Kawanishi Navy Type 2 High-speed Reconnaissance Seaplane Shiun / E15K (Norm)
Technical Information

Background
Designed and built by Kawanishi Aircraft Company as E15K Shiun 紫雲 meaning "Violet Cloud" as a two-seat high-speed reconnaissance floatplane with sufficient performance to escape interception and long range capability and was to be used aboard a cruiser or operate from a seaplane base. Ordered by the Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN) as the Navy Type 2 High-speed Reconnaissance Seaplane Shiun Model 11.

On December 5, 1941 the first prototype E15K1 was flown and a total of six prototypes were evaluated in 1942. The floatplane originally had retractable stabilizing floats on the outer wings but the concept was abandoned and they were instead mounted fixed. The center float was designed to be jettisoned in flight, but only tested in wind tunnel. Production commenced in 1943 until February 1944. Allied code name Norm.

Wartime History
On April 30, 1944 the first operational E15K1 entered service with six assigned to the 12th Reconnaissance Squadron, 61st Air Flotilla. On June 1, 1944 the first Shiun arrived in Palau but suffered from high maintenance and mechanical issues and the main float failed to jettison when released.

Production
A total of 15 were built including six prototypes between 1941 to February 1944.

Technical Details
Crew  Two (Pilot, Observer)
Engine   Mitsubishi MK4S Kasei 24 14-cylinder air-cooled radial engine with four-bladed contra-rotating propeller
Wingspan  45' 11"
Length  38'
Height  16' 3"
Maximum Speed  291 mph at 18,700' with center float
Range  2,095 miles
Armament  (rear ) 1 x 7.7mm Type 92 machine gun