Lokasenna -> RE: Could Jap CVE's employ Aichi Val? (9/30/2013 3:55:08 PM)
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ORIGINAL: Gilbert quote:
ORIGINAL: wdolson The Val had fixed wings and the Kate had folding wings. The Val probably couldn't fit on the elevators. Bill In fact, the D3A1s had folded wing tips. With their wings/wingtips folded, IJN carrier a/c had the following dimensions (span x length x height): A6M2 – 10,955x9,05x3,525 m; D3A1 – 10,932x10,185x3,348 m; B5N2 – 7,5x10,3x3,7. As you can see, A6M2 and D3A1 dimensions are close. The CVE's used the former but never the latter due to operational considerations. In fact, the IJN never operated dive-bombers, either the D3A or the D4Y from their CVEs or CVLs - I don't think they were stupid, so there had to be a good reason. While a significant part was surely the fact that attack aircraft could carry larger and more varied bomb loads as well as a trained observer, there were just as clearly some operational considerations. CVEs were mostly used either to escort convoys or to ferry aircraft in transport missions. You don't need dive-bombers for that but versatile aircraft able to perform ASW missions and the B5Ns were more suitable for that role. Gilbert +1. Even if the D4Y had been around and capable of launching off the CVEs/CVLs, I'd still prefer the B5N (and B6N). CVEs/CVLs are good auxiliary and utility platforms, and the torpedo planes filled that role best.
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