Developed under the specification for the “Year 14 (Showa 14 or 1939) Land-based Fighter” the “Raiden” was an inceptor that specialized in combating bombers. While the carrier based Zero Fighter represented Plan A for offensive operations, as a local inceptor the Raiden was developed operated under Plan B for defense. With poor maneuverability it was not suited for dogfights; however it had excellent climbing performance and armament.
+
''Developed under the specification for the “Year 14 (Showa 14 or 1939) Land-based Fighter” the “Raiden” was an interceptor that specialized in combating bombers.''<br>
+
''While the carrier based Zero Fighter represented Plan A for offensive operations, as a local interceptor the Raiden was developed and operated under Plan B for defense.''<br>
+
''With poor maneuverability it was not suited for dogfights; however it had excellent climbing performance and armament.''