306 replies to this topic

[J311yfish]

Updated screenshots with max-config modules and direct comparison IJN fighters for tiers II-VII

 

At max configuration, tiers II-V resemble the current IJN line, with significant advantage and no major drawbacks --

 

Ki-10 -- comparable to A4N, but with greater roll rate (+20) and dive speed (+30), at the cost of turn rate (+0.3).

Ki-27 -- comparable to A5M, but with greater roll rate (+19), climb rate (+2.2), top speed (+15), optimum speed (+18), optimum altitude (+100), at the cost of turn rate (+0.4).

Ki-43-I -- comparable to A6M1, but with greater roll rate (+43), climb rate (+3.6), top speed (+30), optimum speed (+46), optimum altitude (+300), at the cost of firepower (-26) and turn rate (+0.9).

Ki-43-II -- comparable to A6M2, but with greater roll rate (+51), climb rate (+3.8), top speed (+25), optimum speed (+47), optimum altitude (+350), at the cost of firepower (-33)and turn rate (+0.8).

 

From Tier VI-VII there is no longer much in common with the current IJN line; the greater resemblance is to the Spitfires --

 

Ki-61 -- comparable to Spitfire V, but with greater roll rate (+18), turn rate (-0.3), climb rate (+0.2), stall speed (-10), optimum speed (+29), at the cost of hitpoints (-15), top speed at sea level (-34), top speed at best altitude (-40), and firepower (-32)

Ki-84 -- comparable to Spitfire IX, but with greater roll rate (+21), climb rate (+0.4), optimum speed (+20), dive speed (+50), firepower (+76), at the cost of hitpoints (-5), top speed at sea level (-10), top speed at best altitude (-12), turn rate (+0.4), controllability (-1.9), optimum altitude (-100).

Ki-94-II -- comparable to Spitfire XIV, but with greater roll rate (+19), climb rate (+1.1), optimum speed (+31), dive speed (+50), optimum altitude (+200), hitpoints (+50), at the cost of firepower (-34), top speed at sea level (-9), top speed at best altitude (-11), turn rate (+0.5), and controllability (-1.9).

 

Tier IX-X appear to resemble the Soviets --

 

Ki-162 -- closest analogue is the Yak-19, but with greater roll rate (+13), optimum altitude (+350), turn rate (-1.3), optimum airspeed (+20), at the considerable expense of hitpoints (-40), firepower (-25), top speed at sea level (-45), top speed at best altitude (-2), climb rate (-5.4), dive speed (-25).

Ki-162-III -- closest analogue is the Yak-30, but with greater roll rate (+15), optimum altitude (+300), turn rate (-0.3), optimum airspeed (+7), at the considerable expense of hitpoints (-80), firepower (-18), top speed at sea level (-18), top speed at best altitude (-30), climb rate (-5.0).

 

These numbers do not tell the whole story -- absent are figures such as engine/weapon cooling for example -- but this gives a fair place to start for planning pilots and equipment.  If the Ki-162 and Ki-162-III's 2x30mm's resemble those of the J8M then they may have a quick refresh.  On paper the Ki-162's appear to be vulnerable and limited, but there may be some unrevealed qualities, such as engine boost, for hidden advantage.

Edited by J311yfish, 21 July 2016 - 08:55 PM.

[pyantoryng]

Spitfires with 3cm cannons you say? Sounds interesting...

[J311yfish]

 

Update 1.9.5.3 Announcement

China

 Ki-43-Ic: significantly increased its dynamics, manoeuvrability, and weapon accuracy. Durability was reduced.

 

Ki-43-Ic pre-patch / Ki-43-Ic post-patch

Edited by J311yfish, 12 June 2017 - 07:53 AM.

[J311yfish]

J311yfish, on 06 November 2014 - 02:52 PM, said:

Degrees of fiction:

If fiction is necessary in order to fill essential tiers for cohesive gameplay, then it might help to identify the challenges by degrees:

 

0) Fiction

  0.1) Project not conceived; zero historical basis (Ex: Flying Spaghetti Monster)

1) Project 

  1.0) Project conceived, but so little information exists that rendering it in a manner true to history might prove extremely complicated, unbelievable, or unnecessary

  1.1) Project conceived -- a "napkin concept" but no significant data or proven design; project terminated in early design stage (A8M, B8A, Ki-162, Yokosuka Tenga)

  1.2) Project conceived and designed -- late design stage but for whatever reason (B-29's, material shortage, engine challenges, end of war, etc.) did not proceed (Ki-202/J8M3, J7W2, Kayaba Katsuodori, Ki-73, Ki-119, R2Y2, J4M4)

  1.3) Project proceeded to wind tunnel but stopped there (J4M1)

  1.4) Project proceeded to mockup but stopped there (Ki-88, Ki-94-I)

2) Prototype

  2.0) Prototype incomplete, abandoned in favor of other projects (Ki-66, J3K, J6K)

  2.1) Prototype incomplete, but in progress at war end (Ki-200, S1A, Ki-201)

  2.2) Prototype completed, but not evaluated (Ki-93, Ki-94-II; Ki-98 destroyed to prevent capture)

  2.3) Prototype proceeded to flight trials, results not favorable (J5N)

  2.4) Prototype proceeded to flight trials, other complication (Ki-64,  Ki-87, J8M1, Kikka); or results unknown (Ki-93)

  2.5) Prototype proceeded to flight trials, results favorable (Ki-83)

3) Production

  3.0) Production planned (A7M, J8M2, J7W1, Ki-87, Kikka); A7M made to fly with only 3 actual pictures in existence (source)

  3.1) Production occurred, but chaotic/dispersed (Ki-84 late variants, Kikka)

  3.2) Production occurred, organized/centralized

4) Postwar

  4.1) Postwar evaluation by Americans, not favorable as a prize of war (Ki-78 destroyed at Gifu)

  4.2) Postwar evaluation by Americans, favorable as a prize of war (Ki-83, Kikka, others brought back to U.S. for further study)

  4.3) Postwar flight evaluation in United States, not favorable

  4.4) Postwar flight evaluation in United States, favorable (Ki-83, others); flight data at National Air and Space Museum Archives

5) Fiction

  5.0) Project not conceived but stems logically from an established premise (Ex: J7W3, R2Y3, Ki-201 KAI) -- this is easier and more believable than 0.1, 1.0 and 1.1 above.

 

 

​Given the degrees of fiction identified above, and discussion of the IJA line to be released next month, the Tachikawa Ki-162 and Ki-162-3 are best characterized as 1.1 and 5.0 fictions, respectively.

[J311yfish]

Updated to account for the new IJA fighters, and related implications.  Discussion below.

 

 

This update has made it possible to estimate other lines with greater clarity.  Here are some bullets on that:

-- The treatment of Ki-162-I and III has made it possible to imagine (with greater liberty) an alternate history in which the height of Japanese power is carried forward from 1942 (like World of Warships).  In this imagined world, the IJA is successful with their point-defense interceptor program (Ki-44, Kayaba Katsuorodi ramjet, Ki-200/202 rockets), the Kikka and R2Y2 are produced for the Navy for bomb delivery, and the Army's attack aircraft are continued with a larger Me 262 analogue, the Ki-201 Karyu (Fire Dragon).

-- I have been on the fence for some time about whether or not the twin-engine aircraft of the IJA are to be considered "heavy fighters" or "attack" aircraft, and I think that it is more likely to be the latter.  Operational and development histories lean that way despite use as night fighters on occasion.

-- At this point I suspect that there will not be a true line of heavy fighters because it involves a stringing together of prototypes such as Ki-64 and Ki-83.  There could be some great premiums however.

-- Kawasaki line is no longer strained by the gap at tier IV, and aircraft not utilized are now potential premiums (some listed above).

-- There are other premium opportunities not included above, such as captured aircraft, and foreign aircraft evaluated prior to the war.

-- D3A gets stretched like A6M and Ki-43, which is true, but it might be possible also to use the D3N (rejected competitor of D3A) in place of D3A2 because it had retractable wheels and was used throughout the war as a testbed for engines including Sakae and Homare.

-- Ki-61 uses a licensed production of the DB 601 engine, as does the D4Y, so it is appropriate for them to be at the same tier.  This also makes it possible to work on Italy with greater clarity.

-- J2M considered the D4Y's engine before deciding to go radial, so placement at tier VI (next to D4Y, after Ki-44, and before N1K2-J which eclipses it) is appropriate.

-- B7A counterpart to A7M, both using Homare engine like Ki-84; this supposes an alternate history in which carriers were not destroyed (in our timeline the B7A was confined to land).

-- There is still some ambiguity surrounding the Kikka.  I am going to leave it as multirole following N1K2-J until placement becomes more obvious.

Edited by J311yfish, 02 October 2016 - 01:55 PM.

[J311yfish]

Developer Blog - Flying Samurai - Tiers II-V -- Tiers VI-X

[J311yfish]

J311yfish, on 09 December 2015 - 04:47 AM, said:

121,315 views since creation 34 months ago = 3568 views/month = 120 views/day = 5 views/hour average over the lifetime of the thread.

 

 

182,840 views since creation 02/24/2014 as of 03/13/2017 = 1,112 days = 164 views/day = 6.85 views/hour average over the lifetime of the thread.

[J311yfish]

Tachikawa Ki-94-I added to the game:

-- Update 1.9.9.2 news

-- in-game specifications

-- official 3-view drawings and mock-up pictures by late designer Tatsuo Hasegawa

[J311yfish]

Bomber Progression ​-- 2-6 engines -- all are 2-engine unless otherwise specified

-- Imperial Japanese Navy (dark blue)

-- Imperial Japanese Army (dark green)

-- experimental or not adopted (light gray)

 

Tier II

 

Hiro G2H -- (04/1933) -- Navy Type 95 Land-Based Attack Aircraft -- Jun Okamura, Misao Wada

Hiro G2H    Navy Type 95 Land-Based Attack Aircraft    (Navy Experimental 7-Shi Attack Aircraft)
1933                G2H1            2x Hiro Type 94  900hp liquid-cooled    (scaled-up version of Type 90 600hp; most powerful  at time)
    2x Hiro Type 94-1 900-1180hp 18-cylinder W-type water-cooled engines (4-bladed wooden propellers)
    1x 7.7mm (N) flexible
    2x7.7mm dorsal retractable turret
    1x7.7mm ventral retractable turret
    6x250kg or 4x400kg
    Span    31.68m
    Length    20.15m
    Height    6.28m
    Wing area    140m^2
    Empty    7567kg
    Loaded    11000kg
    Wing loading     78.5kg/m^2
    Power loading 6.11kg/hp
    9:30 to 3000m
    Ceiling 5130m
    Range 1080-1557nm

Data: Mikesh

 

-- Specification issued 1932 by RADM Isoroku Yamamoto, Chief of Engineering Department, Naval Air Headquarters​; to supplement naval power in order to overcome restrictions of London (Disarmament) Treaty of 1930. (Mikesh, 100)

-- Hiro was selected as manufacturer because it was the most experienced with all-metal large aircraft​ at that time. (Mikesh, 100)

-- Chief designer = LCDR Jun Okamura, chief engineer; previously designed Type 91 flying boat project (Mikesh, 100); assisted by Misao Wada.  (Francillon)

-- “Structurally … combination of traditional Wagner diagonal tension-field structure and a slender fuselage of monocoque construction … ailerons were of the Junkers double-wing variety … cylindrical belly gun turret … [carried over to Mitsubishi G3M Nell].” (Mikesh, 100)

-- “largest land-based airplane in the Navy at that time, second only to Army’s Ki-20 of the Junkers-G 38 design … yet first of such large size to be designed from the beginning as a land-based attack bomber.  With 2 engines, its wing span was … marginally bigger than the 4-engined Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress…" (Mikesh)

-- Prototype complete [04/29/1933] at Hiro Arsenal; moved by ship to Yokosuka; first flight mid-May 1933.​ (Mikesh, 100)

-- Test pilots LCDR Shinnosukie Muneyuki and LCDR Toshihiko Osahara, both of the Flight Experiment Group of the Yokosuka Kokutai; flown to Kasumigaura Air Base where testing took place … outstanding performance ... [officially accepted 06/1936, same time as G3M1].​ (Mikesh, 100)

-- 6 built by Hiro, before transfer of production to Mitsubishi; 2 by Mitsubishi before cancellation in favor of G3M. (Mikesh, 100)

-- "The Hiro Arsenal created this twin-engine airplane based upon its experience in designing and building large all-metal flying-boats ... Because of its anticipated potential, the bomber was put into production at Hiro and a production contract was also given to Mitsubishi.  By now, Mitsubishi also had experience with large bombers through its Army Type 92 and Type 93 Heavy bomber (Ki-20 and Ki-1 respectively).  When awarded the contract to build the Type 95 Land-based Attack Aircraft in 1935, Mitsubishi was well advanced in the development stages of the Type 96 Land-based Attack Aircraft, G3M (Nell), which soon proved more practical.  As a result, production by Mitsubishi terminated after completing two ... Hiro had produced six.  Aircraft from both manufacturers were known as the G2H1." (Mikesh, 175)

-- considered to be a second-line aircraft by 04/1936 (Mikesh, 100-101); after heavy losses of G3M's 08/1937, supported ground forces in Shanghai area 09/1937; all remaining G2H's destroyed October 24 1937 due to uncontrolled engine fire that triggered detonation of loaded ordinance. (Mikesh, 101)

-- "Thus, Hirosho closed its impressive history of all-metal aircraft development.  Its refinement of the technology, with improvements over the imported Rohrbach designs, was passed to Mitsubishi which led to its success with the [what would become A5M, G3M], and brought Japanese aeronautical engineering capability to Western levels.  Once this success was recognized, the new technology spread to all other Japanese aircraft manufacturers, for both the Army and Navy." (Mikesh, 101)

-- After this aircraft, responsibility for development of new aircraft was transferred to Kugisho. (Mikesh, 101)

 

 

Mitsubishi Ki-20 -- (__/1932) -- Army Type 92 Heavy Bomber -- retroactive designation due to extreme secrecy -- Nobushiro Nakata

 

-- "In terms of wing area the Ki-20 was the largest aircraft ever built in Japan." (Mikesh, 183)

-- "In order to meet an Army order to manufacture a bomber version of the [Junkers G 38], Mitsubishi entered into a contract with Junkers in [09/1928] to obtain design data, working drawings, manufacturing technique and production rights.  Germany at that time was forbidden to build military aircraft ... [but the G 38 passenger aircraft] could be converted into a bomber for export [as K 51]... Accordingly, the Junkers K 51 design became ... the Ki-20, a retroactive designation made long after its existence ... This Junkers technology introduced Mitsubishi to entirely new design and manufacturing methods." (Mikesh, 182)

-- design team sent to Germany in 1928 to study and prepare for manufacture in Japan; equipment purchased 04/1930; team of engineers from Germany sent to Japan to assist. (Mikesh, 182)

-- chief designer Nobushiro Nakata; assisted by Kyonosuke Ohki; engineer Yonezo Mitsunawa; chief mechanic Tsunetaro Ishihama; IJA representative Col Kozumi; assisted by engineers Kuranishi, Ando, Lt Matsumura. (Mikesh, 182)

-- "...the first and second aircraft were built with [components from Germany] ... the third to sixth relied more on the use components built in Japan ... Basically, the [Ki-20's] were almost identical to the Junkers K 51, but gun turrets, both upper and lower, were added at the wing trailing edge, the upper turrets blending into the rear portions of the two outboard engine nacelles.  These were enormous aircraft for their day, with a huge bat-like wing which spanned nearly 1 meter more than the Boeing B-29 Superfortress.  The wing area was almost double that of the B-29.  Its non-retractable undercarriage consisted of dual tandem wheels on each side.  Because the design was based on a transport airplane, bombs were carried externally." (Mikesh, 182)

-- first aircraft completed 1931; flown under extreme secrecy. (Mikesh, 182)

-- engines used: Junkers 88 800hp (1st to 4th aircraft); Junkers 204 diesel 750hp (5th and 6th aircraft); a combination thereof inboard/outboard to total 4 engines; Kawasaki Ha-9 engine trialed before determination made that Ki-20 was obsolete. (Mikesh, 182-183)

 

 

Mitsubishi Ki-1 -- (__/1933) -- Army Type 93 Heavy Bomber -- Nobushiro Nakata

 

-- "In [02/1931], a Junkers K 37 was imported from Swedish-Junkers and donated to the Army [as a patriotic gift] ... flown in combat in Manchuria where it showed a remarkable performance.  Impressed ... the Army issued specifications [04/1932] exclusively to Mitsubishi for a new heavy bomber on similar lines to the K 37 to replace the ageing Kawasaki Type 87 (Do N) Heavy Bomber ... The new airplane, to be the Type 93 Heavy Bomber, was to be a twin-engine monoplane with 800hp engines, and able to have inflight single-engine capability.  Bomb load [1,000 kg or 1,500 kg with reduced fuel load], and gross weight to be [<7,500 kg].  Operational altitude [to be 2,000-4,000 m] with a maximum speed in level flight [>240 km/h @ 3000 m].  Armament was to consist of [3x7.7mm flexible].  Two prototypes to be built [by end of 03/1933]." (Mikesh, 183)

-- "A special feature for this design would be the dispersal of fuel tanks throughout the airframe so that any one enemy bullet would not affect the entire fuel system." (Mikesh, 184)

-- "As with the Ki-20, Nobushiro Nakata was chief designer for this project.  Assisting him were Kiro Honjo, Hisanojo Ozawa and Jiro Tanaka.  Capt Komamura was the Army representative assigned to Mitsubishi to oversee the design, manufacture, delivery and acceptance of the new bomber." (Mikesh, 184)

-- mockup evaluated 09/1932; first prototype completed by 03/1933; delays in development of 2x Mitsubishi Type 93 700hp water-cooled engines led to import of 2x Rolls-Royce Buzzard 800hp; adopted as Type 93 (later Type 93-I) Heavy Bomber (Ki-1-I). (Mikesh, 184)

-- "... the 71st aircraft was assigned for extensive modification which resulted in later aircraft being designated Type 93-2 Heavy Bomber (Ki-1-II).  Major changes included placing the engines lower on the wing and as a result the undercarriage had to be extended and streamlined with a trouser-type fairing.  The cockpit canopy was extended to include the rear gunner's position.  Smooth skin replaced some of the corrugated panes on the outer wings, and a landing light was installed in a fairing which added streamlining for the externally-mounted bombs." (Mikesh, 184)

-- not well liked by crews in Manchuria; they preferred the Type 93 Twin-Engine Light Bomber. (Mikesh, 184)

-- remained in production until the Ki-21 ["Sally"] Type 97 Heavy Bomber was conceived in 1936; Army purchased ~100 Fiat BR.20's as interim aircraft. (Mikesh, 194)

 

 

Mitsubishi Ki-2 -- (05/1933+) -- Army Type 93 Twin-Engine Light Bomber -- Nobushiro Nakata

 

-- "In close association with [Ki-1], the Army was interested in developing a twin-engine light bomber that was also based upon the qualities observed in the Swedish-built Junkers K 37.  During the K 37's participation in combat in Manchuria in support of ground troops, its performance proved superior to that of the Mitsubishi Type 87 and the Kawasaki Type 88 Light Bombers.  To replace these older airplanes, in [09/1932] the Army asked Mitsubishi to redesign the K 37 to meet specific requirements [for what would become the Ki-2] ... The design team remained that of the K-1 project, Nobushiro Nakata as chief designer, assisted by Kiro Honjo, Hisanojo Ozawa, and Jiro Tanaka.  Capt Komabayashi continued his liaison for the Army." (Mikesh, 184-185)

-- "This new light bomber was to have a crew of 3 or 4 and be very maneuverable, especially in tight turns.  With one engine inoperative, it was not only to be able to maintain straight and level flight but be turned into the operative engine, a maneuver not easily made with asymmetrical power during this early period of twin-engine airplanes.  Ease of handling in night landings and take offs as well as daytime operations would be a strong consideration.  Maximum speed should be 260 km/h @ 3000m.  Fuel capacity should allow for a 4.5 hr flight @ 240 km/h @ 3000m with a 300-500 kg bomb load, or 6 hr at the same speed without a bomb load.  Normal operating altitude [2000-3000m; service ceiling 7000m].  The engines were to be the 450hp Jupiter.  Two prototypes of the new bomber were asked for, the first to be completed by [07/1933] (Mikesh, 185)

-- [development details and considerations] (Mikesh, 185)

-- 1st prototype completed [05/1933]; achieved 255 km/h @ 3000m; [modifications]; entered production as Army Type 93-1 Twin-Engine Light Bomber (Ki-2-I); total 113 built by 1936. (Mikesh, 185)

-- revision [Ki-2-II] produced as of 1936 with Type 94 550hp engines replacing the Jupiter 450hp engines; undercarriage now retractable; sliding canopy; some with ball-turret-like cover for nose gunner position; replacement of some corrugated panels with smooth skin; landing light; 20x15kg internal bomb bay; max speed increased by ~30 km/h. (Mikesh, 185)

-- used mainly in northern China and Manchuria during the Sino-Japanese conflict. (Mikesh, 185)

-- Performance considered to be superior to the Ki-1 and Ki-3. (Mikesh, 185-186)

-- the last Japanese aircraft to have corrugated skinning. (Mikesh, 186)

 

 

Edited by J311yfish, 18 July 2021 - 07:35 PM.

[J311yfish]

Tier III

 

Mitsubishi G3M Rikko ​-- "Nell"  ​(04/1934) -- Navy Type 96 Land-Based Attack Aircraft

First Flight / Production	Airframe	Engine	Speed	Armament	Bombs
(FF 04/1934)	Ka-9	2x Hiro Type 91 500hp
2 prototypes​ (1935-1936)	Ka-15	2x Hiro Type 91  750hp​ (4-blade)
		2x Mitsubishi Kinsei 2  830hp (4-blade)
		2x Mitsubishi Kinsei 3  910hp (4-blade)
34 production (1936-1937)	G3M1a (solid nose)	2x Hiro Type 01
	G3M1b (solid nose)	2x Mitsubishi Kinsei 3  910hp (4-blade)
	G3M1c (solid nose)	not specified
343 (1937-1939)	G3M2 Model 21	2x Mitsubishi Kinsei 41 or 42  1075hp; 990hp @ 2800m (3-blade)
		2x Mitsubishi Kinsei 45  1075hp; 1000hp @ 4200m​ (3-blade)
238 (1939-1941)	G3M2 Model 22
412 by Nakajima (1941-1943)	G3M2 Model 22
(1941-1943)	G3M3	2x Mitsubishi Kinsei 51*  1300hp (3-blade)
Transport versions	L3Y1 (from G3M1)	2x Kinsei 3		1x7.7mm only
	L3Y2 (from G3M2)	2x Kinsei 45		1x7.7mm only

Data: Francillon     *Francillon in text calls it “Kinsei 53”

 

Notes:

-- Experience from Ki-1 and  Ki-2 twin-engine bombers;  and Ki-20 four-engine bomber
-- Ka-9 design team led by Sueo Honjo as chief designer, Tomio Kubo and Nobuhiko Kusabake; test pilot Yoshitaka Kajima (Francillon)
-- Ka-15 design team now led by Jiro Honjo; FF @ Kagamigahara Airfield, Gifu Prefecture; Mitsubishi test pilot Yoshitaka Kajima and LT Sada of IJN.
-- Exceptionally clean airframe with best features of unsuccessful G2H1; Junkers double-wing concept.
-- G3M1 the first Japanese aircraft with retractable undercarriage to be placed in production.
-- G3M2 new dorsal turrets of two different designs; G3M2 Model 21 rear upper turret replaced by a large “turtle back” turret housing a 20mm Type 99 Model 1 cannon (Francillon, 7); also characteristic of Model 22 and Model 23 G3M’s (Francillon, 10 image).
-- First transoceanic bombing raid.
-- Lack of petrol tank protection = flammable.
-- Remained in front-line service until late 1943; supplanted by G4M.
-- Later used as transports L3Y1/2, trainers, MXY5 glider tug, maritime recon w/ search radar, “green cross” flights (surrender)

 

 

Mitsubishi Ki-21​ -- "Sally"  (12/1936) -- ​Army Type 97 Heavy Bomber

First Flight / Production	Airframe / Variant	Engine	Speed	Armament	Bombs
	Ki-21-I	2x Nakajima Ha-5  950hp
	Ki-21-II	2x Mitsubishi Kinsei Ha-101  1500hp
	Ki-57-I transport	2x Nakajima Ha-5 Kai  950hp		no defensive armament
	Ki-57-II transport	2x Mitsubishi Zuisei Ha-102  1080hp		no defensive armament

 

2x Nakajima Ha-5  950hp = engine based on Kotobuki, no higher than III  
2x Mitsubishi Zuisei Ha-102  1080hp = A6M1 = Ki-45 KAIb/d = Tier V

 

-- Ki-21-II essentially compensated for the Nakajima Ki-49 which was considered to be a poor replacement for Ki-21; ultimately replaced by Mitsubishi Ki-67.
-- 11/1939 Ki-21-Ic modified to use Mitsubishi Ha-101’s … nacelles, tail surfaces, dorsal contour, defensive armament; 12.7mm conical turret bicycle-powered; small equipment changes, improved petrol protection; further changes 16mm armor plates in front of the first pilot and behind the dorsal gunner and with a 12.5mm armor plate protecting the back and head of the first pilot; last delivered 09/1944, almost 8 years after first Ki-21!

 

 

Nakajima LB-2 -- (03/1936+) -- Experimental LB-2 Long-Range Attack Aircraft -- Ken-ichi Matsumura

 

-- "[single prototype] completed a the Ohta plant and [evaluated by IJN].  By this time, the Mitsubishi G3 held the Navy's interest ... Nakajima's LB-2 was not accepted ..." (Mikesh, 235)

-- "Chief designer ... Ken-Ichi Matsumura [co-designer of the later Nakajima Kikka] and this was the first all-metal twin-engine monoplane designed by Nakajima ... similar in appearance to the Douglas B-18 and B-23, but had a more tapered wing.  The influence of Douglas and Northrop designs was apparent in the wing to center section attachment technique using an external flange covered with a fairing.  The center and outer wing panels of ALC17ST aluminum with a B-2209/2218 airfoil employed the structural design of the Douglas wing, particularly in having three center-section spars that continued through the fuselage.  This provided space for the fuel tanks within these wing compartments. The undercarriage was a close match to that of the DC-2 but the weights of the two fuselages were nearly the same.  This is an indication of the quickly learned practical weight-saving technique that was applied by Nakajima engineers in this design.  Flexible gun turrets were located at the top and center of the fuselage, and one retractable gun station was in the underside behind the door."  (Mikesh, 235)

-- after rejection of the prototype, entered civilian service as a transport in Manchuria; finally scrapped ~1941. (Mikesh, 235)

 

Nakajima Ki-19 -- (~03/1937) -- Experimental Heavy Bomber -- Ken-ichi Matsumura, Setsuro Nishimura, Toshio Matsuda

 

First Flight / Production	Airframe / Variant	Engine	Speed	Armament	Bombs
(FF ~03/1937) 2	Ki-19 prototype 1 and 2	2x Nakajima Ha-5 850hp	351.8 km/h max 300 km/h cruise
1937-1938	Ki-19 prototype 3 and 4	2x Mitsubishi Ha-6 825

Data: Francillon, Mikesh

 

-- "... Army contracted [with Nakajima and Mitsubishi] to develop a modern heavy bomber to replace [Mitsubishi Ki-1]. // Among the requirements issued 02/1936 were: maximum speed 216kt at 3,000m; climb to that altitude in less than 8 minutes; take off in less than 300m; normal operating altitude from 2,000m to 4,000m; and endurance of more than 5 hours at 162kt at 3,000m ... Minimum bomb load for short-range missions was to be 1,000kg with a variety of load configurations.  Loaded ... weight of less than 6,400kg ... crew of from 4-6; engines to be either the Nakajima Ha-5 or Mitsubishi Ha-6; and 3 gun positions (nose, dorsal, and ventral, each with [1x7.7mm flex]).  The Hi-2 (Type 94) or Hi-5 radio, and other details were also specified." (Mikesh, 221)

-- "... design team were Ken-ichi Matsumura as chief designer [co-designer of the later Nakajima Kikka], assisted by Setsuro Nishimura and Toshio Matsuda, all of whom had previous twin-engined design experience on the Nakajima DC-2 commercial airliner project, and the short-lived LB-2 long-range attack bomber project for the Navy.  Embodying the latest innovations in bomber design ... bomb bay within a very streamlined fuselage ... cantilever wing was mounted at mid-level on the fuselage, and a Douglas-type hydraulically-operated retractable undercarriage and split-flaps were used." (Mikesh, 221)

-- "Designed to a 1935 specification calling for a twin-engine heavy bomber, four Ki-19 prototypes were built by Nakajima to compete with the Mitsubishi Ki-21. After competitive trials, the Ki-21 having been adopted by the Army, the four Ki-19's were used by Nakajima for various tests.  In [04/1939], the fourth prototype was soled to [Domei Press] as the N-19 communications aircraft and registered J-BACN." (Francillon, 487)

-- competed against Mitsubishi Ki-21 (selected), and Kawasaki Ki-22 (not selected); lost to Mitsubishi Ki-21 (Francillon, 4)

-- "Between [03/1937 and 05/1937], these two aircraft [first two Ki-21 prototypes] were pitted against the first two Ha-5 powered Nakajima Ki-19's in competitive trials held at Tachikawa Air Base.  The Ki-21 revealed itself somewhat faster than its Nakajima rival and had the added advantage of a lighter wing loading but the Ki-19 had more pleasant flight characteristics and the [IJA] appeared to favor its Nakajima Ha-5 engines over the Mitsubishi Ha-6 engines of the Ki-21.  Bombing tests were held in [06/1937] at Hamamatsu and during these tests the Mitsubishi proved inferior to the Ki-19 as it offered a less stable bombing platform.  However, the superior performance of the Mitsubishi design ... [further competition between the prototypes after switching engines] ... Thus modified, the Ki-21 won easily the competition against the [Ki-19] and, in [11/1937], the [IJA] signed a contract with Mitsubishi for the production of ... Army Type 97 Heavy Bomber Model 1." (Francillon, 4-5)

-- 1st and 2nd prototypes: 2xNakajima Ha-5 850hp -- 350 km/h -- range 4000km (Francillon, 487)

-- 3rd and 4th prototypes: 2xMitsubishi Ha-6 825 (Francillon, 487; Francillon, 4)

-- span 22m, length 15m, loaded weight 7150kg (Francillon, 487)

 

 

Edited by J311yfish, 02 January 2022 - 07:21 PM.

[J311yfish]

Tier IV

 

Mitsubishi G3M2 -- ​(__/1939+)

 

-- see progression from G3M above

 

 

Mitsubishi Ki-21-II ​-- (03/1940)

 

-- see progression from Ki-21 above

 

 

Kawasaki Ki-48 ​-- (07/1939+) -- Army Type 99 Twin-Engine Light Bomber

4 prototype    (1939)            Ki-48        2x Nakajima Sakae Ha-25  1000hp            = Ki-43 = Tier IV
5 pre-prod    (1940)            Ki-48        2x Nakajima Sakae Ha-25  1000hp
557 production    (07/1940-06/1942)    Ki-48        2x Nakajima Sakae Ha-25  1000hp
3 prototypes    (02/1942)        Ki-48-II        2xNakajima Sakae Ha-115  1130hp
1408 prod    (04/1942-10/1944)    Ki-48-II        2xNakajima Sakae Ha-115  1130hp
Incomplete                Ki-81        (heavily armored for formation leaders)
Incomplete                Ki-174        (special attack aircraft)

 

-- Kawasaki Ki-48        spec 12/1937; complete 07/1939; 

-- Used to test experimental Ne-0 turbojet.

-- Used to test Kawasaki I-Go-1-B air-to-ground radio-guided missile; to be used on Ki-102.

 

Edited by J311yfish, 25 June 2017 - 08:39 PM.

[J311yfish]

Tier V

 

Mitsubishi G4M1 -- ​"Betty"​  ​(10/1939) -- Navy Type 1 Land-Based Attack Aircraft

2x Mitsubishi MK4A Kasei 11  1530hp (3-blade)
2x Mitsubishi MK4E Kasei 15  1530hp (3-blade)
2x Mitsubishi MK4P Kasei 21  1800hp w-m (4-blade)    1410hp @ 4800m
2x Mitsubishi MK4T Kasei 25  1825hp            1540hp @ 5500m
2x Mitsubishi MK4T-B Kasei 25b  1825hp
2x Mitsubishi MK4T-B Ru Kasei 25b  1825hp        1500hp @ 7200m
2x Mitsubishi MK4V Kasei 27  1795hp            1480hp @ 6580m

 

Mitsubishi G4M  = J2M = Tier V​

 

-- Japan produced no 4-engine bombers and instead relied on 7 different twin-engine bombers; G4M production counted for approximately 25% of them.
-- Spec issued 09/1937 after realization that G3M active less than 3 months lacked defensive armament.
-- Mitsubishi design team led by engineers Honjo, Hikeda, and Kushibe; work began end of 1937; leader Kiro Honjo; some engineers transferred from his team to the group responsible for Jiro Horikoshi’s zero fighter; mockup complete 08/1938; cigar-shaped fuselage; whereas G3M carried bombs externally, G4M carried in ventral bomb-bay beneath mid-mounted wings; prototype construction authorized 09/1938 implied; 1st prototype complete 09/1939 at Mitsubishi’s 3rd Airframe Works at Oe-Machi, Nagoya; flight tests began 10/23/1939 at Kasumigaura Airfield; test pilot Katsuzo Shima; service trials at Yokosuka; 2nd prototype 02/1940.
--  IJN planner disagreement led to creation of some Mitsubishi G6M1 (Navy Type 1 Wingtip Convoy Fighter); 30 produced; to escort the G3M2’s instead, which they said they needed.
-- G6M1:  20mm hand-held cannon instead of side blisters; ventral gondola w/ 1x20mm forward and 1x20mm rear Type 99 Model 1; dorsal machine gun of G4M1 discarded;  too heavy despite 25% reduction in fuel; performance disappointing; lesson learned = escort fighters derived from bomber airframes were unable to maintain formation after the bombers dropped their bombs; converted to land trainers as G6M1-K and transport as G6M1-L2.
-- Fuel tank protection introduced with Model 21 that used MK4E Kasei 15. (Francillon)
--  G7M1 Taizan (Great Mountain) initiated 1941 but expected to take several years so Navy instructed Mitsubishi to develop G4M2 as stopgap until G7M1 and four-engined G8N1 Renzan (Mountain Range); neither entered service so G4M2 became the standard attack bomber.
-- G4M2: new bomb aimer window; MK4P Kasei 21 with water-methanol injection rated at 1800hp at takeoff (4-blade props).
-- NEW LAMINAR FLOW WING ADOPTED! 20mm Type 99 1 power-operated dorsal turret!
-- Production delayed on account of Kasei 21 engines.
-- G4M2e Model 24J to carry the Ohka Model 11 suicide attacker
-- G4M3: third new set of wings; engineers Takahashi and Kuroiwa; emphasis on petrol tank protection; armor plating introduced; single-spar construction rather than two-spar; dihedral on horizontal tail surfaces.
-- Yamamoto’s G4M1 shot down April 13 1943 by P-38’s.
-- Ohka Model 11 = the only model to be used operationally; 155 + 600 produced.
-- “G4M = backbone of the Japanese bomber force during the Pacific War” (Francillon’s conclusion)

 

 

Nakajima Ki-49 Donryu ​-- "Helen"  (08/1939) -- Army Type 100 Heavy Bomber -- T. Koyama, HIdeo Itokawa, Dr. Setsuro

Nakajima Ki-49        FF 08/1939
3 prototypes    (summer 1939)        Ki-49        2x Nakajima Ha-5 KAI  950hp    1080hp @ 4000m
7 pre-prod    (01-12/1940)        Ki-49        2x Nakajima Ha-41  1250hp    1260hp @ 3700m
129         (08/1941-08/1942)    Ki-49-I        2x Nakajima Ha-41  1250hp    1260hp @ 3700m    = Ki-44-I = Tier V
2 prototypes    (08-09/1942)        Ki-49-II        2x Nakajima Ha-109  1500hp    1300hp @ 5280m    = Ki-44-II = Tier V
617        (09/1942-12/1944)    Ki-49-II        2x Nakajima Ha-109  1500hp    1300hp @ 5280m
50 Tachikawa    (01/1943-01/1944)    Ki-49-II        2x Nakajima Ha-109  1500hp    1300hp @ 5280m    
6 prototypes    (03/1943-12/1943)    Ki-49-III        2x Nakajima Ha-117  2420hp    2250hp @ 4900m
3 prototypes    (12/1940-03/1941)    Ki-58        2x Nakajima Ha-109  1500hp    1300hp @ 5280m
2 prototypes    (10/1941)        Ki-80        2x Nakajima Ha-117  2420hp    2250hp @ 4900m

 

-- Replacement for Mitsubishi Ki-21; some knowledge from Mitsubishi Ki-21 because Nakajima had produced some
-- Senior engineers Nishimura, Itokawa, T.Koyama; Koyama appointed project leader
-- First army bomber to be equipped with a tail turret
-- 75mm hunter/killer pair; disappointing performance
-- Ki-58 = escort fighter version; bomb-bay sealed and replaced by ventral gondola, better armor, armament; to fly on flanks; abandoned after Ki-43 able.
-- Ki-80 = formation leader version; cancelled; used as testbed for Ha-117.
-- Ki-82 = Fall 1941 Army approved rework of Ki-49 to compete with Ki-67; smaller/lighter; abandoned mid-1942 (Bueschel on Ki-67, page 10)

 

 

Edited by J311yfish, 08 January 2022 - 01:15 PM.

[J311yfish]

Tier VI

 

Mitsubishi G4M2 -- (11/1942)

 

-- see progression from G4M above

 

 

Nakajima G5N Shinzan​ -- "Liz"  (04/1941; cancelled 05/1943) -- Experimental 13-Shi Land-Based Attack Aircraft

 

4 prototypes -- G5N1 -- 4x Nakajima NK7A Mamoru 11  1870hp -- 1600hp @ 4900m
2 prototypes -- G5N2 -- 4x Mitsubishi Kasei 12  1530hp -- 1380hp @ 4100m

0 produced -- Ki-68 -- 4x Mitsubishi Ha-101 or Nakajima Ha-103

0 produced -- Ki-85 -- 4x Mitsubishi Ha-111M

 

Data: Francillon, Dyer

 

-- prototype first flight 04/10/1941 (Dyer, 14)

-- design based upon acquired Douglas DC-4E four-engine airliner; used landing gear layout, wing design, radial engine fittings; new fuselage, tail design, bomb bay. (Dyer, 14)

-- the IJA planned to produce the G5N as well (with IJA designation); Nakajima Ki-68 version to use Mitsubishi Ha-101 or Nakajima Ha-103 engines; Kawasaki Ki-85 version to use Mitsubishi Ha-111M engines.  (Dyer, 14)

-- Kawasaki Ki-85 mockup constructed 11/1942. (Dyer, 14)

-- G5N project finally cancelled 05/1943. With no 4-engine bombers in development, Kawasaki started again with the Kawasaki Ki-91. (Dyer, 14-15)

-- "The vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean stimulated the development of a heavy 4-engined bomber for the Navy. The first attempt was based on the design of the original Douglas DC-4 airliner, which was renamed the DC-4E after the prototype of this aircraft proved a failure and was sold to Japan. (Douglas later designed a different aircraft and put this in production as the DC-4.)  Nakajima based its G5N Shinzan ('Liz') bomber on this aircraft, and there can be no doubt that this was an unwise decision, for this too was a failure. The aircraft had 20mm Type 99-1 cannon in the tail position and the dorsal turret, and 7.7mm Type 97 machine-guns in the nose, the ventral fairing, and 2 waist windows.  After the cancellation of the project the dorsal turret was used on some J1Ns." (Williams & Gustin, 190-191)

 

 

Mitsubishi G7M Taizan -- (cancelled summer 1943)

 

-- originally envisioned as a 4-engine strategic bomber, however the 4-engine approach was rejected in favor of 2-engines; halted for comparison to Kawanishi K-100; neither accepted; specification ultimately met by Nakajima G8N1. (Dyer, 91-92)

 

Edited by J311yfish, 17 November 2018 - 11:21 PM.

[J311yfish]

Tier VII

 

Mitsubishi Ki-67 Hiryu​ -- "Peggy"  (12/1942) -- Army Type 4 Heavy Bomber

698 total        Ki-67    2x Mitsubishi Ha-104  1900hp        1610hp @ 6100m
606 Mitsubishi            2x Mitsubishi Ha-214 2400hp        1930hp @ 8300m    = Ki-93 = Tier VIII
91 Kawasaki            2x Mitsubishi Ha-104 Ru  1900hp    1810hp @ 7360m
1 Tachikawa
0 Nippon … (assembly only)
-- Ki-69 bomber escort project; heavy weapons to be mounted below bomb-bay position
--  Ki-97 transport to replace Ki-57-II; terminated after mockup 1945 to concentrate on defense weapons (Bueschel, 38).
-- Ki-109a/b hunter killer project; Ki-109a with 2x 37mm Ho-203 oblique; Ki-109b with 40cm searchlight; idea dropped as B-29’s during day.
-- Ki-109 reboot 01/1944; approved Feb 20 1944; (B-29’s 06/1944); prototype 10901 completed 08/1944; unit formed 11/1944, began flying Ki-67’s 12/1944 to prepare before production solidified; 22nd production model completed 03/1945; 2nd unit being planned to receive … 14th Heavy Bomber Regiment to receive in May (Bueschel); impotent weapon!  Project abandoned July 30 1945. (Bueschel)
-- Ki-112 convoy fighter; final official variant, authorized October 3 1944; wooden adaptation with heavy armament
-- Other modifications beyond Ki-112 = unknown, either destroyed or didn’t exist. (Buechel)
-- Fumihiko Kawano:    Ki-15, Ki-30, Ki-51 chief designer; Ki-67 chief technical officer
-- Hisanojo Ozawa:    Ki-2-II (first bomber with retractable landing gear); Ki-21 co-designer; Ki-21-II design leader; Ki-67 chief engineer, assisted by Teruo Tojo and Yoshio Tsubota
-- Prototype tested at Mitsubishi testing field at Kagamigahara Airfield, first flight 12/17/1942, test pilot Oda; 2nd flight 02/1943; 3rd flight 04/1943.
-- The last heavy bomber to enter service production for JAAF
-- Protracted development; 16 evaluation aircraft; design finally frozen December 2 1943; first production model appeared 04/1944, by then B-29’s were only months away and the war fronts had changed considerably (Bueschel)
-- Overall production planned to be 3 or more times higher, but plagued by cumulative production problems (Bueschel, 19)
-- “almost handled like a fighter” (Bueschel, 20); Bueschel considers it to be a formidable aircraft.
-- Late arrival; adaptation to torpedo-bombing role with Navy for anti-invasion weapon, all-weather configuration; devastating losses; precluded crushing defeat at Phillipines.
-- tested as glide tug for troop transport; special attacker (crew 3); suicide more successful than as torpedo bomber.
-- tested Mitsubishi I-1a missile, Kawasaki Ki-148-I-1b, Tokyo University I-1c.  “…Mitsubishi Type 1 Glide Bomb, Model 1A, developed as an anti-shipping weapon designed to be carried within seven miles of its target … Known in abbreviated form as the I-Go-1A…” (Bueschel image; Bueschel 35)
-- “By the time Okinawa was invaded in [04/1945], the Hiryu had further equipped … the newly formed 107th Heavy Fighter Regiment, a unit flying a few examples of the Hiryu to be prepared for later delivery of interceptor models of the twin-engined bomber …” (Bueschel, 33)
-- “Later equipment also included an electric altimeter for low level attacks, with the Hiryu ending its combat days coming in low, attacking in one fast pass, and getting out of the target zone before the ever-present gaggle of USAAF, USN, RAAF,  RAF and other Allied fighters could crowd in for the kill.  The only thing missing in the Hiryu’s combat capability was an adequate range and bomb load.  This was on the way to being solved, for production of the Ki-67-Ic … 66% increase in bomb load to 1250kg was already scheduled for the summer of 1945 …” (Bueschel, 33-34)
-- A very dark and dismal ending for the Ki-67.  (Bueschel, 40)

 

 

Tachikawa Ki-74 -- "Patsy" (~03/1944) -- experimental high-altitude bomber -- T. Komura

Project 1939 -- 2x Mitsubishi Ha-214M 2400hp, 6-bladed propellers, pressurized cabin (long-range reconnaissance concept)

Ki-74 prototype 1 (03/1944) -- 2x Mitsubishi Ha-211-I 2200hp, 4-bladed propellers (project revived as long-range high-altitude bomber to reach U.S. mainland)

Ki-74 prototype 2 and 3 -- 2x Mitsubishi Ha-211-I Ru 2200hp, 4-bladed propellers

Ki-74 pre-production 4-16 -- 2x Mitsubishi Ha-104 Ru 2,000hp, 4-bladed propellers -- 570 km/h @ 8,500m

 

Ki-74-1 = 1,000 kg of bombs // armament = 1x12.7mm Type 1 tail gun

Ki-74-II = 2,000 kg of bombs

 

 

Kugisho P1Y1 Ginga​ -- "Frances"  ​(08/1943+) -- Navy Land-Based Bomber

P1Y1            2x Nakajima NK9B Homare 11  1820hp        1440hp @ 5700m    = N1K1-J = Tier VI/VII
 ....................2x Nakajima NK9C Homare 12  1825hp        1500hp @ 6600m
P1Y2            2x Mitsubishi MK4T-A Kasei 25a  1850hp    1540hp @ 5500m
P1Y3            2x Nakajima NK9H Homare 21  1990hp        1625hp @ 6100m
P1Y4            2x Nakajima NK9H-S Homare 23  2000hp    1570hp @ 6850m
P1Y6            2x Mitsubishi MK4T-C Kasei 25c  1825hp
P1Y5            2x Mitsubishi MK9A [Ha-43] 11  2200hp        1800hp @ 6000m

 

-- see notes HERE

 

 

Nakajima G8N Renzan -- "Rita"  (10/1944) -- Experimental 18-Shi Land-Based Attack Aircraft (4 engines)

G8N1            4x Nakajim NK9K-L Homare 24 2000hp        1850hp @ 8000m
G8N2            4x Mitsubishi MK9A  2200hp (proposed)
G8N3 (all-steel late war)

-- Laminar flow wings
-- Mid-mounted wing, small area, high aspect ratio
-- G8N2 to be parent aircraft for Ohka 43; didn’t materialize

Francillon 442

 

 

Edited by J311yfish, 08 January 2022 - 05:58 AM.

[J311yfish]

Tier VIII

 

Nakajima Fugaku ​(Mount Fuji) -- (6 engines) -- (~07/1944 incomplete)

First Flight / Production	Airframe / Variant	Engine	Speed	Armament	Bombs
Incomplete as of ~07/1944	Fugaku	6x Nakajima Ha-53 (NK11A) 2500hp	679 km/h @ 10000m		up to 20,000kg
Incomplete as of ~07/1944	Fugaku	6x Nakajima Ha-54 36-cylinder air-cooled radial 5,000hp	779 km/h @ 10000m		up to 20,000kg

Data: Dyer

 

-- project managed by Chikuehi Nakajima, chairman and engineer of Nakjima Hikoki K.K.; design work began 01/29/1943 under name 'Project Z' without official sanction or request; design studies complete 04/1943. (Dyer, 108-109)

-- IJA and IJN had different ideas on bomber requirements -- IJA wanted to operate at 10,000m (32,800ft) with a heavy defensive armament, while IJN wanted to operate at 15,000m (49,200ft) with lighter defensive load. (Dyer, 109)

-- committee formed 08/09/1943 to identify and coordinate technical requirements of IJA and IJN.  Chikuhei prepared a 6-chapter thesis, 'Strategy for Ultimate Victory', which was shared with IJA, IJN, and government officials, in which he identified the need to attack the U.S. and Soviet industry. (Dyer, 109)

-- 'tail sitter' undercarriage; dual vertical stabilizers; "bore some resemblance to German designs"; rounded off nose "similar to [B-29] and Messerschmitt Me 264 'Amerika' bomber." (Dyer, 109)

-- "... all metal structure with the wings mounted in the mid-fuselage position ... to be powered by [6x Nakajima Ha-54 36-cylinder radial 5,000hp].  The Ha-54 was, in fact, two Ha-44 18-cylinder radials paired together ... sufficient to propel the bomber to a generous maximum speed of 679 km/h (422mph).  Each engine would drive two contra-rotating, 3-bladed propellers with a 4.5m diameter [engine also known as D.BH]." (Dyer, 109)

-- Ha-54 engine development delayed due to technical difficulty, so Nakajima had to rely instead on the experimental Ha-53 (NK11A) 2500hp.  This change in turn meant revisions to the airframe. (Dyer, 109)

-- "... expected to carry up to 20,000kg (44,092lb) of bombs [or torpedoes] ... For attacks on the United States ... would carry only up to 5000kg (11,023lb) of bombs." (Dyer, 109-110)

-- 01/1944 project name changed from 'Project Z' to 'Fugaku' (Mount Fuji). (Dyer, 110)

-- "... although the designations G10N and G10N1 have been used in print for this aircraft for many years, there has been no confirmation in historical sources that confirms this was the case." (Dyer, 110)

-- "... it was the fall of Saipan [~07/1944] that sealed the Fugaku's fate.  The Japanese air forces no longer had need of a super long range bomber and demanded more pertinent aircraft to protect the mainland." (Dyer, 110)

Ha-53:

-- "The Ha-108 (Ha-118, Ha-218, MK11A, [Ha-53]), was a 2,300hp 4-row, 28-cylinder radial engine project from around 1941 usually described as based on the Ha-112/MK8 Kinsei, but also described as having 10mm longer stroke ... The Ha-108 also had a similar overall diameter to that of the Ha-112 ... It was followed in late 1942 by the Ha-118 that was 35mm less in diameter and rated at 3,500hp, an engine presumably planned to take advantage of all the features of the Kinsei 60 series and more ..." (Goodwin & Starkings, 113)

-- Note: Dyer claims the Ha-53 engine was built by Nakajima (NK11A), whereas Goodwin & Starkings claim the Ha-53 engine was built by Mitsubishi (MK11A)

Ha-54:

-- Note: Goodwin & Starkings refer to the Ha-54 as the Ha-501 and D.BH.

-- "The Ha-501 appears in one list, but with no other information.  Possibly it was the same as the 36-cylinder, 5,000hp D-BH (Double-BH) comprising two BH units that was given the last Hatsudoki designation Ha-505 and Joint designation [Ha-54]01, and was the engine proposed by Nakajima to power their 6-engine Z Bomber project (see under BH earlier).  Quite a lot of development work was put into the D-BH including specification of contra-rotating propellers and preparation of detailed layout plans showing the giant rear-mounted supercharger filling a plenum chamber between the BG sub-units to feed the front 18 cylinders.  Consideration was given to various positions for cooling fans and a number of different cowling arrangements were proposed for engine cooling ..." (Goodwin & Starkings, 183-184)

 

 

Kawasaki Ki-91 -- (4 engines) -- (02/1945 incomplete)

First Flight / Production	​Airframe / Variant	Engine	Speed	Armament	Bombs / Range
Incomplete as of 02/1945	Ki-91	4x Mitsubishi Ha-214 Ru (MK10C) 2500hp	580 km/h @ 9808m	12x20mm	4000kg / 10,001km

Data: Dyer

 

-- see 4-engine bomber progression from Nakajima G5N/Ki-68/Ki-85 above.

-- work began 06/1943 following cancellation of the G5N; design by Takeo Doi and Jun Kitano. (Dyer, 15)

-- slightly larger than Boeing B-29. (Dyer 15)

-- the same engine, Mitsubishi Ha-214 Ru, is used on the Ki-93 which has been projected to be a Tier VIII aircraft.

-- 8 fuel tanks in each wing; 2 above the bomb bay; anticipated range 10,001 km (6214 miles). (Dyer, 16)

-- 12x20mm cannons; 5 powered turrets (nose, underside forward, underside aft, above aft, tail); underside turrets remotely controlled, others manned (total crew 8). (Dyer, 16)

-- mockup completed 04/1944; inspected 05/1944; prototype construction began by 06/1944 at Kawasaki factory in Gifu Prefecture; bombing raids 02/1945; work stopped at 60% and project cancelled 02/1945. (Dyer, 16)

Mitsubishi Ha-214 Ru

-- "Ru" = supercharged

-- "The A18E (Ha-114, Ha-214, MK10, [Ha-42]20) was a redesign of the Ha-104 as the Ha-11 at some point, with the rated output power increased to 2,150hp.  Little else is known about it although one critical item of information has survived, namely that the Ha-114 had a diameter 32mm less than that of the Ha-104.  This suggests that the cylinder head was redesigned in some way and indications are that Mitsubishi abandoned its splayed vee pushrod configuration for the first time since the A1 of 1929.  If this were the case, the single cam-ring valve drive may well have also been abandoned, making the Ha-114 longer and heavier.  It was initially considered for installation in the Ki-83, but was replaced during initial design with the more compact Ha-211." (Goodwin & Starking, 114)

-- "The Ha-114 presumably retained a single stage supercharger like the Ha-104 it replaced, and similarly for the next engine in the series, the 2,400hp Ha-214.  This engine had the same diameter as the Ha-114, a slightly higher compression ratio than the Ha-104, and a length and weight depending on the type of supercharger installed ... The Ha-214 had the same cylinder configuration as the Ha-104 and so shared the Joint designation [Ha-42], initially becoming the [Ha-42]20 series; on the other hand, the Navy issued a new Short designation MK10 for this variant.  The Ha-214 was bench tested from the end of 1943 and flight tested in the 16th and 17th Ki-67 prototypes in early 1944.  No photos have survived of these installations and depictions of them show a similar installation to the Ha-104, but with external dorsal and ventral cowling air intake channels for the supercharger and oil cooler, also apparently driving six-bladed propellers.  Little is known about the performance of the prototype engine units, although it appears to have been promising as they were planned for a new, strengthened version of this aircraft, the Ki-67-II.  In addition the Army planned to use the Ha-214 for other future projects: [Ki-74, Ki-89 Army Experimental Research Plane, Ki-91 4-engine bomber]." (Goodwin & Starking, 114)

-- "The Ki-91, a large four-engine design with a projected range of 4,500km with a 4,000kg bomb load ... Its Ha-214 installation featured ultra long chord cowlings, turbo-superchargers, and six-bladed propellers as for the G7M1; it was also pressurized and had remotely controlled gun barbettes.  Tooling for the prototype had begun, but was largely destroyed in a [02/1945] bombing raid, whereupon the project was cancelled." (Goodwin & Starkings, 114)

-- "One other aircraft that did fly with Ha-214 engines was the Ki-93, powered by two that actually had the ultra-long chord cowlings, long spinners and six-bladed propellers of the project models.  The Ki-93's cowling length is explained by the frontal cooling fan at one end, and by the shrouding of internal cooling gills at the other ...[more technical details]." (Goodwin & Starkings, 114-115)

-- "The Ha-214 appeared in three models with Joint designations [Ha-42]21, [Ha-42]31 and [Ha-42]41 that seem to have been given corresponding Navy Short designations MK10C, MK10A, and MK10B, respectively, although not all references are consistent.  The [Ha-42]21 was the proposed standard model for the Army planned to be equipped optionally with a turbo-supercharger as the Ha-214Ru." (Goodwin & Starkings, 115)

 

 

Edited by J311yfish, 25 June 2017 - 06:35 PM.

[J311yfish]

Tachikawa Ki-94-I premium (dev blog)

 

Japanese bomber progression -- quick overview

Edited by J311yfish, 08 January 2022 - 06:03 AM.

[pyantoryng]

In 2.0's high tier level there were A6M2 serving as NPC light fighters and J4M as "heavy" fighters...but using Fw 200 as NPC bombers.

 

Looks like Japanese bombers is a long way away...IF bombers do made it to play at all (2.0's getting negative reviews from all three clusters, but WG pressing it is still a likely scenario).

[J311yfish]

A post on EU forum claims that Mitsubishi Ki-57 is to be offered as a Tier V premium.  If that is true, then it is highly unusual because it was essentially a troop transport!

 

Edited by J311yfish, 27 November 2017 - 05:23 PM.

[pyantoryng]

Bomber? That seems to be the likeliest scenario...

 

Wasn't it developed from the Ki-27 bomber?

Edited by pyantoryng, 27 November 2017 - 05:25 PM.

[J311yfish]

Developed from Mitsubishi Ki-21 twin-engine bomber.  I'm looking around for details.  One odd point about the picture is that none of the claimed 11x7.7mm armament is visible.  Or a bad translation.

Edited by J311yfish, 27 November 2017 - 05:41 PM.