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N1K2-Ja Shiden-Kai (fixed)

31.9k NecoArcBubbles  9.1 years ago
Auto Credit Based on NecoArcBubbles's N1K2-J (experiment with automatic flaps)

Faster, better maneuverability, and more historically accurate, with more effective and concealed flaps. The Kawanishi N1K Kyofu ("strong wind", Allied reporting name "Rex") was an Imperial Japanese Navy floatplane fighter. The Kawanishi N1K-J Shiden ("Violet Lightning") was an Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service land-based version of the N1K. Assigned the Allied codename "George", the N1K-J was considered by both its pilots and opponents to be one of the finest land-based fighters flown by the Japanese during World War II. The Shiden Kai possessed heavy armament as well as surprisingly good maneuverability, due to a mercury switch that automatically extended the flaps during turns. These "combat" flaps created more lift, thereby allowing tighter turns. Unlike the A6M Zero, the Shiden Kai could compete against the best late-war fighters, such as the F6F Hellcat, the F4U Corsair and P-51 Mustang. Despite such capability, it was produced too late and in insufficient numbers to affect the outcome of the war.

General Characteristics

Performance

  • Horse Power/Weight Ratio 0.217
  • Wing Loading 33.6lbs/ft2 (164.2kg/m2)
  • Wing Area 253.4ft2 (23.5m2)
  • Drag Points 2524

Parts

  • Number of Parts 43
  • Control Surfaces 5
  • Performance Cost 269