Aichi-Built Navy Type 2 Reconnaissance Seaplane (Heinkel HD 26 Variant)
Description
The Aichi-built version of the Navy Type 2 Single-seat Reconnaissance Seaplane, an upgraded model of the Heinkel HD 26, features a more powerful 420hp Bristol Jupiter VI radial engine, allowing it to perform better than its predecessor. This aircraft was designed for reconnaissance missions, with an operational focus on taking off from warship gun turrets, like those on the Japanese Nagato battleship and Furutaka cruiser. Its increased speed and improved climb rate make it a versatile addition to early-tier naval missions in War Thunder.
Key Features
- Type: Reconnaissance Seaplane / Biplane
- Role: Enhanced naval reconnaissance
- Armament: One forward-firing 7.7mm machine gun
- Crew: 1 (pilot in open cockpit)
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Powerplant | 420hp Bristol Jupiter VI nine-cylinder air-cooled radial engine |
| Propeller | Two-blade wooden propeller |
| Wingspan | 11.80 m (38 ft 8.5 in) |
| Length | 8.438 m (27 ft 8.5 in) |
| Height | 3.593 m (11 ft 9 in) |
| Wing Area | 37.8 sq m (406.9 sq ft) |
| Empty Weight | 1,150 kg (2,538.3 lb) |
| Loaded Weight | 1,800 kg (3,306.9 lb) |
| Wing Loading | 39.7 kg/sq m (8.13 lb/sq ft) |
| Power Loading | 3.57 kg/hp (7.8 lb/hp) |
| Max Speed | 114 knots (132 mph) at sea level |
| Climb to 3,000 m | 7 minutes 30 seconds |
| Service Ceiling | 7,200 m (23,622 ft) |
Proof:
Spoiler
Gameplay Role in War Thunder
In War Thunder, the Aichi variant would serve as a high-performing early-tier reconnaissance seaplane with a notable speed advantage over similar biplanes. This model would excel in reconnaissance and early naval engagements, allowing players to explore unique take-off and landing mechanics on water. Its enhanced power-to-weight ratio and improved climb rate make it a strong contender for early-game naval missions, particularly for scouting enemy positions.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Faster speed and superior climb rate compared to the original HD 26
- Improved power-to-weight ratio, enhancing agility
- Unique historical role as a turret-launched reconnaissance seaplane
Cons
- Limited firepower with only one machine gun
- High vulnerability due to open cockpit and limited defensive options
Historical Context
The Aichi-built HD 26 variant shows the early evolution of reconnaissance seaplanes within the Japanese Navy, providing valuable experience with turret-launched seaplane operations. The prototype of this aircraft, the HD 26, was imported in 1926 at the same time as other Heinkel aircraft. It was intended that it should be used as a basis upon which to design a reconnaissance seaplane capable of taking off under its own power from on top of a warship gun turret. The aeroplane was basically the same as the HD 25 but was scaled-down as a single-seat aircraft. In Germany it was referred to as a fighter seaplane, but in japan it was unofficially called the Heinkel Small Reconnaissance Seaplane or Heinkel-go Reconnaissance Seaplane.
The imported HD 26 and the one buildt by Aichi were tested in operating from the gun turrets of the Nagato (Battleship) and Furutaka (Cruiser). As with predecessors, the use of catapults rendered the aircrafts obsolete for more better/suitable designs.
This Aichi variant brings a boost in speed and power to War Thunder’s naval aviation options, offering players a fresh perspective on early reconnaissance operations and expanding the low-tier seaplane lineup. Adding this variant to War Thunder offers players an opportunity to engage with a rare and historically significant aircraft model, blending early naval technology with Japanese engineering adaptations.
Sources:
- Japanese Aircraft, 1910-1941 (Putnam Aeronautical Books): Mikesh, Robert, Abe, Shorzoe: 9781557505637: Amazon.com: Books
- Aichi designations | Secret Projects Forum
- Heinkel H.D.26
- Германский истребитель Heinkel HD 26 – Военное оружие и армии Мира
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