Nakajima Type 2 Land Based Reconnaissance Aircraft / J1N1 Gekko (Irving)
Technical Information

Background
Designed as an heavy long-range fighter with a crew of three, but was initially built only as J1N1-C reconnaissance aircraft. It was as maneuverable as many single-seat fighters. The J1N could carry either the Zero drop tank tank or the later model 330 liter tank with the stabilizing fins.

In the middle of 1943, a pair of J1N1 Irvings from the 251 Kōkūtai (251 Air Group) were field modified Rabaul adding upward and downward firing 20mm cannons for use as a night fighter and strafing attacks. Afterards, more Irvings were similarly modified. Between June 1943 until October 1943 these night fighters they were highly effective in shooting down Allied heavy bombers.

J1N1-S Model
Later, these field modifications were incorporated in the J1N1-S model, a night fighter equipped with upward-firing 20mm cannons and in some cases even radar.

Production
A total of 479 were built

Technical Details
Crew  Two or three (pilot / observer)
Engine  Two Nakajima NK1F Sakae 14 cylinder air-cooled radials, three-blade metal propellers
Span  16.98m
Length  12.18m
Height  4.56m
Maximum Speed  286 kmh
Range  1,457 miles
Armament  Varied by model