Aichi E13A "Jake"

Aichi · Japan · first flew 1939 · light aircraft

The Aichi E13A, known to the Allies as 'Jake', was Japan's most important floatplane reconnaissance aircraft of the Second World War. Produced in large numbers, it served aboard cruisers and seaplane tenders throughout the Pacific conflict.

Recognition (WEFT)

W — Wings	Low-mounted, straight
E — Engines	1 × piston, nose-mounted
F — Fuselage	11.3 m fuselage
T — Tail	Conventional

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Spot it by:

Japanese WWII floatplane reconnaissance type
Large central float under low-wing monoplane
Allied reporting name Jake

A low-wing monoplane floatplane with a single large centreline float, twin outrigger floats under the wings, a radial engine, and an enclosed three-seat cockpit.

Specifications

The Aichi E13A has a length of 11.3 m (37 ft).
It has a wingspan of 14.5 m (48 ft).
Its maximum speed is 377 km/h (234 mph).
Typical crew: 3.

Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.

History

The E13A entered service in 1941 and participated in the Pearl Harbor reconnaissance mission that confirmed the American fleet's presence before the attack. It saw extensive use across the Pacific, Indian Ocean, and Chinese coasts, remaining in production until 1945 with over 1,400 examples built.

Variants

The E13A1 was the main production variant; the E13A1a and E13A1b incorporated improved radio equipment and other minor changes. Late examples were adapted for kamikaze use.

Where you'll see it

Served with the Imperial Japanese Navy throughout the Pacific War aboard cruisers, seaplane tenders, and shore bases; also used by the navies of Thailand and captured aircraft evaluated by the Allies.

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