The Mitsubishi G4M was a land-based medium-bomber in service with both the Imperial Japanese Navy and Army during World War II. It was known as 'Betty' by the Allies. It had been designed in 1937 by Kiro Honjo, performing its maiden flight on October 23, 1939. It became operational in 1940. It was built in greater number than any other Japanese aircraft, with the G4M2 being the main variant.
The Mitsubishi G4M achieved considerable success in long range bombing missions, being responsible for sinking two Allied battleships (HMS Prince of Wales and Repulse). As the war wore on, the Mitsubishi engineers improved the Betty, adding a better tail gun and other features. Ironically, after years of war against the Allies and the Chinese forces on mainland China, the G4M final duty was to transport the Japanese surrender delegation to the island of Ie Shima four days after the fighting ended.
Technical Characteristics
The Mitsubishi G4M was a twin-engine monoplane, featuring low-mounted straight wings. It had one bomb-bay and four fuel tanks, which were fitted in the leading edge of its wings. The Landing gear was retractable. The G4M2 version was powered by two Mitsubishi Kasei 25 radial engines. Its tail housed a 20-mm Type 99 cannon. Meanwhile, the nose contained two forward-firing 7.92-mm machine guns. Bomb load capacity was 1,800 kg, with four 250-kg bombs and one 800-kg torpedo.
Specifications
Type: Medium bomber
Length: 20 m
Wingspan: 25 m
Wing Area: 78.12 sq. meters
Height: 6 m
Maxium Speed: 438 km/h (270 mph)
Range: 4,335 km (2,694 miles)
Below, two Mitsubishi G4Ms in 1939, flying over Chinese territory.
A 'Betty' bomber taking off from an airbase in New Guinea.
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