Crashed  November 7, 1943

Aircraft History
The assembly date is estimated as April 1943. Camoflaged in light blue under surface and mottled light blue, light green upper surfaces. Plus a big "yellow four" on the tail. The bomber had a manual turret with a 12.7mm gun and thus was a Type 97 model IIb. It had a nose 7.7mm, remote tail 7.7mm and two 7.7mm side guns (with saddle magazines). Crew: 2 burned in wreck, 2 thrown clear, report of 1 parachite before explosion.

Mission History
One of nine Ki-21's attacked Nadzab Airfield from 19,700' - 21,000'. Escorted by Ki-43 Oscars of the 13th Sentai and 248th Sentai. Attacked by American fighters, this bomber exploded in mid-air and crashed near Bandong, 15 miles north of Nadzab.

CEAR 17 reports:
"The latest integral component is hydraulic cylinder dates 7 March 1943.
The bomb release solenoid dated September 1943 is believed to be a
replacement."

Richard Dunn adds:
"The wreckage was found on two different sides of a steep valley after the bomber exploded in air. Steep slopes and rain made inspection of some parts impossible."

References
Thanks to Jim Long and Richard Dunn for historical information
248th Hiko Sentai: A Japanese “Hard luck” Fighter Unit, part 2
ATIU / Crashed Enemy Aircraft Report (CEAR) 17

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