Oct 30 (Kings and generals) – This episode delves into the rise and legacy of Japan’s iconic A6M Mitsubishi Zero fighter, which shook Allied assumptions about air superiority in World War II. Initially, the British and Americans underestimated Japan’s aviation capabilities, but the Japanese innovative A6M Zero soon proved otherwise.
Led by engineer Jiro Horikoshi, Japanese designers created a fighter with unparalleled speed, agility and range, which dominated the early battles in the Pacific. However, the Zero’s weaknesses – limited armor and defense – became critical as the Allies adapted, leading to its decline compared to newer American models such as the F6F Hellcat. Through expert insights and historical accounts, we follow the Zero’s journey from revolutionary fighter aircraft to an enduring symbol of the Pacific theater and the rapid evolution of the air war in World War II.
