Japanese D1A Susie Dive Bomber

The Aichi D1A was a Japanese carrier dive bomber derived from a German Heinkel design. Allied intelligence later used the name Susie for the family. Its biplane layout and fixed landing gear belonged to the interwar generation of naval attack aircraft. D1As took part in the fighting in China before being replaced in frontline carrier service by more advanced monoplanes, notably the Aichi D3A. The D1A family established an important early Japanese carrier dive-bombing capability before the more famous D3A. Its biplane layout offered low-speed handling but increasingly limited performance. Dive bombing required a controlled steep approach and recovery, placing distinctive demands on pilot training and the structure carrying the aircraft’s bomb load.

Finish and color

Supplied unpainted and printed in the selected color. Choose from the available product color options.

Tabletop use

Suitable for period-appropriate custom scenarios in the Global War series of games by Historical Board Gaming and compatible Axis & Allies games. Use suitable scenario or house rules for unit statistics and any technology upgrades. This piece does not supply additional game rules.

Global War is a trademark of Historical Board Gaming.