"The Germans are here! Prepare for battle!" the Island Nation's Army Air Force commander ordered.
The radio equipment carried his orders to every pilot's ears. In the past, the Island Nation had been reluctant to equip every aircraft with radio equipment. But with American support, everything was different. Besides, installing radios facilitated the transmission of orders and greatly helped improve combat effectiveness.
Thirty-six Type 1 fighter planes accelerated and pounced toward the incoming German carrier-based aircraft group. They had to intercept the German Navy's carrier-based aircraft group as far away as possible. Only then could they ensure the safety of the Navy's Capital Ship Squadron.
"Commander, I'm afraid our Type 1 fighter planes are no match for the Germans' advanced carrier-based fighters. The German carrier-based aircraft group is far too large—nearly a hundred aircraft in all. They must have a great many escort fighters as well," Major General Suzuki Yoshio said worriedly.
Lieutenant General Takasu Shirō nodded. In every respect, the Type 1 fighter plane was no match for the German Navy's carrier-based BF-109 fighter. The Type 1 fighter's maximum speed was only 492 kilometers per hour, far slower than the BF-109. In terms of firepower, the Type 1 fighter carried only two 12.7-millimeter aircraft machine guns. The German military's BF-109 fighter, however, was equipped with two 20-millimeter autocannons and two 12.7-millimeter aircraft machine guns. With climbing rate and the like, the Type 1 fighter was likewise at a disadvantage. Once the two sides engaged in an aerial battle, the outcome was naturally plain to see.
"Order the fleet to shift into air-defense combat status! Also, send a Telegram to the Army Air Force. Tell them the German carrier-based aircraft group has arrived and that we need more air support. Send a Telegram to the carrier squadron as well," Lieutenant