The C6N Saiun was a capable carrier-oriented reconnaissance aircraft that demanded careful servicing. Of seven aircraft sent toward Truk, two returned with engine trouble, one ditched en route, and one was wrecked on landing. The lack of suitable fuel, spares, and specialist support left only one machine usable. A delivery from the submarine I-36 restored limited capability, showing that reconnaissance depended as much on logistics as on aircraft performance.
Notable Point · 14:45-18:01
C6N Saiun reconnaissance and logistical fragility
The raid depended on scarce C6N reconnaissance aircraft whose operational availability collapsed before the mission began.