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Specifications
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Primary Function:
Crew: Engine: Power: Weight Empty: Max. Weight: Cannons: Machine Guns: Length: Wingspan: Max. Speed: Climb Rate: Ceiling: Range: First Flight: Year Deployed: |
interceptor
one Mitsubishi Radial 1,820 h.p. 5,425 lbs. 8,700 lbs. 4- 20 mm none 32 ft. 8 in. 35 ft. 5 in. 380 mph 3,850 fpm 38,500 feet 650 miles 3/20/42 1943 |
J2M Raiden fighters, produced by Mitsubishi, were the first dedicated Japanese Navy land based interceptor aircraft. The aircraft differed from the design of prior Japanese fighters in that it was produced for speed, high altitude operations, and climbing ability rather than maneuverability.
The J2M Raiden had a streamlined nose, made possible by using an extension shaft from the engine, set back in the aircraft, to the propeller. It had a laminar flow wing, and a retractable tail wheel.
The J2M Raiden first flew in March of 1942, and immediately experienced engine problems which limited performance.
J2M Raiden fighters, fitted with more reliable engines, entered service in limited numbers beginning in December of 1943.
In the closing months of World War II, the J2M Raiden was assigned to defend the Japanese homeland, where it initially proved effective doing high altitude intercepts. It became less effective when American bombers switched to night flights at low altitudes.
A total of 621 J2M Raiden aircraft were produced by Mitsubishi.
The AMA Plans Service has plans for a RC J2M Raiden with a 38 in. wingspan. Plan no. is 1037. Plans are also available in the Jan. 2010 issue of the AMA Magazine.
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