Aircraft History
Built by Nakajima, estimated date of assembly October 1943. Field modified as a two seat Zero at Rabaul, One of only two examples built in the field. Modified around October 1944, from the hulks of other Zeros. A seat for the observer was installed behind the pilot, and a telegraph for long range communications. It was to be used for long range reconnaissance missions, conceived by Commander Tomoyoshi Hori.

Mission History
The exact history of this aircraft's final mission is unknown, but it is speculated that the aircraft was lost on a reconnaissance mission to western New Britain, near Turub. They ran short of fuel and ditched near Cape Lambert. Both crew returned to base on the 20th, after walking through the jungle for two days.

Recovery
Recovered by Bob Scott in August 1972 from 13 meters of water, after his successful recovery of A6M5 4323 the previous year. At the time of recovery, the 20mm cannons still had their blueing, instruments intact, even a parachute remains and binoculars were found inside.

Restoration
It was shipped to Melbourne for display and restoration with parts from several wrecked Zeros from the Rabaul area. A legal battle occurred over this aircraft after it was offered for sale to the Australian War Memorial, and seized by the police until the lawsuit settled.  Finally, it was sold to the Tokyo Science Museum.

Display
Displayed at the Tokyo Science Museum. At one point, the Zero was moved to "Tsukuba" around 2000, where it was stored. Today, it is returned to public display at the museum. The engine cowl is removed, missing as the original was corroded.

References
The Siege of Rabaul pages 62-71
Hostages to Freedom, pages 442-443
Pacific Aircraft Wrecks page 30 - 31, 54 (lower)

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Last Updated
December 19, 2008

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