The hidden cost of Japan's elite pilot system

Japanese pilot selection had appeared sufficient in earlier fighting. British, American and French systems before World War I had also been highly selective, often depending on candidates who could afford their own flight training. Their wartime expansion forced a broader intake, while Japan had not faced a comparable requirement for mass aviation mobilization. Keeping only the strongest candidates restricted the supply of otherwise useful pilots. Accepting a wider band would still retain exceptional flyers, provide wingmen around them, and allow others to develop through experience. Individual quality could not prevent an isolated Japanese pilot from being overwhelmed by several Allied opponents.