![]() The Ki-84 was a cantilever low-wing monoplane of all-metal construction, except for the fabric-covered control surfaces, with conventional landing gear. The design of the Ki-84 addressed the most common complaints about the popular and highly maneuverable Ki-43: insufficient firepower, poor defensive armor, and lack of climbing speed. Although the design was itself solid, growing difficulties in securing skilled pilots, proper fuel and construction materials, and adequate manufacture often prevented the aircraft from reaching its full potential in the field. The Ki-84 first flew in March 1943 and deliveries from Nakajima's Ota factory commenced the following month. The specification recognized the need to combine the maneuverability of the Ki-43 with performance to match the best western fighters, and heavy firepower. Prototype Nakajima Ki-84 with unique exhaust stack, similar to a Ki-43'sĭesign of the Ki-84 commenced in early 1942 to meet an Imperial Japanese Army Air Service requirement for a replacement to Nakajima's own, earlier Ki-43 fighter, then just entering service. Nevertheless, a well-maintained Ki-84 was Japan's fastest fighter. The difficulties of Japan's situation late in the war took a toll on the aircraft's field performance as manufacturing defects multiplied, good quality fuel proved difficult to procure, and experienced pilots grew scarce. Pilots and crews in the field learned to take care with the plane's high-maintenance Nakajima Homare engine and a landing gear prone to buckling. The Ki-84's performance matched that of any single-engine Allied fighter it faced, and its operational ceiling enabled it to intercept high-flying B-29 Superfortress bombers. The aircraft boasted high speed and excellent maneuverability with an armament (up to two 30 mm and two 20 mm cannon) that gave it formidable firepower. The Ki-84 is generally considered the best Japanese fighter to operate in large numbers during the conflict. ![]() The Allied reporting name was " Frank" the Japanese Army designation was Army Type 4 Fighter ( 四式戦闘機, yon-shiki-sentō-ki ). ![]() "Gale") is a single-seat fighter flown by the Imperial Japanese Army Air Service in the last two years of World War II. ![]()
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