FACTOIDS & TRIVIA

Introduced in 1942, the Nakajima A6M2-N Model 2 (allied code name “Rufe”) was developed as a floatplane from the Mitsubishi A6M2 “Zero”. It was a stop gap aircraft built at the request of the Imperial Japanese Navy and used until the purpose-built Kawanishi "float fighter" could be finished and deployed. The design changes to the A6M2 were relatively straightforward and included removing the landing gear, adding floats and modifying the tail. The main float was also used for fuel storage which helped with range, but was a weakness if hit by enemy fire. The idea was that the plane could be land almost anywhere there was water and so could be deployed throughout the Pacific for ground support and miltary base defense. The A6M2-N was a multi-purpose aircraft and served as an interceptor, fighter-bomber and even as a reconnaissance plane. It served in its role well and was maneuverable, but was considerably slower than the regular A6M2 and so was at a disadvantage to even the early allied fighters such as the Grumman F4F Wildcat. Nakajima built a total of 327 A6M2-N aircraft. Here's a short video clip of me flying the A6M2-N against a Wildcat (sorry for the flickering).

NAKAJIMA A6M2-N Model 2 "Rufe"

 

 

 Class: Interceptor/Fighter-Bomber

 Crew: 1

 Engine: Nakajima NK1C Sakae-12 14-cylinder twin-row radial (940 hp)

 Max Speed: 270 mph at 16,400 ft

 Climb Rate:  2,440 ft/min

 Service Ceiling: 32,800 ft

 Range: 1,107 miles

 Armament:  2 x .303 inch machine gun (fuselage mount)
                        2 x 20 mm cannon (wing mount)
                        2 x 130 lb bomb

 

  Model Scale:  1:87



















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