Aircraft History
Built by Kawasaki. Manufacture Number unknown. Assigned to the Japanese Army Air Force (JAAF). Assigned to the 53rd Sentai. No known nickname or nose art.

Pilot History
Before the ramming attack, Yamada wrote a poem:
"Why do I spare my life for the Emperor? Young and live cherry flowers have their significance of lives because they are gone early. I have been choose as a member of a special attack unit. What a great honor it is! I feel a joy as I was born as a man. What a pleasure it is to ram! (Signed) Imperial Army Corporal Yenji Yamad, 22, Shinten Unit."

Mission History
On February 19, 1945 one of four Ki-45 from the 53rd Sentai led by Lt. Aoki. The formation intercept incoming B-29s over Tokyo Bay. This aircraft rammed B-29 "Super Wabbit" 42-65222 head on while making a steep turn. Observed by other B-29s, the left wingtip folded over and broke off, causing the B-29 to spin twice, break apart and crash. No crew members were seen to bail out.

References
B-29 Hunters of the JAAF page 88-90

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Last Updated
February 4, 2018