Watanabe E9W1 (Slim)

Background
Designed by Watanabe Ironworks, as a single engine, two seat, twin-float floatplane that could be dismantled and stowed in a waterproof hangar aboard a J-3 type submarine. The stowed floatplane could be reassembled in 2 minutes and 30 seconds and disassembled in one minute 30 seconds. During February 1935, the first prototype was tested aboard Japanese submarine I-5. After successful testing, an order for 32 was placed.

Wartime History
During 1938, accepted by the Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN) as Type 96 Small Reconnaissance Seaplane / E9W. At the start of the Pacific War, six E9W1 were operational aboard submarines and remained in use until July 1942 for reconnaissance missions. Allied code name "Slim". Replaced by the Yokosuka Type 0 Small Reconnaissance Seaplane / E14Y (Glen).

Production
A total of 35 including three prototypes with production completed in 1940.

Technical Details
Crew  Two (pilot, observer)
Engine  1 × Hitachi Tempu II radial engine , 224 kW (300 hp) with a two bladed propeller
Wingspan  32' 9.5" / 9.91m
Length  26; 3" / 8m
Height  12' 2" / 3.71m
Maximum Speed  144 mph
Range  454 miles
Armament  (rear) 1 x 7.7mm machine gun