The A6M Zero, introduced in 1940 by Japan, was a revolutionary fighter known for its lightweight design, agility, and long range. Developed by Mitsubishi, it outperformed most Allied planes early in World War II, dominating the Pacific with its speed and maneuverability. However, its lack of armor made it vulnerable as newer, more powerful Allied aircraft emerged, which eventually outclassed the Zero. Despite this, the Zero became an iconic symbol of Japanese aviation prowess. #japan #aviation #

21K views · 444 reactions | A rare three aircraft formation A6M Zeros flew at the Planes of Fame Air Show 2012. The lead aircraft in the formation is Planes of Fame's A6M5 Model 52, the world's only flying original authentic Mitsubishi A6M Zero. The other two are A6M3 Model 22s built in Russia from patterns in the 1990's. Credits: Tom Dozier via Planes of Fame YouTube channel | Zero Fighter Pilots | Facebook

Thach Weave: The maneuver that defeated the A6M Zero Fighter! The Thach Weave was an innovative aerial combat maneuver developed during World War II by U.S. Navy pilot James Thach. Designed to counter the superior agility of the Japanese A6M Zero fighter, the Thach Weave involved two American aircraft flying in tandem to create a protective formation. When one fighter engaged an enemy, the other would weave in to assist, making it difficult for the Zero to target either plane without exposing it