei radial engines.
• Armament:
  
  
  
  • Offensive: Up to 1,000 kg of bombs or torpedoes.
  
  
  • Defensive: Machine guns and 20mm cannons placed in the nose, dorsal, and tail positions.
  
  
• Speed: Approximately 430 km/h (267 mph).
• Range: Notable for its exceptional range of 3,000 to 4,000 km (1,864 to 2,485 miles), which allowed it to conduct long-range missions, often without fighter escort.

Advantages:

• Range: Its long operational range made it suitable for attacking distant targets, including Allied ships and ground targets across the Pacific theater.

Weaknesses:

• Lack of Armor: The G4M was lightly armored and prone to catching fire or being destroyed when hit, especially due to the lack of self-sealing fuel tanks. This vulnerability earned it the nickname "The Flying Lighter" or "One-Shot Lighter" by Allied pilots.

Notable Operations:

• Sinking of HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Repulse: The G4M played a significant role in sinking these two British capital ships in December 1941.
• Involvement in the death of Admiral Yamamoto: A G4M was carrying Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto when it was shot down by U.S. fighter aircraft in 1943, resulting in his death.

Though effective early in the war, the G4M's vulnerabilities became increasingly apparent as Allied air power grew stronger, leading to significant losses. Nevertheless, it remained in service throughout the conflict and saw various roles, including transport and kamikaze missions in its later years.