The Type 97 carrier-based attack aircraft, incorporating many innovative features, was
the first low-wing monoplane carrier-based attack aircraft of the Imperial Japanese Navy with an all-metal monocoque structure. It adopted revolutionary hydraulic retractable main landing gear, and the fuselage width was narrowest near the cockpit for a three-seater aircraft.

The adoption of upward-folding main wings shortened the overall width,
allowing for a smaller storage space inside the aircraft carrier.

The propeller was an all-metal two-stage variable-pitch three-blade propeller, which efficiently exerted engine power according to each situation,
whether it was takeoff, climbing, cruising, or at high speed, and performance was greatly improved.