Nakajima D3N
Nakajima · Japan · first flew 1937 · fighter
The Nakajima D3N was a Japanese carrier-based dive bomber prototype of 1937, developed as a potential replacement for older types in the Imperial Japanese Navy.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, tapered |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 8.8 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
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Spot it by:
- Late 1930s Japanese carrier-based dive bomber prototype
- Single radial engine biplane with fixed undercarriage
- Open tandem cockpit with observer/gunner in rear seat
A large biplane with a single radial engine and folding wings for carrier stowage; represents the final generation of Japanese biplane carrier aircraft before the monoplane era.
Specifications
- The Nakajima D3N has a length of 8.8 m (29 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 14.5 m (48 ft).
- Typical crew: 2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Developed in 1937 as a biplane carrier dive bomber, the D3N was part of a Japanese Navy competition eventually won by the Aichi D1A and subsequently by monoplane designs. The D3N was not selected for production as the Imperial Japanese Navy transitioned to more modern monoplane aircraft.
Variants
Prototype only; no production variants followed.
Where you'll see it
Not adopted for carrier service; the Japanese Navy moved directly to monoplane dive bombers.
Related aircraft
- Nakajima Ki-27
- Nakajima A4N
- Nakajima Ki-43 Hayabusa
- Nakajima Ki-49 Donryu
- Aichi E11A
- Arado Ar 196
- Arado Ar 197
- Blackburn Skua
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