Just checking out some IJN Photo’s and came across this
http://www.warbirdphotographs.com/NavyJB&W2/J2M-52s.jpg
http://www.warbirdphotographs.com/NavyJB&W2/J2M3-75.jpg
How much do this aircraft and the P-47 look alike?
They even share the same name.
As this is in US colours from a evaluation squadron it’s quite possible that it played a large part.
Very curious as to which was first in operation.
The Mitsubishi J2M (Raiden or “Jack”) began development in October 1938, althought the initial prototypes weren’t made until 1942.
My guess is that the J2M was NOT necessarily based on the P-47, and the latter was the seconf offshoot of the Seversky P-35 (then the obscure Repeublic P-43 Lancer)
Timeline-wise it may fit: The P-35 began development in 1935, with production startin in 1937. Overall size wise the J2M is relatively close to the P-35, being short (in comparison to later aircraft) and stocky.
As for P-47 and J2M, both began production in 1943. Ironically, the J2M was developed as a high speed, high altitude interceptor to get to the B-29’s. The P-47’s were developed as long range escort-fighters.
Just my [2c], Mark!
I can scan a few pages and send them to you on the J2M if you’re interested.