Name: Kiran Industries KI-4 (Gendaa)
Type: Carrier based fighter
Crew: 1
Max Speed: 331 mph at 14000 feet
310 mph at sea level
Engine: 1 x KI 1920 at 1150 hp radial
Range: 1900 miles
Wingspan: 39' 4"
Length: 29" 9"
Armament: 2 x 7.92mm machine guns(Nose), 2 x 25mm cannons(wings); 2 x 100lbs bombs.
Notes: Even with the arrival of the KI-3 in 1935 the BNS started to look for a replacement almost as soon as it entered service The BNS desired a fighter with double the range or more of the current fighter, armed with cannons. a complete radio set and radio directional finder included; all that in an aircraft that have to have a wingspan of less than 40' , making it possible to fit in the carriers.
Kiran recognized the task was difficult and their final product is a large compromise. A combination of excellent maneuverability and very long range was achieved by sacrificing protection for both the aircraft and the pilot. Lacking armor and self-sealing gas tanks, it was expected the maneuverability and training of the pilot will be the main assets to ensure the aircraft survival. Built almost completely with aluminum, with its low-wing cantilever monoplane layout, retractable wide-set landing gear and enclosed cockpit, the design was the most modern ever to be in service in the BNS at the time. Entered service late in 1939.
This post has been edited 4 times, last edit by "perdedor99" (Dec 30th 2008, 6:46pm)