From the early days of the Second Sino-Japanese War to the end of hostilitiesin the Pacific, the Mitsubishi Zero served as the Imperial Japanese Navy’s mainfrontline fighter. The first major mass-produced version was the A6M2b, whichwas equipped with 50cm folding wingtips, landing hook, and radio directionfinder for carrier-based operations. Flown by expert pilots, the A6M2b took partin daring operations such as the Pearl Harbor attack and the invasion of thePhilippines. It’s 3,000km range, powerful 20mm cannon armament, and legendarymaneuverability quickly earned the respect of Allied aircrews.








