Nakajima Type 91: Forging the Skies of Imperial Japan

✈️ The Nakajima Type 91

The Nakajima Type 91 fighter was a significant Japanese fighter aircraft developed in the early 1930s. Characterized by its single-engine, single-seat parasol monoplane configuration and a fixed tailskid undercarriage, it represented a key step in the evolution of Japanese military aviation during that era.

🗂️ Key Specifications

⚙️ Design Philosophy

The Type 91 was conceived to meet a specific requirement from the Imperial Japanese Army established in 1927. It evolved from the earlier NC series of prototype fighters. While sharing a lineage, the Type 91 featured a distinct airframe design. Key modifications from its predecessors included a reduced wing size, a repositioned fuel tank, revised wing-bracing struts, the incorporation of a Townend ring cowling for improved engine cooling and aerodynamics, and a redesigned tail assembly and undercarriage system. This iterative design process aimed to enhance performance and handling characteristics for contemporary aerial combat needs.

⚠️ Initial Service Challenges

Following its successful first flight, the Imperial Japanese Army officially ordered the aircraft as the Nakajima Army Type 91 fighter. Initial deliveries commenced in late 1931. However, the aircraft's entry into active service was hampered by notable issues concerning directional stability and the aircraft's center of gravity. These aerodynamic challenges necessitated further development and modifications before the Type 91 could be fully integrated into operational units.

🏭 Production and Engine Variants

Between 1931 and 1934, a total of 420 Type 91 aircraft were constructed. This production run included approximately 100 units manufactured by Ishikawajima Aircraft Company Limited, highlighting collaborative efforts in Japanese aviation manufacturing. A notable variant, the Type 91-2, was introduced, distinguished by its more powerful Nakajima Kotobuki 2 radial engine, which produced 432 kW (580 hp). This improved version made its maiden flight in July 1934. Despite these advancements, the Type 91 was eventually supplanted in front-line service by the more advanced Kawasaki Army Type 95 fighter during the 1936–1937 period.

🇨🇳 China

The Republic of China (Nationalist Government) acquired twelve Type 91-1 fighters. These aircraft later saw combat against their former suppliers during the tumultuous Second Sino-Japanese War, underscoring the complex geopolitical landscape of the era.

🇯🇵 Japan

The primary operator was the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force, which extensively utilized the Type 91 fighter in its early air power development phase.

🇲🇳 Manchukuo

The Manchukuo Imperial Air Force also operated the Type 91 fighter, integrating it into the air arm of the Japanese puppet state.

📊 Nakajima Army Type 91-1 Fighter

Data sourced from Japanese aircraft 1910-1941 and The Complete Book of Fighters.

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📜 Important Notice

This page has been meticulously generated by an Artificial Intelligence, drawing upon a comprehensive analysis of publicly available data. It is intended strictly for informational and educational purposes, aiming to provide a scholarly overview of the Nakajima Type 91 fighter. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source material, the content represents a snapshot in time and may not encompass all nuances or the most current historical interpretations.

This is not a substitute for professional historical or technical research. The information presented should not be considered definitive or used as the sole basis for academic or professional work without cross-referencing primary sources and expert consultation. The creators of this page assume no liability for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided herein.