Aichi E13A

The Aichi E13A (Allied reporting name: "Jake") is a long-range reconnaissance seaplane designed and produced by the Japanese aviation company Aichi Kokuki KK. The Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN) designation was "Navy Type 0 Reconnaissance Seaplane" (零式水上偵察機). Development of the E13A started in 1937 in response to an Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN) specification for a twin-seat reconnaissance floatplane, although this was effectively superseded by a later specification for a larger three-seat floatplane. The E13A could carry a crew of three and a bombload of 250 kg (550 lb), and was suitable for performing coastal patrols, anti-shipping, liaison, personnel transports, and air-sea rescues amongst other roles. The prototype, which made its maiden flight in late 1938, proved superior to the twin-seat E12A1 and was awarded a production contract from the IJN in December 1940. In addition to Aichi, both Kyushu Hikoki and the Hiro Naval Arsenal, would manufacture the type. Introduced to service with the IJN in 1941, the E13A became one of the most important floatplanes operated by the service due to its numbers. First used during the Second Sino-Japanese War, it was used extensively throughout the Pacific War, from flying reconnaissance missions in support of the Attack on Pearl Harbor to occasionally being deployed as a bomber in uncontested skies, from ship and shore bases alike. The E13A was withdrawn from IHN service shortly after the Surrender of Japan, although numerous other operators would make (typically brief) use of abandoned aircraft.