Japan built almost 330 Rufes for forward-island operations. The aircraft carried two 20 mm cannon, two 7.7 mm machine guns, and two 132-pound bombs. Its maximum speed was about 270 miles per hour and its range roughly 620 nautical miles. It could intercept bombers from locations without runways, but capable conventional fighters exposed the conversion's limitations. The basing advantage could not make up for the performance lost when floats were added to the lightweight Zero.
Notable Point · 18:58-21:41
Why the Rufe struggled in air combat
A closer look at the Rufe's forward-island role, limited bomb load, speed, and range explains why it was vulnerable to capable conventional fighters.