Difference between revisions of "N1K1"

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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
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<!--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.-->
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<!-- ''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.'' -->
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Japanese hydroplane fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.65 "Way of the Samurai"]].
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The '''N1K1''', designated as '''Kyōfū ({{Annotation|強風|Strong Wind}})''', was a floatplane fighter designed by Kawanishi Aircraft Company for the Imperial Japanese Navy in 1940. It was intended to support offensive operations in areas where no airstrips were available, but by the time it entered service in 1943, Japan was on the defensive and had little need for such a fighter. The N1K1 Kyōfū was powered by a Mitsubishi MK4C Kasei 13 engine and had a top speed of 489 km/h. It was armed with two 7.7 mm machine guns and two 20 mm cannons. It saw limited service in Southeast Asia, Okinawa and Lake Biwa, where it faced superior Allied fighters. The N1K1 Kyofu was also the basis of a land-based version, the [[N1K (Family)|N1K-J Shiden]] ({{Annotation|紫電|Violet Lightning}}), considered one of the finest Japanese fighters of World War II.
  
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The Allied reporting name for this aircraft was "Rex".
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The N1K1 Kyōfū was introduced in [[Update 1.65 "Way of the Samurai"]]. It is a top-notch fighter seaplane, with better flight performance, more 20 mm ammo, and self-sealing fuel tanks than the previous [[A6M2-N]]. However, it is not a beginner-friendly plane, as the floats still affect its performance, and energy management is crucial to avoid being an easy target.
  
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The N1K1 can be a great low rank fighter. Even though its flight characteristics may seem poor at first, there are several ways you can improve them on the battlefield.
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;Nicknames:
 +
 
 +
* [[Abbreviations#.28IJN.29_Official_name_designation|Official Designation]]: ''強風 (Kyōfū, "Strong Wind")''
 +
* Allied reporting name: Rex
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
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|}
 
|}
  
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====Details====
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==== Details ====
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
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! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 394 || 387 || 350 || ~7 || ~7
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| 600 <!-- {{Specs|destruction|body}} --> || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 394 || 387 || 350 || ~7 || ~7
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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|-
 
|-
 
| < 430 || < 300 || < 400 || > 324
 
| < 430 || < 300 || < 400 || > 324
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
 
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
 
−
|-
 
−
! Optimal altitude
 
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
−
|-
 
−
| 1,600 m || 1,440 hp || 1,607 hp
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Setting 2
 
−
|-
 
−
! Optimal altitude
 
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
−
|-
 
−
| 5,000 m || 1,280 hp || 1,428 hp
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
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<!--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.-->
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<!-- ''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.'' -->
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The survivability of the {{PAGENAME}} is to be expected of Japanese planes. With non-effective self-sealing fuel tanks, it won't survive many shots, especially if it catches on fire.
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The survivability of the {{PAGENAME}} is typical of Japanese planes and not to be relied on. With non-effective self-sealing fuel tanks, it won't survive many shots, especially if it catches on fire.
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
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{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
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{{main|Type 99 Model 1 navy (20 mm)|Type 97 navy (7.7 mm)|l1=Type 99 Model 1 (20 mm)|l2=Type 97 (7.7 mm)}}
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{{main|Type 99 Model 1 (20 mm)|Type 97 navy (7.7 mm)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
  
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* 2 x 20 mm Type 99 Model 1 navy cannons, wing-mounted (100 rpg = 200 total)
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* 2 x 20 mm Type 99 Model 1 cannons, wing-mounted (100 rpg = 200 total)
 
* 2 x 7.7 mm Type 97 navy machine guns, nose-mounted (550 rpg = 1,100 total)
 
* 2 x 7.7 mm Type 97 navy machine guns, nose-mounted (550 rpg = 1,100 total)
  
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{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
{{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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
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{{main|Navy Type 97 Number 6 (60 kg)|l1=Type 97 No.6 (60 kg)}}
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{{main|Navy Type 97 Number 6 (60 kg)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
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== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
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<!--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 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).-->
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<!-- ''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).'' -->
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N1K1 is considered as best fighter seaplane available in War Thunder, and if you are experienced or mastered the previous A6M2-N, you will be satisfied with the improved flight performance, generous ammo count for 20 mm cannons, and self-sealing fuel tanks to minimize the fire eats up your entire fuselage.
 +
 
 +
Despite the features it offers, N1K1 is not designed for beginners as the floats still hamper the plane's performance, and without proper knowledge of energy retention management, you'll be a sitting duck in no time.
 +
 
 +
* N1K1 is a versatile fighter seaplane, it can do both support and ground-pound roles. While so, this plane shines when it comes to fulfilling air superiority. During the engagement, make sure to utilize the flaps at the right moment, as the flaps will break beyond 380 km/h. Although N1K1 is boom-and-zoom capable, never attempt to dive beyond 600 km/h or you might break one of your wings and loses your flight control.
 +
* The generous ammo count of 20 mm improves your sustained fight performance over the A6M2-N. To improve its deadliness, set the gun targeting distance at 150-250 m which is desired for boom-and-zoom or dogfighting purposes. While technically all the ammo of the 20 mm cannons is useful to take down the target including the default belt, it is advised to pick Universal or Stealth ammo for the 7.7 mm.
 +
* Despite the improved maneuverability over the A6M2-N, don't attempt to do excess dogfighting as the floats will greatly hamper your energy retention. While the floats are capable to destroy or badly damages the opponent, in practicality, it is incredibly hard to attempt it.
 +
** The float attached below N1K1 can be removed by carefully landing at your base. Be careful when attempting this however, as this process will often result in breaking your propeller or in the worst case, will destroy your plane. Once the floats are successfully removed, the flight performance on N1K1 is dramatically improved.
 +
* Never attempt head-ons. Although the ammo count of 20 mm is generous, the low velocity it has is not ideal to take down enemy beyond 300 m. On top of that, avoid shooting bombers at the rear as most of them are always protected by the rear gunners. Try to strike below the bombers as it lacks the protection.
  
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The N1K1, though adequate for most situations, can be a pretty difficult aircraft to master. Its poor turn times and climb rates can make you vulnerable at low altitude.
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'''Enemies worth noting:'''
  
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If someone is to use this aircraft in battle, he must take advantage of his guns. They can be pretty powerful, so boom-and-zoom attacks would be recommended. You should avoid turn-fights, specially with British aircraft, though you should be able to out-turn some German aircraft.
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* [[Hurricane (Family)|Hawker Hurricane]] - Your eternal bane in its BR. Not only faster than yours but it is also dangerously manoeuvrable and packed with 8 x 7.7 mm MGs or worse, 20 mm Hispano cannon that is capable to decimate you with just a single burst. Thankfully, its climb rate is abysmal than N1K1 has. Once you are above the Hurricane, boom-and-zoom is the viable strategy to quickly dispatch it. Don't get lured to do a dogfight with Hurricane as it always results in being out-turned and out-speed with floats still attached on. Should you failed of it, make sure to climb again whenever possible to regain your energy, then strafe again until you got it good.
 +
* '''Early Yakovlev Fighters''' ([[Yak-1 (Family)|Yak-1]], [[Yak-7B]]) - All early Yakovlev fighters are basically dangerous for your presence, as it boasts a powerful engine and higher maneuverability. However, the engine is prone to overheating and rendered powerless at higher altitudes, making the Yakovlev fighter a sitting duck for you to take on. On top of that, most of the early Yakovlev fighters are made from wood, so load your 20 mm and 7.7 mm with Incendiary ammo (Default and Ground for 20 mm, Stealth and Universal for 7.7 mm) to combust their fuselage with ease.
 +
* [[I-16 (Family)|All I-16 Variants]] - The Polikarpov I-16 is technically the same as the N1K1, only more manoeuvrable. So refrain to dogfight the I-16 by any means necessary. While packing dangerous ShKAS and ShVAKs, the I-16 has no protection for the pilot, making the boom-and-zoom tactic extremely effective if you aim its pilot. Also, the I-16 suffers the same symptom as many early Soviet fighters, where it loses engine performance at higher altitudes. If you spotted I-16 at more than 5,000 m altitudes, engage them as soon as possible.
  
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===Manual Engine Control===
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=== Manual Engine Control ===
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
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! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
|-
 
|-
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! Oil
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! Oil !! Water !! Type
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! Water
 
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! Type
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Controllable || rowspan="2" | Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || rowspan="2" | Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || rowspan="2" | Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || rowspan="2" | Separate || rowspan="2" | Controllable<br>2 gears || rowspan="2" | Not controllable
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| 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 ===
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<!--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".-->
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<!-- ''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:'''
  
−
* Centre float can protect the plane from attacks from below.
+
* Centre float can protect the plane from attacks from below
−
* You can ram other planes with the float (esp. the wings).
+
* Can be a great boom-and-zoom aircraft
−
* Can be a great boom-and-zoom aircraft.
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* Self-sealing fuel tanks and armour, a feature not found on many low-rank Japanese aircraft
−
* Self-sealing fuel tanks and armour, a feature not found on many low-rank Japanese aircraft.
+
* Powerful 20 mm cannons
−
* Powerful 20 mm cannons.
+
* Can be used to capture bases in Naval Battles
−
* Can be used to capture the base in Naval Battles.
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* Large ammo count for the cannons
−
* More ammo for the cannons compared to the [[A6M2]] (200 vs 120).
+
* Accelerates very fast in a dive, and retains the speed created in a dive for quite a while
−
* Accelerates very fast in a dive, and retains the speed created in a dive for quite a while.
+
* Improved overall flight performance, less engine overheating
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Generally weak airframe as with other Japanese planes.
+
* Generally weak airframe as with other Japanese planes
−
* Poor climb-rate and turn time.
+
* Most of its fuel were in the central float, can be easily sets on fire and losing it for performance greatly reduces its flight time
−
* Most of its fuel were in the central float, can be easily sets on fire and losing it for performance greatly reduces its flight time.
+
* Impossible to land on an airfield due to floatplane configuration, also cannot do fast landing on the water (with speed above 160 km/h) as the floats will break and causing the plane to sink
−
* Impossible to land on an airfield due to floatplane configuration, also cannot do fast landing on the water (with speed above 160 km/h) as the floats will break and causing the plane to sink.
+
* Average acceleration and top speed can make you vulnerable
−
* Average acceleration and top speed can make you vulnerable.
+
* 7.7 mm machine guns overheat easily
−
* 7.7 mm machine guns overheat easily.
+
* Long takeoff run on the water
−
* Long takeoff run on the water.
+
* Poor wing durability, especially during dive
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
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<!--''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>=== Encyclopedia Info ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''-->
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<!-- ''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}}
 
{{main|N1K (Family)|l1=History of the N1K}}
 
===Development===
 
===Development===
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With the start of the Sino-Japanese war, the navy required a new line of planes for the southern expansion. One of these required planes by the navy was a fighter seaplane. Before World War I, it was not uncommon for seaplanes to play a central role in combat missions, but closing into World War II seaplanes were usually only used for observation and reconnaissance missions.  
+
With the start of the Sino-Japanese war, the navy required a new line of planes for the southern expansion. One of these required planes by the navy was a fighter seaplane. Before World War I, it was not uncommon for seaplanes to play a central role in combat missions, but closing into World War II seaplanes were usually only used for observation and reconnaissance missions.
  
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This plane was thought to be needed as some islands simply didn't have enough place for an airfield and were too trivial to send aircraft carriers towards. Which at the time of the Japanese situation seemed like a proper investment.  
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This plane was thought to be needed as some islands simply didn't have enough place for an airfield and were too trivial to send aircraft carriers towards. Which at the time of the Japanese situation seemed like a proper investment.
  
 
In September of 1940 the Imperial Japanese Navy instructed Kawanishi, who were quite experienced in developing seaplanes, to make a prototype plane under the name of ''{{Annotation|15-Shi|15th year of the Showa reign, 1940}} Seaplane Fighter''.
 
In September of 1940 the Imperial Japanese Navy instructed Kawanishi, who were quite experienced in developing seaplanes, to make a prototype plane under the name of ''{{Annotation|15-Shi|15th year of the Showa reign, 1940}} Seaplane Fighter''.
  
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The chief design engineer appointed for this specification was Shizuo Kikuhara, who also worked on the [[H8K2]]. Kikuhara and his team were up to quite a task as comparing this specification to the [[A6M2 mod. 11]] that was just put into service in China. The speed exceeded by {{Annotation|30 knots|56 km/h; 34 mph}}, cruising range was two-thirds, armament was equal.  
+
The chief design engineer appointed for this specification was Shizuo Kikuhara, who also worked on the [[H8K2]]. Kikuhara and his team were up to quite a task as comparing this specification to the [[A6M2 mod. 11]] that was just put into service in China. The speed exceeded by {{Annotation|30 knots|56 km/h; 34 mph}}, cruising range was two-thirds, armament was equal.
  
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Simply put, the team was required to make a seaplane with the same performance as of the new main fighter and particularly the speed requirement was almost unrealizable for a seaplane (in 1940) let alone a interceptor like the ''Raiden'' which its prototype (J2M1) barely had a top speed of 578 km/h.  
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Simply put, the team was required to make a seaplane with the same performance as of the new main fighter and particularly the speed requirement was almost unrealizable for a seaplane (in 1940) let alone a interceptor like the ''Raiden'' which its prototype (J2M1) barely had a top speed of 578 km/h.
  
 
The maximum speed of the first completed prototype N1K missed the requirement by nearly 100 km/h, but Shizuo Kikuhara and his team would put all their technical efforts to achieve the requirement.
 
The maximum speed of the first completed prototype N1K missed the requirement by nearly 100 km/h, but Shizuo Kikuhara and his team would put all their technical efforts to achieve the requirement.
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[[Template:AirManufacturer Nakajima|Nakajima]] also made a seaplane fighter of their own as temporarily bridge for the N1K until it actually entered service. This seaplane was simply making use of the new [[A6M2 mod. 11]], making it more waterproof and adding pontoons on it. The [[A6M2-N]] would be adopted as the ''Type 2 seaplane fighter'' on July 6, 1942.
 
[[Template:AirManufacturer Nakajima|Nakajima]] also made a seaplane fighter of their own as temporarily bridge for the N1K until it actually entered service. This seaplane was simply making use of the new [[A6M2 mod. 11]], making it more waterproof and adding pontoons on it. The [[A6M2-N]] would be adopted as the ''Type 2 seaplane fighter'' on July 6, 1942.
  
−
After alot of development and trail time the '''[[N1K1]]''' with a ''Kasei 13'' engine would finally be adopted as the '''Kyōfū''' in December 21, 1943.
+
After alot of development and trail time the [[N1K1]] with a ''Kasei 13'' engine would finally be adopted as the '''Kyōfū''' in December 21, 1943.
  
−
But during its adoption, the Americans already were waging a victory in the Solomon islands and the need for a seaplane fighter was no longer needed as Japan was on the defensive now.  
+
But during its adoption, the Americans already were waging a victory in the Solomon islands and the need for a seaplane fighter was no longer needed as Japan was on the defensive now.
  
 
===Usage===
 
===Usage===
−
Some Kyōfū's were based in Indonesia and were used as a interceptor of bombers with the use of aerial bombs that would detonate after a short time attempting to bomb American bombers such as [[B-24/PB4Y (Family)|B-24/PB4Y]]'s and [[B-29A-BN|B-29]]'s.
+
Some Kyōfū's were based in Indonesia and were used as a interceptor of bombers with the use of aerial bombs that would detonate after a short time attempting to bomb American bombers such as [[B-24/PB4Y (Family)|B-24s/PB4Ys]] and [[B-29A-BN|B-29s]].
  
−
Other Kyōfū's were stationed in the mainland, primarly at Sasebo Air Group and the Otsu Air Group but have almost no record of battle.
+
Other Kyōfū's were stationed in the mainland, primarily at Sasebo Air Group and the Otsu Air Group but have almost no record of battle.
  
 
In the end, the Kyōfū was little too late as its stopgap replacement, the [[A6M2-N]], primarily filled its role. However this indirectly opened its way to evolve in the [[N1K (Family)|Shiden]].
 
In the end, the Kyōfū was little too late as its stopgap replacement, the [[A6M2-N]], primarily filled its role. However this indirectly opened its way to evolve in the [[N1K (Family)|Shiden]].
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;Skins
 
;Skins
  
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* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicleCountry=japan&vehicleType=aircraft&vehicleClass=fighter&vehicle=n1k1_kyuofu Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
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* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=n1k1_kyuofu Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
;Videos
 
;Videos
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== External links ==
 
== External links ==
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<!--Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:
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<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
−
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
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* ''topic on the official game forum;''
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* ''other literature.''-->
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* ''other literature.'' -->
  
 
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/342003-n1k1/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
 
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/342003-n1k1/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

Latest revision as of 19:56, 3 March 2024

Introducing Wiki 3.0
This page is about the Japanese fighter N1K1. For other versions, see N1K (Family).
N1K1
n1k1_kyuofu.png
GarageImage N1K1.jpg
ArtImage N1K1.png
N1K1
Japan flag.png Japan
II Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
2.7 2.3 2.7
Class:
Research:4 600 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:16 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png

Description

The N1K1, designated as Kyōfū (強風), was a floatplane fighter designed by Kawanishi Aircraft Company for the Imperial Japanese Navy in 1940. It was intended to support offensive operations in areas where no airstrips were available, but by the time it entered service in 1943, Japan was on the defensive and had little need for such a fighter. The N1K1 Kyōfū was powered by a Mitsubishi MK4C Kasei 13 engine and had a top speed of 489 km/h. It was armed with two 7.7 mm machine guns and two 20 mm cannons. It saw limited service in Southeast Asia, Okinawa and Lake Biwa, where it faced superior Allied fighters. The N1K1 Kyofu was also the basis of a land-based version, the N1K-J Shiden (紫電), considered one of the finest Japanese fighters of World War II.

The N1K1 Kyōfū was introduced in Update 1.65 "Way of the Samurai". It is a top-notch fighter seaplane, with better flight performance, more 20 mm ammo, and self-sealing fuel tanks than the previous A6M2-N. However, it is not a beginner-friendly plane, as the floats still affect its performance, and energy management is crucial to avoid being an easy target.

Nicknames

General info

Flight performance

Max speed
at 6 000 m489 km/h
Turn time19 s
Max altitude10 000 m
EngineMitsubishi Kasei 14
TypeRadial
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight4 t

The N1K1 doesn't have great flight characteristics. With an average turn time and rate of climb, it can struggle against other planes at its BR.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 6,000 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 473 462 10000 19.9 20.6 11.5 11.5 500
Upgraded 507 489 18.1 19.0 19.2 14.9

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 + -
600 600 394 387 350 ~7 ~7
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 430 < 300 < 400 > 324

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear600 km/h

The survivability of the N1K1 is typical of Japanese planes and not to be relied on. With non-effective self-sealing fuel tanks, it won't survive many shots, especially if it catches on fire.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB497 → 629 Sl icon.png
RB991 → 1 254 Sl icon.png
SB1 407 → 1 781 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications8 390 Rp icon.png
9 380 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 / 80 / 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
90 Ge icon.png
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Research:
560 Rp icon.png
Cost:
630 Sl icon.png
90 Ge icon.png
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
470 Rp icon.png
Cost:
530 Sl icon.png
75 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
790 Sl icon.png
115 Ge icon.png
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Research:
700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
790 Sl icon.png
115 Ge icon.png
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Research:
910 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
150 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
470 Rp icon.png
Cost:
530 Sl icon.png
75 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
910 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
150 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
type89_belt_pack
Research:
560 Rp icon.png
Cost:
630 Sl icon.png
90 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
type97_new_gun
Research:
470 Rp icon.png
Cost:
530 Sl icon.png
75 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
9 in (mod30)
Research:
470 Rp icon.png
Cost:
530 Sl icon.png
75 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
type99mk1_belt_pack
Research:
700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
790 Sl icon.png
115 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
type99mk1_new_gun
Research:
910 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
150 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Offensive armament

Weapon 12 x 20 mm Type 99 Model 1 cannon
Ammunition200 rounds
Fire rate516 shots/min
Weapon 22 x 7.7 mm Type 97 machine gun
Ammunition1 100 rounds
Fire rate900 shots/min
Main articles: Type 99 Model 1 (20 mm), Type 97 navy (7.7 mm)

The N1K1 is armed with:

  • 2 x 20 mm Type 99 Model 1 cannons, wing-mounted (100 rpg = 200 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 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

N1K1 is considered as best fighter seaplane available in War Thunder, and if you are experienced or mastered the previous A6M2-N, you will be satisfied with the improved flight performance, generous ammo count for 20 mm cannons, and self-sealing fuel tanks to minimize the fire eats up your entire fuselage.

Despite the features it offers, N1K1 is not designed for beginners as the floats still hamper the plane's performance, and without proper knowledge of energy retention management, you'll be a sitting duck in no time.

  • N1K1 is a versatile fighter seaplane, it can do both support and ground-pound roles. While so, this plane shines when it comes to fulfilling air superiority. During the engagement, make sure to utilize the flaps at the right moment, as the flaps will break beyond 380 km/h. Although N1K1 is boom-and-zoom capable, never attempt to dive beyond 600 km/h or you might break one of your wings and loses your flight control.
  • The generous ammo count of 20 mm improves your sustained fight performance over the A6M2-N. To improve its deadliness, set the gun targeting distance at 150-250 m which is desired for boom-and-zoom or dogfighting purposes. While technically all the ammo of the 20 mm cannons is useful to take down the target including the default belt, it is advised to pick Universal or Stealth ammo for the 7.7 mm.
  • Despite the improved maneuverability over the A6M2-N, don't attempt to do excess dogfighting as the floats will greatly hamper your energy retention. While the floats are capable to destroy or badly damages the opponent, in practicality, it is incredibly hard to attempt it.
    • The float attached below N1K1 can be removed by carefully landing at your base. Be careful when attempting this however, as this process will often result in breaking your propeller or in the worst case, will destroy your plane. Once the floats are successfully removed, the flight performance on N1K1 is dramatically improved.
  • Never attempt head-ons. Although the ammo count of 20 mm is generous, the low velocity it has is not ideal to take down enemy beyond 300 m. On top of that, avoid shooting bombers at the rear as most of them are always protected by the rear gunners. Try to strike below the bombers as it lacks the protection.

Enemies worth noting:

  • Hawker Hurricane - Your eternal bane in its BR. Not only faster than yours but it is also dangerously manoeuvrable and packed with 8 x 7.7 mm MGs or worse, 20 mm Hispano cannon that is capable to decimate you with just a single burst. Thankfully, its climb rate is abysmal than N1K1 has. Once you are above the Hurricane, boom-and-zoom is the viable strategy to quickly dispatch it. Don't get lured to do a dogfight with Hurricane as it always results in being out-turned and out-speed with floats still attached on. Should you failed of it, make sure to climb again whenever possible to regain your energy, then strafe again until you got it good.
  • Early Yakovlev Fighters (Yak-1, Yak-7B) - All early Yakovlev fighters are basically dangerous for your presence, as it boasts a powerful engine and higher maneuverability. However, the engine is prone to overheating and rendered powerless at higher altitudes, making the Yakovlev fighter a sitting duck for you to take on. On top of that, most of the early Yakovlev fighters are made from wood, so load your 20 mm and 7.7 mm with Incendiary ammo (Default and Ground for 20 mm, Stealth and Universal for 7.7 mm) to combust their fuselage with ease.
  • All I-16 Variants - The Polikarpov I-16 is technically the same as the N1K1, only more manoeuvrable. So refrain to dogfight the I-16 by any means necessary. While packing dangerous ShKAS and ShVAKs, the I-16 has no protection for the pilot, making the boom-and-zoom tactic extremely effective if you aim its pilot. Also, the I-16 suffers the same symptom as many early Soviet fighters, where it loses engine performance at higher altitudes. If you spotted I-16 at more than 5,000 m altitudes, engage them as soon as possible.

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:

  • Centre float can protect the plane from attacks from below
  • Can be a great boom-and-zoom aircraft
  • Self-sealing fuel tanks and armour, a feature not found on many low-rank Japanese aircraft
  • Powerful 20 mm cannons
  • Can be used to capture bases in Naval Battles
  • Large ammo count for the cannons
  • Accelerates very fast in a dive, and retains the speed created in a dive for quite a while
  • Improved overall flight performance, less engine overheating

Cons:

  • Generally weak airframe as with other Japanese planes
  • Most of its fuel were in the central float, can be easily sets on fire and losing it for performance greatly reduces its flight time
  • Impossible to land on an airfield due to floatplane configuration, also cannot do fast landing on the water (with speed above 160 km/h) as the floats will break and causing the plane to sink
  • Average acceleration and top speed can make you vulnerable
  • 7.7 mm machine guns overheat easily
  • Long takeoff run on the water
  • Poor wing durability, especially during dive

History

Main article: History of the N1K

Development

With the start of the Sino-Japanese war, the navy required a new line of planes for the southern expansion. One of these required planes by the navy was a fighter seaplane. Before World War I, it was not uncommon for seaplanes to play a central role in combat missions, but closing into World War II seaplanes were usually only used for observation and reconnaissance missions.

This plane was thought to be needed as some islands simply didn't have enough place for an airfield and were too trivial to send aircraft carriers towards. Which at the time of the Japanese situation seemed like a proper investment.

In September of 1940 the Imperial Japanese Navy instructed Kawanishi, who were quite experienced in developing seaplanes, to make a prototype plane under the name of 15-Shi Seaplane Fighter.

The chief design engineer appointed for this specification was Shizuo Kikuhara, who also worked on the H8K2. Kikuhara and his team were up to quite a task as comparing this specification to the A6M2 mod. 11 that was just put into service in China. The speed exceeded by 30 knots, cruising range was two-thirds, armament was equal.

Simply put, the team was required to make a seaplane with the same performance as of the new main fighter and particularly the speed requirement was almost unrealizable for a seaplane (in 1940) let alone a interceptor like the Raiden which its prototype (J2M1) barely had a top speed of 578 km/h.

The maximum speed of the first completed prototype N1K missed the requirement by nearly 100 km/h, but Shizuo Kikuhara and his team would put all their technical efforts to achieve the requirement.

Nakajima also made a seaplane fighter of their own as temporarily bridge for the N1K until it actually entered service. This seaplane was simply making use of the new A6M2 mod. 11, making it more waterproof and adding pontoons on it. The A6M2-N would be adopted as the Type 2 seaplane fighter on July 6, 1942.

After alot of development and trail time the N1K1 with a Kasei 13 engine would finally be adopted as the Kyōfū in December 21, 1943.

But during its adoption, the Americans already were waging a victory in the Solomon islands and the need for a seaplane fighter was no longer needed as Japan was on the defensive now.

Usage

Some Kyōfū's were based in Indonesia and were used as a interceptor of bombers with the use of aerial bombs that would detonate after a short time attempting to bomb American bombers such as B-24s/PB4Ys and B-29s.

Other Kyōfū's were stationed in the mainland, primarily at Sasebo Air Group and the Otsu Air Group but have almost no record of battle.

In the end, the Kyōfū was little too late as its stopgap replacement, the A6M2-N, primarily filled its role. However this indirectly opened its way to evolve in the Shiden.

Media

Skins
Videos
Realistic: N1K1 Kyuofu [Fragile] - Jengar

See also

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

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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