Japanese Secret Projects 1: Experimental Aircraft of the IJA IJN 1939-1945

Secret and X-Plane aircraft projects remain highly popular with historians, enthusiasts, modelers and the flight sim community. Surprisingly, secret Japanese planes of World War 2 remain an area that has been largely ignored due to scarcity of information. They do, however, have a large base of interest as unlike the majority of secret Luftwaffe programs that were resigned to the drawing board, the vast number of aircraft featured within this book actually flew or were in development.

The book is divided into two sections dedicated to the air forces of the IJA and IJN, with over 42 aircraft examined, each with its history, variants, performance, and any combat records laid out in an easy to read fashion. Much information about their secret technical exchanges with the Luftwaffe throughout the war is also uncovered. This is beautifully complimented by stunning color renditions of the aircraft in combat and color profiles of genuine markings and camouflage. Notable emphasis is placed upon the transonic rammer aircraft, strategic long-range bombers, and the ways in which the Japanese adapted German technology to their needs, particularly the Me262 and Me 163 Komet. Secret Japanese armaments are also covered in detail, with information on guided missiles, aerial rockets, and unique bombs. It is a gripping read for aviation and military enthusiasts around the world!

Edwin M. Dwyer has studied military technology for more than 20 years, concentrating on weaponry from 1914 to 1960. In 1999, he created the Hikoki:1946 website, highlighting Japanese experimental aircraft. He is currently serving in the United States Civil Air Patrol with the rank of Master Sergeant.