The A2N combined a compact radial engine with considerable maneuverability and agility. Nakajima studied the Bristol Jupiter and Pratt & Whitney Wasp, using repeated prototypes and tests to develop engines informed by several foreign designs. The A2N version produced 460-580 horsepower and gave the fighter a quoted top speed of 182 mph. Minoru Genda's Flying Circus used the aircraft to promote naval aviation and encourage recruitment. A2Ns also operated from Japan's carriers and fought over Shanghai, including combat against Douglas O-2 aircraft. First flown in 1929 and introduced in 1932, the fighter was quickly overtaken by the rapid pace of aircraft development.
Chapter · 36:00-40:32
The A2N joins fighter agility to engine development
The compact A2N combines a Japanese-developed radial engine with the agility prized in carrier dogfighting and then gains visibility through Genda's Flying Circus and combat over China.