A late-war Imperial Japanese Navy aircraft. Can refer to the original N1K Kyoufuu seaplane fighter or the later N1K1-J/N1k2-J Shiden land fighter.
Kyoufuu
As originally designed by Kawanishi Aircraft (post-war ShinMaywa), it was a single-float seaplane fighter meant to be used from shore bases that didn't have airfields for proper fighters. By the time the N1K entered service, its role was no longer necessary or appropriate.
Shiden (and Shiden-kai)
Kawanishi saw the potential of the N1K as a true fighter and pursued it as a private company venture, entering service in early 1944 as one of the few aircraft that allowed the Japanese to face off against late-war Allied fighters. Nevertheless, it was produced too late and in not enough numbers for the Japanese to turn the tide of the war.
Appearance
Kyoufuu (N1K)
Shiden (N1K1)
A carrier-based variant (N1K3-A Shiden KAI 2) was produced but there was no need for them at a time when the IJN ran short of carrier-qualified pilots.
