The Mitsubishi A7M Reppū (烈風, "Strong Wind") was designed as the successor to the Imperial Japanese Navy's A6M Zero, with development beginning in 1942.

The early NK9 had less output but was already approved by the Navy for use on the Yokosuka P1Y Ginga bomber, while the larger MK9 promised more horsepower.

With the MK9 the engineers concluded it could fulfill the requirements; however, production of the MK9 was delayed compared to the NK9, and the Japanese Navy instructed Mitsubishi to use the NK9.

The aircraft demonstrated excellent handling and maneuverability, but was underpowered as Mitsubishi engineers feared, and with a top speed similar to the A6M5 Zero.

The A7M2 now achieved a top speed of 628 km/h (339 kn; 390 mph), while climb and other areas of performance surpassed the Zero, leading the Navy to change its mind and adopt the craft.

[citation needed] In June 1945, ace pilot Saburō Sakai was ordered to test the prototype at Nagoya.