Kawanishi N1K2-J Shiden-Kai

The Kawanishi N1K2-J Shiden-Kai (紫電改, "Violet Lightning Improved"), codenamed "George" by the Allies, first flew on January 1, 1944, its prototype having been completed the previous day. It was formally adopted in January 1945 as a major redesign of the N1K1-J Shiden, moving the wings from mid to low position to allow shorter conventional landing gear.

The N1K2-J was armed with four 20mm wing-mounted cannons and featured an innovative automatic flap system controlled by a mercury tilt sensor that automatically extended combat flaps during high-G maneuvers, dramatically improving turn performance. It used the powerful Nakajima Homare 21 engine rated at 2,000 hp, giving a maximum speed of approximately 594 km/h at 5,600 m.

The aircraft was primarily operated by the 343rd Naval Air Group (第343海軍航空隊) at Matsuyama Air Base in Ehime Prefecture, commanded by Captain Minoru Genda. On March 19, 1945, the group intercepted a large US carrier strike and claimed more than 50 kills (57–58 in its own report; US records show about 14 aircraft lost), demonstrating the aircraft's capability. Total production reached approximately 415 aircraft, limiting its strategic impact despite its exceptional performance.