Difference between revisions of "A6M2 mod. 11"

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{{About
 
{{About
 
| about = Japanese fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
| about = Japanese fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
−
| usage = other uses
+
| usage = other versions
 
| link = A6M (Family)
 
| link = A6M (Family)
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=a6m2_mod11
 
|code=a6m2_mod11
−
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
+
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Japanese fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.39]].
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''', designated as the '''Type 0 Carrier-based Fighter Model 11 ({{Annotation|零式艦上戦闘機一一型|Rei Shiki Kanjō Sentōki, Ichi Ichi Gata}})''', was the pre-production model of the [[A6M]] series and was designed for combat evaluation over China. It differed from the later variants of the A6M in that it was not adapted for carrier operations; it lacked a tail hook, foldable wing tips, and the ability to carry external fuel tanks. The Navy was so impressed by the performance of the A6M1/2 prototypes that they ordered 15 units to be sent to China before official testing was completed. The A6M made its combat debut over China, where 13 A6M's shot down 27 Soviet-built I-15s and I-16s in three minutes without any losses, demonstrating the A6M's superiority over these aircraft. Once reports reached Navy HQ, they quickly authorized the mass production of the A6M as the [[A6M2|A6M2 mod. 21]].
  
−
The "Zero" is almost the ideal dog-fighter. Very good turn times and 2 x 20 mm cannons make this aircraft a frightening foe. Use your superior turn time and better overall manoeuvrability to get on the tail of the enemy. Be mindful of the low ammo count. Historically, as well as in the game, the A6M series was stripped of all armour to lighten the aircraft (achieving its amazing manoeuvrability). This means that your pilot is easily sniped and your fuel tanks, which are not protected, catch on fire very easily.
+
It was introduced in [[Update 1.39]]. The Model 11 is essentially a land-based prototype of the famous [[A6M]] series, without the necessary equipment for carrier operations. However, the A6M2 still retains the combat performance of a Zero. It has near unprecedented manoeuvrability, and deadly but limited and low-velocity 20 mm cannons. The A6M2 can dominate any dogfight at its own or lower altitude, depending on the pilot's skill, but it can be easily outrun by faster enemies. In that case, the pilot has to decide whether to take a final shot or break off the engagement, as pursuing the enemy may expose the Zero to interception by other fighters. If faced with a Boom-N-Zoom attack, the pilot must avoid the enemy's fire by using the Zero's agility, as the plane has no armour, self-sealing fuel tanks or robust airframe. Although the A6M2 is not the fastest plane in its tier, it can keep up with its opponents better than the later A6M5s, which encounter proportionally much faster aircraft more often.
  
−
Although this aircraft can carry bombs, it makes you an easy target and is really not worth the added weight in realistic or simulator battles. It is slower compared to most of the opposition, thus be mindful of what is around you.
+
;Nicknames
−
 
+
* IJN Pilot nickname: ''Reisen'' (零戦) / ''Zerosen'' (ゼロ戦) <small>(Abbreviation of 0 - {{Annotation|戦|Fight(er aircraft)}})</small>.
−
Landing and runway manoeuvrability is good, but with no tail hook, you can find your self careening off the end of carriers. Landing on a carrier with this land-based version requires a careful hand. With an approach speed of 120 km/h (90 mph), landing flaps and gear down approach a ''moving'' carrier from behind. When setting down on the flight deck immediately pull up the flaps, push the brake and pull up with the elevator (past the stall speed of 90 km/h (60 mph)).
+
* Allied reporting name: ''Zeke / Zero''.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
Line 23: Line 23:
 
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 
{{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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 +
The Zero is almost the ideal dogfighter. Very good turn times and better overall manoeuvrability let you easily move onto the tail of the enemy. It is slower compared to most of the opposition, thus be mindful of what is around you.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
Line 81: Line 82:
 
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 
{{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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 +
The A6M series was stripped of all armour to lighten the aircraft. This means that your pilot is easily sniped and your fuel tanks, which are not protected, catch on fire very easily.
  
 
* No armour protection
 
* No armour protection
Line 99: Line 101:
 
* 2 x 20 mm Type 99 Model 1 cannons, wing-mounted (60 rpg = 120 total)
 
* 2 x 20 mm Type 99 Model 1 cannons, wing-mounted (60 rpg = 120 total)
 
* 2 x 7.7 mm Type 97 navy machine guns, nose-mounted (680 rpg = 1,360 total)
 
* 2 x 7.7 mm Type 97 navy machine guns, nose-mounted (680 rpg = 1,360 total)
 +
 +
The 2 x 20 mm cannons make this aircraft a frightening foe. Be mindful of the low ammo count.
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
Line 109: Line 113:
 
* Without load
 
* Without load
 
* 2 x 60 kg Navy Type 97 Number 6 bombs (120 kg total)
 
* 2 x 60 kg Navy Type 97 Number 6 bombs (120 kg total)
 +
 +
Although this aircraft can carry bombs, it makes you an easy target and is really not worth the added weight in realistic or simulator battles.
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
Line 115: Line 121:
 
The best tactic to use in this aircraft is to sneak up behind your enemies and use your excellent turn rate to your advantage, something that most other fighters don't have at the BR. The most dangerous enemies in this aircraft come from above, Boom and Zoomers will rain fire from above if you are not careful.
 
The best tactic to use in this aircraft is to sneak up behind your enemies and use your excellent turn rate to your advantage, something that most other fighters don't have at the BR. The most dangerous enemies in this aircraft come from above, Boom and Zoomers will rain fire from above if you are not careful.
  
−
Force an enemy pilot into a dogfight at 370 - 400 km/h and below 6,000 meters. At this speed and altitude, no enemy fighter can out-manoeuvre or out-climb you. Jump on cruising enemy aircraft from above. Fasten onto the tail of the bandit, use your superior manoeuvrability to match his evasive moves, and put enough rounds into him to bring him down. Use your machine guns first to "bore-sight" the enemy - once you get hits on him, finish him off with your cannons. Below 480 km/h you can fling the Zero all over the sky to get on an enemy's tail or to shake off all but the most determined attacker. Climb away from most enemy aircraft, hanging on your prop in a near-vertical climb. Manoeuvres like the Immelmann are easy, and heavier fighters can't stay with you. The Zero rolls faster to the left than to the right. Roll left to tighten your turn and get onto the enemy's six. Don't dive away from attackers - your plane doesn't have the power or weight to out-run most fighters. To exploit your plane's best performance, force the enemy lower and slow down the pace of the engagement.
+
Force an enemy pilot into a dogfight at 370 - 400 km/h and below 6,000 m. At this speed and altitude, no enemy fighter can out-manoeuvre or out-climb you. Jump on cruising enemy aircraft from above. Fasten onto the tail of the bandit, use your superior manoeuvrability to match his evasive moves, and put enough rounds into him to bring him down. Use your machine guns first to "bore-sight" the enemy - once you get hits on him, finish him off with your cannons. Below 480 km/h you can fling the Zero all over the sky to get on an enemy's tail or to shake off all but the most determined attacker. Climb away from most enemy aircraft, hanging on your prop in a near-vertical climb. Manoeuvres like the Immelmann are easy, and heavier fighters can't stay with you. The Zero rolls faster to the left than to the right. Roll left to tighten your turn and get onto the enemy's six. Don't dive away from attackers - your plane doesn't have the power or weight to out-run most fighters. To exploit your plane's best performance, force the enemy lower and slow down the pace of the engagement.
  
 
* In Simulator, the A6M Zero is overall a great plane to fly. Its advantages include the extremely smooth handling, impressive turn rate, low stall speed, the ability to not enter spins in extreme manoeuvres, and decent rear visibility. It is able to pull really tight turns or barrel rolls without losing control or going into a spin, allowing the player to use this stability to their advantage. Its disadvantages, however, are the fragile protection, wing-mounted guns with very little ammo, and the cockpit scattered with frames. Although not thick, these frames can still be obstructions in a fight. Also the gunsight is small and mounted very low, resulting in inadequate visibility over the nose. This can limit the player's ability to see the target in a turn fight since to lead the target, the player must cut inside its turn, meaning the nose will now block the target. The A6M can perform dogfighting, some ground pounding and some intercepting.
 
* In Simulator, the A6M Zero is overall a great plane to fly. Its advantages include the extremely smooth handling, impressive turn rate, low stall speed, the ability to not enter spins in extreme manoeuvres, and decent rear visibility. It is able to pull really tight turns or barrel rolls without losing control or going into a spin, allowing the player to use this stability to their advantage. Its disadvantages, however, are the fragile protection, wing-mounted guns with very little ammo, and the cockpit scattered with frames. Although not thick, these frames can still be obstructions in a fight. Also the gunsight is small and mounted very low, resulting in inadequate visibility over the nose. This can limit the player's ability to see the target in a turn fight since to lead the target, the player must cut inside its turn, meaning the nose will now block the target. The A6M can perform dogfighting, some ground pounding and some intercepting.
Line 153: Line 159:
 
* '''A'''6M for Carrier-based fighter:
 
* '''A'''6M for Carrier-based fighter:
 
** Strictly air-to-air role
 
** Strictly air-to-air role
−
*** Gets 2x [[Navy Type 97 Number 6 (60 kg)|Type 97 No.6 Land Bomb (60kg)]], but strongly ill-advised for air-battles
+
*** Gets 2 x [[Navy Type 97 Number 6 (60 kg)|Type 97 No.6 Land Bomb (60 kg)]], but strongly ill-advised for air battles
 
** Decent cannon armament
 
** Decent cannon armament
 
** Extremely manoeuvrable
 
** Extremely manoeuvrable
Line 162: Line 168:
 
* Common Navy plane construction:
 
* Common Navy plane construction:
 
** Excellent manoeuvrability
 
** Excellent manoeuvrability
−
** Nose mounted armament
+
** Nose-mounted armament
 
** Small radiator drag
 
** Small radiator drag
  
Line 184: Line 190:
 
<!-- ''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).'' -->
 
<!-- ''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).'' -->
 
The A6M2 mod. 11 was the third prototype to be built. It was powered by a 950 hp Nakajima Sakae engine. Production started in 1939 and a total of 64 were built. These aircraft saw combat in China.
 
The A6M2 mod. 11 was the third prototype to be built. It was powered by a 950 hp Nakajima Sakae engine. Production started in 1939 and a total of 64 were built. These aircraft saw combat in China.
−
 
−
=== In-game description ===
 
−
At its launch, the A6M2 model 11 knew no equal.
 
−
 
−
This single-seater carrier-based fighter was designed to replace the ageing A5M. To reduce its weight, duralumin was widely used, and its propeller was made of a lightweight aluminium alloy. The A6M2 did not have high survivability due to its lack of armour and self-sealing fuel tanks, but in the first half of World War II, it had a considerable advantage in manoeuvrability and speed when compared to the Allies (which had nothing to oppose the Zero until the arrival of aircraft such as the F4U and F6F).
 
−
 
−
The first prototype of this series, the A6M1, first flew on April 1, 1939. During the test, a more powerful engine was proposed, and the Mitsubishi Zuisei 13 (780 hp) was replaced with the Nakajima Sakae 12 (940 hp). After a successful test flight, the new engine was adopted for serial production and the plane was designated the A6M2 Model 11. Its main drawback was that it could not be used on aircraft carriers due to its large wingspan, which was not designed for carrier-based operations. To circumvent this limitation, the A6M2 model 21 was designed with folding 500 mm wing panels.
 
−
 
−
In 1942 the American Military discovered a crash landed A6M2 on the Akutan Island in Alaska. The plane was shot, which severed the oil return line. Despite the leak, pilot Tadayoshi Koga maintained function of the engine until his crash landing. Unfortunately for Koga, he unknowingly touched down in a marsh, which caused his landing gear to sink into the mud flipping the plane and killing him. Koga landed on that island because there was a Japanese Submarine on standby to safely secure any downed Japanese pilots just off the coast.
 
−
 
−
The plane was recovered by the US Military, and was the third A6M2 brought to the US for testing. The priors both being damaged beyond repair and were not air worthy; however, Koga's plane was in miraculous condition allowing it to fly with some minor repairs. The flying of Koga's plane showed the US military that this plane had flaws. Notably, the plane was not as fast as they once thought and the plane could not roll to the right due to its light weight frame and high torque engine. These discoveries brought new tactics to the Allied Pilots in the Pacific and cause the Un-Challenged reign of the A6M2 to slowly come to a halt.
 
−
 
−
A total of 740 A6M2 model 21s were built in Mitsubishi plants; 326 were built in Nakajima plants.
 
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
Line 221: Line 214:
  
 
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/293772-mitsubishi-a6m2-mod-11/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
 
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/293772-mitsubishi-a6m2-mod-11/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
−
* [[Wikipedia:Mitsubishi_A6M_Zero#A6M2a_Type_0_Model_11|[Wikipedia<nowiki>]</nowiki> A6M2a Type 0 Model 11]]
+
* [[Wikipedia:Mitsubishi_A6M_Zero#A6M2a_Type_0_Model_11|[Wikipedia] A6M2a Type 0 Model 11]]
  
 
{{AirManufacturer Mitsubishi}}
 
{{AirManufacturer Mitsubishi}}
 
{{Japan fighters}}
 
{{Japan fighters}}

Latest revision as of 10:03, 21 November 2023

Rank VI USA | Premium | Golden Eagles
A-10A Thunderbolt (Early)
This page is about the Japanese fighter A6M2 mod. 11. For other versions, see A6M (Family).
A6M2 mod. 11
a6m2_mod11.png
GarageImage A6M2 mod. 11.jpg
ArtImage A6M2 mod. 11.jpg
A6M2 mod. 11
Japan flag.png Japan
II Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
3.3 3.7 3.3
Class:
Research:9 200 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:16 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The A6M2 mod. 11, designated as the Type 0 Carrier-based Fighter Model 11 (零式艦上戦闘機一一型), was the pre-production model of the A6M series and was designed for combat evaluation over China. It differed from the later variants of the A6M in that it was not adapted for carrier operations; it lacked a tail hook, foldable wing tips, and the ability to carry external fuel tanks. The Navy was so impressed by the performance of the A6M1/2 prototypes that they ordered 15 units to be sent to China before official testing was completed. The A6M made its combat debut over China, where 13 A6M's shot down 27 Soviet-built I-15s and I-16s in three minutes without any losses, demonstrating the A6M's superiority over these aircraft. Once reports reached Navy HQ, they quickly authorized the mass production of the A6M as the A6M2 mod. 21.

It was introduced in Update 1.39. The Model 11 is essentially a land-based prototype of the famous A6M series, without the necessary equipment for carrier operations. However, the A6M2 still retains the combat performance of a Zero. It has near unprecedented manoeuvrability, and deadly but limited and low-velocity 20 mm cannons. The A6M2 can dominate any dogfight at its own or lower altitude, depending on the pilot's skill, but it can be easily outrun by faster enemies. In that case, the pilot has to decide whether to take a final shot or break off the engagement, as pursuing the enemy may expose the Zero to interception by other fighters. If faced with a Boom-N-Zoom attack, the pilot must avoid the enemy's fire by using the Zero's agility, as the plane has no armour, self-sealing fuel tanks or robust airframe. Although the A6M2 is not the fastest plane in its tier, it can keep up with its opponents better than the later A6M5s, which encounter proportionally much faster aircraft more often.

Nicknames
  • IJN Pilot nickname: Reisen (零戦) / Zerosen (ゼロ戦) (Abbreviation of 0 - 戦).
  • Allied reporting name: Zeke / Zero.

General info

Flight performance

Max speed
at 4 400 m510 km/h
Turn time17 s
Max altitude10 300 m
EngineNakajima Sakae 12
TypeRadial
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight2 t

The Zero is almost the ideal dogfighter. Very good turn times and better overall manoeuvrability let you easily move onto the tail of the enemy. It is slower compared to most of the opposition, thus be mindful of what is around you.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 4,400 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 491 475 10300 17.7 18.2 10.1 10.1 175
Upgraded 532 510 16.7 17.0 17.5 13.3

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 + -
0 310 484 451 280 ~14 ~8
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 270 < 420 < 410 > 324

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear310 km/h

The A6M series was stripped of all armour to lighten the aircraft. This means that your pilot is easily sniped and your fuel tanks, which are not protected, catch on fire very easily.

  • No armour protection
  • Not self-sealing fuel tanks

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB458 → 622 Sl icon.png
RB1 004 → 1 365 Sl icon.png
SB1 435 → 1 951 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications8 410 Rp icon.png
9 410 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost640 Ge icon.png
Crew training4 500 Sl icon.png
Experts16 000 Sl icon.png
Aces180 Ge icon.png
Research Aces190 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
30 / 70 / 150 % Sl icon.png
118 / 118 / 118 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
560 Rp icon.png
Cost:
630 Sl icon.png
100 Ge icon.png
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Research:
560 Rp icon.png
Cost:
630 Sl icon.png
100 Ge icon.png
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
470 Rp icon.png
Cost:
530 Sl icon.png
85 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
530 Rp icon.png
Cost:
600 Sl icon.png
95 Ge icon.png
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Research:
530 Rp icon.png
Cost:
600 Sl icon.png
95 Ge icon.png
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Research:
910 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
160 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
470 Rp icon.png
Cost:
530 Sl icon.png
85 Ge icon.png
Mods engine extinguisher.png
EFS
Research:
530 Rp icon.png
Cost:
600 Sl icon.png
95 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
910 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
160 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
type89_belt_pack
Research:
560 Rp icon.png
Cost:
630 Sl icon.png
100 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
type97_new_gun
Research:
470 Rp icon.png
Cost:
530 Sl icon.png
85 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
9 in (mod30)
Research:
470 Rp icon.png
Cost:
530 Sl icon.png
85 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
type99mk1_belt_pack
Research:
530 Rp icon.png
Cost:
600 Sl icon.png
95 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
type99mk1_new_gun
Research:
910 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
160 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Offensive armament

Weapon 12 x 20 mm Type 99 Model 1 cannon
Ammunition120 rounds
Fire rate516 shots/min
Weapon 22 x 7.7 mm Type 97 machine gun
Ammunition1 360 rounds
Fire rate900 shots/min
Main articles: Type 99 Model 1 (20 mm), Type 97 navy (7.7 mm)

The A6M2 mod. 11 is armed with:

  • 2 x 20 mm Type 99 Model 1 cannons, wing-mounted (60 rpg = 120 total)
  • 2 x 7.7 mm Type 97 navy machine guns, nose-mounted (680 rpg = 1,360 total)

The 2 x 20 mm cannons make this aircraft a frightening foe. Be mindful of the low ammo count.

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 A6M2 mod. 11 can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

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

Although this aircraft can carry bombs, it makes you an easy target and is really not worth the added weight in realistic or simulator battles.

Usage in battles

The best tactic to use in this aircraft is to sneak up behind your enemies and use your excellent turn rate to your advantage, something that most other fighters don't have at the BR. The most dangerous enemies in this aircraft come from above, Boom and Zoomers will rain fire from above if you are not careful.

Force an enemy pilot into a dogfight at 370 - 400 km/h and below 6,000 m. At this speed and altitude, no enemy fighter can out-manoeuvre or out-climb you. Jump on cruising enemy aircraft from above. Fasten onto the tail of the bandit, use your superior manoeuvrability to match his evasive moves, and put enough rounds into him to bring him down. Use your machine guns first to "bore-sight" the enemy - once you get hits on him, finish him off with your cannons. Below 480 km/h you can fling the Zero all over the sky to get on an enemy's tail or to shake off all but the most determined attacker. Climb away from most enemy aircraft, hanging on your prop in a near-vertical climb. Manoeuvres like the Immelmann are easy, and heavier fighters can't stay with you. The Zero rolls faster to the left than to the right. Roll left to tighten your turn and get onto the enemy's six. Don't dive away from attackers - your plane doesn't have the power or weight to out-run most fighters. To exploit your plane's best performance, force the enemy lower and slow down the pace of the engagement.

  • In Simulator, the A6M Zero is overall a great plane to fly. Its advantages include the extremely smooth handling, impressive turn rate, low stall speed, the ability to not enter spins in extreme manoeuvres, and decent rear visibility. It is able to pull really tight turns or barrel rolls without losing control or going into a spin, allowing the player to use this stability to their advantage. Its disadvantages, however, are the fragile protection, wing-mounted guns with very little ammo, and the cockpit scattered with frames. Although not thick, these frames can still be obstructions in a fight. Also the gunsight is small and mounted very low, resulting in inadequate visibility over the nose. This can limit the player's ability to see the target in a turn fight since to lead the target, the player must cut inside its turn, meaning the nose will now block the target. The A6M can perform dogfighting, some ground pounding and some intercepting.
  • You can bring the minimum amount of fuel (29 minutes) since this model of the Zero only has a 60-round drum per cannon, as a result you might need to constantly return to airfield to reload so there is no need to bring more fuel. Set the convergence to 150-300 m. When taking off, the A6M will shift severely to the left so it is best to set separate keybind for left and right brakes to counter the torque.
  • For dogfighting, it is better to engage with an altitude advantage so climb to around 2,500 m. Track the opponent using lead or pure pursuit, as with lag pursuit you will eventually end up at the 6'o clock of the target aircraft whose fuselage will soak up most of your MG bullets, and your wing mounted cannons will become really awkward to aim. With the amazing stableness the aim should be easy. Target their wings or nose and avoid the back half of the fuselage as there is usually nothing in there. You can turn with most planes with your combat/takeoff flaps deployed. Note that it is best to fire in 5-round/half-second bursts to avoid wasting cannon rounds. Once the cannons are out, the leftover 7.7 mm MGs can only effectively damage single engine fighters.
  • For ground pounding with bombs, look for tanks and pillboxes. First you need some separation between you and the target so you have enough time to line-up the drop. Dive at the target at a rather shallow angle, and release the 60 kg bombs when you are very close, with the target below the gunsight and filling up around half of it. If you only use the MGs, your targets are trucks, AAA and howitzers. Dive at it and stabilise the plane so the gunsight stays overall still at the target. Then, once the target fills out around 1/6 of the gunsight, open fire. If your aim is accurate you can destroy one target in a single pass. However, it is very recommended to set keybind for firing MG only as you can definitely not waste the valuable cannon rounds. Save them for any unexpected dogfights.
  • Landing is easy thanks to the low stall speed and lovely handling. Line up and approach the airstrip at treetop, decrease speed to at most 210 km/h and deploy combat, takeoff and landing flaps in order. Further decelerate so the touchdown speed is no more than 180 km/h to avoid bouncing up. Keep braking until the plane reaches a full stop, you don't have to worry about the nose dipping down and causing a propeller strike.

Enemies worth noting:

  • P-61C-1: this plane is one tough nut to crack. It is quite fast, packs a fatal punch, has a searching radar, and a deadly turret on top. The turret consists of 4 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns that cover the upper half of the plane, and most P-61 players tend to fly low or get you into their upper half to target you with the turret. Avoid being above them at all costs, utilise the Zero's manoeuvrability and sneak under their belly. Its appearance resembles a P-38: a center fuselage with two engine nacelles extending backwards and forming the twin tail like a frame, you will know it is a Black Widow and not a Lightning when red tracer bullets start shooting out from it.
  • I-16: the late I-16s are equipped with ShVAK cannons that can be pretty dangerous to your fragile airframe. They can turn equally well as the Zero, have superior roll rate but the stability is so terrible that as soon as they pull a little more on the stick, they will enter spins. Therefore it is quite easy to counter them: engage a turnfight with them and turn tighter and tighter, or do a few barrel rolls. They will quickly lose control and start spinning and it is quite hard to recover. Then simply get some separation, turn around and put some solid shots into them. They have the I-15's short and fat fuselage, a flat radial engine and triangular stabilisers located right after the low-mounted mono wings, all covered in olive green paint.

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 Not controllable
1 gear 		Not controllable

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • A6M for Carrier-based fighter:
    • Strictly air-to-air role
    • Decent cannon armament
    • Extremely manoeuvrable
      • Excellent turn rate
      • Excellent roll rate
    • Very short takeoff distance
  • Common Navy plane construction:
    • Excellent manoeuvrability
    • Nose-mounted armament
    • Small radiator drag

Cons:

  • A6M for Carrier-based fighter:
    • Strictly air-to-air role
    • Limited ammo
    • Slow
    • Low dive speed, and easily compressed in a dive
  • A6M2 mod. 11 specific:
    • Evaluation model, doesn't come with tail hook

History

The A6M2 mod. 11 was the third prototype to be built. It was powered by a 950 hp Nakajima Sakae engine. Production started in 1939 and a total of 64 were built. These aircraft saw combat in China.

Media

Skins

See also

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

External links


Mitsubishi Company (三菱商会)
Fighters  A5M4 · Hagiri's A5M4
  A6M2 mod. 11 · A6M2 · A6M3 · A6M3 mod. 22 · A6M3 mod. 22Ko · A6M5 · A6M5 Ko · A6M5 otsu · A6M5 Hei · A6M6c
  A7M1 (NK9H) · A7M2
  J2M2 · J2M3 · J2M4 Kai · J2M5 · J2M5 (30 mm)
Hydroplanes  F1M2
Interceptors  Ki-83 · Ki-109
Bombers  G4M1
  Ki-21-Ia · Ki-21-I hei · Ki-67-I Ko · Ki-67-I otsu
Jet Fighters  Ki-200
Captured  ▃A6M2 · ␗A6M2
See also  Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (Post-War)

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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