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JAPANESE ZERO FIGHTERS ENGINE-POWER INCREASED (N.Z.P.A. Special Aust. Correspondent) (Rec. 7 p.m.) SYDNEY, July 16. The engine-power in the new Japanese Zero fighters operating against the Allied air forces north of Australia has .been increased from 800 to 1000 horse-power. The speed of the old type of Zero was 310 miles per hour, but this has been considerably increased. These enemy fighters have a light armament, comprising two cannon and two machine guns. They have a ceiling of about 26,000 feet, combined with rapid climbing power and high manoeuvrability. Belly tanks give them an extreme range of about 1000 miles.
Announcing these details, the Minister for Air, Mr A. S. Drakeford, added that the Zero fighter was originally designed for use from aircraft carriers. It thus needed the special qualities of lightness and quick climbing power. To obtain these, defensive armour and fire-power had been sacrificed. At the time of its appearance against the Prince of Wales and the Repulse the Zero was probably the most effective sea-borne fighter in the war. The Minister said the latest model Zeros might not be carrierborne.
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Bibliographic details
Otago Daily Times, Issue 24970, 17 July 1942, Page 3
Word Count
185GREATER SPEED Otago Daily Times, Issue 24970, 17 July 1942, Page 3
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