The N1K-J was based on the float plane Kawanishi N1K Kyōfū, to create a land-based variant of it. The prototype of the fighter (N1K1-J) was first flown on 27th December 1942. After multiple losses of Japanese aircraft carriers, the N1K-J became one of the most important Japanese fighter aircraft. At the end of the year 1943, the Shiden entered service and it has proved to be successful, due to its outstanding manoeuvrability and performance.