[Saburo Sakai]

AFAIK , the Ki-44 had a very poor performance at the extreme heights the B-29s operated and it could barely catch them. I think that with it high speed and climb rate it could be better vs fighters, rather than very high bomber interception. And it could take more damage and keep flying than most Japanese fighters.
Will this use a new cockpit, too?

it was actually called the b29 killer because it COULD get to them and at the altitude they flew it was a very good A/C.
i have extensive information re this plane, compiled from many sites including certain Japanese sites dedicated ti the ki 44. all to hand when required for fm/wm/dm.