ZERO FIGHTERS

Auckland Star, Volume LXXIII, Issue 166, 16 July 1942, Page 5

ZERO FIGHTERS

Fire Power Sacrificed For Climbing Ability DETAILS ANNOUNCED Special Australian Correspondent. Rec. 2 p.m. SYDNEY, this day. The engine power in the new Japanese Zero fighters operating against the Allied air forces north or Australia has been increased from 800 h.p. to 1000 h p. The speed of the old type of Zero was 310 m.p.h., but this has been considerably increased. These enemy fighters have light armament, comprising two cannon and two machine-guns. They have a ceiling of about 26,000 ft, combined with rapid climbing power and high manoeuvrability. Belly tanks give them an extreme range of about 1000 miles. In announcing these details, the Air Minister, Mr. Drakeford, added that the Zero fighter was originally designed for use from aircraft-car-riers. It thus needed the special qualities of lightness and quick climbing power. To obtain these defensive armour and fire power had been sacrificed. However, at the time of its appearance against the Prince of Wales and the Repulse the Zero was probably the most effective seaborne fighter in the war. The Minister said the latest model Zeros might not be carrier borne.