Aircraft History
This aircraft was likely built by Nakajima during 1942. This aircraft appears to have been patched together and although an earlier variant of the Zero modified slightly with later model fittings over its career from repairs and cannibalization. Manufacture Number is unknown, but a '08' aircraft code was found on the landing gear leg door. This aircraft was painted with green upper surfaces and gray / green lower surfaces.

Wartime History
Most likely served with the 19 Zero detachment known as the Shumshu Detachment, made up of former aircraft from the 203rd Kōkūtai that had served there, and was withdrawn back to Japan at the end of the war. It was abandoned at Kataoka Airfield on Shumshu Island.

Recovery
Recovered in 2003 by the Hunt brothers transported to the United Kingdom where it is in storage, awaiting a buyer to recuperate recovery cost. Later sold as a long term restoration project.

References
Thanks to Peter Arnold, Daniel Hunt and Giuseppe Picarella.

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Last Updated
March 16, 2023