Editing Mitsubishi A6M Zero (section)

===A6M3 Type 0 Model 22===

In order to correct the deficiencies of the Model 32, a new version with folding wingtips and redesigned wing was introduced. The fuel tanks were moved to the outer wings, fuel lines for a {{convert|330|L|USgal|abbr=on}} drop tank were installed under each wing and the internal fuel capacity was increased to {{convert|570|L|USgal|abbr=on}}. More importantly, it regained its capabilities for long operating ranges, similar to the previous A6M2 Model 21, which was vastly shortened by the Model 32.

However, before the new design type was accepted formally by the Navy, the A6M3 Model 22 already stood ready for service in December 1942. Approximately 560 aircraft of the new type had been produced in the meantime by Mitsubishi Jukogyo K.K.<ref name="ReferenceC">Nohara 1993, p. 78.</ref>

According to a theory, the very late production Model 22 might have had wings similar to the shortened, rounded-tip wing of the Model 52.<ref>Mikesh 1994. p. 90.</ref> One plane of such arrangement was photographed at [[Lakunai Airfield]] ("Rabaul East") in the second half of 1943, and has been published widely in a number of Japanese books. While the engine cowling is the same of previous Model 32 and 22, the theory proposes that the plane is an early production Model 52.<ref>Famous Airplanes of the World 9, 1993 p. 33.</ref>

The Model 32, 22, 22 Kō, 52, 52 Kō and 52 Otsu were all powered by the Nakajima Sakae Mod. 21 engine.<ref name="ReferenceA"/> That engine kept its designation in spite of changes in the exhaust system for the Model 52.