From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Mitsubishi Ki-51 (Army designation is "Type 99 Attacker". Allied codename "Sonia") was a light bomber/dive bomber aircraft in service with the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II. It first flew in mid-1939. Initially deployed against Chinese forces, it proved to be too slow to hold up against the fighter aircraft of the other allied powers. However, it performed a useful ground attack role in the China-Burma-India theatre, notably from airfields too rough for many other aircraft. As the war drew to a close, they began to be used in kamikaze attacks. Total production was around 2385 units.
[edit] Operators
- Japan
- Indonesia
- In 1945, Indonesian People's Security Force (IPSF) (Indonesian pro-independence guerrillas) captured a small number of aircraft at numerous Japanese air bases, including Bugis Air Base in Malang (repatriated 18 September 1945). Most aircraft were destroyed in military conflicts between the Netherlands and the newly proclaimed-Republic of Indonesia during the Indonesian National Revolution of 1945-1949.
- China
- Communist Chinese (captured): The last 4 Ki-51s retired in 1953.
[edit] Specifications
[edit] General characteristics
- Crew: Two (Pilot and rear gunner)
- Length: 9.20m (30 ft 2.5 in)
- Wingspan: 12.10 m (39 ft 8.25 in)
- Height: 2.73 m (8 ft 11.5 in)
- Wing area: 24.02 m² (258.56 ft²)
- Empty: 1,873 kg (4129 lb)
- Maximum takeoff: 2920 kg (6437 lb)
- Powerplant: 1x Mitsubishi Ha-26-II radial piston engine, rated at 940 hp (691 kW)
[edit] Performance
- Maximum speed: 425 km/h (264 mph)
- Range: 1,060 km (659 miles)
- Service ceiling: 8,270 m (31,070 ft)
[edit] Armament
[edit] References
[1] [2]
[edit] See also
Comparable aircraft Junkers Ju-87
Related lists List of military aircraft of Japan
Japanese Army Aircraft Designation System |
|
|
|
Lists relating to aviation |
|
General |
|
|
Military |
|
|
Accidents/incidents |
|
|
Records |
|
|