Aichi E16A Zuiun (Paul)
Technical Information
Background
Known as Zuiun (Auspicious Cloud) , Allied codename 'Paul'. The first of three prototypes was flown for the first time during May 1942, but the resolution of stability problems, and of buffeting from the dive brakes occupied 15 months, The navy ordering the E16A1 into production in August 1943 as the Navy Reconnaissance Seaplane Zuiun Model 11. The E16A1 had wings that incorporated trailing-edge flaps, and which could be folded for shipboard stowage. The forward mounting strut of the floats incorporated by hydraulically-actuated dive brakes to allow the E16A1 to operate as a dive-bomber.
Service
Served with 301st, 634th and Yokosuka. The majority which survived were used for Kamikaze operations in the Okinawa area.
Production
Production totalled 193 E16A1 production aircraft by Aichi Kokuki KK at Eitoku and 59 E16A1 production aircraft by Nipon Hikoki KK at Tomioka.
