Difference between revisions of "N1K1-Ja"

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{{Specs-Card|code=n1k1_ja}}
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{{About
 +
| about = Japanese fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 +
| usage = other versions
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| link = N1K (Family)
 +
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=n1k1_ja
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|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
 +
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
−
''In the description, the first part needs to be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert screenshot of the vehicle. If the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle it is talking about.''
+
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 +
The '''{{Specs|name}}''', designated as '''Shiden Mod.11 Ko ({{Annotation|紫電一一型甲|Violet Lightning, Model 11A}})''', was the result of Kawanishi's adaptation of the canceled [[N1K1]] floatplane project into a land-based fighter by replacing the floats with conventional landing gear. To improve the performance of the Shiden, Kawanishi swapped the original Mitsubishi Kasei 13 engine with the more powerful Nakajima Homare series, initially using the Homare 11 and later choosing the Homare 21 for mass production. The Shiden was a formidable opponent for Allied fighters over the Pacific and was the first land-based fighter designed by Kawanishi, a company specializing in floatplanes. The Shiden was quickly deployed and became the most feared Japanese fighter of the war.
 +
 
 +
It was introduced in [[Update 1.59 "Flaming Arrows"]]. The [[N1K (Family)|N1K fighter series]] are famed and feared land-based fighters, and this is the first one in the line. It has great manoeuvrability at medium speeds and powerful weapons. It can out-turn most foes except some Japanese and British planes, but it lacks speed and climb performance. It is not good for diving and zooming attacks. It can fight well at 350-450 km/h and take down bombers with its powerful armament. It should steer clear of faster and more nimble enemies, or make them turn fight at higher speeds.
 +
 
 +
;Nicknames:
 +
* [[Abbreviations#.28IJN.29_Official_name_designation|Official Designation]]: ''紫電 (Shiden, "Violet Lightning")''
 +
* Allied reporting name: George
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
−
=== Flight Performance ===
+
=== Flight performance ===
−
''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Maximum speed, maneuverability, speed and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
+
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 +
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
 +
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 6,200 m)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
 +
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 +
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(metres/second)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres)
 +
|-
 +
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
 +
|-
 +
! Stock
 +
| 591 || 576 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 18.8 || 19.4 || 13.6 || 13.6 || rowspan="2" | 300
 +
|-
 +
! Upgraded
 +
| 637 || 614 || 17.8 || 18.0 || 23.1 || 17.8
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
==== Details ====
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="5" | Features
 +
|-
 +
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
 +
|-
 +
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="7" | Limits
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
 +
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
 +
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 +
|-
 +
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 +
|-
 +
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 487 || 445 || 390 || ~14 || ~7
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
 +
|-
 +
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 +
|-
 +
| < 430 || < 460 || < 400 || > 324
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
−
''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured. Describe the armour, if there is any, also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''
+
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 +
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
 +
 
 +
* 70 mm Bulletproof glass - Armoured windscreen
 +
* 12 mm Steel plate in pilot's seat
 +
 
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
−
''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.''
+
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
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<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
 +
{{main|Type 99 Model 2 (20 mm)|Type 97 navy (7.7 mm)}}
 +
 
 +
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 +
 
 +
* 4 x 20 mm Type 99 Model 2 cannons, wing-mounted (100 rpg = 400 total)
 +
* 2 x 7.7 mm Type 97 navy machine guns, nose-mounted (550 rpg = 1,100 total)
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
−
''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.''
+
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 +
{{main|Navy Type 97 Number 6 (60 kg)}}
 +
 
 +
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 +
 
 +
* Without load
 +
* 2 x 60 kg Navy Type 97 Number 6 bombs (120 kg total)
 +
 
 +
== Usage in battles ==
 +
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 +
As the first aircraft in the famed land-based N1K fighter series, the N1K1-Ja is a very interesting aircraft to fly. It will struggle to out-run or out-climb most fighters at its BR, but can make use of some nice features such as its extremely good medium-speed manoeuvrability and strong armament.
 +
 
 +
Firstly, the N1K1-Ja is slow. It's top speed is barely 600 km/h in a straight line when spaded, meaning that it will be outrun by almost every fighter at its BR, and even by some bombers too. Thus, boom & zoom will not work with this plane due to its low speed. However, the N1K1 does have a key advantage, being its great mid-speed manoeuvrability. Though it isn't as manoeuvrable as the famed A6M 'Zero', it can easily out-turn most enemies it commonly faces, save for aircraft from its own country and a few Spitfires. When in battle, utilize the N1K1-Ja's good mid-speed (350-450 km/h) manoeuvrability to win dogfights with enemies it commonly faces.
 +
 
 +
==== Tactics ====
 +
At the start of the battle, climb up a decently achievable altitude of 3000-4000 metres. Of course, be aware that many enemies (such as the [[Spitfire F Mk IXc|Spitfire]], [[Bf 109 (Family)|Bf-109]] and [[I-225]]) will be able to climb faster than you. Once at altitude, look for targets to engage. Bombers are great targets as they will be shredded by the N1K1-Ja's large main armament; however, beware of their defensive guns, as the N1K1 doesn't have great armour protection and will easily be pilot-sniped or set on fire. Against other fighters, utilize your turn rate to your advantage, as the N1K1 is rather disadvantaged in most other regards. Force enemies to turn fight at slightly higher speeds, where their turn rate will be impeded.
 +
 
 +
When being pursued by other aircraft, there are several strategies to use. Firstly, against faster aircraft such as the [[P-47D-25|P-47]], [[P-51D-30|P-51]] or [[Fw 190 A-5/U2|Fw 190]], allow them to dive on you and then turn out and force them to enter a turning engagement with you. If the pilot decides to climb and disengage, there isn't much you can do as they have (typically) better climb rate and energy retention. Do not follow them up the climb, it is a death trap. Instead, disengage and fly away to engage someone else. Against more manoeuvrable targets such as the Spitfire, a variety of tactics must be used as the Spitfire can out-turn the N1K1 at lower speeds.
 +
 
 +
==== Specific enemies to take note of ====
  
−
=== Defensive armament ===
+
* [[P-47 (Family)|P-47]] / [[P-51 (Family)|P-51]]: This duo of American fighters, though not entirely similar, can be countered with a similar playstyle - just try to force them to turn, especially at lower speeds. The P-47 is simply horrible at turning, while the P-51 is designed for higher speeds and thus lacks low-speed manoeuvrability. Don't bother trying to follow them, especially if one has made a B & Z attempt on you and is running away - your top speed is a solid 100 km/h slower than theirs.
−
''Defensive armament with turret machine guns or cannons, crewed by gunners. Examine the number of gunners and what belts or drums are better to use. If defensive weaponry is not available remove this subsection.''
+
* [[Fw 190 (Family)|Fw 190]]: The Fw 190s are also extremely dangerous opponents, having an excellent roll rate and great diving capabilities. Again, try to force a turnfight, as the Fw 190's turn rate is even worse than the P-47's. If they try to disengage by pulling roll-heavy manoeuvres like the scissors, do not follow them. They can out-roll you by a significant margin.
 +
* [[Spitfire LF Mk IX|Spitfire]]: The famed Spitfires are extremely hard to deal with, as the Merlin-powered ones can out-turn you while the Griffon-powered ones can out-run and out-climb you significantly. Against these aircraft, the best option is to simply seek the help of teammates, as the N1K1-Ja will likely lose against a Spitfire in a dogfight.
  
−
== Usage in the battles ==
+
=== Manual Engine Control ===
−
''Describe the tactics of playing in an aircraft, the features of using vehicles in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
 +
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
 +
! colspan="3" | Radiator
 +
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
 +
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 +
|-
 +
! Oil !! Water !! Type
 +
|-
 +
| Controllable || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Separate || Controllable<br>2 gears || Not controllable
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
−
''Summarize and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Do not use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - they have a substitution in the form of softer "inadequate", "effective".''
+
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* Reasonable manoeuvrability at medium speeds (300-500 km/h)
 +
* Great energy retention
 +
* Solid acceleration once upgraded
 +
* Combat flaps are efficient while in dogfighting
 +
* Decent rate of climb
 +
* Powerful armament of 4 x 20 mm cannons plus 2 x 7.7 mm MGs
 +
* Relatively good diving characteristics for a Japanese aircraft
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
*
 
  
−
== Historical part ==
+
* Mediocre roll rate
−
''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too big, take it to a separate article, taking a link to an article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ historical reference" (example: https://wiki.warthunder.com/index.php?title=Name-vehicles/historical reference) and add a link to it here using the main template. Be sure to include links to sources at the end of the article.''
+
* Severely stiffens at higher speeds
 +
* Can be outmanoeuvred easily by the fighters at its tier if not used correctly
 +
* Unless approached correctly, completely outclassed by the Spitfire Mk IX and F8Fs
 +
* Ammo capacity of cannons is quite small, only 100 RPG which is far less than its later models
 +
* Weak stock belts, which can only be unlocked at tier III
 +
* Can catch on fire easily, and often gets destroyed in the process
 +
 
 +
== History ==
 +
<!--''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''-->
 +
{{main|N1K (Family)|l1=History of the N1K}}
 +
In late 1941, as the 15-shi was still in development, some engineers were already concerned and proposed it would also be the basis of a formidable land-based fighter and a land-based version was produced as a private venture by the company. This version flew on 27 December 1942 powered by a Nakajima NK9A Homare 11 18-cylinder radial engine, replacing the less powerful Mitsubishi MK4C Kasei 13 of the [[N1K1]].
 +
 
 +
As the navy canceled its orders on the Kyōfū, Kawanishi was opted with 3 choices:
 +
 
 +
* Repurpose the [[H8K2|H8K, Type 2 Flying Boat]] as a land-based bomber
 +
* Create a new carrier based fighter
 +
* Repurpose the [[N1K1|15-shi (N1K, Kyōfū)]] as a land-based fighter
 +
 
 +
Kawanishi decided to further promote development of the land-based fighter version. Even though some Navy engineers showed concern that Kawanishi wouldn't be a suited designer of land-based planes due the few experience they have on land, the plane still showed great potential and was quickly evaluated by the Navy. Aside from engine problems stemming from rushed engine development and some landing gear issues, the Navy was thoroughly impressed as its speed was far faster than the [[A6M (Family)|A6M]] and its maximum range was beyond that of the [[J2M (Family)|Raiden]] and ordered its production as the '''N1K1-J, Shiden'''.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
−
''An excellent addition to the article will be video guides, as well as screenshots from the game and photos.''
+
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 +
 
 +
;Skins
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=n1k1_ja Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|v8iCEAEtszE|'''The Shooting Range #39''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 00:24 discusses the N1K1-Ja.}}
  
−
== Read also ==
+
== See also ==
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example,''
+
<!--''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''-->
−
''ETC.''
 
  
−
== Sources ==
+
;[[N1K (Family)|Related Development]]
−
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
+
 
 +
* [[N1K1]] - (Kyofu Model 11; Base hydroplane model)
 +
* [[N1K2-J]] - (Shiden Kai Model 21; Redesigned wings and fuselage)
 +
* [[N1K2-Ja]] - (Shiden Kai Model 21A; More powerful engine, larger prop)
 +
 
 +
== External links ==
 +
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
−
* ''page on aircraft encyclopedia;''
+
* ''other literature.'' -->
−
* ''other literature.''
+
 
 +
* [[wt:en/news/3753-development-n1k1-ja-violet-lightning-en|[Devblog] N1K1-Ja : Violet Lightning]]
 +
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/315756-kawanishi-n1k1-j-ko/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
 +
 
 +
{{AirManufacturer Kawanishi}}
 +
{{Japan fighters}}

Latest revision as of 08:56, 6 October 2023

Rank VI USA | Premium | Golden Eagles
A-10A Thunderbolt (Early)
This page is about the Japanese fighter N1K1-Ja. For other versions, see N1K (Family).
N1K1-Ja
n1k1_ja.png
GarageImage N1K1-Ja.jpg
ArtImage N1K1-Ja.png
N1K1-Ja
Japan flag.png Japan
IV Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
5.3 5.3 5.3
Class:
Research:63 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:200 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The N1K1-Ja, designated as Shiden Mod.11 Ko (紫電一一型甲), was the result of Kawanishi's adaptation of the canceled N1K1 floatplane project into a land-based fighter by replacing the floats with conventional landing gear. To improve the performance of the Shiden, Kawanishi swapped the original Mitsubishi Kasei 13 engine with the more powerful Nakajima Homare series, initially using the Homare 11 and later choosing the Homare 21 for mass production. The Shiden was a formidable opponent for Allied fighters over the Pacific and was the first land-based fighter designed by Kawanishi, a company specializing in floatplanes. The Shiden was quickly deployed and became the most feared Japanese fighter of the war.

It was introduced in Update 1.59 "Flaming Arrows". The N1K fighter series are famed and feared land-based fighters, and this is the first one in the line. It has great manoeuvrability at medium speeds and powerful weapons. It can out-turn most foes except some Japanese and British planes, but it lacks speed and climb performance. It is not good for diving and zooming attacks. It can fight well at 350-450 km/h and take down bombers with its powerful armament. It should steer clear of faster and more nimble enemies, or make them turn fight at higher speeds.

Nicknames

General info

Flight performance

Max speed
at 6 200 m614 km/h
Turn time18 s
Max altitude10 000 m
EngineNakajima Homare 21
TypeRadial
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight4 t
Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 6,200 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 591 576 10000 18.8 19.4 13.6 13.6 300
Upgraded 637 614 17.8 18.0 23.1 17.8

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
✓ ✓ ✓ X X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
780 280 487 445 390 ~14 ~7
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 430 < 460 < 400 > 324

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural780 km/h
Gear280 km/h
  • 70 mm Bulletproof glass - Armoured windscreen
  • 12 mm Steel plate in pilot's seat

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB2 883 → 3 649 Sl icon.png
RB6 787 → 8 592 Sl icon.png
SB9 778 → 12 378 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications52 800 Rp icon.png
90 900 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost1 700 Ge icon.png
Crew training57 000 Sl icon.png
Experts200 000 Sl icon.png
Aces1 100 Ge icon.png
Research Aces520 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
100 / 230 / 480 % Sl icon.png
172 / 172 / 172 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
3 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 000 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Research:
3 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 000 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
4 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 900 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
3 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 700 Sl icon.png
210 Ge icon.png
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Research:
3 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 700 Sl icon.png
210 Ge icon.png
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Research:
5 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
9 800 Sl icon.png
350 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
4 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 900 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
5 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
9 800 Sl icon.png
350 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
type89_belt_pack
Research:
3 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 000 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
type97_new_gun
Research:
4 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 900 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
type99mk2_belt_pack
Research:
3 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 700 Sl icon.png
210 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
7 in (mod20)
Research:
3 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 700 Sl icon.png
210 Ge icon.png
Mods weapon.png
type99mk2_new_gun
Research:
5 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
9 800 Sl icon.png
350 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Offensive armament

Weapon 14 x 20 mm Type 99 Model 2 cannon
Ammunition400 rounds
Fire rate490 shots/min
Weapon 22 x 7.7 mm Type 97 machine gun
Ammunition1 100 rounds
Fire rate900 shots/min
Main articles: Type 99 Model 2 (20 mm), Type 97 navy (7.7 mm)

The N1K1-Ja is armed with:

  • 4 x 20 mm Type 99 Model 2 cannons, wing-mounted (100 rpg = 400 total)
  • 2 x 7.7 mm Type 97 navy machine guns, nose-mounted (550 rpg = 1,100 total)

Suspended armament

List of setups (1)
Setup 12 x 60 kg Navy Type 97 Number 6 ground bomb
Main article: Navy Type 97 Number 6 (60 kg)

The N1K1-Ja can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • Without load
  • 2 x 60 kg Navy Type 97 Number 6 bombs (120 kg total)

Usage in battles

As the first aircraft in the famed land-based N1K fighter series, the N1K1-Ja is a very interesting aircraft to fly. It will struggle to out-run or out-climb most fighters at its BR, but can make use of some nice features such as its extremely good medium-speed manoeuvrability and strong armament.

Firstly, the N1K1-Ja is slow. It's top speed is barely 600 km/h in a straight line when spaded, meaning that it will be outrun by almost every fighter at its BR, and even by some bombers too. Thus, boom & zoom will not work with this plane due to its low speed. However, the N1K1 does have a key advantage, being its great mid-speed manoeuvrability. Though it isn't as manoeuvrable as the famed A6M 'Zero', it can easily out-turn most enemies it commonly faces, save for aircraft from its own country and a few Spitfires. When in battle, utilize the N1K1-Ja's good mid-speed (350-450 km/h) manoeuvrability to win dogfights with enemies it commonly faces.

Tactics

At the start of the battle, climb up a decently achievable altitude of 3000-4000 metres. Of course, be aware that many enemies (such as the Spitfire, Bf-109 and I-225) will be able to climb faster than you. Once at altitude, look for targets to engage. Bombers are great targets as they will be shredded by the N1K1-Ja's large main armament; however, beware of their defensive guns, as the N1K1 doesn't have great armour protection and will easily be pilot-sniped or set on fire. Against other fighters, utilize your turn rate to your advantage, as the N1K1 is rather disadvantaged in most other regards. Force enemies to turn fight at slightly higher speeds, where their turn rate will be impeded.

When being pursued by other aircraft, there are several strategies to use. Firstly, against faster aircraft such as the P-47, P-51 or Fw 190, allow them to dive on you and then turn out and force them to enter a turning engagement with you. If the pilot decides to climb and disengage, there isn't much you can do as they have (typically) better climb rate and energy retention. Do not follow them up the climb, it is a death trap. Instead, disengage and fly away to engage someone else. Against more manoeuvrable targets such as the Spitfire, a variety of tactics must be used as the Spitfire can out-turn the N1K1 at lower speeds.

Specific enemies to take note of

  • P-47 / P-51: This duo of American fighters, though not entirely similar, can be countered with a similar playstyle - just try to force them to turn, especially at lower speeds. The P-47 is simply horrible at turning, while the P-51 is designed for higher speeds and thus lacks low-speed manoeuvrability. Don't bother trying to follow them, especially if one has made a B & Z attempt on you and is running away - your top speed is a solid 100 km/h slower than theirs.
  • Fw 190: The Fw 190s are also extremely dangerous opponents, having an excellent roll rate and great diving capabilities. Again, try to force a turnfight, as the Fw 190's turn rate is even worse than the P-47's. If they try to disengage by pulling roll-heavy manoeuvres like the scissors, do not follow them. They can out-roll you by a significant margin.
  • Spitfire: The famed Spitfires are extremely hard to deal with, as the Merlin-powered ones can out-turn you while the Griffon-powered ones can out-run and out-climb you significantly. Against these aircraft, the best option is to simply seek the help of teammates, as the N1K1-Ja will likely lose against a Spitfire in a dogfight.

Manual Engine Control

MEC elements
Mixer Pitch Radiator Supercharger Turbocharger
Oil Water Type
Controllable Controllable
Not auto controlled 		Controllable
Not auto controlled 		Controllable
Not auto controlled 		Separate Controllable
2 gears 		Not controllable

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Reasonable manoeuvrability at medium speeds (300-500 km/h)
  • Great energy retention
  • Solid acceleration once upgraded
  • Combat flaps are efficient while in dogfighting
  • Decent rate of climb
  • Powerful armament of 4 x 20 mm cannons plus 2 x 7.7 mm MGs
  • Relatively good diving characteristics for a Japanese aircraft

Cons:

  • Mediocre roll rate
  • Severely stiffens at higher speeds
  • Can be outmanoeuvred easily by the fighters at its tier if not used correctly
  • Unless approached correctly, completely outclassed by the Spitfire Mk IX and F8Fs
  • Ammo capacity of cannons is quite small, only 100 RPG which is far less than its later models
  • Weak stock belts, which can only be unlocked at tier III
  • Can catch on fire easily, and often gets destroyed in the process

History

Main article: History of the N1K

In late 1941, as the 15-shi was still in development, some engineers were already concerned and proposed it would also be the basis of a formidable land-based fighter and a land-based version was produced as a private venture by the company. This version flew on 27 December 1942 powered by a Nakajima NK9A Homare 11 18-cylinder radial engine, replacing the less powerful Mitsubishi MK4C Kasei 13 of the N1K1.

As the navy canceled its orders on the Kyōfū, Kawanishi was opted with 3 choices:

Kawanishi decided to further promote development of the land-based fighter version. Even though some Navy engineers showed concern that Kawanishi wouldn't be a suited designer of land-based planes due the few experience they have on land, the plane still showed great potential and was quickly evaluated by the Navy. Aside from engine problems stemming from rushed engine development and some landing gear issues, the Navy was thoroughly impressed as its speed was far faster than the A6M and its maximum range was beyond that of the Raiden and ordered its production as the N1K1-J, Shiden.

Media

Skins
Videos
The Shooting Range #39 - Pages of History section at 00:24 discusses the N1K1-Ja.

See also

Related Development
  • N1K1 - (Kyofu Model 11; Base hydroplane model)
  • N1K2-J - (Shiden Kai Model 21; Redesigned wings and fuselage)
  • N1K2-Ja - (Shiden Kai Model 21A; More powerful engine, larger prop)

External links


Kawanishi Aircraft Company (川西航空機)
Fighters  J6K1
N1K  N1K1-Ja · N1K2-J · N1K2-Ja
Bombers  H6K4 · H8K2 · H8K3
Hydroplane  N1K1 · E7K2

Japan fighters
Navy 
Carrier-based fighter 
A5M  A5M4 · Hagiri's A5M4
A6M  A6M2 mod. 11 · A6M2 · A6M3 · A6M3 mod. 22 · A6M3 mod. 22Ko · A6M5 · A6M5 Ko · A6M5 otsu · A6M5 Hei · A6M6c
A7He  A7He1*
A7M  A7M1 (NK9H) · A7M2
Land-based Fighter 
J2M  J2M2 · J2M3 · J2M4 Kai · J2M5 · J2M5 (30 mm)
J6K  J6K1
J7W  J7W1
N1K-J  N1K1-Ja · N1K2-J · N1K2-Ja
Fighter seaplane 
N1K  N1K1
A6M-N  A6M2-N
Army 
Ki-10  Ki-10-I · Ki-10-I C · Ki-10-II · Ki-10-II C
Ki-27  Ki-27 otsu · Ki-27 otsu Tachiarai
Ki-43  Ki-43-I · Ki-43-II · Ki-43-III otsu
Ki-44  Ki-44-I · Ki-44-I 34 · Ki-44-II otsu · Ki-44-II hei
Ki-61  Ki-61-I ko · Ki-61-I otsu · Ki-61-I hei · Tada's Ki-61-I hei · Ki-61-I tei · Ki-61-II Otsu Kai
Ki-84  Ki-84 ko · Ki-84 otsu · Ki-84 hei
Ki-87  Ki-87
Ki-94  Ki-94-II
Ki-100  Ki-100 · Ki-100-II
Other countries  ▅F4U-1A · ▅P-51C-11-NT · ▅Bf 109 E-7 · ▅Fw 190 A-5
  *Imported designation of the He 112 (A6M was in development - A7M would take A7 designation after the cancelation of the A7He)

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