title graphic

 

RESTRICTED
In reply refer to
initials and No.
OP-16-P-2
F1-5/EF37
Serial No. 2442316.
NAVY DEPARTMENT

OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS

WASHINGTON

June 22, 1943

ONI 232 S--JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT

1. An effort has been made in the preparation of Axis Aircraft Manuals to provide the user with more complete information on the appearance of enemy aircraft than has hitherto been available in service recognition publications. Manuals have been issued in loose-leaf form similar to those covering the world's navies previously disseminated by the Division of Naval Intelligence.

2. Each operational type is covered by a 4-page "jacket" which includes a brief statement of the purpose for which each type has been developed and contains eleven views of each aircraft as it appears in flight, and the best available photographs. As information on changes or new types becomes available, new jackets will be issued or current ones supplemented.

3. Since the material contained in O.N.I. 232 is limited to appearance data on enemy aircraft, this manual may be taken in the air. The attention of holders of these manuals in operating areas is invited to the desirability of transmitting new information to the Division of Naval Intelligence on enemy aircraft in the form of photographs, drawings or reports.

4. O.N.I. 232 has been prepared by the Division of Naval Intelligence for incorporation in standard Navy Task Binders already issued. These manuals may, however, be used independently if so desired.

H. C. TRAIN      
Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy
Director of Naval Intelligence


ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     MAJOR OPERATIONAL LIST--CLASS A
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


FIGHTERS
ZEKE TYPE 0, MARK 1, ARMY AND NAVY MITSUBISHI
RUFE TYPE 0, MARK 1, NAVY FLOAT PLANE MITSUBISHI
HAP TYPE 0, MARK 23, ARMY AND NAVY MITSUBISHI
OSCAR TYPE 1, ARMY NAKAJIMA
HARRY TYPE 0, 2-ENGINED SINGLE SEAT MITSUBISHI
DIVE BOMBERS
VAL TYPE 99, MARK 1 AND 2, NAVY AICHI
TORPEDO BOMBERS
KATE TYPE 97, MARK 3, NAVY NAKAJIMA
MEDIUM BOMBERS
NELL TYPE 96, ARMY AND NAVY MITSUBISHI
SALLY TYPE 97, MARK 1 AND 2, ARMY MITSUBISHI
LILY TYPE 99, ARMY  
BETTY TYPE 1, ARMY AND NAVY MITSUBISHI
OBSERVATION-RECONNAISSANCE
PETE TYPE 0, NAVY, FLOAT PLANE SASEBO
JAKE TYPE 0, NAVY, FLOAT PLANE PROB. AICHI
DINAH TYPE 0, ARMY, HEADQUARTERS RECONNAISSANCE  
PATROL BOMBERS
MAVIS TYPE 97, NAVY, FLYING BOAT KAWANISHI


ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     SERVICE TYPES, JAPANESE AIRCRAFT--CLASS A
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943



RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     MINOR OPERATIONAL TYPES--CLASS B
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     MINOR OPERATIONAL LIST--CLASS B
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


FIGHTERS
CLAUDE TYPE 96, ARMY AND NAVY MITSUBISHI
NATE TYPE 97, ARMY NAKAJIMA
FRED F. W. 190 ORIG. FOCKE-WULF
MIKE ME 109F ORIG. MESSERSCHMITT
DICK TYPE 97, ARMY ORIG. SEVERSKY
LIGHT BOMBERS
BABS TYPE 97, MARK 1 AND 2, ARMY MITSUBISHI
SONIA TYPE 97, ARMY MITSUBISHI
MARY TYPE 98, ARMY KAWASAKI
IDA TYPE 98, ARMY MITSUBISHI
MEDIUM BOMBERS
HELEN TYPE 0  
OBSERVATION AND RECONNAISSANCE
DAVE TYPE 95, NAVY, FLOAT PLANE NAKAJIMA
SLIM TYPE 96, NAVY, FLOAT PLANE (SUBMARINE TYPE)  
GLEN TYPE 0, NAVY, FLOAT PLANE (SUBMARINE TYPE)  
PATROL BOMBERS
CHERRY TYPE 99, NAVY, FLYING BOAT  
EMILY TYPE 2, NAVY, FLYING BOAT  
TRANSPORTS
TOPSY MC 20 MITSUBISHI
TESS TYPE D-2 (DC-2) ORIG. DOUGLAS
THELMA LOCKHEED 14 ORIG. LOCKHEED
TINA TYPE 96 (TRANSPORT VERSION OF NELL) MITSUBISHI
TOBY TYPE 1 (TRANSPORT VERSION OF BETTY) MITSUBISHI
TILLIE TYPE 97 (TRANSPORT VERSION OF MAVIS) KAWANISHI


ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     NATE
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


TYPE 97, ARMY, FIGHTER CREW 1
MANUFACTURER--NAKAJIMA--ALSO MANUFACTURED BY KAWASAKI AND MITSUBISHI

A forerunner of Japanese modern fighter aircraft, NATE is small, light, and maneuverable, with an unusually high rate of climb. Slower than more modern planes, without leak-proof tanks, and of light construction, it is very vulnerable.

NATE was used in the war with China, took part in the conquest of Burma, and has been seen occasionally in the Southwest Pacific. Since it is not carrier-based, its appearance may indicate the presence of Japanese Army Units in an operating area.




NATE TYPE 97, ARMY, FIGHTER   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     ZEKE
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


TYPE 0, MARK 1, ARMY AND NAVY, FIGHTER CREW 1
MANUFACTURER--MITSUBISHI--ALSO MANUFACTURED BY NAKAJIMA

Reports of the formidable qualities of this aircraft have been largely disproved since a capture "ZERO" has been tested. While notable for its light weight (5555 lbs. loaded), high rate of "zoom," great maneuverability at speeds under 300 m.p.h., and excellent stalling characteristics, ZEKE is not the equal of the more modern American planes. It has a slow rate of roll at high speeds, and its engine tends to fail under negative acceleration.

This plane can carry small anti-personnel bombs or a disposable fuel tank attached below the fuselage.




ZEKE TYPE 0, MARK 1, ARMY & NAVY, FIGHTER   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     RUFE
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


TYPE 0, MARK 1, NAVY, FLOAT-PLANE CREW 1
MANUFACTURER--MITSUBISHI

A float-plane conversion of ZEKE, RUFE is structurally similar. With the added weight and drag of the floats, however, it has poorer performance characteristics than ZEKE, being about 40 m.p.h. slower, with a slightly lower rate of climb, a much decreased range, and a lower service ceiling. RUFE has appeared in all theaters as a fighter and reconnaissance aircraft, being used largely in those areas where adequate facilities for land based planes are not available.




RUFE TYPE 0, MARK 1, NAVY, FIGHTER FLOAT-PLANE   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     HAP
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


TYPE 0, MARK 2, ARMY AND NAVY, FIGHTER CREW 1
MANUFACTURER--MITSUBISHI--ALSO MANUFACTURED BY NAKAJIMA

The Mark 2 version of the "ZERO", HAP is essentially the same aircraft equipped with a more powerful engine (Nakajima Sakae 21). This alteration is reflected in a different cowling and air intake location. In addition, ZEKE'S hinged wingtip was removed and the aileron shortened in an attempt to provide greater maneuverability at high speeds. HAP is somewhat faster than ZEKE and possesses a higher rate of climb, but has considerably less range.

This aircraft first appeared in the South and Southwest Pacific during the fall of 1942 and has since become one of the important fighters in that area.




HAP TYPE 0, MARK 2, ARMY & NAVY, FIGHTER   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     OSCAR
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


TYPE 1, ARMY, FIGHTER CREW 1
MANUFACTURER--NAKAJIMA, PEINCHUAN

Developed from NATE, the Type 97 fighter, this aircraft is similar to its prototype in appearance; differences, however, occur in the undercarriage, which is retractable, in the rudder, and in the shape of the horizontal stabilizer. OSCAR is a very light plane (approximately 5300 lbs. as compared with our average fighter weight of 9000 to 11,000 lbs.), has excellent maneuverability, and a higher rate of climb than either NATE or ZEKE.

OSCAR has been the principal fighter in the Burma-India theater, where ZEKE is seldom used, and it appeared in quantity in the Southwest Pacific in 1943.

This aircraft is one of the first Japanese planes in which leak-proof gasoline tanks have been installed.




OSCAR TYPE 1, ARMY, FIGHTER   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     FRED
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


F.W. 190, FIGHTER--ALSO USED AS ATTACK BOMBER CREW 1
MANUFACTURER--FOCKE-WULF--POSSIBLY ALSO MANUFACTURED IN JAPAN

Though somewhat overrated at first, this aircraft still ranks as a powerful and extremely maneuverable fighter. With its top speed of 390 m.p.h. at 20,000' and a finish ceiling of 38,000', its performance is slightly below the best R.A.F. and American planes. Superior armament (generally 2&timex;7.9 mm. m.g.'s, and 4× 20 mm. cannon) and good protection make it a dangerous opponent at all times.

Becoming operational in great numbers in 1942, this aircraft, with the Me 109-F and G, comprises the great bulk of German fighter squadrons. It has been reported in use by the Japanese in the Southwest Pacific.

The A-3 model may be fitted to carry small bombs.




FRED F.W. 190, FIGHTER   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     MIKE
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


Me 109-F, FIGHTER--ALSO USED AS ATTACK BOMBER CREW 1
MANUFACTURER--MESSERSCHMITT--POSSIBLY ALSO MANUFACTURED IN JAPAN

This aircraft was developed in Germany before the war, and, in its latest models, is one of the mainstays of the Nazi fighter force. The F model, which first appeared in the spring of 1941 against Britain, is the version reported in use by the Japanese. It is seen occasionally in the Southwest Pacific, generally leading a squadron of Japanese fighters. Vulnerable to opposing gunfire, MIKE is thought to be produced in Japan without protecting armor and self-sealing gas tanks.

The later models of this aircraft are noted for their high speed, fast rate of climb, and high ceiling. (The 109-G may equal the Spitfire IX in this last respect.) Because of their length, all versions lack maneuverability and have extremely fast landing speeds.




MIKE Me 109F, FIGHTER   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     VAL
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


TYPE 99, MARK 2, NAVY, DIVE BOMBER CREW 2
MANUFACTURER--AICHI

Although sturdily built, VAL is slow, vulnerable, low in maneuverability and must be provided with adequate fighter cover to carry out its mission. For lack of protection, entire flights of these dive bombers have been wiped out.

The following description of an attack by a formation of VALS is taken from a report on Pearl Harbor. "The attack commenced at approximately 12,000' with pushover to approximately 50-55 degree dive-angle; dive speed considered 'slow'; release altitude estimated at 1200'; pull-out effected at 600-700'; retirement at high speed, zigzagging as an evasive maneuver, strafing water-borne targets."




VAL TYPE 0, MARK 1, ARMY & NAVY, FIGHTER   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     KATE
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


TYPE 97, MARK 3, NAVY TORPEDO BOMBER   ALSO USED AS LIGHT BOMBER CREW 2-3
MANUFACTURER--NAKAJIMA--ALSO MANUFACTURED BY MITSUBISHI

As the only carrier-based torpedo bomber used by the Japanese at the present time, KATE has participated in almost all air-sea actions to date, including Pearl Harbor, the Coral Sea, Midway, and the Battle of Santa Cruz. Aircraft of this type were primarily responsible for the sinking of the Lexington, Yorktown*, and Wasp.

The success of these planes has been due less to their performance, which is unspectacular, than to the tenacity of their pilots and to lack of fighter opposition. Their tactics at Pearl Harbor were as follows: "The torpedo attacks were made from prevailing low cloud formations, at extremely low altitude, and slow speed. Successive torpedo drops were made on each objective. Invariably the altitude of the attacking plane was so low as to necessitate radical climbing turns to clear masts."


[* Damaged by aerial torpedo, but sunk by submarine torpedo--HyperWar.]




KATE TYPE 97, MARK 3, NAVY TORPEDO BOMBER   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     BABS
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


TYPE 97, MARK 2, ARMY, LIGHT BOMBER CREW 2
MANUFACTURER--MITSUBISHI

BAB's prototype was the commercial plane, "Kamikaze," which made the record flight from Tokyo to London in April, 1937. In the military version, BABS has been produced in two models. The Mark 1 has a single-row radial engine and, consequently, a large cowling. The Mark 2, slightly longer, is fitted with a twin-row engine covered by a smooth, clean cowling faired into the fuselage.




BABS TYPE 97, MARK 2, ARMY, LIGHT BOMBER   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     SONIA
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


TYPE 97, ARMY, LIGHT BOMBER, ALSO USED FOR RECONNAISSANCE CREW 2
MANUFACTURER--MITSUBISHI

This aircraft is believed to be a later development of the somewhat similar Type 97, BABS. Designed in 1937 for use in China, it was reported in use in the Philippines and Dutch East Indies, where, as a reconnaissance aircraft, it preceded large scale sorties of heavier bombers.

SONIA carries its small bomb load on racks well outboard on the wings.




SONIA TYPE 97, ARMY, LIGHT BOMBER   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     MARY
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


TYPE 98, ARMY, LIGHT BOMBER, ALSO USED FOR RECONNAISSANCE CREW 2
MANUFACTURER--KAWASAKI

One of the few Japanese aircraft using in-line, liquid-cooled engines. MARY was first developed in 1938. It was used extensively in the war with China and supposedly against the weak Allied opposition along the Chinese Coast and in Burma after Pearl Harbor. Designed primarily as a light bomber, MARY carries bombs internally in the fuselage and externally on racks under the wings. At the present time, however, this aircraft is probably used chiefly for short range reconnaissance.




MARY TYPE 98, ARMY, LIGHT BOMBER   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     IDA
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


TYPE 98, ARMY, LIGHT BOMBER CREW 2
MANUFACTURER--MITSUBISHI

Another of the numerous Japanese light bombers now obsolescent, IDA has been reported in the Southwest Pacific Area. This aircraft is larger than most other single engined types and carries a somewhat heavier bomb load. It is readily distinguished by its large cockpit faired into the fuselage, triangular tail, and wings which sweep back to an almost straight trailing edge.




IDA TYPE 98, ARMY, LIGHT BOMBER   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     NELL
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


TYPE 96, ARMY AND NAVY, MEDIUM BOMBER--ALSO USED AS TORPEDO BOMBER CREW 4-7
MANUFACTURER--MITSUBISHI

One of the oldest bombers in major service with the Japanese Air Force, NELL is a development of the civilian plane, "Nippon," which flew around the world. It played a large part in the "China Incident," was the principal bomber used in the conquest of the Philippines and East Indies, and sank the Repulse and Prince of Wales. Although being replaced by more modern bombers, this type is still in use in the Southwest Pacific.

In design the Type 96 Medium Bomber is similar to old German Junkers models with twin rudders, thick wing, and separate ailerons. Although slow for a modern bomber, it has exceptionally long range.

Variations of the original model include boosts in the horsepower of the engines, changes in the types and location of dorsal turrets, the addition of side blisters, and the use of external bomb racks.




NELL TYPE 96, ARMY AND NAVY, MEDIUM BOMBER   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     SALLY
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


TYPE 97, ARMY, MEDIUM BOMBER CREW 5-7
MANUFACTURER--MITSUBISHI, NAKAJIMA

This bomber was designed in 1937 for use in the "China Incident" where, against little opposition, it functioned successfully as a raider. However, in the Mark 1 version, SALLY was slow and vulnerable for lack of horsepower, and its few guns were all of small caliber. The original model has rarely been used since Pearl Harbor.

The Mark 2 version, fitted with 1450 h.p. engines, two-speed superchargers, and additional armament has appeared recently in increasing numbers in the Burma-India theater and the Southwest Pacific. It varies in appearance from Mark 1 only in the tail where the tip of the fuselage has been modified to incorporate a tail gun.

SALLY has been mistaken for a new medium bomber, the Type 0, HELEN, which is known to exist but has yet to be verified in action. HELEN has a more rounded wing, an extremely long cockpit enclosure, and a marked tail turret.




SALLY TYPE 97, ARMY, MEDIUM BOMBER   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     LILY
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


TYPE 99, ARMY, MEDIUM BOMBER CREW 3-4
MANUFACTURER--PROBABLY KAWASAKI

The bomber, LILY, first seen in small numbers in the Burma-India area in the summer of 1942, was there in major force by the middle of 1943. It also appeared in small groups in the Southwest Pacific theater in early 1943.

Light in armament, lacking leak-proof tanks, and with a small bomb capacity (1500 lbs. estimated), LILY has been unspectacular in performance. It is exceptionally vulnerable in the middle of the fuselage around the trailing edge of the wing, where gasoline tanks, rear gun ammunition, and bombs are concentrated.




LILY TYPE 99, ARMY, MEDIUM BOMBER   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     BETTY
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


TYPE 1, ARMY & NAVY, MEDIUM BOMBER--ALSO USED AS TORPEDO BOMBER CREW 5-7
MANUFACTURER--MITSUBISHI

First appearing in the Battle of Midway, this aircraft has since been reported from almost all theaters. In the S.W.P.A. it has been a consistent raider.

Although one of the most modern Japanese aircraft, BETTY'S performance is low compared with U.S. types. The failure of its leak-proof tanks, poor armor, and lightness of construction make it vulnerable, while manually operated turrets, in spite of numerous guns, have failed to afford adequate protection.

A transport version is known as TOBY.




BETTY TYPE 1, ARMY & NAVY, MEDIUM BOMBER   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     DAVE
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


TYPE 95, NAVY, OBSERVATION, FLOAT PLANE CREW 2
MANUFACTURER--NAKAJIMA--ALSO MANUFACTURED BY KAWANISHI

DAVE is an obsolescent type seldom seen in recent months but widely used in the early days of the war. It is a development of the original U.S. Vought "Corsair." Slow and limited in range, it was used occasionally in the South Pacific as a fighter and dive bomber operating from shore bases or seaplane tenders.




DAVE TYPE 95, NAVY, OBSERVATION, FLOAT PLANE   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     PETE
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


TYPE 0, NAVY, OBSERVATION, FLOAT PLANE CREW 2
MANUFACTURER--SASEBO NAVAL ARSENAL

Operating from seaplane bases and as a catapult plane based on battleships, cruisers, and seaplane tenders, PETE has largely replaced the antiquated Type 95. It is light and slow in a dive, with limited range for a reconnaissance aircraft.




PETE TYPE 0, NAVY, OBSERVATION, FLOAT PLANE   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     MAVIS
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


TYPE 97, NAVY, PATROL BOMBER, FLYING BOAT CREW 7
MANUFACTURER--KAWANISHI

Developed from the American Sikorsky S-42 and from French designs, MAVIS is the largest plane known to be in use by the Japanese. Its long range and large load capacity make i t suitable for bombing reconnaissance and the conveyance of equipment and personnel. A transport version of this type is known as TILLIE.

Vulnerable during the early days of the war, this aircraft has since had its armament increased by the addition of lateral gun blisters and a dangerous 20 mm. tail cannon. However, the arc of fire of the tail gun is limited, leaving the aircraft subject to attack from below.

This aircraft should not be confused with EMILY, the Type 2, four-engined flying boat which has a shorter span (estimated 1125 ft.), a continuous taper to the leading and trailing edges of the wing, and a single rudder.

MAVIS has been continuously based in the Solomons-New Guinea section, and reports of its appearance have been received from all areas.




MAVIS TYPE 97, NAVY, PATROL BOMBER, FLYING BOAT   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     TOPSY
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


MC-20, ARMY & NAVY, TRANSPORT CREW 2-3
MANUFACTURER--MITSUBISHI

The most important transport type developed for use by Japanese commercial airlines before the war, TOPSY closely resembles in structure and appearance the Type 97 medium bomber, SALLY. It is, however, a low-wing commercial type monoplane, while the bomber is a mid-wing aircraft with nose and dorsal turrets. Together with American designed Douglas DC-2's and Lockheed 14's, TOPSY was used by the Army for thew transportation of paratroops in the invasion of the East Indies. It is capable of carrying ten or twelve fully equipped soldiers in addition to the normal crew. Since the early days of the war, however, TOPSY has been reported only occasionally in the South West Pacific Area.




TOPSY MC-20, ARMY & NAVY, TRANSPORT   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     TESS
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


TYPE D-2 (ORIGINALLY DC-2) ARMY & NAVY, TRANSPORT CREW 2-3
ORIGINALLY MANUFACTURED IN U.S.A. BY DOUGLAS CORP.
ALSO MANUFACTURED IN JAPAN

A commercial transport much used on airlines in the U.S.A., the DC-2 was replaced in the late 30's by the DC-3. Both aircraft have been sold widely in various parts of the world and manufactured under license by several countries including Japan. Termed the D-2, the DC-2 has been converted by the Japanese to a military transport and served to convey paratroops in the invasion of the Dutch East Indies.

The DC-2 is slightly smaller than the DC-3 with less speed and range, but has proven a strong and serviceable aircraft.




TESS TYPE D-3, ARMY & NAVY, TRANSPORT   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



ONI 232 RESTRICTED JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT     THELMA
DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--AUGUST 1943


LOCKHEED 14, ARMY & NAVY, TRANSPORT CREW 2-3
ORIGINALLY MANUFACTURED BY LOCKHEED AIRCRAFT CORP.

Sold to Japan before the war as a commercial transport, THELMA is presumed to be in production in that country for use by the Army, It was employed to carry paratroops in the occupation of the Dutch East Indies but has not been reported since that time. THELMA< is capable of transporting ten persons in addition to the crew.

With two radial engines rated at 900 h.p. each at take-off, this plane can attain a maximum speed of 255 m.p.h. Its range is 970 miles at a cruising speed of 185 m.p.h. and carrying 4,400 lbs. (maximum).

Care should be taken not to confuse this aircraft with similar types in use by Allied Forces. These include the HUDSON and VENTURA bombers and LODESTAR transport.




THELMA LOCKHEED 14, ARMY & NAVY, TRANSPORT   RESTRICTED
JUNE 1943
ONI 232



title graphic

RESTRICTED--NOT TO BE TAKEN IN THE AIR DIVISION OF NAVAL INTELLIGENCE--IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERISTICS SECTION--JULY 1943

 

ONI 232 S

STATISTICAL DATA--JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT

The statistical information contained in the following pges is designed to afford a convenient comparative table of data on Japanese aircraft to be used as a separate pamphlet or in conjunciton with the identification material contained in ONI 232. Tactical characteristics have been gathered from various sources, the most reliable having been procured from the testing of captured aircraft, and from estimates of performance produced by MNP and based on confirmed reports and accurate drawings. Aircraft on which comp[lete information has been processed in this manner are designated by an asterisk on the following pages. As later information becomes available from testing agencies and from the field, the data contained herein will be supplemented or replaced.


ONI 232 S--RESTRICTED STATISTICAL DATA--JAPANESE MILITARY AIRCRAFT--SPECIFICATIONS PERFORMANCE
NAME
TYPE
DUTY
DIMENSIONS ENGINE WEIGHT (LBS) FUEL (U.S. GAL) ARMAMENT BOMBLOAD MAX SPEED RATE OF CLIMB (FT/MIN) RANGE
OVERALL TYPE H.P. EMPTY GROSS OVER-
LOAD
NORMAL MAX GUNS ROUNDS
PER
GUN
MPH
NORMAL LOAD
NORMAL LOAD SERVICE
CEILING
(FT)
NORMAL LOAD--90% Vm NORMAL LOAD--MAX RANGE EXTRA FUEL--95% Vm EXTRA FUEL--MAX RANGE
SPAN LENGTH SEA
LEVEL
AT--FT SEA
LEVEL
AT--FT SEA
LEVEL
AT--FT MILES SPEED
MPH
ALT MILES SPEED
MPH
ALT MILES SPEED
MPH
ALT MILES SPEED
MPH
ALT
*NATE
Type 97
SSF
35'10" 24'4" Nakajima Hikari--9 Cyl Radial Normal
700
Military
810
790@
11,500'
915@
12,000'
3,654 4,643 5,200 84 169 2×7.7mm 550 NIL 243
 
Extra Fuel
232
284@
13,500'
270@
13,500'
2,870
 
2,460
 
3,050@
12,000'
2,570@
12,000'
35,100'
 
33,100'
 
300 235 11,500' 620 143 11,500' 605 220 11,500' 1,195 140 11,500'
*ZEKE
Type 0, Mk 1
SSF
39'5" 30'3" Sakae 12 NK01 14 Cyl Radial Normal
830
Military
940
950@
13,750'
955@
14,500'
3,718 5,555 6,136 141 228 2×7.7mm
2×20mm
500
60
May carry 2 small bombs 280
 
Extra Fuel
 
326@
16,000'
307@
16,000'
2,750 2,500@
14,000'
2,235@
14,000'
38,500' 500 288 14,000' 1,180 171 14,000' 795 271 14,000' 1,820 164 14,000'
*RUFE
Type 0, Mk 1
SSF F/P
39'5" 33'15/8" Sakae 12 NK01 14 Cyl Radial Normal
930
Military
940
950@
13,740'
935@
14,500'
4,145 5,920 6,436 135 225 2×7.7mm
2×20mm
500
60
May carry 2 small bombs 239 280@
16,000'
2,500 2,380@
14,500'
36,500 415 245 14,000' 910 153 14,000' 700 245 14,000' 1,480 157 14,000'
*HAP
Type 0, Mk 2
SSF F/P
36'0" 30'0" Sakae 21 14 Cyl Radial Normal
1,000
Military
1,120
945@
17,800'
1,060@
15,000'
3,913 5,750 6,331 141 228 2×7.7mm
2×20mm
600
60
May carry 2 small bombs 304
 
Extra Fuel
 
350@
17,000'
328@
17,000'
3,200 2,730@
15,000'
2,330@
15,000'
40,200 480 281 7,000' 1,180 153 7,000' 730 262 7,000' 1,680 146 7,000'
*OSCAR 1
Type 1, Mk 1
SSF
37'5" 28'7" Sakae 12 14 Cyl Radial 830 955@
14,500'
3,970 5,300 6,150 152 260 1×7.7mm
1×12.7mm
500
250
NIL 274
 
Extra Fuel
 
317@
16,000'
294@
16,000'
2,920
 
2,350
 
2,690@
14,500'
2,050@
14,500'
37,500
 
34,700
 
540 282 14,500' 1,240 168 14,500' 890 262 14,500' 1,918 163 14,500'
*OSCAR 2
Type 1, Mk 2
SSF
    Sakae 21 14 Cyl Radial               2×12.7mm                                      
*FRED 1
F.W. 190
SSF
34'6" 30'0" BMW 801 D 14 Cyl Radial   1,800@
17,000'
7,300 8,600 9,200 138 216 2×7.9mm
4×20mm
10060-200 May carry 550 lbs or 1100 lbs bombs With Bombs 395@
17,000'
370@
17,000'
 
Max Load
2,880
2,667
36,000'
33,000'
380 335
(85%
Vm)
16,500' 530 220 16,500' 630 335
(85%
Vm)
16,500' 820 220 16,500'
*MIKE 1(1)
Me 109F
SSF
33'0" 29'8" Daimler Benz 601 N 12 Cyl Inverted 'V'   1,150@
18,000'
5,200 6,090 6,700 102 181 2×7.9mm
15/20mm
500
200
May carry 550 lbs or 1,100 lbs bombs  
 
With Bombs
 
370@
22,000'
340@
22,000'
 
Max Load
2,895
2,426
37,000'
36,000'
440 315
(85% Vm)
16,500' 655 200 16,500' 795 315
(85% Vm)
16,500' 1,075 200 16,500'
*VAL 1
Type 99, Mk 1
DB
47'7¾" 34'9" Kinsei 44 14 Cyl Radial 1,000
(Take off)
1,060@
6,500'
5,277 8,828   265   3×7.7mm 600 1×550 lbs
and
2×250 lbs
w/o Bombs 241@
7,700'
255@
7,700'
1,650 1,740@
6,500'
27,200' 660 214 6,500' 1,440 135 6,500'            
*JUNE 2(2)
Type 99
DB F/P
47'7¾" 33'
(approx)
Kinsei 14 Cyl Radial 1,000
(take off)
1,060@
6,500'
5,817 9,368   265   3×7.7mm 600 1×550 lbs
and
2×250 lbs
194 213@
7,700'
1,420 1,500@
6,500'
25,000' 570 190 6,500' 1,180 124 6,500'            
*KATE
Type 97, Mk 3
TB
51'1" 34'6" Sakae 11 14 Cyl Radial 895 985@
7,500'
5,439 Normal Torpedo
9,946
Normal Bomber
8,731
Scout
8,834
290 388 2×7.7mm
1×7.7mm
600
300
1×550 lbs bomb
or
1×1760 lbs Torpedo
Normal Torpedo
199
Scout (No Bombs)
202
225@
8,500'
225@
8,500'
1,100
1,350
1,190@
7,500'
1,480@
7,500'
23,800'
26,100'
Normal
700
Torpedo
200
7,500' 1,405 131 7,500' (Scout
1,000
[No Bombs])
201
7,500' 2,155 127 7,500'
BABS 11
Type 97, Mk 1
LB
39'4" 26'11" Nakajima Katobuki 9 Cyl Radial   545@
11,500'
4,350 5,750   120   3-4×7.7mm   660 lbs normal
1,100 lbs Max
190 210@
13,000'
  1,083
0-13,000'
25,000' 650 180
(85% Vm)
13,000' 700 135 13,000'            
BABS 2
Type 97, Mk 2
LB
39'4" 27'11" Twin Row 14 Cyl Radial   910@
11,500'
(approx)
          3-4×7.7mm       255@
13,000'
    29,500' 475 220
(85% Vm)
13,000' 590 140              
SONIA
Type 97
LB
39'4" 27'11" Mitsubishi "Kinsei" 14 Cyl Radial   1,060@
6,500'
5,100 6,500   120   3×7.7mm   660 lbs normal
1,230 lbs max
225 245@
8,000'
  2,000@
0-10,000'
28,000' 420 210
(85% Vm)
10,000' 600 130 10,000'            
MARY
Type 98
LB
47'7" 32'6" Kawasaki 12 Cyl Liquid-cooled 'V'   800@
11,500'
5,600 7,000   120   3×7.7mm   660 lbs normal
900 lbs max
195 225@
12,000'
  1,200@
0-12,000'
28,000' 485 195
(85% Vm)
12,000' 685 130 12,000'            
IDA
Type 98
LB
47'9" 34' Probably Nakajima "Kotobuki" 9 Cyl Radial   545@
11,500'
6,045 7,800 9,800 120   3×7.7mm   660 lbs normal
1,000 lbs max
180 260@
13,000'
1,209
0-13,000'
25,000'         790 200   (Max
500
Bombs)
225
       
*NELL
Type 96, Mk 4
MB
82'0" 54'0" 2×Kinsei 44 14 Cyl Radial 1,000
(Take off)
1,060@
6,500'
12,525 Normal Bomber
22,300
Normal Torpedo
22,500
23,500 940 1,392 5×7.7mm
1×20mm
300
60
12×60 Kg
8×100 Kg
4×250 Kg or
2×500 Kg bombs
or
1×800 Kg torpedo
Normal Bomber
207
Normal Torpedo
204
Extra Fuel
206
228@
7,000'
224@
7,000'
227@
7,000'
1,200 1,280@
6,500'
24,800' 1,140 203 6,500' 2,450 129 6,500' 1,710 203 6,500' 3,660 129 6,500'
*SALLY 1
Type 97, Mk 1
MB
72'0" 52'0" 2×Kinsei 44 14 Cyl Radial 1,000
(Take off)
1,060@
6,500'
12,075 22,165 22,370 976   7-8×7.7mm   2,200 lbs normal
4,400 lbs overload
227 251@
7,700'
1,180 1,270@
6,500'
23,700' 1,300 226 6,500' 2,710 145 6,500' (Overload
845
Bombs)
226
6,500' 1,720 145 6,500'
SALLY 2
Type 97, Mk 2
MB
74'8"   2×Nagoya Type 100 14 Cyl Radial 1,450             5×7.7mm
1×12.7mm
                                     
LILY
Type 99
MB
57'3" 41'9" 2 14 Cyl Radial   910@11,500' 11,300 15,000   258 420 3-4×7.7mm 400-600 800 lbs normal
1,500 lbs max
255 285@
14,000'
  1,333
0-14,000'
25,500' 945 245
(86% Vm)
14,000' 1,100 185 14,000' (Max
540
Bombs)
245
(*86% Vm)
14,000' 630 185 14,000'
*BETTY
Type 1
MB
82'0" 65'6" 2 Kasei Model 11 or 15 14 Cyl Radial 1,480
(Take off)
1,480@
7,200'
1,300@
13,200'
14,900 27,000 27,000
(Max fuel, no bombs)
1,300 1,554 4-5×7.7mm
1×20mm
300
90
12×60 Kg bombs
or
1×800 Kg torpedo
Normal torpedo
199
Scout (no bombs)
202
225@
8,500'
225@
8,500'
1,100
1,350
1,190@
7,500'
1,480@
7,500'
23,800'
26,100'
Normal
700
Torpedo200 7,500' 1,405 131 7,500' (Scout
1,000
[No Bombs])
201
7,500' 2,155 127 7,500'
*DINAH
Type 0
R
50'0 36' 2 Nakajima Sakae 21 14 Cyl Radial 1,000
(Normal)
1,120
(Take off)
1,060@
15,000'
8,395 11,200   292   Possible
1×7.7mm
  Nil 190 210@
13,000'
  1,083
0-13,000'
25,000' 650 180
(85% Vm)
13,000' 700 135 13,000'            
*DAVE
Type 95
R F/P
36' 28'4" Nakajima "Kotobuki" 9 Cyl Radial   545@
11,500'
4,600 5,800   110 144 3×7.7mm   265 lbs normal
500 lbs max
  255@13,000'     29,500' 475 220
(85%<
Vm)
13,000' 590 140              
*PETE
Type 0
R F/P
37'0" 32'4" Zuisei Model 13 14 Cyl Radial 830 940@
13,100'
4,490 Obs. Scout
6,030
w/Bombs
6,470
132   2×7.7mm
1×7.7mm
500
700
2×220 lbs 225 245@
8,000'
  2,000
0-10,000'
28,000' 420 210
(85% Vm)
10,000' 600 130 10,000'            
JAKE(3)
Type 0
R F/P
48'0" 34'0" Kinsei Type 43 or Zuisei 11 780             1+×7.7mm     195 225@
12,000'
  1,200
0-12,000'
28,000' 485 195
(85% Vm)
12,000' 685 130 12,000'            
IDA
Type 98
LB
47'9" 34' Probably Nakkajima "Kotobuki" 9 Cyl Radial   545@
11,500'
6,045 7,800 9,800 120   3×7.7mm   660 lbs normal
1,000 lbs max
180 260@
13,000'
1,209
0-13,000'
25,000'         790 200   (Max
500
Bombs)
225
       
*NELL
Type 96, Mk 4
MB
82'0" 54'0" 2×Kinsei 44 14 Cyl Radial 1,000
(Take off)
1,060@
6,500'
12,525 Normal Bomber
22,300
Normal Torpedo
32,500
23,500 940 1,392 5×7.7mm
1×20mm
300
60
12×60 Kg
8×100 Kg
4×250 Kg
or
2×500 Kg Bombs
or
1×800 Kg Torpedo
Normal Bomber
207
Normal Torpedo
204
Extra Fuel
206
228@
7,000'
224@
7,000'
227@
7,000'
1,200 1,280@
6,500'
24,800' 1,140 203 6,500' 2,450 129 6,500' 1,710 203 6,500' 3,660 129 6,500'
*SALLY 1
Type 97, Mk 1MB
72'0" 52'0" 2×Kinsei 44 14 Cyl Radial 1,000
(Take off)
1,060@6,500' 12,075 22,2165 22,370 976   7-8×7.7mm   2,200 lbs normal
4,400 lbs overload
227 251@7,700' 1,180 1,270@
6,500'
23,700' 1,300 226 6,500' 2,710 145 6,500' (Overload
845
of Bombs)
226
6,500' 1,720 145 6,500'
SALLY 2
Type 97, Mk 2
MB
74'8"   2×Nagoya Type o100 14 Cyl Radial 1,450             5×7.7mm
1×12.7mm
                                     
LILY
Type 98
MB
57'3" 41'9" 2 14 Cyl Radial   910@
11,500'
11,300 15,000   258 420 3-4×7.7mm 400-600 800 lbs normal
1,500 lbs max
255 285@
14,000'
  1,333
0-14'000'
25,500' 945 245
(86% Vm)
14,000' 1,100 185 14,000' (Max
540
 
Bombs)
245
(86% Vm)
14,000' 630 185 14,000'
*MAVIS
Type 97, 4E
FB
131'0" 84'6" 4 Kinsei 46 (or 43) 14 Cyl Radial 985 1,060@
13,800'
25,607 Patrol (no bombs)
39,646
Torpedo Bomber
43,146
Patrol (no bombs)
50.546
1,690 3,510 4×7.7mm
1×20mm
300
60
4×1,100 lbs
or
6×550 lbs bombs
or
2×1,760 lbs torpedoes
Patrol
210
Patrol Overload
208
Torpedo Bomber
207
239@
15,000'
236@
15,000'
237@15,000'
1,280
850
1,120
1,440@
13,800'
910@
13,800'
1,230@
13,800'
28,900'
25,100'
27,700'
Patrol
1,050
Torpedo Bomber
1,020
213
211
13,800'
13,800'
2,6602,360 118
127
13,800'
13,800'
(Patrol
2,180
Overload)
210
13,800' 5,060 126 13,800'
TOPSY
MC 20
T
74'0" 52'8" 2 Radials     11,900 18,300       Nil   Nil   266     23,000' 1,240 193
(73% Vm)
                   
TESS(4)
Type D-2
T
85'0" 62'0" 2 Wright "Cyclone" 9 Cyl Radials   760@
5,800'
12,408 18,560   360 510 Nil   Nil   210 1,000   22,450'                        
THELMA(4)
Lockheed 14
T
65'6" 44'2½" 2 Wright "Cyclone" Radials   850 9,685 15,000       Nil   Nil 232 257@9,300' 1,385   24,700' 1,285
(75% total output)
    1,705
(50% total output)
               
1Data and performance based on planes as produced in Germany.
2Data and performance based on the assumption that this aircraft is VAL on floats. It is also assumed that the floats are 22 ft. and of conventional design.
3Some confusion exists as to the separate identity of JUNE and JAKE. It is believed that most aircraft identified in the past as JUNE are actually JAKE, the plan of the wing varying considerably from that of VAL.
4Data and performance based on planes as produced in the U.S.A.

--14--



Transcribed and formatted by Patrick Clancey, HyperWar Foundation