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Japan's Mitsubishi A6M2-K, A6M5-K trainers
A6M2 Type 0 Training Fighter Model 11
Type Zero Training Fighter Model 11

Photos

Design

Originally some A6M2s in the field were converted in 1942 to two seaters to be used for reconnaissance and command duties.1

Specifications for a dedicated trainer was given in 1943.1 Dai-Nijuichi Kaigun Kokoshu (21st Naval Air Depot) designed the A6M2-K.1

The instructor was behind the student.1 The trainer's seat was where the radio and other equipment was located.1,2 The student's part of the cockpit was permanently open.1

Dual controls were installed.1 The fixed tailwheel was larger than the A6M fighters.1,2 Wheel covers and the wing cannons were removed to save weight.1,2

A stability fin was added just in front of the horizontal stabilizer.2

Prototype

Production

The first A6M2-K was completed in November 1943.1

The first A6M5-K was flown in March 1945.1

Variants

  • A6M2-K
  • A6M5-K: Shorter wing.1

Usage

The A6M2-K first entered service in early 1944.1

Some ended up being used as Kamikaze planes.1,2

Specifications

  Mitsubishi A6M2-K1 Mitsubishi A6M5-K1
Type Advanced trainer1 Advanced trainer1
Crew 21 21
Engine (Type) Nakajima N1KC Sakae 121 Nakajima NK1F Sakae 211
Cylinders Radial 141  
Cooling    
Net HP 9501 1,1301
Propeller blades 31 31
Dimensions    
Span 39' 4.5"1
12 m1 		36' 1"1
11 m1
Length 30' 0.25"1
9.15 m1 		 
Height 11' 7.25"1
3.53 m1 		 
Wing area    
Weight    
Empty 4,010 lb1
1,819 kg1 		 
Loaded 5,146 lb1
2,334 kg1 		 
Maximum load 5,792 lb1
2,627 kg1 		 
Performance    
Speed @ 13,125' /
4,000 m 		296 mph1
476 kph1 		 
Cruising speed 214 mph1
344 kph1 		 
Climb to 19,685' /
6,000 m 		7.9 minutes1  
Service ceiling 33,400'1
10,180 m1 		 
Range 857 miles1
1,380 km1 		 
Armament    
Nose 2: 7.7 mm MG1  
Bombs - under wings 2: 132 lb1
2: 60 kg1 		 
OR    
Bomb - under fuselage 1: 551 lb1
1: 250 kg1 		 

Sources:

  1. Aircraft of WWII, Stewart Wilson, 1998
  2. A6M Zero in Action, Shigeru Nohara, 1983