A6M2 Zero

The Zero is the most famous symbol of Japanese air power during World War II.  The fighter first flew in April 1939, and Mitsubishi, Nakajima, Hitachi, and the Japanese navy produced 10,815 Zeros from 1940–45.  Japan made more Zeros than any other aircraft in WW II.  It's distinctive design and historical impact make the Zero an important machine in air power history.  The Zero got its name from its official designation, Navy Type Zero Carrier-Based Fighter (or Reisen), though the Allies code-named it “Zeke.”

This Nakajima-built A6M2  was found in Papua New Guinea, near the city of Kavieng on New Ireland, and was probably one of the aircraft delivered to Rabaul and operated by the 6th Kokutai (Squadron) and later by the 253rd Kokutai. It is painted to represent a section leader’s aircraft from the aircraft carrier Zuiho during the Battle of the Bismarck Sea, March 1943, in which Allied air power won a major victory over Japanese sea power.  (NMUSAF)

Note:  The color of the aircraft is a glossy gray.  It appears a light shade of brown due to the colored lights illuminating the exhibit.  Complete correction was not possible with the photo software available.

Click on the thumbnails below to view larger images.

Return to the main walkaround page.