Difference between revisions of "Mitsubishi Ki-51"

In 1937 the Japanese Army issued a request for a new ground attack aircraft that could perform dive and level bombing, light transport and reconnaissance missions. To meet this long list of requirements Mitsubishi further developed their Ki-30 light bomber, designing a lighter more compact and maneuverable version. In 1939 two prototypes were completed, one designed to perform bombing missions and the other fitted with reconnaissance cameras. Testing showed that the bomber version could easily be modified to also carry the reconnaissance equipment and the two designs were merged and put into production. The Ki-51 proved successful during fighting in China,were it showed its strength from being able to operate from rough temporary jungle airfields that other aircraft were to fragile to use. However when it faced the Americans over the Pacific its slow speed left it extremely vulnerable and it had to rely on its maneuverability during combat.

References

• Wikipedia