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The Kawanishi K8K1 Navy Type 0 Primary Seaplane Trainer was produced in small numbers in 1940, but was cancelled after the Japanese Navy abandoned the use of primary seaplane trainers.
In 1937 the Japanese Navy asked Nippon, Watanabe and Kawanishi to produce a 12-Shi Primary Seaplane Trainer to replace the Navy Type 90 Primary Seaplane Trainer (Yokosuka K4Y1). The new aircraft had to be powered by a 130hp Jimpu engine and the manufacturers were give quite restrictive instructions.
Kawanishi produced a single-bay twin-float biplane with two open cockpits. The aircraft had a welded steel framework for the fuselage and wooden frame for the wings, both fabric covered. The floats were made of metal.
The first prototype made its maiden flight on 6 July 1938 and was followed by two more. The Navy tested it as the K8K1, and in July 1940 accepted it for production as the Navy Type 0-1-1 Primary Seaplane Trainer. This was later changed to just the Type 0.
Only fifteen production aircraft were completed before the Navy decided to change its training routine and cut out the primary seaplane trainer. After undergoing primary training on land planes, pilots moved straight on to the Yokosuka K5Y Type 93 Intermediate Seaplane Trainer. Production of the K8K1 was abandoned.
Engine: Gasuden Jimpu 2 seven-cylinder air-cooled radial engine
Power: 130-160hp
Crew: 2
Span: 31ft 2in
Length: 28ft 10.5in
Empty weight: 1,5885lb
Loaded weight: 2,184lb
Max speed: 115mph at sea level
Climb Rate: 5min 40sec to 9,843ft
Service ceiling: 11,450ft
Endurance: 4.6 hours