The first serial monoplane fighter of Japan Imperial Army became the Ki-27. The first of two prototypes built by a Nakajima company was flying in October 1936. Serial production was started in December 1937 as the Type 97 fighter model Ko (Ki-27a). Ki-27a had excellent maneuverability and was serious enemy for Soviet-built I-15bis and I-16 fighters in air battles over Chine and Mongolia in 1938-1939.
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