Aircraft History
Built by Mitsubishi estimated assembly date March 1943. Unknown if this aircraft was a reconnaissance version or assault version. Delivered to the Japanese Army Air Force (JAAF) as Type 99 Assault Plane Shugeki / Ki-51B Sonia manufacture number 946? (last digit unknown). Assigned to an unknown Sentai (Air Regiment).
Wartime History
This Ki-51 operated from But Airfield. Likely damaged on the ground and abandoned. Two remaining wrecks might be this plane: Ki-51 Sonia (But No. 1) or Ki-51 Sonia (But No. 2).
Wreckage
During April 1945, the Australian Army occupied the area and discovered this aircraft abandoned on the side of the overgrown runway, missing engine cowls, canopy glass and exhibiting other damage. An Australian Army photograph taken April 2, 1945 shows manufacture number 946? visible on the left spat (AWM 090412).
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Last Updated
September 26, 2022
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