Mitsubishi J2M Raiden

The Mitsubishi J2M Raiden was constructed as an interceptor with high horizontal speed and climb rate. Achieving good performance in the aforementioned parameters resulted in worse maneuverability, but it was still a very successful design. The Raidens entered service too late to change the face of the war with the United States, but they were nevertheless the most effective fighters against the USAAF's B-29s.

The specification defined in September 1939 contained exact requirements for the n...