Mitsubishi J2M Raiden "Jack"

The Mitsubishi J2M Raiden ("Thunderbolt"), Allied reporting name "Jack," was a single-engine land-based fighter aircraft used by the Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN) during World War II. Designed by Jiro Horikoshi, famous for his work on the Mitsubishi A6M Zero, the Raiden was conceived as a dedicated interceptor specifically to counter the growing threat of Allied bombers, particularly the Boeing B-29 Superfortress, which were increasingly targeting the Japanese home islands. Unlike the Zero, which emphasized maneuverability and range, the Raiden prioritized speed, rate of climb, and firepower to quickly engage and destroy incoming bombers.

The development of the Raiden was not without its challenges. The Kasei engine proved to be unreliable in early models, suffering from frequent mechanical failures. The aircraft's complex landing gear, designed to collapse inward to accommodate the wide propeller, also experienced problems. Additionally, the pilot's visibility, particularly to the rear, was limited due to the aircraft's design.

The J2M Raiden entered service in late 1944, seeing extensive action defending the Japanese home islands against Allied bombing raids, particularly the B-29 Superfortress. It proved to be a capable interceptor, possessing a good rate of climb and high altitude performance. Its speed and firepower allowed it to effectively engage bombers, and it was one of the few Japanese fighters that could reliably reach the B-29s operating altitudes.

Despite its strengths, the Raiden had its limitations. Its poor maneuverability at low speeds made it vulnerable to more agile Allied fighters. The initial reliability issues with the Kasei engine also hampered its effectiveness. Furthermore, the limited pilot visibility made it difficult to spot approaching aircraft.

The Raiden was primarily deployed in defensive roles, guarding vital industrial centers and military installations. It served with various IJN air groups, including the 302nd, 332nd, and 352nd.

Nickname Discussions:

"Stumpy": Referring to the short, stout fuselage. This is a common descriptor used in historical accounts and forum discussions.

"Kasei's Fury": Highlighting the powerful Kasei engine, although this is more descriptive.

"Home Guard": Alluding to its primary role of defending the home islands.

"Jackhammer": Referencing both the Allied code name "Jack" and its powerful cannon armament.

"The Rocket": Although this might be confused with other aircraft, the Raiden's focus on climbing speed could have led to this informal term.

In conclusion, the Mitsubishi J2M Raiden was a significant aircraft in the IJN arsenal, designed specifically to counter the threat of Allied bombers. While its development was troubled by engine issues and its maneuverability was limited, it proved to be a capable high-altitude interceptor. Discussion in community forums reveal that while no widespread nickname came into use, several common terms stemming from its appearence and purpose can be inferred.

- About the variant

J2M3 Model 21
Armed with two wing-mounted 20 mm Type 99 Model II cannon and two wing-mounted 20 mm Type 99 Model I cannon as standard.

C O N T R O L S
Trim : Flaps, cruising 'rotate' adjuster
VTOL : Further flaps