Kawanishi H8K
Kawanishi Aircraft Company · Japan · first flew 1941 · transport aircraft
The Kawanishi H8K was the Imperial Japanese Navy's premier large flying boat of World War II, considered by many to be the finest operational flying boat of the conflict. Allied forces nicknamed it 'Emily'.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, tapered |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 4 × piston, wing-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 28.13 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Imperial Japanese Navy large four-engine flying boat, called 'Emily' by Allies
- Four radial engines on a high parasol wing, double-deck hull with good defensive armament
- Deep planing hull with sponsons, single fin and rudder, high-mounted engines
Distinguished from the earlier H6K by its much deeper, more hydrodynamically refined hull and higher-mounted wing; the four large radials, prominent defensive gun positions, and double-deck hull cross-section are definitive identifiers.
Specifications
- The Kawanishi H8K has a length of 28.13 m (92 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 38 m (125 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 467 km/h (290 mph).
- Typical crew: 9.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Designed to replace the earlier H6K, the H8K entered service in 1942 after initial development difficulties with its planing hull. It proved an excellent long-range maritime patrol and transport aircraft with heavy defensive armament and high performance for its size.
Variants
The H8K1 was the initial patrol version; the H8K2 was the main production variant with improved armament; the H8K2-L 'Seiku' was a 29-passenger transport version.
Where you'll see it
Operated by the Imperial Japanese Navy throughout the Pacific War in patrol, transport, and bombing roles; used in the audacious second attack on Pearl Harbor (Operation K) using the H8K's long range.
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