Nakajima Ki-27 (Nate) Type 97
Technical Information

Background
Initially conceived of as a private venture design by Nakajima corporation, the Ki-27 debuted and was accepted by the Japanese Army and entered service in 1937. The fighter was very maneuverable and fast, but lacked self-sealing fuel tanks, pilot protection and had only two 7.7mm machine guns.

Wartime History
Nicknamed 'Nate' or 'Abdul' by the Allies. In the early years, the Ki-27 enjoyed a period of success against the Chinese and Allied fighter pilots in the early Pacific war. As Allied fighter designed continued to improve, aircraft like the Ki-27 was relegated to second line duty, training or kamikaze use.

Export
The Ki-27 was also exported for use with Manchukuo and Thai armed forces, seeing combat with both.

Technical Details
Crew  One (pilot)
Engine  One Nakajima Ha-1b air-cooled radial engine, 485 kW (650 hp)
Span  11.3 m
Length  7.53 m
Height  3.25 m
Maximum Speed  292 mph
Range  395 miles
Armament  (nose) 2 × 7.7 mm Type 89 machine guns with 500 rounds/gun
Or, (nose) 1 x 12.7 machine gun and 1 x 7.7 machine gun on later models
Bomb Load  (wing racks) 100 kg (220 lbs) of bombs
Or, 500 kg (1,100 lb) of bombs as kamikaze

Last Updated
September 30, 2009