Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed

Peiper1944 · Post by **Peiper1944** » Mon Nov 03, 2025 11:03 am

85th Hiko Sentai (第85飛行戦隊)  
Founded: 1 March 1941  
Classification: Standard Unit  
Base (as of 6 December 1941): Hankow, China  
Higher Command: 10th Air Brigade → 5th Air Division → China Expeditionary Army Air Command  

Commanding Officer (6 December 1941)  
Major Gorō Yamamoto – veteran of the China campaign and still an active combat pilot at the start of the Pacific War. A pragmatic and disciplined leader, more respected than celebrated, known for steady command and reliability in operations.  
Attributes:  
Skill 59 | Inspiration 53 | Naval 21 | Air 65 | Land 45 | Admin 55 | Aggression 49 | Political 16  

Formation & Background  
Formed in March 1941 at Hankow from cadre elements of the 33rd and 77th Sentai, the 85th Hiko Sentai was established to secure the central Yangtze airspace and provide escort for bomber formations of the 5th Air Division.  
Throughout 1941–42, the unit participated in a series of ground-support and escort missions against Chinese forces in Hunan and Guangxi.  
Although never considered elite, the Sentai was valued for its professionalism and cohesion. Many of its pilots rotated through the China theater before redeployment to Southeast Asia.  
In 1942, the Sentai began gradual re-equipment with the Ki-43-I “Hayabusa,” replacing its aging Ki-27 “Nate” fighters.  

Organization (as of 6 December 1941)  
Structure: 2–3 Chutai (approx. 30 pilots; 30 aircraft)  
·Aircraft Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (transition to Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” from 1942)  
·Role: Air superiority, bomber escort, and regional patrol  
·Personnel: solid veteran nucleus, reinforced with new flight school graduates  

Aircraft Strength (as of 6 December 1941)  
Total: 30 | Operational: 24 | Damaged: 4 | Reserve: 2  

Pilot Roster (as of 6 December 1941)  
0173 – MAJ Yamamoto, Gorō (Sentai Commander) – XP 64 – entry 1941/12/06  
0174 – CPT Sawada, Mitsugu ★ Ace (11 victories) – XP 74 – entry 1941/12/06  
0175 – CPT Furukawa, Haruyoshi – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06  
0176 – CPT Tojo, Michiaki – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06  
0177 – CPT Nakahara, Yoshiaki – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06  
0178 – 2LT Gomi, Hiroshi ★ Ace (7 victories) – XP 56 – entry 1941/12/06  
0179 – MAJ Wakamatsu, Yukiyoshi ★ Ace (18 victories) – XP 81 – entry 1941/12/06  
0180 – WO Sudo, Tokuya ★ Ace (10 victories) – XP 59 – entry 1941/12/06  
8084 – WO Nomura, Akiyoshi ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 53 – entry 1941/12/06  
8085 – WO Sasaki, Shigeharu – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8086 – 1LT Shiki, Yoshiji – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06  
8087 – WO Hirai, Toshiaki – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8088 – WO Nishikawa, Tamotsu – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8089 – WO Hade, Sakio – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8090 – WO Ikubo, Hidesue – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8091 – 1LT Kon-i, Kiyoya – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06  
8092 – WO Kikikawa, Tadashi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8093 – WO Hayakawa, Haruzo – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8099 – CPT Saito, Hajime – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06  
8108 – CPT Hironaka, Nobuyuki – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06  
8110 – MAJ Nakamura, Morio – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06  
8118 – CPT Okimoto, Yoshikazu – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06  
8123 – CPT Horaguchi, Akira – XP 58 – entry 1942/01/05  
8127 – WO Ohkubo, Misao ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 67 – entry 1941/12/06  
8128 – WO Yonezu, Fumio ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 53 – entry 1941/12/06  

(*Further entries from 1942–45 reflect later reinforcements and training staff rotations, total pilots exceeding 40 by 1944.)  

Unit Averages (as of 6 December 1941)  
·Average XP: 51–52  
·Average Morale: 71  

Evaluation  
The 85th Hiko Sentai represented the steady backbone of the IJAAF’s mid-war China operations.  
Reliable, adaptable, and competently led, it produced several notable aces but was never glamorized as a front-line legend.  
By 1943–44, its veterans had dispersed to reinforce southern units such as the 64th and 204th Sentai, while the remaining pilots continued patrol and training duties from Hankow.  
Though its history lacked dramatic highlights, the 85th epitomized the quiet professionalism of Japan’s China-based fighter force—loyal, methodical, and indispensable.

Code: Select all

87th Hiko Sentai (第87飛行戦隊)  
Founded: 1 March 1941  
Classification: Standard Unit  
Base (as of 6 December 1941): Harbin, Manchuria  
Higher Command: 2nd Air Division → Kwantung Army Air Force  

Commanding Officer (6 December 1941)  
Lt. Col. Tsune-enon Shindō – a career officer with extensive administrative and training background. By 1941, his leadership focused on organization and standardization rather than personal combat flying. Methodical, composed, and dutiful.  
Attributes:  
Skill 60 | Inspiration 55 | Naval 22 | Air 66 | Land 47 | Admin 58 | Aggression 46 | Political 18  

Formation & Background  
The 87th Hiko Sentai was established in March 1941 at Harbin as a standard Kwantung Army Air Force fighter formation.  
Its early purpose was the defense of Manchuria’s northern airspace and surveillance along the Soviet border, a responsibility that demanded readiness but offered little real combat.  
The unit was well equipped and well organized, but its personnel were young—mostly recent flight school graduates gaining their first operational assignments.  
Only a handful of veterans, including Kanai Moritsugu and Takiyama Yamato, carried real combat experience from earlier campaigns in China, giving the unit a small but steady professional core.  

Organization (as of 7 December 1941)  
Structure: 3 Chutai (approx. 28 pilots)  
·Aircraft Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (conversion to Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” began in 1942)  
·Role: Border defense, air patrol, tactical support  
·Personnel: few veterans, majority junior officers and warrant officers  

Aircraft Strength (as of 7 December 1941)  
Total: 45 | Operational: 36 | Damaged: 6 | Reserve: 3  

Pilot Roster (as of 6 December 1941)  
0182 – 2LT Hosono, Isamu – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06  
0183 – CPT Yamaura, Hiroshi (Hikotai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06  
0184 – 1LT Kanai, Moritsugu ★ Ace (26 victories) – XP 83 – entry 1941/12/06  
0185 – CPT Takiyama, Yamato ★ Ace (9 victories) – XP 69 – entry 1941/12/06  
0186 – CPT Nagaoka, Ryōichi – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06  
8131 – CPT Gunji, Kanai – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06  
8132 – 1LT Hashimoto, Hiroshi – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06  
8133 – WO Kobayashi, Mitsuo – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8134 – WO Nomachi, Kadoaki – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8135 – WO Kuriyama, Hideo – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8136 – WO Sato, Kiyomitsu – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8137 – WO Kanefuku, Ryōichi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8138 – WO Onishi, Seikichi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8139 – WO Ogawa, Moriyuki – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8140 – WO Takahashi, Naokichi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8141 – 1LT Naganuma, Kyoji – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06  
8142 – WO Hagimoto, Sakae – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8143 – WO Onodera, Kyoji – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8144 – WO Sato, Seiji – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8145 – WO Takiyama, Satoshi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8146 – CPT Hasegawa, Kenkichi – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06  
8147 – WO Takemoto, Jun’ichi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8148 – 2LT Kinoshita, Haruo – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06  
8149 – WO Okada, Ryozo – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8150 – 2LT Fujimura, Kiyoshi – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06  
8151 – WO Nishimoto, Takeo – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8152 – WO Muraki, Yoshio – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8153 – CPT Kato, Takeshi – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06  

Total (Dec 1941): 28 pilots → Average XP 55.8 (Kanai highest at 83)  

Unit Averages (as of 7 December 1941)  
·Average XP: 55.8  
·Average Morale: 69  

Evaluation  
The 87th Hiko Sentai was a transitional formation within the Kwantung Army Air Force—efficiently structured but lacking battle experience.  
Its pilots displayed discipline and strong technical training but had few opportunities to test themselves in combat.  
While not elite, it provided a critical bridge between flight schools and the active front-line Sentai in China and Burma.  
From 1942 onward, the 87th began converting to the Ki-43 “Hayabusa,” and many of its more talented officers, including Kanai and Takiyama, were later reassigned to operational units in Southeast Asia.  
The 87th’s quiet professionalism reflected the strategic caution of Manchuria’s air defense—ready, watchful, and largely untested.

Code: Select all

101st Hiko Sentai (第101飛行戦隊)  
Founded: 1 July 1944  
Classification: Standard Unit  
Base (as of 1 July 1944): Kita-Ise, Japan  
Higher Command: 5th Air Division → 1st Air Army (Home Defense Command)  

Commanding Officer (1 July 1944)  
Major Hyōe Yonaga – former IJAAF instructor and veteran of central China operations. A methodical and conscientious officer, more administrator than combat ace, who managed to maintain unit discipline and readiness under extreme shortages.  
Attributes:  
Skill 68 | Inspiration 56 | Naval 25 | Air 65 | Land 48 | Admin 60 | Aggression 50 | Political 18  

Formation & Background  
The 101st Hiko Sentai was created in July 1944 at Kita-Ise Airfield as part of the late-war expansion of Japan’s homeland air defense structure.  
Formed from elements of the 1st Hiko Kyōdōtai and staffed with instructors and new graduates from Akeno and Hitachi flight schools, the unit’s role was dual: basic air defense and tactical conversion training.  
Material shortages were severe—fuel rationing, worn engines, and lack of replacement parts forced the Sentai to focus more on simulated combat and training flights than real operations.  
Major Yonaga’s quiet professionalism and organizational skill allowed the unit to remain functional despite these challenges.  

Organization (as of 1 July 1944)  
Structure: 3 Chutai (approx. 40–45 aircraft total)  
·Aircraft Type: Nakajima Ki-43-I/II “Hayabusa” (Oscar)  
·Role: Homeland air defense and pilot training  
·Personnel: core of experienced officers, majority trainee pilots  

Aircraft Strength (as of 1 July 1944)  
Total: 45 | Operational: 30 | Damaged: 8 | Reserve: 7  
Note: Many aircraft were rebuilt trainers; parts cannibalization was routine.  

Pilot Roster (as of 1 July 1944)  
8157 – MAJ Yonaga, Hyōe (Sentai Commander) – XP 68 – entry 1944/07/01  
8158 – MAJ Sakamoto, Bigaku – XP 68 – entry 1944/07/01  
8159 – CPT Suenaga, Masao (Hikotai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01  
8160 – 1LT Kodama, Masami – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01  
8161 – CPT Sasaki, Fukuo – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01  
8162 – CPT Oda, Hiroshi – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01  
8163 – CPT Kozu, Yukiichi – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01  
8164 – 1LT Takamura, Shōji – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01  
8165 – WO Murayama, Kōzō – XP 43 – entry 1944/07/01  
8166 – CPT Nakahara, Minoru – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01  
8167 – WO Fukui, Kazuo – XP 43 – entry 1944/07/01  
8168 – 1LT Hayakawa, Michio – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01  
8169 – CPT Yamanaka, Masaru – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01  
8170 – WO Ishibashi, Etsuo – XP 43 – entry 1944/07/01  
8171 – 2LT Kaneko, Shōhei – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01  

Total (as of July 1944): 15 pilots → Average XP 54.9  

Unit Averages (as of 1 July 1944)  
·Average XP: 45–46 (veterans 58–68 | trainees 41–46)  
·Average Morale: 66 (stable despite shortages)  

Evaluation  
The 101st Hiko Sentai reflected the strained yet orderly state of the IJAAF in 1944.  
With only limited resources, it remained primarily a training and reserve unit, but under Major Yonaga’s capable leadership it maintained better organization and cohesion than most contemporary formations.  
While it saw little actual combat, the 101st provided a valuable pool of reserve pilots for the central homeland defense network and demonstrated that professionalism could persist even amid decay.  
In structure and spirit, it was one of the better examples of Japan’s late-war home defense Sentai—disciplined, under-equipped, and enduring.

Code: Select all

102nd Hiko Sentai (第102飛行戦隊)  
Founded: 1 July 1944  
Classification: Standard Unit  
Base (as of 1 July 1944): Kita-Ise, Japan  
Higher Command: 5th Air Division → 3rd Air Army → Homeland Air Defense Command  

Commanding Officer (1 July 1944)  
Major Kaoru Kakimi – veteran of China operations and experienced IJAAF staff officer. A disciplined, pragmatic commander who led the newly established 102nd Hiko Sentai with calm professionalism. Not a flamboyant ace, but respected as a firm and fair leader of inexperienced men.  
Attributes:  
Skill 57 | Inspiration 52 | Naval 20 | Air 63 | Land 44 | Admin 53 | Aggression 48 | Political 16  

Formation & Background  
Formed in July 1944 at Kita-Ise Airfield, the 102nd Hiko Sentai was one of several emergency air defense units created to counter the growing threat of B-29 raids.  
It drew its cadre from instructors and veterans of the 5th Air Division Training Command, reinforced by young graduates from Akeno and Hamamatsu flight schools.  
The Sentai’s task was twofold: to defend central Japan and to train new pilots transitioning to the Nakajima Ki-84 “Hayate.”  
Despite modern equipment, the unit suffered from the usual late-war constraints—chronic fuel shortages, parts scarcity, and minimal flying time—making sustained operations impossible.  

Organization (as of 1 July 1944)  
Structure: 3 Chutai (approx. 30–35 aircraft total)  
·Aircraft Type: Nakajima Ki-84 “Hayate”  
·Role: Homeland air defense / Ki-84 conversion training  
·Personnel: small veteran cadre, majority new pilots  

Aircraft Strength (as of 1 July 1944)  
Total: 30 | Operational: 20 | Damaged: 6 | Reserve: 4  
Note: Pre-production Hayate models were used; maintenance downtime exceeded 50% of total availability.  

Pilot Roster (as of 1 July 1944)  
8175 – MAJ Kakimi, Kaoru (Sentai Commander) – XP 68 – entry 1944/07/01  
8176 – CPT Hayashi, Iwao (Hikotai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01  
8177 – CPT Mokuri, Yoshitoshi (Seibitai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01  
8178 – 2LT Kanazawa, Takemoto – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01  
8179 – 1LT Nagakura, Masmi – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01  
8180 – CPT Honda, Shoichi – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01  
8181 – 1LT Shimizu, Tamotsu – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01  
8182 – CPT Takasugi, Haruo – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01  
8183 – 1LT Okada, Michinori – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01  
8184 – WO Nishimoto, Kiyoshi – XP 43 – entry 1944/07/01  
8185 – 2LT Fujikawa, Shunji – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01  
8186 – WO Matsuo, Eiji – XP 43 – entry 1944/07/01  
8187 – CPT Tanabe, Yasuo – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01  
8188 – 1LT Inagaki, Shozo – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01  
8189 – WO Hori, Keitaro – XP 43 – entry 1944/07/01  
8190 – 1LT Nagakura, Kanji – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01  
8191 – WO Higashiyama, Iwao – XP 43 – entry 1944/07/01  
8192 – 2LT Hayashi, Hiroshi – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01  
8193 – WO Ishiga, Heiichi – XP 41 – entry 1944/07/01  
8194 – 2LT Ito, Jiro – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01  
8195 – 2LT Hayashi, Haruo – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01  

Total (as of July 1944): 21 pilots → Average XP 51.0  

Unit Averages (as of 1 July 1944)  
·Average XP: 47–48 (veterans 58–68 | trainees 41–51)  
·Average Morale: 69 (disciplined and dutiful despite grim outlook)  

Evaluation  
The 102nd Hiko Sentai was emblematic of Japan’s last-ditch air defense effort—modern in equipment, but hollow in resources.  
Major Kakimi maintained order and purpose among a young and largely untested group of pilots who flew in worsening conditions.  
Though its combat record was minimal, the 102nd fulfilled its training and local defense role with quiet professionalism.  
It stood as a transitional formation—half operational unit, half flight school—representing the IJAAF’s exhausted, but still organized, struggle to defend the homeland in 1944.

Code: Select all

103rd Hiko Sentai (第103飛行戦隊)  
Founded: 1 August 1944  
Classification: Standard Unit  
Base (as of 1 August 1944): Itami Airfield, Japan  
Higher Command: Homeland Air Defense Command → 1st Air Army  

Commanding Officer (1 August 1944)  
Major Michiaki Tōjō – veteran of the China campaign, reassigned in 1944 to organize and command the newly created 103rd Hiko Sentai.  
A pragmatic, disciplined leader with a reputation for calm efficiency. Not a front-line ace, but an organizer who maintained structure and morale under deteriorating conditions.  
Attributes:  
Skill 56 | Inspiration 51 | Naval 20 | Air 62 | Land 43 | Admin 52 | Aggression 47 | Political 15  

Formation & Background  
The 103rd Hiko Sentai was established in mid-1944 at Itami Airfield as part of Japan’s final wave of homeland air defense expansion.  
Its personnel were drawn from Akeno and Tachiarai flight schools, combined with a handful of veterans from front-line units withdrawn from China and Burma.  
The unit’s twin missions were air defense of the Kansai region and advanced conversion training for pilots transitioning to the Ki-43 “Hayabusa.”  
Due to fuel and equipment shortages, the Sentai’s activity level was minimal, often limited to a few training sorties per week.  
By late 1944, it had settled into a pattern typical of late-war formations: strong discipline, low flight time, and no strategic influence.  

Organization (as of 1 August 1944)  
Structure: 2–3 Chutai (approx. 30–45 aircraft total)  
·Aircraft Type: Nakajima Ki-43-I/II “Hayabusa” (Oscar)  
·Role: Air defense and conversion training  
·Personnel: small veteran cadre, majority new graduates  

Aircraft Strength (as of 1 August 1944)  
Total: 45 | Operational: 30 | Damaged: 9 | Reserve: 6  
Note: Equipment mix of older Ki-43 variants; several lacked radio gear.  

Pilot Roster (as of 1 August 1944)  
0188 – 2LT Yajima, Tomesaku ★ Ace (16 victories) – XP 72 – entry 1944/08/15  
0189 – CPT Ogawa, Tomojiro (Hikotai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/08/01  
8199 – MAJ Tōjō, Michiaki (Sentai Commander) – XP 68 – entry 1944/08/01  
8200 – WO Toyoda, Goro – XP 43 – entry 1944/08/01  
8201 – CPT Kobayashi, Toshio – XP 58 – entry 1944/08/15  
8202 – 1LT Hoshino, Shunpei – XP 51 – entry 1944/09/01  
8203 – WO Sugiyama, Haruo – XP 43 – entry 1944/09/20  
8204 – 2LT Ishikawa, Noboru – XP 51 – entry 1944/10/01  
8205 – WO Matsui, Takeo – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/10  
8206 – CPT Ando, Masaru – XP 58 – entry 1944/11/01  
8207 – 1LT Noguchi, Seiji – XP 51 – entry 1944/11/15  
8208 – WO Hirabayashi, Keizo – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/01  
8209 – 1LT Morimoto, Ryohei – XP 51 – entry 1944/11/20  
8210 – 2LT Yajima, Sato – XP 49 – entry 1944/10/01  
8211 – 2LT So, Tetsuya – XP 42 – entry 1945/04/01  

1944: 13 pilots → Average XP 52.8  
1945: 1 pilot → Average XP 42.0  
Total: 14 pilots → Average XP 51.9  

Unit Averages (as of 1 August 1944)  
·Average XP: 45–46 (veterans 60–70 | trainees 40–45)  
·Average Morale: 66 (disciplined and loyal, though operationally stagnant)  

Evaluation  
The 103rd Hiko Sentai was a model of the late-war IJAAF condition—organized, willing, but materially paralyzed.  
Under Major Tōjō, the Sentai kept its structure intact and its pilots motivated, yet it lacked the resources to become combat-effective.  
Its primary mission remained training and reserve defense, with little real combat engagement.  
In spirit, the 103rd represented the twilight of Japan’s air power: competence and discipline surviving amid scarcity and decline.

Code: Select all

104th Hiko Sentai (第104飛行戦隊)  
Founded: 1 July 1944  
Classification: Standard Unit  
Base (as of 1 July 1944): Ozuki Airfield, Japan  
Higher Command: 3rd Air Division → Home Defense Command  

Commanding Officer (1 July 1944)  
Major Yamato Takiyama – veteran officer with prior service in the China theater and homeland defense units. Tasked in 1944 with forming and commanding the 104th Hiko Sentai, he was a methodical, disciplined leader focused on maintaining basic functionality rather than chasing combat glory.  
Attributes:  
Skill 55 | Inspiration 50 | Naval 20 | Air 61 | Land 43 | Admin 52 | Aggression 47 | Political 15  

Formation & Background  
The 104th Hiko Sentai was formed at Ozuki Airfield on 1 July 1944 as part of the final wave of IJAAF home defense formations.  
By mid-1944, Japan’s strategic situation had deteriorated, and the new Sentai’s mission centered on defending western Japan while training fresh pilots for redeployment to front-line Sentai.  
The unit drew a small nucleus of veterans from prior China operations, reinforced by many newly graduated pilots from Akeno and Mito flight schools.  
Initially equipped with worn Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” fighters, the Sentai faced continual maintenance issues, low sortie rates, and minimal combat readiness.  

Organization (as of 1 July 1944)  
Structure: 3 Chutai (approx. 45 aircraft total)  
·Aircraft Type: Nakajima Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” (Oscar)  
·Role: Homeland defense / transition training  
·Personnel: veteran cadre with majority flight school graduates  

Aircraft Strength (as of 1 July 1944)  
Total: 45 | Operational: 31 | Damaged: 9 | Reserve: 5  
Note: Airframes were heavily worn; mechanical failures and lack of spares were routine.  

Pilot Roster (as of 1 July 1944)  
0191 – CPT Maeda, Susumu (Hikotai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01  
0192 – CPT Kinjo, Shigeto (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01  
0193 – CPT Tomiya, Mitsuo (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01  
8215 – MAJ Takiyama, Yamato (Sentai Commander) – XP 68 – entry 1944/07/01  
8216 – CPT Kusano, Yoshitaka (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01  
8217 – WO Nagata, Tadanori – XP 43 – entry 1944/08/01  
8218 – WO Akeno, Yoshihiro – XP 43 – entry 1944/08/01  
8219 – WO Kataoka, Tetsuo – XP 43 – entry 1944/08/01  
8220 – 1LT Shimizu, Takao – XP 51 – entry 1944/09/01  
8221 – CPT Arakawa, Minoru – XP 58 – entry 1944/09/15  
8222 – WO Fujita, Kenji – XP 43 – entry 1944/09/20  
8223 – 2LT Nishida, Haruo – XP 51 – entry 1944/10/01  
8224 – WO Ishihara, Masao – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/15  
8225 – CPT Ueda, Koji – XP 58 – entry 1944/11/01  
8226 – WO Takano, Shigeo – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/01  

Total (as of 1944): 15 pilots → Average XP 51.0  

Unit Averages (as of 1 July 1944)  
·Average XP: 45–46 (veterans 55–68 | trainees 40–45)  
·Average Morale: 66 (solid discipline, limited operational activity)  

Evaluation  
The 104th Hiko Sentai was one of the many late-war IJAAF home defense formations—organized, dutiful, and under-equipped.  
Its aircraft were obsolete and maintenance-heavy, and its flight operations were curtailed by the fuel crisis.  
Major Takiyama succeeded in keeping the unit orderly and functional, turning it into a disciplined training and emergency interception outfit.  
The 104th never reached full operational potential, but it typified the closing phase of the IJAAF: organized decay held together by professionalism and duty rather than resources or hope.

Code: Select all

105th Hiko Sentai (第105飛行戦隊)  
Founded: 1 August 1944  
Classification: Standard Unit  
Base (as of 1 August 1944): Taichung Airfield, Formosa (Taiwan)  
Higher Command: Formosa Air Defense Command → 8th Air Division  

Commanding Officer (1 August 1944)  
Major Chōichirō Yoshida – experienced mid-generation IJAAF officer, formerly active in China.  
Assigned to form and command the 105th Hiko Sentai in 1944, Yoshida was a pragmatic and disciplined leader who attempted to build an operationally functional fighter unit amid the logistical chaos of late-war Japan.  
Attributes:  
Skill 55 | Inspiration 50 | Naval 20 | Air 61 | Land 43 | Admin 52 | Aggression 47 | Political 15  

Formation & Background  
The 105th Hiko Sentai was created during the summer of 1944 at Taichung Airfield as part of the emergency expansion of air defenses on Formosa.  
Intended to serve as a modern interceptor unit equipped with the Kawasaki Ki-61 “Hien,” the Sentai quickly became another victim of Japan’s industrial decline.  
Persistent shortages of Ha-40 engines, spare parts, and tools crippled its readiness from inception.  
Many of its pilots came directly from Akeno and Tachiarai flight schools, while a few veterans from China were added to provide minimal experience and training continuity.  
Its combat potential remained limited, and much of its effort went into pilot conversion and airfield defense duties.  

Organization (as of 1 August 1944)  
Structure: 3 Chutai (approx. 40–45 aircraft total)  
·Aircraft Type: Kawasaki Ki-61-I “Hien” (Tony); some Chutai retained Ki-43-II “Hayabusa”  
·Role: Air defense of Formosa / fighter training  
·Personnel: small veteran cadre, majority new graduates  

Aircraft Strength (as of 1 August 1944)  
Total: 45 | Operational: 28 | Damaged: 9 | Reserve: 3  
Note: Ha-40 engine failures and missing equipment plagued operations; several aircraft were grounded indefinitely.  

Pilot Roster (as of 1 August 1944)  
8230 – MAJ Yoshida, Chōichirō (Sentai Commander) – XP 68 – entry 1944/08/01  
8231 – CPT Kawakami, Jirō (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/08/01  
8232 – CPT Kuriyama, Miharu (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/08/01  
8233 – CPT Iwamoto, Akira (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/08/01  
8234 – 1LT Morita, Takayuki – XP 51 – entry 1944/08/15  
8235 – WO Nakamura, Jinsaku – XP 43 – entry 1944/09/01  
8236 – CPT Tanabe, Yoshiharu – XP 58 – entry 1944/09/15  
8237 – 2LT Fujimoto, Shigeo – XP 51 – entry 1944/10/01  
8238 – WO Oishi, Kunio – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/20  
8239 – 1LT Kawai, Tetsurō – XP 51 – entry 1944/11/01  
8240 – WO Takeda, Masanori – XP 43 – entry 1944/11/20  
8241 – CPT Hayakawa, Shunichi – XP 58 – entry 1944/12/01  
8242 – 2LT Naganuma, Fujito – XP 51 – entry 1944/10/01  

Total (as of 1944): 13 pilots → Average XP 51.0  

Unit Averages (as of 1 August 1944)  
·Average XP: 45–46 (veterans 58–68 | trainees 40–45)  
·Average Morale: 66 (disciplined, low combat exposure)  

Evaluation  
The 105th Hiko Sentai was among the final standard formations of the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force.  
Conceived as a modern interceptor unit for Formosa’s defense, it never achieved more than partial readiness.  
Engine failures, lack of replacement parts, and chronic fuel scarcity limited flight activity to a fraction of expectations.  
Major Yoshida nonetheless preserved structure, morale, and a semblance of combat preparedness, transforming the Sentai into a functional—if symbolic—component of Formosa’s collapsing air defense network.  
By early 1945, the unit stood as a testament to the IJAAF’s endurance: technically ambitious, operationally starved, and strategically irrelevant.

Peiper1944 · Post by **Peiper1944** » Mon Nov 03, 2025 11:15 am

Code: Select all

111th Hiko Sentai (第111飛行戦隊)  
Founded: 1 July 1945  
Classification: Standard Unit  
Base (as of 1 August 1945): Honshū, Japan  
Higher Command: Homeland Air Defense Command  

Commanding Officer (1 July 1945)  
Lt. Col. Tadashi Ishikawa – senior IJAAF officer appointed during the war’s final months.  
By this stage, his duties were administrative rather than operational, overseeing a paper unit without aircraft or logistical support.  
Attributes:  
Skill 59 | Inspiration 54 | Naval 21 | Air 65 | Land 46 | Admin 57 | Aggression 45 | Political 17  

Formation & Background  
Although the 111th Hiko Sentai appeared nominally in early IJAAF planning documents, it was not formally activated until 1 July 1945—barely six weeks before Japan’s surrender.  
The unit was intended to defend central Honshū under the Homeland Air Defense Command but was never equipped with its designated Nakajima Ki-84 “Hayate” fighters.  
Its personnel consisted almost entirely of flight school graduates and depot transfers, hastily assembled as part of the last-ditch defensive mobilization.  
Fewer than ten percent of its members were veterans, and their presence served more to maintain morale than to prepare for combat.  
The 111th remained non-operational until the war’s end, representing the final hollow gesture of a collapsing air force.  

Organization (as of 1 July 1945)  
Structure: nominally 4 Chutai (about 30–35 pilots)  
·Aircraft Type: Nakajima Ki-84 “Hayate” (planned; none received)  
·Role: Homeland defense (Central Japan)  
·Personnel: mostly flight school graduates, minimal veteran leadership  

Aircraft Strength (as of 1 July 1945)  
Total: 0 | Operational: 0 | Damaged: 0 | Reserve: 0  
Note: No aircraft allocation completed; the Sentai remained a paper formation.  

Pilot Roster (as of 1 July 1945)  
8084 – CPT Mihara, Akio (5th Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1945/07/01  
8085 – CPT Tada, Ichirō (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1945/07/01  
8086 – CPT Ieda, Toriyuki (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1945/07/01  
8087 – CPT Itō, Hisa-aki (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1945/07/01  
8088 – MAJ Hinoki, Yōhei ★ Ace (12 victories, 4th Chutai Leader) – XP 76 – entry 1945/07/01  
8089 – CPT Sugiyama, Katsuji – XP 58 – entry 1945/07/01  
8090 – CPT Mihara, Akio – XP 58 – entry 1945/07/01  
8091 – 1LT Kondō, Masaharu – XP 51 – entry 1945/07/01  
8092 – WO Takigawa, Hisashi – XP 43 – entry 1945/07/01  
8093 – 2LT Nishimoto, Yasuo – XP 51 – entry 1945/07/01  
8094 – CPT Hayashi, Saburō – XP 58 – entry 1945/07/01  
8095 – WO Arakawa, Keiji – XP 43 – entry 1945/07/01  
8096 – 1LT Morioka, Tetsuji – XP 51 – entry 1945/07/01  
8097 – CPT Fujikawa, Shunpei – XP 58 – entry 1945/07/01  
8098 – WO Hino, Kazuharu – XP 43 – entry 1945/07/01  
8099 – 2LT Tanaka, Michio – XP 51 – entry 1945/07/01  
8100 – 1LT Okabe, Shigeru – XP 51 – entry 1945/07/01  
8108 – CPT Inayama, Hideaki – XP 48 – entry 1945/07/01  
8109 – MAJ Kusakari, Takeo – XP 52 – entry 1945/07/01  

Total (as of 1945): 19 pilots → Average XP 53.8  

Unit Averages (as of 1 July 1945)  
·Average XP: 44–46 (Hinoki’s XP 76 as outlier)  
·Average Morale: 48–52 (declining to 40–45 by August 1945 due to hopeless conditions)  

Evaluation  
The 111th Hiko Sentai existed in name only—a final bureaucratic artifact of a defeated air force.  
Activated mere weeks before Japan’s surrender, it possessed neither aircraft nor operational infrastructure.  
Veterans such as MAJ Hinoki lent symbolic gravitas, but their experience could not transform a paper organization into a fighting unit.  
By August 1945, the 111th represented the exhaustion of the IJAAF: men without machines, orders without means, and valor trapped within the machinery of collapse.

Code: Select all

112th Hiko Sentai (第112飛行戦隊)  
Founded: 1 July 1945  
Classification: Standard Unit  
Base (as of 1 August 1945): Nitta Airfield, Japan  
Higher Command: Homeland Air Defense Command (Kantō Region)  

Commanding Officer (1 July 1945)  
Lt. Col. Hidemi Yusuhara – senior IJAAF staff officer, appointed during the war’s final weeks.  
Given his position and the desperate state of Japan’s defenses, Yusuhara’s role was purely administrative. Operational command was largely nominal, as the Sentai had neither aircraft nor logistics to function.  
Attributes:  
Skill 58 | Inspiration 53 | Naval 21 | Air 64 | Land 46 | Admin 57 | Aggression 44 | Political 17  

Formation & Background  
The 112th Hiko Sentai was established at Nitta Airfield on 1 July 1945 as part of the final mobilization of the Homeland Air Defense Command.  
It was intended to protect the Kantō region against U.S. raids but existed only as an organizational formality.  
Personnel were drawn almost entirely from accelerated flight school programs and replacement depots.  
The Sentai was theoretically to be equipped with the Nakajima Ki-84 “Hayate,” but the aircraft deliveries never materialized, leaving the unit grounded.  
By August 1945, most of its “operations” consisted of administrative drills, evacuation procedures, and preparation for a final stand that never came.  

Organization (as of 1 July 1945)  
Structure: Nominally 4 Chutai (approx. 40–45 pilots planned)  
·Aircraft Type: Nakajima Ki-84 “Hayate” (Frank) – planned  
·Role: Homeland air defense / emergency interceptor training  
·Personnel: almost entirely new graduates; negligible veteran presence  

Aircraft Strength (as of July 1945)  
Total: 0–15 (incomplete deliveries) | Operational: 0 | Damaged: 0 | Reserve: 0  
Note: Most airframes were unfinished or unassembled; the Sentai never became flight-capable.  

Pilot Roster (as of 1–25 July 1945)  
8091 – MAJ Tsugawa, Jiro (Hikotai Leader) – XP 52 – entry 1945/07/01  
8092 – CPT Hara, Masao (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 48 – entry 1945/07/01  
8093 – CPT Takahashi, Fumio (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 48 – entry 1945/07/01  
8094 – CPT Takasugi, Kageyori (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 48 – entry 1945/07/01  
8095 – CPT Ishihata, Ryōichirō (4th Chutai Leader) – XP 48 – entry 1945/07/01  
8096 – MAJ Yamazaki, Shin-ichi (Seibitai Leader) – XP 52 – entry 1945/07/01  
8097 – CPT Takagi, Norio – XP 48 – entry 1945/07/05  
8098 – 1LT Nishio, Kenji – XP 44 – entry 1945/07/10  
8099 – WO Yamamoto, Hideo – XP 39 – entry 1945/07/15  
8100 – 2LT Fujita, Masaharu – XP 44 – entry 1945/07/20  
8101 – 1LT Aoyama, Yoshinori – XP 44 – entry 1945/07/25  
8102 – CPT Mori, Tatsuo – XP 48 – entry 1945/07/01  
8103 – WO Saitō, Tomokazu – XP 41 – entry 1945/07/01  
8110 – CPT Saotome, Eisaku – XP 48 – entry 1945/07/01  

Total (as of 1945): 15 pilots → Average XP 44.6  

Unit Averages (as of 1 July 1945)  
·Average XP: 44–45 (no veteran offset; entirely inexperienced cadre)  
·Average Morale: 47–50 (falling toward 40–45 as surrender approached)  

Evaluation  
The 112th Hiko Sentai was emblematic of Japan’s military collapse in 1945: a unit that existed on paper but never in the air.  
Its pilots were fresh from flight schools, its leadership symbolic, and its equipment nonexistent.  
Despite the formalities of organization, it never conducted a single operational sortie.  
The Sentai’s creation reflected the final stage of the IJAAF’s disintegration—bureaucratic inertia attempting to mask total incapacity.  
When the war ended in August 1945, the 112th had neither flown nor fought, a ghost unit marking the last breath of Japan’s once-formidable Army Air Force.

Code: Select all

200th Hiko Sentai (第200飛行戦隊)  
Founded: 1 October 1944  
Classification: Standard Unit  
Base (as of 1 October 1944): Nitta / Akeno, Japan  
Higher Command: Army Air Training Command (Akeno Kyōiku Hikōshidan)  

Commanding Officer (1 October 1944)  
Lt. Col. Takeshi Takahashi – veteran IJAAF officer charged with organizing one of the final wartime Sentai formations.  
By 1944, his role was largely administrative, coordinating training and logistics rather than leading combat sorties.  
A methodical officer, dependable but uninspired, he represented the exhausted professionalism of Japan’s late-war command cadre.  
Attributes:  
Skill 61 | Inspiration 55 | Naval 22 | Air 67 | Land 47 | Admin 58 | Aggression 46 | Political 18  

Formation & Background  
The 200th Hiko Sentai was created in October 1944 during the IJAAF’s last major structural expansion.  
Formed at Nitta and Akeno Airfields, it was intended as an advanced training and conversion unit to transition new pilots to the Nakajima Ki-84 “Hayate.”  
Although formally categorized as a front-line Sentai, it functioned primarily as a training and reserve group under the Army Air Training Command.  
Eighty percent of its pilots were fresh graduates from Akeno, Hitachi, and Kumagaya schools, while the remainder were seasoned officers from China and Burma.  
The Sentai suffered from mechanical unreliability, particularly with the Ha-45 “Homare” engines, and was constrained by severe fuel shortages.  
Despite its nominal readiness, its operational capacity was marginal at best.  

Organization (as of 1 October 1944)  
Structure: 3 Chutai (approx. 29 pilots total)  
·Aircraft Type: Nakajima Ki-84-I “Hayate” (Frank)  
·Role: Advanced training / limited homeland defense  
·Personnel: majority flight school graduates; minority veterans from China/Southeast Asia  

Aircraft Strength (as of 1 October 1944)  
Total: ~29 | Operational: 24–26 | Damaged: 2–3 | Reserve: 1–2  
Note: Frequent Ha-45 failures and lack of spare parts limited operational readiness to roughly 50%.  

Pilot Roster (as of 12 October 1944)  
204 – 2LT Kanazawa, Nobuo – XP 46 – entry 1944/10/12  
205 – MAJ Sakagawa, Toshio (Executive Officer) – XP 68 – entry 1944/10/12  
8286 – CPT Nakagawa, Chinnosuke (Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/10/12  
8287 – CPT Tabata, Masaru – XP 58 – entry 1944/10/12  
8288 – CPT Fukami, Kazuo – XP 58 – entry 1944/10/12  
8289 – CPT Miyamaru, Masao – XP 58 – entry 1944/10/12  
8290 – CPT Kono, Tokio – XP 58 – entry 1944/10/12  
8291 – CPT Kuwabara, Shigeru – XP 58 – entry 1944/10/12  
8292 – CPT Kawaguchi, Saburō – XP 58 – entry 1944/10/12  
8293 – WO Seki, Shirō – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/12  
8294 – 2LT Nakazono, Ryōsuke – XP 51 – entry 1944/10/12  
8295 – WO Nishioka, Shigenori – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/12  
8296 – WO Kashima, Shintarō – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/12  
8297 – 1LT Takahashi, Masakuni – XP 51 – entry 1944/10/12  
8298 – WO Miyake, Kōichi – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/12  
8299 – WO Ōishi, Koshiji – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/12  
8300 – WO Kiyono, Nobuo – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/12  
8301 – 1LT Nakatake, Masatane – XP 51 – entry 1944/10/12  
8302 – 1LT Ōmori, Yoshio – XP 51 – entry 1944/10/12  
8303 – WO Morita, Kiyoyoshi – XP 41 – entry 1944/10/12  
8304 – 2LT Nakajima, Naobumi – XP 46 – entry 1944/10/12  
8305 – MAJ Kamata, Ichirō – XP 68 – entry 1944/10/12  
8306 – WO Mune, Noboru – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/12  
8307 – WO Yoshino, Tokijirō – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/12  
8308 – 1LT Shirowa, Ryōjirō – XP 51 – entry 1944/10/12  
8309 – 1LT Nishi, Tetsuo – XP 51 – entry 1944/10/12  
8310 – WO Ueno, Arata – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/12  
8311 – WO Kajita, Shichinosuke – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/12  
8312 – WO Kira, Katsuaki ★ Ace (21 victories) – XP 78 – entry 1944/10/12  

Total (as of 1944): 29 pilots → Average XP 52.4  

Unit Averages (as of 1 October 1944)  
·Average XP: 47–49 (veterans 60–70 | trainees 42–46)  
·Average Morale: 55–60 (falling toward 45–50 by late 1944 due to fuel and supply collapse)  

Evaluation  
The 200th Hiko Sentai embodied the IJAAF’s final structural ambitions—formally established, but operationally hollow.  
Although nominally equipped with the Ki-84 “Hayate,” the Sentai functioned mainly as a conversion and training group rather than a combat force.  
Its pilots displayed determination and professionalism, but logistical decay rendered the unit ineffective for sustained operations.  
By late 1944, the 200th represented not so much a fighting formation as a desperate administrative construct: disciplined, dutiful, but trapped in the ruins of Japan’s collapsing air war.

Code: Select all

204th Hiko Sentai (第204飛行戦隊)  
Founded: 1 April 1942  
Classification: Standard Unit  
Base (as of 1 April 1942): Zhenxi, China  
Higher Command: Under formation (no fixed superior assignment at creation)  

Commanding Officer (1 April 1942)  
Major Hajime Tabuchi – combat veteran of the China campaign who personally led the newly formed Sentai in early operations.  
Initially an active pilot-commander, Tabuchi gradually shifted to administrative and organizational duties as the unit stabilized.  
Attributes:  
Skill 59 | Inspiration 53 | Naval 21 | Air 65 | Land 45 | Admin 55 | Aggression 49 | Political 16  

Formation & Background  
The 204th Hiko Sentai was created in April 1942 as part of the post-reorganization phase of the IJAAF’s China deployment.  
Formed at Zhenxi, it drew its nucleus from experienced flyers who had served in earlier campaigns and was filled out with recent graduates from Akeno and Mito flight schools.  
Equipped with the Nakajima Ki-43-I “Hayabusa,” the unit was conceived as a mobile air-superiority formation capable of escort and interception across central and southern China.  
Initial operations revealed uneven training and logistical deficiencies common to new formations, yet its leadership and discipline helped the unit achieve early stability.  

Organization (as of 1 April 1942)  
Structure: 3 Chutai  
·Aircraft Type: Nakajima Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” (Oscar)  
·Role: Air superiority, escort, and tactical support  
·Personnel: veterans blended with large numbers of new flight-school graduates  

Aircraft Strength (as of 1 April 1942)  
Total: ~37 | Operational: 30–32 | Damaged: 3–4 | Reserve: 1–2  

Pilot Roster (April 1942 – March 1944)  
210 – CPT Takiguchi, Hiroshi ★ Ace (9 victories) – XP 69 – entry 1942/04/01  
211 – 1LT Nishioka, Shigetsune ★ Ace (8 victories) – XP 56 – entry 1942/04/01  
212 – WO Katō, Kenji – XP 43 – entry 1942/04/01  
213 – WO Yamaguchi, Bunichi ★ Ace (19 victories) – XP 76 – entry 1942/04/01  
8316 – MAJ Tabuchi, Hajime (Sentai Commander) – XP 68 – entry 1942/04/01  
8317 – CPT Yamamoto, Junzō (Hikotai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1942/04/01  
8318 – CPT Kanazawa, Tomohiko (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1942/04/01  
8319 – CPT Nakajima, Masami (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1942/04/01  
8320 – CPT Itō, Shōchi – XP 58 – entry 1942/04/01  
8321 – 1LT Kitada, Noritsune – XP 51 – entry 1942/04/01  
8322 – WO Tamura, Masuo – XP 43 – entry 1942/04/01  
8323 – WO Nagasaki, Tomekichi – XP 43 – entry 1942/04/01  
8324 – 1LT Ōtsubo, Toshio – XP 51 – entry 1942/04/01  
8325 – WO Nagaoka, Toshio – XP 43 – entry 1942/04/01  
8326 – WO Hashiguchi, Kōkichi – XP 43 – entry 1943/04/01  
8327 – WO Fujimoto, Kin’ichi – XP 43 – entry 1943/04/01  
8328 – CPT Suzuki, Takehiro – XP 58 – entry 1943/04/15  
8329 – 2LT Nakashio, Toshinaga – XP 46 – entry 1943/05/01  
8330 – 1LT Kawase, Takao – XP 51 – entry 1943/05/01  
8331 – WO Endō, Takeshi – XP 43 – entry 1943/05/20  
8332 – WO Nakamura, Hayashi – XP 43 – entry 1943/06/01  
8333 – WO Kataoka, Kyūgo – XP 43 – entry 1943/06/01  
8334 – WO Horii, Kenzō – XP 43 – entry 1943/06/15  
8335 – WO Kasahara, Takuzō – XP 43 – entry 1943/06/15  
8336 – 1LT Kawamura, Yoshiaki – XP 51 – entry 1943/07/01  
8337 – WO Matsui, Kin’ichirō – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01  
8338 – CPT Araki, Tomio – XP 58 – entry 1943/07/15  
8339 – 2LT Shimizu, Saburō – XP 46 – entry 1943/08/01  
8340 – WO Okabe, Takashi – XP 43 – entry 1943/08/01  
8341 – 1LT Hoshino, Keizō – XP 51 – entry 1943/08/15  
8342 – WO Tanabe, Shinsaku – XP 43 – entry 1943/08/15  
8343 – CPT Minami, Toshio – XP 58 – entry 1943/09/01  
8344 – 1LT Nishikawa, Jirō – XP 51 – entry 1943/09/01  
8345 – WO Kurata, Masayoshi – XP 43 – entry 1943/09/15  
8346 – 2LT Aoyagi, Yutaka – XP 46 – entry 1944/01/01  
8347 – WO Tsuru, Nobuo – XP 43 – entry 1944/01/01  
8348 – WO Kōshū, Nao – XP 43 – entry 1944/01/01  
8349 – MAJ Aizawa, Torashirō – XP 68 – entry 1944/03/01  

Yearly Overview  
1942: 13 pilots → ∅ XP 55.4  
1943: 21 pilots → ∅ XP 49.5  
1944: 3 pilots → ∅ XP 51.3  
Total: 37 pilots → ∅ XP 51.7  

Unit Averages (as of April 1942)  
·Average XP: 49–50  
·Average Morale: 68–70 (dropping to ~56 after sustained losses)  

Evaluation  
The 204th Hiko Sentai exemplified the mid-war IJAAF: organized, disciplined, but increasingly overstretched.  
It produced several accomplished aces such as Takiguchi, Nishioka, and Yamaguchi, yet never achieved elite status comparable to the 64th or 59th Sentai.  
Operationally competent and tactically conventional, the unit’s strength lay in its stability and training function rather than daring innovation.  
By 1943–44 it had shifted toward a replacement and refresher role, mirroring the IJAAF’s broader decline as veteran cadres thinned and resources waned.

Code: Select all

144th Hiko Sentai (第144飛行戦隊)  
Founded: 1 July 1941  
Classification: Standard Unit  
Base (as of 1 April 1942): Chōfu, Japan  
Higher Command: Kantō Homeland Defense Sector → later 10th Air Division, 1st Air Army  

Commanding Officer (as of 1 July 1943)  
Major Shigechika Tomari – a steady and composed IJAAF officer who oversaw the Sentai’s reorganization during 1943.  
Originally an active combat flyer, Tomari transitioned to administrative command once the unit matured.  
He was respected for calm judgment and fair discipline—qualities vital to maintaining morale in a formation that saw limited glory.  
Attributes:  
Skill 60 | Inspiration 54 | Naval 21 | Air 66 | Land 46 | Admin 55 | Aggression 49 | Political 16  

Formation & Background  
The 144th Hiko Sentai was officially raised in the summer of 1941 as part of Japan’s prewar expansion of home-based air defense forces.  
Initially intended for deployment to China, the outbreak of hostilities in December 1941 kept the unit stationed in Japan, where it served in homeland air defense and as a training and reserve group.  
Its early years were spent flying the Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate,” with conversion to the Ki-43 “Hayabusa” beginning in 1942.  
By 1943, under Tomari’s leadership, the Sentai had evolved into a reliable though modestly equipped interceptor formation conducting limited operations against U.S. reconnaissance aircraft over the Kantō region.  

Organization (as of 6 December 1941)  
Structure: 3 Chutai (approx. 15 pilots each, total ~45 aircraft)  
·Aircraft Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (transition to Ki-43 planned for 1942)  
·Role: Homeland air defense / training / tactical readiness  
·Personnel: majority new graduates supported by an experienced officer cadre  

Aircraft Strength (as of 6 December 1941)  
Total: 45 | Ready: 30 | Damaged: 9 | Reserve: 6  

Pilot Roster (as of 6 December 1941)  
198 – CPT Saitō, Tōgō (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06  
199 – CPT Iwakura, Tomokuni (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06  
200 – CPT Nozaki, Seiji (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06  
201 – WO Yoshida, Takeo – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
202 – WO Andō, Kiyoshi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8353 – MAJ Tomari, Shigechika (Sentai Commander) – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06  
8354 – 2LT Takayama, Shōichi – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06  
8355 – WO Honda, Kazuo – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8356 – CPT Ōhara, Tsutomu – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06  
8357 – WO Takada, Setsuho – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8358 – CPT Shirai, Nagao ★ Ace (13 victories) – XP 74 – entry 1941/12/06  
8359 – WO Negishi, Nobuji ★ Ace (6 victories) – XP 54 – entry 1941/12/06  
8360 – WO Sumi, Tadao ★ Ace (6 victories) – XP 54 – entry 1941/12/06  
8361 – 2LT Kobayashi, Teruhiko ★ Ace (12 victories) – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06  
8362 – 1LT Itagaki, Masao ★ Ace – XP 76 – entry 1941/12/06  
8363 – 1LT Nakano, Matsumi – XP 65 – entry 1941/12/06  
8364 – CPT Shinomiya, Tōru – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06  
8365 – 1LT Yamaguchi, Masao – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06  
8366 – CPT Nishimura, Shōji – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06  
8367 – WO Fukui, Tameichi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8368 – 2LT Harada, Ichirō – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06  
8369 – WO Sugimoto, Takashi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8370 – 1LT Okabe, Seiji – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06  
8371 – WO Tanaka, Norio – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8372 – CPT Kinoshita, Tōru – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06  
8373 – WO Matsuda, Hachirō – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8374 – 2LT Tange, Mitsuyuki – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06  
8375 – WO Nakatsukasa, Ryūzō – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8376 – WO Hamada, Kiyoshi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06  
8377 – WO Abe, Tadashi – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06  
8378 – WO Kuroishikawa, Shigeru – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06  

Total (as of December 1941): 32 pilots → Average XP 52.6  

Unit Averages (as of 6 December 1941)  
·Average XP: 48–50  
·Average Morale: 65–68 (declining to ~56 after attrition)  

Evaluation  
The 144th Hiko Sentai represented a typical mid-tier homeland defense unit of the early Pacific War.  
It bridged the technological and organizational shift from the Ki-27 “Nate” to the Ki-43 “Hayabusa,” training new pilots while maintaining modest defensive coverage over Japan’s capital region.  
The Sentai produced several accomplished aces—Shirai, Kobayashi, and Itagaki—but remained primarily a steady, workmanlike formation rather than an elite combat outfit.  
Its value lay not in glory but in continuity: maintaining discipline, training standards, and readiness within an air force racing to modernize under the pressure of total war.

Code: Select all

246th Hiko Sentai (第246飛行戦隊)  
Founded: 1 August 1942  
Classification: Standard Unit  
Base (as of 1 August 1942): Kakogawa Airfield, Japan  
Higher Command: Army Air Training Area (Kansai), Army Air Training Command  

Commanding Officer (as of 1 August 1942)  
Major Takeo Miyamoto – veteran officer and former flight leader of the 59th Hiko Sentai.  
Appointed to organize the 246th from Akeno-trained graduates, he brought a reputation for calm professionalism and exacting discipline.  
Known for his methodical instruction and steady temperament, Miyamoto turned the new unit into a model training formation.  
Attributes:  
Skill 59 | Inspiration 53 | Naval 21 | Air 65 | Land 45 | Admin 55 | Aggression 48 | Political 16  

Formation & Background  
The 246th Hiko Sentai was established in August 1942 at Kakogawa to address the IJAAF’s growing demand for replacement pilots.  
Structured as a transitional formation, it combined experienced instructors from the 59th and 64th Sentai with new graduates from Akeno, Mito, and Hitachi flight schools.  
Its main purpose was conversion training from basic trainers to operational fighters, primarily on the Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate.”  
Although not designated a combat unit, the 246th maintained full Sentai structure and discipline, operating as an intermediary stage between flight school and front-line assignment.  
Official IJAAF evaluations later described it as “disciplined, dependable, and instructional in character rather than tactical.”  

Organization (as of 1 August 1942)  
Structure: 3 Chutai (~30 pilots; ~30 aircraft)  
·Aircraft Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”  
·Role: Conversion and intermediate fighter training  
·Personnel: majority new pilots; minority veterans and NCO instructors from China  

Aircraft Strength (as of 1 August 1942)  
Total: 30 | Ready: 22 | Under repair: 5 | Reserve: 3  
Note: Aircraft were often rebuilt trainers with high wear and limited reliability.  

Pilot Roster (as of 1 August 1942)  
215 – CPT Yakuyama, Takehisa (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01  
216 – CPT Okuda, Noburu (Hikotai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01  
8383 – MAJ Miyamoto, Takeo (Sentai Commander) – XP 68 – entry 1942/08/01  
8384 – CPT Sano, Kiyonori (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01  
8385 – WO Kuroda, Masuo – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8386 – WO Ōmae, Jirō – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8387 – WO Kawamoto, Shōzō – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8388 – 1LT Nakazawa, Hyō – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/01  
8389 – WO Murai, Kaname – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8390 – WO Mochizuki, Tetsuzō – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8391 – WO Ueno, Yoshio – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8392 – WO Ōta, Hiroshi – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8393 – CPT Otonari, Sadahiko – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01  
8394 – WO Hara, Minori – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8395 – WO Suzuki, Eisaku ★ Ace (11 victories) – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01  
8396 – WO Satō-ura, Toshio ★ Ace (15 victories) – XP 62 – entry 1942/08/01  
8397 – WO Kashima, Shintarō ★ Ace (10 victories) – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01  
8398 – WO Iwase, Kōichi ★ Ace (10 victories) – XP 59 – entry 1942/08/01  
8399 – WO Matsui, Yoshio – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8400 – 1LT Ishihara, Kōzō – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/01  
8401 – CPT Nakano, Tomiji – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01  
8402 – WO Sugiyama, Eizō – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8403 – 2LT Yamagishi, Saburō – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/01  
8404 – WO Taniguchi, Tadashi – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8405 – 1LT Kinoshita, Ryōzō – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/01  
8406 – WO Umeda, Tameichi – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8407 – CPT Shibata, Tōru – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01  
8408 – WO Takagaki, Haruo – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8409 – MAJ Ishikawa, Tsuneyuki – XP 68 – entry 1942/08/01  

Total (1942): 29 pilots → Average XP 52.4  

Unit Averages (as of 1 August 1942)  
·Average XP: 48–49 (instructors 58–68 | trainees 41–46)  
·Average Morale: 66–68 (dropping to ~56 after training accidents and attrition)  

Evaluation  
The 246th Hiko Sentai stood as a crucial bridge between IJAAF flight schools and operational combat units.  
It was neither glamorous nor widely known, yet its contribution to maintaining pilot quality during Japan’s mid-war expansion was significant.  
Aces such as Suzuki, Satō-ura, and Kashima lent the unit tactical credibility and instructional skill, while Miyamoto’s disciplined leadership ensured consistent performance.  
By 1943, the Sentai had effectively become a feeder organization for front-line formations like the 59th and 64th Sentai.  
In historical retrospect, the 246th represents the quiet backbone of the IJAAF—competent, disciplined, and essential for sustaining Japan’s dwindling pool of trained aviators.

Code: Select all

248th Hiko Sentai (第248飛行戦隊)  
Founded: 1 August 1942  
Classification: Standard Unit  
Base (as of 1 August 1942): Ashiya Airfield, Japan  
Higher Command: Western District Army Air Command (Heimon Chiku Kōkū Shireibu)  

Commanding Officer (as of 1 August 1942)  
Major Yasuo Makino – a disciplined IJAAF officer with prior service in training establishments.  
Assigned to organize the 248th at Ashiya, he was known for his precise methods and emphasis on readiness and flight discipline.  
Though not flamboyant, his quiet professionalism maintained the cohesion and credibility of this hybrid training-defense unit.  
Attributes:  
Skill 60 | Inspiration 54 | Naval 21 | Air 66 | Land 46 | Admin 56 | Aggression 49 | Political 17  

Formation & Background  
The 248th Hiko Sentai was established on 1 August 1942 at Ashiya Airfield to strengthen the newly formed Western Air Defense Zone.  
Originally intended as a reserve and training formation, it gradually took on limited operational roles—performing airspace patrols and interception drills over Kyūshū and the Inland Sea.  
Personnel were mostly newly graduated pilots from Akeno, Mito, and Kumagaya schools, complemented by a small cadre of veterans from China-based units.  
The Sentai initially operated Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” fighters before progressively converting to the Ki-43 “Hayabusa” during 1943.  
It served as both a training and standby operational group, ensuring a steady flow of combat-ready pilots for Japan’s western air defense network.  

Organization (as of 1 August 1942)  
Structure: 3 Chutai (~15 pilots each; ~45 aircraft total)  
·Aircraft Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”  
·Role: Training, homeland defense, and readiness patrols  
·Personnel: new graduates supported by experienced NCOs and instructors  

Aircraft Strength (as of 1 August 1942)  
Total: 45 | Ready: 36 | Under repair: 6 | Reserve: 3  
Note: The aircraft were aging trainer variants, adequate for instruction but of limited combat reliability.  

Pilot Roster (1942/08/01 – 1943/10/31)  
218 – CPT Sakaya, Saburō (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01  
219 – CPT Tokunaga, Nobuo (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01  
8411 – MAJ Makino, Yasuo (Sentai Commander) – XP 68 – entry 1942/08/01  
8412 – 1LT Ōhata, Hideo (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/01  
8413 – WO Suzuki, Sōsaku – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8414 – WO Toda, Shirō – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8415 – 1LT Ejiri, Hisamatsu – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/01  
8416 – WO Ichikawa, Ryōichi – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8417 – WO Katō, Yoshimata – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8418 – 1LT Fueki, Masaji – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/01  
8419 – CPT Shimizu, Hideyuki – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01  
8420 – WO Sakoda, Sumio – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8421 – WO Nakayama, Ichirō – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8422 – WO Furukawa, Masaosa – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8423 – WO Tsutsut, Matsuo – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8424 – 1LT Maekawa, Yoshihari – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/01  
8425 – WO Nakatsuka, Takeo – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8426 – MAJ Muraoka, Shin-ichi – XP 68 – entry 1942/08/01  
8427 – CPT Kojima, Shigeo – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01  
8428 – 1LT Koga, Keiji – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/01  
8429 – 1LT Howashi, Tomokazu – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/01  
8430 – CPT Ikakura, Kaneji – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01  
8431 – WO Tagomori, Yoshio – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01  
8432 – WO Matsushita, Kenkichi – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/20  
8433 – 1LT Tanimoto, Masao – XP 51 – entry 1942/09/01  
8434 – CPT Fujikawa, Keiji – XP 58 – entry 1942/09/15  
8435 – WO Okabe, Toshirō – XP 43 – entry 1942/10/01  
8436 – 2LT Araki, Shunsuke – XP 51 – entry 1942/10/10  
8437 – 1LT Morizawa, Shintarō – XP 51 – entry 1942/11/01  
8438 – WO Nishida, Kōhei – XP 43 – entry 1942/11/15  
8439 – CPT Uehara, Hideo – XP 58 – entry 1942/12/01  
8440 – WO Tomimoto, Haruo – XP 43 – entry 1942/12/15  
8441 – WO Yoshida, Hiroshi – XP 43 – entry 1943/10/01  
8442 – 2LT Ōta, Hideo – XP 51 – entry 1943/11/09  
8443 – 2LT Mayekawa, Yoshihari – XP 43 – entry 1943/11/09  
8444 – 2LT Wakayama, Nobuo – XP 46 – entry 1943/06/01  
8445 – WO Midera, Toyoshi – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01  
8446 – CPT Totsuka, Nobuyoshi – XP 58 – entry 1943/06/01  
8447 – WO Saitō, Akiharu – XP 43 – entry 1943/08/01  
8448 – WO Nakazawa, Yukitami – XP 43 – entry 1943/09/01  
8449 – MAJ Kuroda, Takefumi – XP 68 – entry 1944/01/12  
8450 – WO Saitō, Yasuo – XP 43 – entry 1943/10/31  
8451 – WO Aihara, Takeshi – XP 41 – entry 1943/10/31  

1942: 27 pilots → ∅ XP 52.1  
1943: 14 pilots → ∅ XP 48.6  
1944: 2 pilots → ∅ XP 54.5  
Total: 43 pilots → ∅ XP 51.0  

Unit Averages (as of 1 August 1942)  
·Average XP: 49–50  
·Average Morale: 67–69 (dropping to ~56 after transfers and accidents)  

Evaluation  
The 248th Hiko Sentai embodied Japan’s disciplined yet unremarkable mid-war air defense formations.  
Under Major Makino’s meticulous leadership, the unit combined training, reserve, and limited interception roles with steady efficiency.  
Its pilots maintained proficiency through constant local patrols, forming a dependable though unsung element of Japan’s western defense network.  
By 1944, the Sentai had evolved into a preparation and replacement pool for Kyūshū-based front-line units.  
In retrospect, it stood as one of the quiet workhorses of the IJAAF—structured, loyal, and professional even as Japan’s strategic situation deteriorated.

BBfanboy · Post by **BBfanboy** » Mon Nov 03, 2025 3:57 pm

The light green text on white background is hard to read - the glare from the white background drowns out the text to an extent. Yes, I have my monitor in 'eyesaver' mode.

Peiper1944 · Post by **Peiper1944** » Sat Nov 08, 2025 7:43 pm

Thanks for the feedback, BBfanboy — good point about the readability.
I’ve adjusted the color scheme a bit so that the text is easier to read on light backgrounds, especially in “Eyesaver” mode.

All IJAAF units from the 1st to the 248th Hiko Sentai have now been fully converted into BBC code format and are ready.
The color adjustments are done — I’ll start posting the complete unit lists in the thread now.

Thanks again for the feedback!

Peiper1944 · Post by **Peiper1944** » Sat Nov 08, 2025 7:44 pm

1st Hiko Sentai (第1飛行戦隊)
Founded: August 31 1938
Classification: Standard / Traditional Unit
Base (as of Dec 6 1941): Kompong Trach, Cambodia
Command Structure: 5th Air Brigade → 3rd Air Division → Southern Army → Army Aviation HQ

Formation & Background
The 1st Hiko Sentai was one of the oldest and most traditional fighter formations of the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force.
Formed in 1938 from the 1st Flying Regiment (est. 1915). After heavy combat in China, the unit was transferred to Southeast Asia in 1941 for the Malaya and Burma campaigns. Equipped with the Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate,” it balanced technical inferiority through discipline, experience and tight tactical coordination.

Organization (as of Dec 6 1941)
– Structure: Three Chutai (≈15 pilots each; ≈45 aircraft total)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”
– Role: Air Superiority & Escort Fighter Unit
– Personnel: Veterans from China plus new graduates
– Operational Readiness: ≈ 80–85 %

Commanding Officer (Dec 6 1941)
Major Kinshirō Takeda – Veteran of China and Nomonhan; calm, cautious, disciplined leader.
Attributes: Skill 60 | Inspiration 56 | Naval 25 | Air 65 | Land 48 | Admin 60 | Aggression 50 | Political 18

Aircraft Strength (as of Dec 6 1941)
– Total: 45 – Operational: 36 – Under Maintenance/Damaged: 6 – Reserve: 3
Note: Aircraft in good condition; experienced ground crews; adequate spares.
Pilot Roster (Dec 6 1941 – 1945) Part 1 / 2
Pilots on 6 Dec 1941: 38 → After 7 Dec 1941: 26 → Total recorded: 74

2 – MAJ Kinshirō Takeda (Sentai Commander) – XP 62 – entry 1941/12/06
3 – CPT Takejirō Koyanagi (Hikotai Leader) – XP 60 – entry 1941/12/06
4 – CPT Gorō Okazaki (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 59 – entry 1941/12/06
5 – CPT Tomoichirō Fujisaki (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 55 – entry 1941/12/06
6 – CPT Nobuo Tokunaga (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7 – CPT Hironojo Shishimoto ★ Ace (7 victories) – XP 70 – entry 1941/12/06
8 – CPT Shōji Kurono ★ Ace (9 victories) – XP 74 – entry 1941/12/06
6739 – WO Takaaki Minami (3 victories) – XP 57 – entry 1941/12/06
6740 – CPT Gorō Okazawa ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 61 – entry 1941/12/06
6741 – 1LT Takeshi Shimizu (1 victory) – XP 55 – entry 1942/01/18
6742 – CPT Mitsuyoshi Tarui ★ Ace (12 victories) – XP 86 – entry 1941/12/06
6743 – 1LT Tadanao Tomizawa ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 57 – entry 1941/12/06
6744 – WO Masao Mihara ★ Ace (6 victories) – XP 55 – entry 1941/12/06
6745 – 1LT Toshirō Kuboya ★ Ace (5–6 victories) – XP 57 – entry 1941/12/06
6746 – 1LT Jimei Hayashi ★ Ace (6–7 victories) – XP 58 – entry 1942/01/10
6747 – 1LT Rin-ichi Tanaka ★ Ace (5–7 victories) – XP 57 – entry 1942/01/18
6748 – CPT Shinzō Toshida ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 62 – entry 1942/01/23
6749 – WO Tetsuo Iida ★ Ace (6 victories) – XP 54 – entry 1942/01/04
6750 – WO Masao Kawakura ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 55 – entry 1942/01/07
6751 – WO Hisao Ogawa – XP 54 – entry 1941/12/06
6752 – WO Yukio Yamada – XP 54 – entry 1941/12/06
6753 – CPT Toshirō Kasugai ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 62 – entry 1941/12/06
6754 – WO Kazuyuki Fukuda – XP 50 – entry 1941/12/06
6755 – WO Hikoharu Hirano (4 victories) – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
6756 – WO Kōichi Orino ★ Ace (6 victories) – XP 54 – entry 1941/12/06
6757 – WO Kanji Kuribayashi ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 54 – entry 1941/12/06
6758 – CPT Shigeharu Hashimoto ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 62 – entry 1941/12/06
6759 – 1LT Kinzō Kawahara ★ Ace (7 victories) – XP 57 – entry 1941/12/06
6760 – WO Shugorō Ueki ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 54 – entry 1941/12/06
6761 – CPT Kanji Satō ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 63 – entry 1941/12/06
6762 – WO Hitoshi Sakamoto (3 victories) – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
6763 – WO Haruo Satō (4 victories) – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
6764 – WO Akio Iwashita (4 victories) – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
6765 – WO Sōichi Sasaki (4 victories) – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
6766 – WO Naoji Yamagami ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 54 – entry 1941/12/06
6767 – 1LT Saburō Tōgō ★ Ace (22 victories) – XP 84 – entry 1941/12/06
6768 – CPT Kei-ichi Inoue ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 62 – entry 1941/12/06
6769 – WO Tadashi Matsuo ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 51 – entry 1943/06/25
6770 – CPT Minoru Makino ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 62 – entry 1941/12/06
6771 – WO Shōichi Baba – XP 49 – entry 1942/07/01
6772 – WO Susumu Kuga – XP 52 – entry 1942/07/01
6773 – WO Yasuhiro Kobayashi – XP 52 – entry 1942/02/17
6774 – WO Shinji Arai ★ Ace (6 victories) – XP 52 – entry 1942/03/23
6775 – WO Masao Kōda – XP 39 – entry 1942/01/04
6776 – 1LT Ichirō Sumi ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 55 – entry 1942/02/05
6777 – CPT Tatsuji Yamashita ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 61 – entry 1942/12/21
6778 – WO Yukio Matsui ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 52 – entry 1942/02/05
6779 – WO Kiyoshi Aoki ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 52 – entry 1942/01/24
6780 – WO Seitarō Tsujinaka (4 victories) – XP 49 – entry 1942/01/29
6781 – WO Masao Kawakita ★ Ace (6 victories) – XP 54 – entry 1942/02/01
6782 – CPT Kōichi Morino ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 61 – entry 1942/01/01
6783 – WO Yoshi-ichi Onizuka (3 victories) – XP 48 – entry 1942/01/09
6784 – MAJ Shigeo Nangō ★ Ace (~15 victories) – XP 66 – entry 1943/06/20
6785 – CPT Iwatarō Hazawa ★ Ace (~15 victories) – XP 59 – entry 1943/06/25
6786 – WO Shōichi Ishiguro ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 47 – entry 1944/02/10
6787 – WO Takeo Ishii ★ Ace (18 victories) – XP 57 – entry 1944/02/10
6788 – WO Yoshihiko Igarashi ★ Ace (16 victories) – XP 43 – entry 1943/06/20
6789 – 2LT Daisuke Kanbara ★ Ace (11 victories) – XP 53 – entry 1943/08/25
6790 – 2LT Miyoshi Shinamura ★ Ace (7 victories) – XP 50 – entry 1943/07/15
6791 – WO Hideo Shimizu ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 51 – entry 1943/07/25
6792 – WO Yutaka Kimura ★ Ace (9 victories) – XP 51 – entry 1943/10/10
6793 – WO Kazuo Oda (4 victories) – XP 45 – entry 1943/08/30
6794 – CPT Hitoshi Asano ★ Ace (22 victories) – XP 74 – entry 1941/12/06
6795 – CPT Shunsuke Matsumura ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 56 – entry 1943/08/20
6796 – WO Ichirō Minemoto ★ Ace (6 victories) – XP 49 – entry 1943/10/20
6797 – CPT Kunitake Narita – XP 60 – entry 1941/12/06
6798 – 1LT Sadao Uchida – XP 49 – entry 1942/07/01
6799 – WO Tomizō Hikichi – XP 41 – entry 1942/01/05
6800 – 2LT Shigeru Nakano – XP 39 – entry 1945/05/01
6801 – WO Tomio Katō – XP 41 – entry 1944/02/10
6802 – 1LT Toshirō Mizotani – XP 41 – entry 1945/01/26
6803 – 1LT Masatoshi Masuzawa (2 victories) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
6804 – WO Zenzaburō Ōtsuka – XP 54 – entry 1941/12/06
6805 – WO Naoharu Shiromoto ★ Ace (4 victories) – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06

Averages (as of Dec 6 1941)
• Average XP: 60 (Veterans 65–75 | Trainees 45–50)
• Average Morale: 80 (High esprit de corps, strong unit traditions, experienced ground personnel)

Annual XP Overview
1941 – 38 pilots → Avg XP 63.9 (Takeda 62 | Tarui 86 | Tōgō 84 | Ōta 81 | Hanada 83)
1942 – 24 pilots → Avg XP 52.4
1943 – 9 pilots → Avg XP 49.6
1944 – 2 pilots → Avg XP 48.0
1945 – 1 pilot → XP 39
Total: 74 pilots → Overall Average XP 56.9

Assessment
The 1st Hiko Sentai was one of the most traditional and disciplined IJAAF fighter units.
It embodied the early Army Air Force’s professionalism and tactical control. During the opening phase of the Pacific War it maintained one of the highest sortie rates within the 3rd Air Division.
Under MAJ Kinshirō Takeda, the Sentai kept its integrity throughout the Southern Advance (1941–42).
Pilots were known for technical skill, composure, and precise flying – less flamboyant than Navy counterparts, yet often more effective.
The 1st Hiko Sentai stands as a symbol of the IJAAF fighter arm at its peak: experienced, cohesive, disciplined, and at full strength on the eve of the Pacific War.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
4th Hiko Sentai (第4飛行戦隊)
Founded: 31 August 1938
Type: Fighter Sentai
Classification: Veteran Unit
Base (as of 6 Dec 1941): Gan-no-su Airfield, Kyushu
Superior Command: Western Army Air Command (西部防衛航空隊 Seibu Bōei Kōkūtai) → 1st Air Division (第1飛行師団 Dai-ichi Hikō Shidan) → Home Air Army (本土航空軍 Hondō Kōkūgun)

Commanding Officer (6 December 1941)
Major Shūichi Okamoto – combat-experienced officer from the China Campaign. In 1941, he led the 4th Hiko Sentai into war against the Allies. During the first days of the Malaya operation, he personally flew several missions but increasingly assumed tactical command from the ground. Not a daredevil, but a pragmatic organizer who guided his unit reliably through the early phase of the war.
Attributes: Skill 60 | Inspiration 55 | Naval 22 | Air 63 | Land 45 | Admin 60 | Aggression 45 | Political 15

Formation & Background
The 4th Hiko Sentai was among the oldest fighter formations of the Army Air Force and had already been active in China since 1938 as part of the Army’s expansion campaign.
With the outbreak of the Pacific War, it was transferred to Indochina to support the Southern Army in preparation for air operations over Malaya and Burma.
Its personnel consisted of a seasoned core of veterans from the China front, reinforced by new pilots from the 1940–41 training classes. This combination provided a high level of training, though with limited replacement potential.
At the start of the war, the unit was fully operational and regarded within the 3rd Air Division as a disciplined and tactically cohesive organization.

Organization (as of 6 December 1941)
– Structure: 3 Chutai, each with about 15 pilots (≈45 aircraft total)
– Aircraft Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (early elements later re-equipped with Ki-43-I “Hayabusa”)
– Role: Frontline fighter – air superiority, escort, and tactical reconnaissance
– Personnel: Veteran core reinforced by flight school graduates (1941–42)
– Operational Readiness: ≈ 85 %

Aircraft Strength (as of 6 December 1941)
– Total: 45 – Operational: 38 – Under maintenance/damaged: 5 – Reserve: 2
Remarks: Aircraft in sound condition; early modifications tested with drop tanks and armament upgrades.

Pilot Roster (6 December 1941 – 1945)
Pilots 41/12/06: 7 → after 41/12/07: 15

011 – LTCOL Shūichi Okamoto (Sentai Commander) – XP 63 – entry 1941/12/06
012 – CPT Masatoshi Mori (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 56 – entry 1941/12/06
013 – CPT Shigehitoshi Inoue (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 56 – entry 1941/12/06
014 – 2LT Hiroshi Yokoto – XP 41 – entry 1942/07/01
6810 – 2LT Isamu Kashiide ★ Ace (14 victories) – XP 62 – entry 1941/12/06
6811 – 2LT Keiji Takamiya ★ Ace (17 victories) – XP 66 – entry 1942/07/01
6812 – CPT Fujio Mai – XP 57 – entry 1941/12/06
6813 – WO Shigeo Nobe (1 victory) – XP 39 – entry 1944/06/01
6814 – WO Tatsuo Morimoto (1 victory) – XP 41 – entry 1943/06/01
6815 – 2LT Sadamu Nishimura – XP 41 – entry 1941/12/06
6816 – 2LT Misaburō Yamamoto – XP 41 – entry 1941/12/06
6817 – CPT Kiyoshi Itakura – XP 50 – entry 1942/03/05
6818 – 2LT Tetsuo Saitō (4 victories) – XP 45 – entry 1943/07/15
6819 – MAJ Takefumi Kuroda – XP 54 – entry 1944/01/01
6820 – 2LT Sannosaburō Yamamoto – XP 42 – entry 1942/12/15
6821 – WO Tsutomu Murata – XP 40 – entry 1944/02/10
6822 – CPT Kōji Kobayashi (1 victory) – XP 51 – entry 1944/06/15
6823 – MAJ Isao Abe – XP 60 – entry 1944/06/01
6824 – MAJ Hisao Machida – XP 55 – entry 1942/07/01
6825 – WO Ryōichi Kaneko – XP 40 – entry 1945/06/06
6826 – WO Minoru Aoki – XP 42 – entry 1942/01/05
6827 – 1LT Sadamitsu Kimura ★ Ace (8 victories) – XP 55 – entry 1942/12/15

Averages (as of 6 December 1941)
• Average XP: 51 (Veterans 55–65 | Trainees 38–45)
• Average Morale: 72 (Combat-tested, cohesive, disciplined formation)

Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Progression)
1941 – 7 pilots → Avg XP 53.7
1942 – 7 pilots → Avg XP 50.1
1943 – 2 pilots → Avg XP 43.0
1944 – 5 pilots → Avg XP 48.8
1945 – 1 pilot → XP 40.0
Total: 22 pilots → Overall Average XP 49.9

Assessment
The 4th Hiko Sentai was a long-standing and well-led veteran formation of the early war phase. Its experienced pilots and stable organization enabled effective operations during the Malaya and Burma campaigns.
Despite later losses and re-equipment cycles, it remained a combat-capable and tactically disciplined unit until 1943. Thereafter, operational efficiency declined due to wear, exhaustion, and strained logistics.
In the broader picture, it represented the archetype of the IJAAF’s early elite formations – cohesive, reliable, and professional, yet increasingly weakened after 1944 by shortages and technical inferiority.
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4th Hiko Sentai Det B (第4飛行戦隊分遣隊B)
Founded: 31 August 1938
Classification: Veteran Unit
Base (as of 6 December 1941): South China (Forward Detachment of the 4th Hiko Sentai)
Higher Command: 3rd Air Division / Southern Army

Commanding Officer (6 December 1941)
Captain Yoshimi Maita – an experienced Ki-27 pilot and flight leader who commanded Detachment B during the first months of the war. At the outbreak of the Pacific War he still flew sorties himself but later focused mainly on coordination from the ground. Calm, disciplined, and highly responsible – one of the archetypal professional officers of the pre-war generation.
Attributes: Skill 55 | Inspiration 52 | Naval 20 | Air 58 | Land 45 | Admin 50 | Aggression 47 | Political 15

Formation & Background
The 4th Hiko Sentai Det B was created in the late 1930s as a forward element of the parent unit to support operations in southern China.
Its mission was to cover smaller operational zones independently and to carry out tactical reconnaissance and escort missions.
In December 1941 the detachment operated from southern Chinese airfields, mostly in cooperation with ground formations of the Southern Army. It consisted of a small but experienced cell of Ki-27 pilots, many of them veterans of the battles over Hankow.
From 1942 onward, the detachment was reinforced with graduates from Army Air Schools, gradually diluting the original veteran structure.

Organization (6 December 1941)
– Structure: 1 Chutai – approx. 15 pilots (about 15 aircraft)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”
– Role: Frontline fighter detachment (reconnaissance, escort, local air superiority)
– Personnel: Small core of veterans reinforced from 1942 onward by new graduates
– Operational Readiness: ≈ 80 %

Aircraft Strength (6 December 1941)
– Total: 15 – Operational: 10 – Damaged / Maintenance: 3 – Reserve: 2
Remarks: Aircraft in good condition but heavily used; engine performance often reduced by tropical climate.

Pilot Roster (6 December 1941 – 1944)
Pilots 6 Dec 1941: 4 → after 7 Dec 1941: 4

6830 – CPT Yoshimi Maita (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
6831 – CPT Masaji Kobayashi ★ Ace (4 victories) – XP 52 – entry 1941/12/06
6832 – WO Kenji Fujimoto (3 victories) – XP 41 – entry 1944/08/01
6833 – CPT Toshio Sassa – XP 52 – entry 1941/12/08
6834 – WO Hannoshin Nishio – XP 42 – entry 1942/03/10
6835 – WO Shinji Mori – XP 42 – entry 1942/12/01
6836 – WO Minoru Uchida – XP 43 – entry 1943/06/25
6837 – 2LT Makoto Ogawa ★ Ace (9 victories) – XP 57 – entry 1941/12/06

Averages (as of 6 December 1941)
• Average XP: 49.3 (Veterans 55–60 | Replacements 40–45)
• Average Morale: 72 (Experienced formation with strong esprit de corps and disciplined leadership)

Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Progression)
1941 – 4 pilots → Avg XP 54.8
1942 – 2 pilots → Avg XP 42.0
1943 – 1 pilot → Avg XP 43.0
1944 – 1 pilot → Avg XP 41.0
Total: 8 pilots → Overall Average XP 48.4

Assessment
The 4th Hiko Sentai Det B was a small but battle-tested cell within its parent unit, operating independently in southern China at the start of the war.
Thanks to experienced leadership, it was able to adapt flexibly to changing operational conditions.
From 1942 onward the detachment gradually lost some of its quality through the addition of new personnel but remained operationally reliable.
In sum, Det B epitomized the transitional character of many IJAAF forward elements – small, seasoned groups that achieved far beyond their nominal strength with limited resources.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
5th Hiko Sentai (第5飛行戦隊)
Founded: 31 August 1938
Classification: Veteran Unit
Commanding Officer (6 December 1941)
Lieutenant Colonel Kenzō Onda – experienced officer with front-line service in China; regarded as a sober and dependable leader. Still an active pilot in 1941, he commanded his unit “from the front.”
Attributes: Skill 60 | Inspiration 55 | Naval 24 | Air 66 | Land 47 | Admin 57 | Aggression 48 | Political 19
Formation & Background
By 1941 the 5th Hiko Sentai was a battle-tested formation from the China campaign.
At the start of the Pacific War, it consisted of two Chutai flying Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” fighters.
Its personnel were largely veterans of the China front, reinforced from late 1941 and early 1942 by graduates from Army flight schools. Immediately after the outbreak of war, the unit expanded rapidly (pilot strength increased by 12 within 24 hours).
Organization (as of 6 December 1941)
– Structure: 2 Chutai, about 15 pilots each (≈30 aircraft total)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”
– Personnel: Core of China veterans, reinforced by new flight school graduates
Aircraft Strength (as of 6 December 1941)
– Total: 30 – Operational: 25 – Under maintenance/damaged: 7 – Reserve: 3
Pilot Roster (6 December 1941 – 1945)
Pilots 41/12/06: 16 → after 41/12/07: 28
015 – Lt Col Kenzō Onda (Sentai Commander) – XP 63 – entry 1941/12/06
016 – CPT Yoshitarō Chiba (1st Chutai Leader) (5 victories) – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/08
017 – CPT Yoshiaki Yamashita (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 66 – entry 1941/12/08
6842 – 1LT Fujitarō Itō ★ Ace (13 victories) – XP 70 – entry 1941/12/06
6843 – 1LT Tsutomu Itō – XP 55 – entry 1942/02/20
6844 – 1LT Yasutoshi Kurihara (4 victories) – XP 58 – entry 1942/12/15
6845 – WO Naozō Itō (3 victories) – XP 54 – entry 1942/02/25
6846 – 1LT Kiyosuke Yasuhiko – XP 55 – entry 1942/12/01
6847 – MAJ Torao Komatsubara – XP 75 – entry 1941/12/08
6848 – WO Osamu Kadota – XP 53 – entry 1941/12/08
6849 – 1LT Kansaku Tsurumi (3 victories) – XP 57 – entry 1941/12/08
6850 – CPT Hajime Suzuki (5 victories) – XP 69 – entry 1941/12/08
6851 – MAJ Katsushige Takada – XP 74 – entry 1943/07/25
6852 – WO Chūkichi Matsumoto (3 victories) – XP 54 – entry 1941/12/08
6853 – WO Takashige Kudō – XP 54 – entry 1943/08/15
6854 – 1LT Toshio Okabe – XP 56 – entry 1942/02/15
6855 – WO Toyokichi Kumasaka (3 victories) – XP 54 – entry 1942/12/10
6856 – CPT Totarō Itō ★ Ace (13 victories) – XP 70 – entry 1942/03/01
6857 – CPT Minoru Hasegawa (5 victories) – XP 70 – entry 1941/12/08
6858 – WO Hidetoshi Ishioka – XP 53 – entry 1943/06/25
6859 – WO Takushi Sekimoto – XP 53 – entry 1944/01/01
6860 – WO Isamu Hotani ★ Ace (4 victories) – XP 56 – entry 1941/04/01
6861 – MAJ Takeo Matsuyama – XP 58 – entry 1944/06/01
6862 – MAJ Kanetoshi Kondō – XP 63 – entry 1941/12/06
6863 – WO Keisuke Mizuno (2 victories) – XP 52 – entry 1942/12/01
6864 – CPT Yasuhide Baba – XP 53 – entry 1945/06/01
6865 – CPT Yoshitoshi Endō – XP 52 – entry 1943/02/07
6866 – CPT Sentarō Chiba – XP 52 – entry 1943/02/07
6867 – WO Mitsugu Momotomi – XP 30 – entry 1943/02/07
6868 – WO Toshio Furumori – XP 27 – entry 1943/02/07
6869 – WO Masaoki Mitsuwa – XP 27 – entry 1943/02/07
6870 – WO Junrō Satō – XP 26 – entry 1944/10/01
6871 – WO Asao Kamachi – XP 27 – entry 1944/02/01
6872 – 1LT Kazuo Terada – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
6873 – 1LT Chūtarō Uchino – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
6874 – 2LT Keiichi Sakata – XP 46 – entry 1942/05/01
6875 – WO Yoshio Sakaguchi – XP 43 – entry 1942/12/01
6876 – WO Asao Takamizawa – XP 43 – entry 1942/03/01
6877 – WO Rikizō Shimizu – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
6878 – WO Tsutomu Mutō – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
6879 – WO Kei Yamamoto – XP 43 – entry 1942/03/01
6880 – 2LT Zen-ichirō Komatsu – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06
6881 – CPT Noritake Yano – XP 58 – entry 1942/01/05
6882 – CPT Tsuneto Fukuyama – XP 58 – entry 1942/03/01
6883 – MAJ Yoshio Takizawa – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06
Averages (as of 6 December 1941)
• Average XP: 54–55
• Average Morale: 74
Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Development)
1941 – 16 pilots → Avg XP 58.9
1942 – 15 pilots → Avg XP 48.8
1943 – 8 pilots → Avg XP 46.1
1944 – 4 pilots → Avg XP 41.0
1945 – 1 pilot → Avg XP 53.0
Total: 44 pilots → Overall Avg XP 51.4
Evaluation
The 5th Hiko Sentai was a veteran formation with solid leadership and rapid expansion immediately after the outbreak of war.
Early operations with the Ki-27 “Nate” were conducted by well-coordinated veteran crews. From 1942 onward, performance declined as replacements arrived and the formation’s cohesion weakened.
Overall, the 5th Hiko Sentai represented a reliable veteran unit – not glamorous, but with several accomplished aces and a consistent combat record throughout the early years of the Pacific War.
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8th Hiko Sentai (第8飛行戦隊)
Founded: Spring 1938
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 6 December 1941): Takao & Heitō Airfields, Formosa (Taiwan)
Higher Command: 5th Air Brigade → 3rd Air Division → Army Air Headquarters
Formation & Background
The 8th Hiko Sentai was an experienced and disciplined formation already stationed on Formosa before the Pacific War began.
Originally active in China, the unit was placed under the 5th Air Division in the summer of 1941 to provide fighter cover for the heavy bomber forces of the Southern Advance.
Its pilots were known for their calmness, tactical reliability, and technical skill—less aggressive than other Sentai, but with a high success rate in defensive and escort operations.
At the outbreak of the war, the unit still operated the Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” and began conversion to the Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” in spring 1942.
While the 1st and 11th Sentai advanced farther south, the 8th Sentai initially remained on Formosa, serving as a protective screen and flying escort missions for bomber formations attacking Luzon.
Organization (as of 6 December 1941)
– Structure: 3 Chutai + HQ Flight (approx. 30 pilots, 27 aircraft)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”
– Role: Air defense and fighter escort over Formosa and Luzon
– Personnel: Disciplined core of China veterans, reinforced with flight school graduates
– Operational Readiness: 23 aircraft serviceable (≈ 85 %)
Commanding Officer (6 December 1941)
Major Yasuo Ichikawa – veteran fighter pilot of the China front, commanding officer of the 8th Hiko Sentai since 1941. He led with calm, methodical precision—more tactician than daredevil. Under his leadership, the unit remained cohesive and combat-capable through spring 1942.
Attributes: Skill 59 | Inspiration 55 | Naval 20 | Air 63 | Land 47 | Admin 57 | Aggression 43 | Political 16
Aircraft Strength (6 December 1941)
– Total: 27 – Operational: 23 – Under maintenance/damaged: 3 – Reserve: 1
Remarks: Technically reliable fleet; well-trained ground crews and experienced maintenance teams ensured above-average readiness.
Pilot Roster (6 December 1941)
Pilots 41/12/06: ≈30 → after 41/12/07: unchanged
2 – MAJ Yasuo Ichikawa (Sentai Commander) – XP 59 – entry 1941/12/06
3 – CPT Matsuo Iijima (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
4 – CPT Yutaka Murata (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 57 – entry 1941/12/06
5 – CPT Kenzo Takahashi (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 57 – entry 1941/12/06
6 – WO Hironojo Shishimoto ★ Ace (11 victories) – XP 70 – entry 1941/12/06
7 – WO Shoji Kurono ★ Ace (12 victories) – XP 74 – entry 1941/12/06
8 – 1LT Masatoshi Masuzawa ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
9 – Sgt Misao Okubo (3 victories – unconfirmed unit link) – XP 52 – entry 1942/01/10
10 – WO Minoru Hasegawa – XP 56 – entry 1941/12/06
11 – WO Haruo Miyake – XP 55 – entry 1941/12/06
12 – 1LT Kiyoshi Fujimoto – XP 54 – entry 1941/12/06
13 – WO Ken’ichi Yamaguchi – XP 53 – entry 1941/12/06
14 – 1LT Shunji Kuroda – XP 54 – entry 1941/12/06
15 – WO Ryōzō Nishizawa – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
16 – Sgt Yoshio Yamane – XP 50 – entry 1942/01/09
17 – WO Junichi Arai – XP 52 – entry 1941/12/06
18 – 1LT Seiichi Tashiro – XP 55 – entry 1941/12/06
19 – WO Shoichi Hirano – XP 49 – entry 1941/12/06
20 – WO Tatsuo Komatsu – XP 48 – entry 1941/12/06
21 – WO Genji Takayama – XP 50 – entry 1941/12/06
22 – Sgt Ken Oikawa – XP 47 – entry 1942/02/01
23 – WO Hiroshi Maeda – XP 52 – entry 1941/12/06
24 – WO Fumio Kondo – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
25 – Sgt Taro Yoshizawa – XP 46 – entry 1942/01/18
26 – WO Shohei Nakagawa – XP 50 – entry 1941/12/06
27 – Sgt Hideaki Obata – XP 49 – entry 1941/12/06
28 – Sgt Akira Tsunoda – XP 48 – entry 1941/12/06
29 – Sgt Noboru Naruse – XP 47 – entry 1941/12/06
30 – WO Hideo Takeda – XP 52 – entry 1941/12/06
(List combines confirmed names with plausible, archive-supported supplements from 1939–41 graduating classes of Tsuchiura and Akeno flight schools. Sources: Hata/Izawa, JACAR, J-Aircraft, Aces of WW2.)
Pilot Averages (as of 6 December 1941)
• Average XP: 59
• Average Morale: 73
• Average Aggression: 43
Character: A disciplined, methodical formation excelling in defensive roles and seldom acting rashly.
Operational History
• 8 Dec 1941 – First engagements against USAAF P-40s from Iba Field – no losses.
• Jan 1942 – Elements transferred to Luzon (Vigan / Aparri) for air support.
• Spring 1942 – Withdrawal to Formosa; re-equipment with Ki-43-I “Hayabusa.”
• Summer 1942 – Combined operations with the 14th Sentai in the Burma theater.
Unit Averages (as of 6 December 1941)
• Average XP: 59
• Average Morale: 73
• Average Aggression: 43
Evaluation
The 8th Hiko Sentai represented the transitional character of the IJAAF in 1941: well-trained but conservatively led pilots whose strength lay in discipline and tactical order.
It served as a cornerstone of the 5th Air Division during the Southern Advance, providing essential escort and air cover for bomber operations against Luzon.
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9th Hiko Sentai (第9飛行戦隊)
Founded: 31 August 1938
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 6 December 1941): Harbin, Manchuria
Higher Command: 2nd Air Division (3rd Air Army)
Commanding Officer (6 December 1941)
Major Kumao Akita – veteran of the China campaign and experienced in leading small operational groups. Still an active combat pilot in 1941. A solid, pragmatic officer—less a daredevil than a disciplined tactician who led his unit calmly and reliably.
Attributes: Skill 59 | Inspiration 54 | Naval 23 | Air 65 | Land 46 | Admin 56 | Aggression 49 | Political 19
Formation & Background
The 9th Hiko Sentai was established in August 1938 from the Army’s China Expeditionary Air Contingent and initially served in northern China and Manchuria.
Its personnel at first consisted almost entirely of seasoned China veterans, later reinforced by new graduates of the Akeno and Tokorozawa flight schools.
By the end of 1941, the unit was fully equipped with the Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate,” though early conversions to the more modern Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” had already begun.
At the outbreak of the Pacific War, the 9th Sentai was a battle-tested, disciplined, and well-coordinated formation. Its pilots ranked among the best-trained within the IJAAF.
Organization (as of 6 December 1941)
– Structure: 3 Chutai, each with about 15 pilots (approx. 45 aircraft)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”; initial elements already transitioning to Ki-43-I Hayabusa
– Role: Frontline fighter unit (air superiority, escort, reconnaissance)
– Personnel: Mix of China veterans and flight-school graduates
– Operational Readiness: about 85–90 %
Aircraft Strength (6 December 1941)
– Total: 45 – Operational: 38 – Under maintenance/damaged: 6 – Reserve: 2
Remarks: Aircraft in excellent technical condition; well-drilled maintenance crews. Several aircraft already upgraded with improved gun mounts.
Pilot Roster (6 December 1941 – 1944)
Pilots 41/12/06: 14 → after 41/12/07: ≈18
019 – MAJ Kumao Akita (Sentai Commander) (2 victories) – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06
020 – CPT Teruo Misumi ★ Ace (6 victories) – XP 71 – entry 1941/12/06
021 – CPT Kyūshichi Noguchi (1 victory) – XP 67 – entry 1941/12/06
6888 – CPT Sao Fukuchi ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 71 – entry 1941/12/06
6889 – WO Yoshitarō Yoshioka ★ Ace (6 victories) – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
6890 – WO Yoshihiko Nakada ★ Ace (12 victories) – XP 57 – entry 1941/12/06
6891 – WO Fumio Oguri – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
6892 – CPT Michio Iwata ★ Ace (7 victories) – XP 71 – entry 1941/12/06
6893 – WO Kazuo Miyazaki – XP 46 – entry 1942/12/15
6894 – WO Yoshinori Kudō – XP 46 – entry 1943/07/20
6895 – WO Tomio Yuzuriha – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
6896 – WO Takashi Machida (3 victories) – XP 46 – entry 1942/03/10
6897 – WO Akira Kawakita (5 victories) – XP 51 – entry 1942/12/10
6898 – WO Mitsuo Matsuo (3 victories) – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06
6899 – WO Hiroyasu Itō – XP 41 – entry 1941/12/06
6900 – WO Tokusaburō Nakagawa (5 victories) – XP 51 – entry 1942/03/15
6901 – WO Katsuji Katō (3 victories) – XP 46 – entry 1942/12/01
6902 – WO Kuniji Torizuka (5 victories) – XP 51 – entry 1943/07/25
6903 – CPT Eiji Yuzuki (6 victories) – XP 71 – entry 1942/02/20
6904 – CPT Isao Kobayashi ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 71 – entry 1943/08/15
6905 – CPT Tsuguto Umeno (5 victories) – XP 71 – entry 1942/12/05
6906 – 1LT Chōzō Okada (5 victories) – XP 59 – entry 1943/06/30
6907 – WO Juzō Kuramoto ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 51 – entry 1942/03/01
6908 – WO Yoshioka Yasuda ★ Ace (11 victories) – XP 59 – entry 1941/12/06
6909 – CPT Shōkichi Ōmori – XP 48 – entry 1944/06/01
6910 – WO Kazuyasu Kamidozono – XP 24 – entry 1944/02/01
6911 – WO Tadashi Itō – XP 23 – entry 1944/06/01
6912 – WO Hisakichi Yanagisawa – XP 23 – entry 1944/06/01
6913 – WO Takayuki Matsuhara – XP 24 – entry 1944/06/01
6914 – MAJ Tatsuo Takanishi – XP 60 – entry 1944/02/01
6915 – WO Shin-ichi Bandō – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
6916 – 2LT Shigeru Inoue – XP 50 – entry 1941/12/06
Averages (as of 6 December 1941)
• Average XP: 52–53 (Veterans 60–65 | Trainees 40–45)
• Average Morale: 72 (High morale, cohesive formation, solid combat discipline)
Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Development)
1941 – 14 pilots → Avg XP 53.4
1942 – 8 pilots → Avg XP 54.1
1943 – 4 pilots → Avg XP 56.8
1944 – 6 pilots → Avg XP 33.7
Total: 32 pilots → Overall Avg XP 50.3
Evaluation
The 9th Hiko Sentai was a seasoned and traditional formation within the early IJAAF structure. Its combination of veterans and younger pilots provided high operational flexibility.
During the first war years, it displayed strong performance in formation flying and engagements over Burma and China.
From 1943 onward, the overall quality of pilot training declined. Shortages of fuel and spare parts led to a noticeable drop in performance, yet the Sentai remained a dependable component of Japan’s front-line air forces until 1944.
Compared with other units of its time, the 9th Sentai showed above-average combat discipline and served as an important training and transfer hub within the IJAAF.
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Peiper1944 · Post by **Peiper1944** » Sat Nov 08, 2025 7:45 pm

10th Independent Fighter Chutai (第10独立戦闘中隊)
Founded: 1 September 1937
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 6 December 1941): Unknown (likely Northern China)
Higher Command: 2nd Air Division / North China Army

Commanding Officer (6 December 1941)
Major Akira Takatsuki – an energetic officer who still flew regularly in 1941. Initially led the small core formation personally in combat, later assuming more administrative duties as the Chutai expanded to Sentai strength.
Attributes: Skill 57 | Inspiration 52 | Naval 20 | Air 62 | Land 44 | Admin 55 | Aggression 50 | Political 16

Formation & Background
The 10th Independent Fighter Chutai was formed on 1 September 1937 and took part in operations in northern China from the very beginning of the Second Sino-Japanese War.
It functioned as a flexible frontline unit for tactical reconnaissance, interception, and ground support missions.
By 1941, the Chutai consisted of a small core of experienced China veterans, which was significantly reinforced shortly before the outbreak of the Pacific War. Within a few weeks, the unit expanded from about ten to more than forty pilots.
From 1942 onward, the gradual conversion from the Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” to the new Ki-43-I Hayabusa began.

Organization (as of 6 December 1941)
– Structure: Independent fighter Chutai – initially about 10 pilots, later reinforced to over 40
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (partially replaced by Ki-43-I from 1942)
– Role: Frontline fighter formation – tactical reconnaissance and escort
– Personnel: Small veteran core, heavily reinforced with flight school graduates
– Operational Readiness: approx. 75 %

Aircraft Strength (as of 6 December 1941)
– Total: 30 – Operational: 24 – Under maintenance/damaged: 4 – Reserve: 2
Remarks: Aircraft in good technical condition, though some older models; logistical supply through northern China ensured.

Pilot Roster (6 December 1941 – 1944)
Pilots 41/12/06: 12 → after 41/12/07: 46
065 – MAJ Akira Takatsuki (Commander Sentai) – XP 57 – entry 1941/12/06
066 – CPT Masayoshi Tsuchida – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
067 – CPT Nobuyuki Aoki – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
068 – 1LT Isao Nishimura – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06
069 – 2LT Keiji Nakagawa – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
070 – 2LT Tadashi Kobayashi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
071 – WO Yasushi Fujimoto – XP 44 – entry 1941/12/06
072 – WO Chikara Hashimoto – XP 44 – entry 1941/12/06
073 – WO Minoru Satō – XP 44 – entry 1941/12/06
6921 – WO Hideo Taniguchi – XP 44 – entry 1942/12/01
6922 – CPT Masatsune Mori – XP 51 – entry 1942/12/01
6923 – 1LT Hideo Sugawara – XP 46 – entry 1942/12/01
6924 – CPT Shizuo Irisawa – XP 51 – entry 1942/12/01
6925 – 1LT Mitsuo Yoshida – XP 46 – entry 1942/12/01
6926 – 1LT Masatoshi Suzuki – XP 46 – entry 1942/12/01
6927 – WO Minoru Hirota – XP 44 – entry 1942/12/01
6928 – WO Hideo Hirose – XP 44 – entry 1942/12/01
6929 – WO Nobuharu Shibuya – XP 44 – entry 1942/12/01
6930 – WO Hasumi Kono – XP 44 – entry 1942/12/01
6931 – WO Chuzo Imai – XP 44 – entry 1942/12/01
6932 – 2LT Akihiko Nishidome – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
6933 – 1LT Mamoru Inomata – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06
6934 – WO Shigenobu Ohsawa – XP 44 – entry 1941/12/06
6935 – WO Miyoji Maruyama – XP 44 – entry 1942/12/10
6936 – 2LT Hideaki Takeshita – XP 43 – entry 1943/06/30
6937 – WO Susumu Nomura – XP 44 – entry 1943/08/25
6938 – WO Tomiji Saitō ★ Ace (7 victories) – XP 55 – entry 1943/06/25
6939 – 2LT Yasuzō Tanaka – XP 43 – entry 1942/02/28
6940 – 1LT Kōji Motita – XP 48 – entry 1942/12/20
6941 – 2LT Fukuji Tagami – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/10
6942 – WO Hiroshi Fukushima ★ (5 victories) – XP 55 – entry 1942/03/10
6943 – WO Kesamitsu Komatsu – XP 44 – entry 1943/06/20
6944 – WO Mamoru Tominaga – XP 44 – entry 1942/12/01
6945 – CPT Keisaku Motohashi ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 55 – entry 1943/06/25
6946 – WO Hiroshi Ohhata – XP 44 – entry 1943/07/05
6947 – CPT Takashi Tsuchiya ★ Ace (6 victories) – XP 68 – entry 1942/02/20
6948 – WO Shigenori Ōnoto – XP 44 – entry 1942/12/15
6949 – 2LT Kimjirō Ninomiya – XP 43 – entry 1943/08/15
6950 – WO Tomoyoshi Kuroda – XP 43 – entry 1942/12/01
6951 – 1LT Itsuo Emi – XP 52 – entry 1942/03/05
6952 – WO Minoji Utsumi – XP 44 – entry 1942/12/10
6953 – 1LT Masao Hideshima – XP 48 – entry 1943/07/25
6954 – 1LT Kameo Yamamoto – XP 47 – entry 1942/02/15
6955 – WO Yamato Yamaguchi ★ Ace (8 victories) – XP 54 – entry 1943/06/25
6956 – CPT Masamitsu Endō – XP 58 – entry 1942/12/01
6957 – WO Kyōshirō Ōtake ★ Ace (12 victories) – XP 58 – entry 1942/12/01
6958 – 1LT Nakakazu Ozaki ★ Ace (19 victories) – XP 61 – entry 1943/04/01
6959 – WO Eiji Seino ★ Ace (15 victories) – XP 58 – entry 1942/02/01
6960 – WO Tadashi Shōno ★ Ace (14 victories) – XP 58 – entry 1942/12/01
6961 – WO Tadao Tashiro ★ Ace (8 victories) – XP 52 – entry 1942/04/01
6962 – WO Masao Minami ★ Ace (6 victories) – XP 52 – entry 1942/12/01
6963 – WO Kiyoshi Sugino (3 victories) – XP 46 – entry 1943/07/01
6964 – CPT Kiyokazu Tomita – XP 55 – entry 1942/03/10
6965 – WO Kenichi Yokoyama (2 victories) – XP 45 – entry 1943/08/05
6966 – WO Shunji Arakawa ★ Ace (7 victories) – XP 53 – entry 1942/02/20
6967 – WO Katsuji Katayama – XP 43 – entry 1942/12/01
6968 – 1LT Tadahiko Doki – XP 51 – entry 1942/12/01
6969 – WO Tatsunori Yoshino – XP 43 – entry 1942/12/01
6970 – 1LT Shōzō Endō – XP 51 – entry 1942/12/01
6971 – 1LT Isamu Hosono – XP 51 – entry 1942/12/01

Averages (as of 6 December 1941)
• Average XP: 50 (Veterans 55–60 | Trainees 40–45)

• Average Morale: 72 (Experienced core, high motivation, reliable readiness)
Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Development)
1941 – 12 pilots → Avg XP 49.7
1942 – 33 pilots → Avg XP 48.0
1943 – 13 pilots → Avg XP 48.8
Total: 58 pilots → Overall Avg XP 48.6

Evaluation
The 10th Independent Fighter Chutai was one of the most active early front-line formations of the IJAAF. Its combination of seasoned China veterans and young new pilots provided the foundation for several later Sentai.
The unit operated flexibly across multiple fronts in China and Southeast Asia, displaying strong morale and consistent operational performance.
Although the rapid expansion introduced variation in combat effectiveness, the overall quality remained stable through constant replenishment.
In summary, the 10th Chutai exemplified the transitional character of many early IJAAF units—small, adaptable formations bridging the gap between the independent fighter detachments of the 1930s and the fully developed Sentai organizations of the early Pacific War.
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11th Hiko Sentai (第11飛行戦隊)
Founded: 31 August 1938
Classification: Veteran Unit (“China Old Hands”)
Base (as of 6 December 1941): Kompong Trach, Thailand
Higher Command: 5th Air Brigade → 3rd Air Division → Southern Army → Aviation Headquarters

Commanding Officer (6 December 1941)
Major Tadashi Okabe – experienced combat officer with extensive front-line service in China. Still an active operational leader in 1941; regarded as strict, methodical, and reliable, though lacking the flamboyance of the top aces.
Attributes: Skill 62 | Inspiration 55 | Naval 24 | Air 68 | Land 49 | Admin 57 | Aggression 51 | Political 18

Formation & Background
The 11th Hiko Sentai was one of the most venerable formations of the early Army Air Force, continuously engaged since the China campaign.
Since 1938, it had operated over central and southern China, taking part in numerous air battles over Hankow, Nanchang, and Canton.
By 1941, the unit was transitioning from the Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” to the new Ki-43-I Hayabusa. Thanks to its high proportion of combat-experienced veterans, the 11th Sentai was considered one of the most seasoned fighter units in the IJAAF, maintaining strong tactical cohesion and discipline.
During 1941 it served as an assault formation within the 3rd Air Division, conducting interception, escort, and ground-attack missions in support of operations across southern China.

Organization (as of 6 December 1941)
– Structure: 3 Chutai, about 15 pilots each (≈45 aircraft total)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate,” partially replaced by Ki-43-I Hayabusa
– Role: Frontline fighter unit transitioning to new aircraft generation
– Personnel: Exceptionally high proportion of veteran pilots (China front), reinforced by young officers from Akeno Flight School
– Operational Readiness: about 85–90 %

Aircraft Strength (6 December 1941)
– Total: 45 – Operational: 37 – Under maintenance/damaged: 6 – Reserve: 2
Remarks: Aircraft in good technical condition; heavy wear due to continuous deployment, but maintenance standards remained high thanks to veteran ground crews.

Pilot Roster (6 December 1941 – 1944)
Pilots 41/12/06: 26 → after 41/12/07: 48

023 – MAJ Tadashi Okabe (Commander Sentai) – XP 72 – entry 1941/12/06
024 – CPT Kunio Matsumoto (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 66 – entry 1941/12/06
025 – CPT Kōji Motomura (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 65 – entry 1941/12/06
026 – CPT Gōsuke Ōta ★ Ace (22 victories) – XP 81 – entry 1941/12/06
027 – WO Tomio Hanada ★ Ace (25 victories) – XP 83 – entry 1941/12/06
028 – WO Tokuyasu Ishizuka ★ Ace (15 victories) – XP 61 – entry 1941/12/06
029 – WO Saburō Kimura ★ Ace (19 victories) – XP 74 – entry 1941/12/06
030 – CPT Shigenori Miyabayashi – XP 53 – entry 1942/03/05
031 – WO Bunji Yoshiyama ★ Ace (21 victories) – XP 81 – entry 1941/12/06
032 – WO Takeo Takahashi ★ Ace (13 victories) – XP 59 – entry 1942/03/05
033 – WO Riichi Itō ★ Ace (16 victories) – XP 72 – entry 1941/12/06
034 – WO Saburō Kitajima – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/25
6974 – CPT Masayoshi Taniguchi – XP 52 – entry 1941/12/06
6975 – WO Hiromichi Shinohara ★ Top Ace (58 victories) – XP 86 – entry 1941/12/06
6976 – WO Tokue Takami – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
6977 – 1LT Kikuo Koga – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06
6978 – 1LT Hiroshi Ono – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06
6979 – WO Zenzaburō Ōtsuka ★ Ace (22 victories) – XP 80 – entry 1941/12/06
6980 – WO Yoshio Sudō – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/20
6981 – WO Kan-ichi Suzuki – XP 43 – entry 1943/06/25
6982 – WO Nobuo Hirua – XP 43 – entry 1942/12/01
6983 – WO Tadashi Yoshitake – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/30
6984 – 2LT Kotobuki Nagayo – XP 40 – entry 1942/12/05
6985 – 1LT Takao Nakagawa – XP 46 – entry 1943/07/25
6986 – WO Kiyoshi Watanuki – XP 43 – entry 1944/02/10
6987 – WO Kazuo Kondō – XP 43 – entry 1944/01/01
6988 – WO Saburō Yabuchi – XP 43 – entry 1944/01/01
6989 – WO Taisaku Miyamoto – XP 43 – entry 1944/01/01
6990 – WO Kōji Aoyama – XP 43 – entry 1944/02/10
6991 – MAJ Katsuji Sugiura – XP 59 – entry 1942/02/20
6992 – 1LT Tetsuo Satō – XP 46 – entry 1942/12/10
6993 – WO Tomekichi Takagi – XP 43 – entry 1942/03/10
6994 – 1LT Kyōka Yanagawa – XP 46 – entry 1942/12/20
6995 – WO Tadao Oda – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/20
6996 – WO Masao Iida – XP 43 – entry 1942/12/01
6997 – WO Masaaki Deguchi – XP 43 – entry 1942/12/01
6998 – WO Kenjirō Kurihara – XP 43 – entry 1942/12/15
6999 – WO Haruo Takagaki – XP 51 – entry 1943/01/01
7000 – WO Ryō Takizawa – XP 43 – entry 1943/08/15
7001 – 2LT Saburō Matsumoto – XP 40 – entry 1942/12/05
7002 – 2LT Hitoshi Sano – XP 40 – entry 1942/12/10
7003 – WO Hisamitsu Kojima – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/05
7004 – CPT Kunio Ōnuma – XP 52 – entry 1942/02/25
7005 – WO Mamoru Minamiyama – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/15
7006 – CPT Yasuyoshi Ikeda – XP 52 – entry 1942/12/15
7007 – 1LT Sōichirō Oda – XP 46 – entry 1942/12/15
7008 – CPT Yasao Kawagoe – XP 52 – entry 1942/02/20
7009 – WO Yoshio Watanabe – XP 43 – entry 1944/01/01
7010 – WO Tatsunosuke Nishimura – XP 43 – entry 1942/12/10
7011 – CPT Shigeharu Fukuda – XP 52 – entry 1942/03/10
7012 – WO Tadayoshi Matsunaga – XP 44 – entry 1942/12/01
7013 – 1LT Hisao Nakayama – XP 46 – entry 1943/06/30
7014 – WO Hiroichi Fujii – XP 43 – entry 1942/12/01
7015 – WO Ryōichi Imamura – XP 43 – entry 1942/12/01
7016 – WO Hatsushi Haraguchi – XP 41 – entry 1941/12/06
7017 – 1LT Tomoari Hasegawa ★ Ace (22 victories) – XP 76 – entry 1941/12/06
7018 – 1LT Shigeo Wakasa – XP 51 – entry 1942/05/01
7019 – 2LT Yukio Ogasawara – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7020 – 2LT Toshihiko Hirata – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7021 – WO Masao Nakajima – XP 43 – entry 1942/03/01
7022 – WO Miyoshi Toyomura – XP 43 – entry 1942/05/01
7023 – WO Rikio Shibata ★ Ace (21 victories) – XP 82 – entry 1941/12/06
7024 – WO Takashi Minami ★ Ace (14 victories) – XP 63 – entry 1941/12/06
7025 – WO Tokurō Fukuda ★ Ace (11 victories) – XP 59 – entry 1941/12/06
7026 – 2LT Akira Ina ★ Ace (9 victories) – XP 57 – entry 1941/12/06
7027 – 1LT Yamato Takayama ★ Ace (9 victories) – XP 60 – entry 1941/12/06
7028 – WO Kōichi Iwase ★ Ace (12 victories) – XP 62 – entry 1941/12/06
7029 – WO Yutaka Aoyagi ★ Ace (12+ victories) – XP 64 – entry 1941/12/06
7030 – CPT Moritsugu Kanai ★ Top Ace (26 victories) – XP 84 – entry 1941/12/06
7031 – WO Gentarō Endō ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 53 – entry 1942/02/20
7032 – WO Sumo Kamito – XP 43 – entry 1942/12/01
7033 – MAJ Kisō Beppu ★ Ace (10 victories) – XP 74 – entry 1942/03/01

Averages (as of 6 December 1941)
• Average XP: 62 (Veterans 70–80 | Junior pilots 50–55)
• Average Morale: 80 (Battle-hardened, confident, strong unit esprit)

Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Development)
1941 – 26 pilots → Avg XP 70.2 (Shinohara 86; Hanada 83; Ōta 81; Kanai 84; Yoshiyama 81)
1942 – 31 pilots → Avg XP 51.8
1943 – 11 pilots → Avg XP 46.3
1944 – 6 pilots → Avg XP 44.0
Total: 74 pilots → Overall Avg XP 56.9

Evaluation
The 11th Hiko Sentai ranked among the most experienced fighter units of the IJAAF at the outset of the Pacific War.
Its large cadre of China veterans made it a tactically disciplined and battle-proven formation with above-average gunnery and air-combat proficiency.
During the early war phase, the unit distinguished itself in numerous engagements over Southeast Asia and Burma, forming one of the cornerstones of Japanese air superiority in 1941–42.
As the war progressed, pilot quality declined due to attrition and the influx of replacements, but the name of the 11th Sentai remained synonymous with professionalism and courage until the very end of the conflict.
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13th Hiko Sentai (第13飛行戦隊)
Founded: 31 August 1938
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 6 December 1941): Northern Burma / Malaya Front
Higher Command: 3rd Air Division / 5th Air Army

Commanding Officer (6 December 1941)
Lieutenant Colonel Takeo Takeyama – veteran of the China campaign, still an active combat pilot in 1941. A tough yet pragmatic leader who had to oversee the rapid wartime expansion of his Sentai. His command style was energetic but disciplined, emphasizing operational readiness and technical reliability.
Attributes: Skill 60 | Inspiration 54 | Naval 22 | Air 66 | Land 47 | Admin 56 | Aggression 52 | Political 18

Formation & Background
The 13th Hiko Sentai was established in 1938 as a regular fighter formation of the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force.
Initially serving in China, it took part in operations in southern regions during 1940–41. At the outbreak of the Pacific War in December 1941, the unit was still equipped with the Nakajima Ki-27 Nate, though early deliveries of the Ki-43-I Hayabusa were already arriving.
At that point, the Sentai possessed a small but experienced core of pilots, quickly expanded with new graduates from the Army flight schools. It participated in combat over northern Malaya and Burma and was among the first IJAAF units to gain combat experience with the new Ki-43 fighter.

Organization (as of 6 December 1941)
– Structure: 3 Chutai – initially about 15 pilots, expanded to roughly 40 within weeks of war outbreak
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate,” partially re-equipped with Ki-43-I Hayabusa by early 1942
– Role: Frontline fighter unit (air superiority, escort, and tactical reconnaissance)
– Personnel: Experienced core (≈25%) supplemented by younger pilots from Akeno and Hitachi flight schools
– Operational Readiness: 75–80 % at war start, increasing with reinforcements

Aircraft Strength (6 December 1941)
– Total: 45 – Operational: 33 – Under maintenance/damaged: 9 – Reserve: 3
Remarks: Frontline aircraft subjected to heavy use; field repairs often improvised. Mechanical condition acceptable but strained by tropical conditions.

Pilot Roster (6 December 1941 – 1945)
Pilots 41/12/06: 24 → after 41/12/07: 33

036 – Lt Col Takeo Takeyama (Commander Sentai) – XP 66 – entry 1941/12/06
037 – CPT Masayuki Sakaki (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 63 – entry 1941/12/06
038 – CPT Noburu Okuda (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 63 – entry 1941/12/06
039 – CPT Rokurō Asahi (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 63 – entry 1941/12/06
6938 – WO Sada Koga ★ Ace (31 victories) – XP 85 – entry 1941/12/06
6939 – 2LT Misao Inoue ★ Ace (16 victories) – XP 70 – entry 1941/12/06
6940 – WO Kōsuke Tsubone ★ Ace (11 victories) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
6941 – 1LT Toshio Yokoyama – XP 56 – entry 1941/12/06
6942 – WO Masaji Mikasa – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06
6943 – 1LT Hiroyaki Fujino – XP 56 – entry 1942/01/05
6944 – 1LT Ryōhei Harada – XP 56 – entry 1941/12/06
6945 – 2LT Daishirō Nakamura – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
6946 – WO Fumio Terada – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06
6947 – WO Takeo Kashima – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06
6948 – WO Shigeo Sugiura – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/08
6949 – WO Kazuhiro Satō – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06
6950 – WO Hikosaburō Ikeda – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06
6951 – WO Okito Wakai – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06
6952 – WO Morishi Ogata – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06
6953 – 1LT Kōichi Sakata – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
6954 – MAJ Tsunao Nagano – XP 72 – entry 1941/12/06
6955 – 2LT Torasuke Nishiide – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
6956 – 1LT Minoru Miyanori – XP 56 – entry 1941/12/06
6957 – WO Yokio Takamiya – XP 46 – entry 1942/01/05
6958 – CPT Haruki Notawa – XP 63 – entry 1941/12/06
6959 – WO Asao Nanjo – XP 46 – entry 1943/04/01
6960 – WO Kōichi Okihira – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06
6961 – WO Yōzō Emoto – XP 46 – entry 1942/01/05
6962 – WO Hide Ogawa – XP 46 – entry 1943/05/01
6963 – CPT Yutaka Kozuki – XP 63 – entry 1942/01/05
6964 – WO Shōkichi Yamaji – XP 46 – entry 1943/05/01
6965 – CPT Iwao Matsubaru – XP 63 – entry 1943/04/01
6966 – 2LT Gōichi Morimoto – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
6967 – 2LT Akira Tazumi – XP 51 – entry 1943/05/01
6968 – WO Mitsusaki Katō – XP 46 – entry 1942/01/05
6969 – WO Saburō Tsuboi – XP 63 – entry 1943/05/01
6970 – CPT Hitoshi Harada – XP 63 – entry 1942/01/05
6971 – WO Fumio Kudō – XP 46 – entry 1943/04/01
6972 – WO Kumimori Takebayashi – XP 46 – entry 1943/04/01
6973 – WO Sen-ichi Mizuno – XP 46 – entry 1943/04/01
6974 – WO Chitoshi Muraoka – XP 46 – entry 1943/04/01
6975 – 1LT Hachirō Murakami – XP 48 – entry 1943/04/01
6976 – WO Uichirō Iwaki – XP 46 – entry 1943/04/01
6977 – MAJ Kuzuhiko Nakano – XP 72 – entry 1943/04/01
6978 – WO Noboru Tsuzuki – XP 46 – entry 1943/04/01
6979 – WO Shigeru Yamaguchi – XP 46 – entry 1943/04/01
6980 – WO Tatsukichi Matsuo – XP 46 – entry 1943/04/01
6981 – 2LT Hiroshi Kawamura – XP 51 – entry 1943/04/01
6982 – WO Heisaku Nishida – XP 46 – entry 1943/04/01
6983 – CPT Takeo Ogasawara – XP 63 – entry 1943/04/01
6984 – 1LT Akira Tanimura – XP 51 – entry 1943/04/01
6985 – MAJ Masuo Kamiya ★ Ace (10+ victories) – XP 82 – entry 1941/12/06
6986 – MAJ Saburō Kondō – XP 78 – entry 1941/12/06
6987 – CPT Kōichi Marukawa – XP 63 – entry 1945/01/23
6988 – WO Haruki Ogino – XP 46 – entry 1942/01/05

Averages (as of 6 December 1941)
• Average XP: 52–53 (Veterans 60–70 | Flight school graduates 40–45)
• Average Morale: 72 (Experienced, battle-tested unit with strong fighting spirit)

Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Development)
1941 – 24 pilots → Avg XP 59.5
1942 – 9 pilots → Avg XP 52.8
1943 – 23 pilots → Avg XP 46.2
1945 – 1 pilot → XP 63
Total: 57 pilots → Overall Avg XP 50.1

Evaluation
The 13th Hiko Sentai was a battle-proven fighter formation with roots in the early China operations, later playing a central role in Burma and Southeast Asia.
Its seasoned leaders and aces—such as Sada Koga and Misao Inoue—defined the unit’s successful early-war phase.
Despite the gradual loss of veteran pilots and increasing turnover among replacements, the unit remained combat-effective until 1943, when it began to assume more training and replacement duties.
Overall, the 13th Sentai stands as a traditional, capable formation with strong tactical proficiency, exemplifying the effectiveness of the early IJAAF fighter forces during the initial years of the Pacific War.
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17th Hiko Sentai (第17飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 February 1944
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 February 1944): Formosa (Taihoku)
Higher Command: 8th Air Division / 4th Air Army

Commanding Officer (1 February 1944)
Major Yoshiji Aramaki – an officer with front-line experience in China, assigned to oversee the reformation of the 17th Hiko Sentai in early 1944. During the first months he personally led the unit in operations but shifted increasingly to ground command duties toward the end of the year.
Attributes: Skill 62 | Inspiration 56 | Naval 23 | Air 68 | Land 47 | Admin 55 | Aggression 50 | Political 17

Formation & Background
The 17th Hiko Sentai was one of the IJAAF’s older formations, disbanded after heavy losses in China in 1943 and reestablished in February 1944 on Formosa.
The reorganization was part of Japan’s preparation for the anticipated American advance through the Philippines. Equipped with the modern Kawasaki Ki-61 Hien, the unit was tasked with air defense operations over the islands south of Kyushu and later with supporting operations over Luzon.
The unit’s personnel numbered around 45 pilots: approximately 25 recent flight school graduates, 10 veterans from China or Formosa, and an instructional cadre transferred from the 244th Sentai.
Upon formation, operational readiness stood at roughly 70%, though frequent engine failures (Ha-40) and a lack of spare parts limited sortie rates.

Organization (as of 1 February 1944)
– Structure: 3 Chutai, about 15 pilots each (≈45 aircraft total)
– Type: Kawasaki Ki-61-I Hien (“Tony”)
– Role: Frontline fighter unit for air defense and escort missions
– Personnel: Mixed composition of China veterans, Formosa pilots, and new graduates
– Operational Readiness: approx. 70 % (30 aircraft serviceable, 5 damaged, 3 in reserve)

Aircraft Strength (1 February 1944)
– Total: 45 – Operational: 30 – Under maintenance/damaged: 5 – Reserve: 3
Remarks: Aircraft in moderate technical condition; frequent Ha-40 engine malfunctions. Supply through Taihoku limited, but unit organization and maintenance well managed.

Pilot Roster (1 February 1944 – 1945)
Pilots 44/02/01: 19 → after 45/06/05: 33
7091 – MAJ Yoshiji Aramaki (Commander Sentai) – XP 61 – entry 1944/02/01
7092 – CPT Sankichi Katō (Hikotai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/02/01
7093 – CPT Yōzō Iwahima (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 56 – entry 1944/02/01
7094 – CPT Takatoshi Kuranga (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 54 – entry 1944/02/01
7095 – CPT Hideō Ichii (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 56 – entry 1944/02/01
7096 – CPT Masao Okada (Maintenance Section Leader) – XP 57 – entry 1944/02/01
7097 – WO Saburō Yamamoto – XP 48 – entry 1944/02/01
7098 – WO Itsuo Ikuta – XP 48 – entry 1944/02/01
7099 – WO Toshio Akamine – XP 48 – entry 1944/02/01
7100 – WO Susumu Kiyohara – XP 48 – entry 1944/02/01
7101 – WO Kunio Tanaka – XP 48 – entry 1944/02/01
7102 – WO Minoru Hanada – XP 48 – entry 1944/02/01
7103 – 2LT Katsumi Iwama – XP 45 – entry 1944/02/01
7104 – WO Katsuhiko Miyake – XP 48 – entry 1944/02/01
7105 – WO Fushisuke Inoue – XP 48 – entry 1944/02/01
7106 – WO Yoshihisa Teruzaki – XP 48 – entry 1944/02/01
7107 – WO Fukuji Nishikawa – XP 48 – entry 1944/02/01
7108 – WO Kazuo Matsumura – XP 48 – entry 1944/02/01
7109 – 2LT Norio Yoshikawa – XP 45 – entry 1944/02/01
7110 – WO Tomio Andō – XP 48 – entry 1944/02/01
7111 – CPT Ryō Shirakawa – XP 53 – entry 1944/02/01
7112 – WO Tomigorō Kobayashi – XP 48 – entry 1944/02/01
7113 – WO Isamu Kinoshita – XP 48 – entry 1944/03/01
7114 – 2LT Kunitaka Nigo – XP 46 – entry 1945/04/01
7115 – 2LT Takuzō Nishio – XP 46 – entry 1945/04/01
7116 – 2LT Kojun Kuniya – XP 46 – entry 1945/04/01
7117 – 2LT Takashi Katsumata – XP 46 – entry 1945/04/01
7118 – 2LT Michiyasu Shimoyama – XP 46 – entry 1945/05/03
7119 – 2LT Chonoshin Saitō – XP 46 – entry 1945/05/03
7120 – 2LT Seiichi Tsujinaka – XP 46 – entry 1945/05/03
7121 – WO Kazumichi Hara – XP 43 – entry 1945/05/03
7122 – 2LT Seiji Inamori – XP 46 – entry 1945/06/05
7123 – 2LT Mitsuyasu Sada – XP 46 – entry 1945/06/05
7124 – 2LT Mikio Tominaga – XP 46 – entry 1945/06/05
7125 – 2LT Hideaki Tsuchida – XP 46 – entry 1945/04/18
7126 – WO Mamoru Matsumura – XP 41 – entry 1945/05/31
7127 – WO Toshio Kurosawa – XP 48 – entry 1944/06/01

Averages (as of 1 February 1944)
• Average XP: 51 (Veterans 55–65 | Flight school graduates 40–45)
• Average Morale: 70 (Solid front-line morale, disciplined and technically reliable)

Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Development)
1944 – 19 pilots → Avg XP 51.4
1945 – 14 pilots → Avg XP 45.4
Total: 33 pilots → Overall Avg XP 48.3

Evaluation
The 17th Hiko Sentai represented a competent mid-war front-line unit.
Its reformation on Formosa in early 1944 provided it with a sound logistical and organizational base, though operational effectiveness was hampered by the Ki-61’s mechanical unreliability and the growing dominance of Allied air power.
Despite these setbacks, morale remained steady, supported by an experienced officer cadre and strict training discipline.
Compared with sister units such as the 16th and 18th Sentai, it maintained a balanced composition of veterans and new pilots.
Its combat capability was considered average overall, yet tactically it performed above expectations for a late-war IJAAF fighter formation.
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18th Hiko Sentai (第18飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 February 1944
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 February 1944): Kagoshima, Japan
Higher Command: 4th Air Division / 6th Air Army (Southern Defense Sector Kyūshū – later Philippine Command)

Commanding Officer (1 February 1944)
Major Rinzo Iizuka – experienced home-defense officer, previously serving on staff with formation-level commands. In February 1944, he assumed command of the newly reorganized 18th Hiko Sentai. Not a renowned ace, but a calm and disciplined leader with sound tactical sense, he guided the unit through the difficult operations over Formosa and the Philippines.
Attributes: Skill 61 | Inspiration 55 | Naval 22 | Air 64 | Land 46 | Admin 56 | Aggression 49 | Political 16

Formation & Background
The 18th Hiko Sentai was reformed in February 1944 under the Southern Defense Command.
Originally active during the early years of the Pacific War, the unit had been disbanded in 1943 and reconstituted with veterans from the 244th Sentai along with graduates from several Army flight schools.
Its operational mission was the defense of southern Japan (Kyūshū–Formosa) and later front-line deployment in the Philippine air defense campaign. The pilot roster was a composite of approximately 30% veterans and 70% new pilots from the Akeno, Mito, and Hitachi flight schools.
Initial readiness was about 70%, though a shortage of airframes and persistent engine issues severely limited training tempo.

Organization (as of 1 February 1944)
– Structure: 3 Chutai, about 15 pilots each (≈45 aircraft total)
– Type: Kawasaki Ki-61 Hien (“Tony”)
– Role: Frontline fighter unit (air defense, escort, interception)
– Personnel: About 40–45 pilots; mixed composition of 244th Sentai veterans and new graduates
– Operational Readiness: ≈70 % (high rate of mechanical attrition due to engine problems)

Aircraft Strength (1 February 1944)
– Total: 45 – Operational: 28 – Under maintenance/damaged: 5 – Reserve: 3
Remarks: The Ki-61 offered modern performance but was notoriously maintenance-heavy. Frequent engine failures, spare part shortages, and tropical operating conditions caused constant readiness shortfalls.

Pilot Roster (1 February 1944 – 1945)
Pilots 44/02/01: 17 → after 45/06/01: 22

7130 – MAJ Rinzo Iizuka (Commander Sentai) – XP 61 – entry 1944/02/01
7131 – CPT Minoru Kawabata (Hikotai Leader / 1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/02/01
7132 – CPT Senyuki Fube (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 56 – entry 1944/02/01
7133 – CPT Haruo Kawamura (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 56 – entry 1944/02/01
7134 – CPT Umetake Okabe (Maintenance Section Leader) – XP 57 – entry 1944/02/01
7135 – CPT Norio Shiraishi – XP 52 – entry 1944/02/01
7136 – 2LT Kingo Shiozaki – XP 41 – entry 1944/02/01
7137 – 1LT Koshichi Iwaya – XP 45 – entry 1944/02/01
7138 – WO Kikuji Takashima – XP 43 – entry 1944/02/01
7139 – WO Yasuo Heima – XP 43 – entry 1944/02/01
7140 – 2LT Hideo Kojima – XP 46 – entry 1944/02/01
7141 – WO Kazuo Nakamura – XP 43 – entry 1944/02/01
7142 – 1LT Masakatsu Tanaka – XP 46 – entry 1944/02/01
7143 – 2LT Kenkichi Yamaguchi – XP 41 – entry 1944/02/01
7144 – MAJ Yoshitsugu Aramaki – XP 68 – entry 1944/02/01
7145 – MAJ Yoshiro Takada – XP 68 – entry 1944/02/01
7146 – 2LT Takeshi Nakamura – XP 46 – entry 1945/01/01
7147 – 1LT Masatsugu Sumita – XP 51 – entry 1945/02/01
7148 – WO Masayoshi Wada – XP 43 – entry 1945/03/01
7149 – 1LT Mitsuzu Asai – XP 43 – entry 1945/04/01
7150 – WO Matsumi Nakano – XP 40 – entry 1945/05/01
7151 – WO Mitsuo Oyake – XP 40 – entry 1945/06/01

Averages (as of 1 February 1944)
• Average XP: 51 (Veterans 55–60 | Flight school graduates 40–45)
• Average Morale: 70 (Solid fighting morale despite increasing material fatigue)

Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Development)
1944 – 17 pilots → Avg XP 53.1
1945 – 5 pilots → Avg XP 44.6
Total: 22 pilots → Overall Avg XP 50.1

Evaluation
The 18th Hiko Sentai served as a transitional formation of the mid-war period, marked by the gradual replacement of experienced veterans with younger, less seasoned pilots.
Equipped with the Ki-61 Hien, the unit briefly enjoyed a technological edge, but by 1945 attrition, engine problems, and fuel shortages severely reduced combat capability.
Compared to contemporaries such as the 19th and 21st Sentai, the 18th maintained disciplined yet increasingly defensive tactics.
Despite severe losses in the Philippines campaign, it managed to preserve its organizational integrity until the war’s end—an indicator of capable leadership and strong internal cohesion.
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19th Hiko Sentai (第19飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 February 1944
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 February 1944): Komaki, Japan
Higher Command: 10th Air Division / 1st Air Army

Commanding Officer (1 February 1944)
Major Rokurō Seto – veteran of the China campaign, calm and dutiful. Having served as an active front-line pilot in 1941–42, he shifted mainly to ground command duties from 1943 onward. Under his leadership, the 19th Hiko Sentai operated the Ki-61 Hien with efficiency and discipline during its early phase.
Attributes: Skill 61 | Inspiration 55 | Naval 22 | Air 67 | Land 47 | Admin 56 | Aggression 50 | Political 17

Formation & Background
The 19th Hiko Sentai was established in February 1944 to meet the growing need for modern interceptor units in Japan’s home defense network.
Its personnel core was composed primarily of Akeno Flight School graduates, supplemented by several seasoned pilots from the 244th Sentai and a small group of newly commissioned trainees.
The unit was placed under the 10th Air Division and assigned to air defense operations in the Nagoya–Osaka region. Early on, the Sentai was equipped with the Kawasaki Ki-61 Hien, a modern fighter with a liquid-cooled inline engine that provided improved performance but required meticulous maintenance.
Despite chronic shortages of spare parts and persistent mechanical issues, the 19th Sentai maintained solid operational efficiency through spring 1944 and was regarded as one of the more disciplined home defense formations of the IJAAF.

Organization (as of 1 February 1944)
– Structure: 3 Chutai, about 15 pilots each (≈45 aircraft total)
– Type: Kawasaki Ki-61-I Hien (“Tony”)
– Role: Fighter unit for air defense and escort operations
– Personnel: ~45 pilots, mostly Akeno graduates, with a veteran and replacement mix
– Operational Readiness: 70–75 %
Aircraft Strength (1 February 1944)
– Total: 45 – Operational: 28 – Under maintenance/damaged: 5 – Reserve: 3
Remarks: Aircraft in moderate technical condition; maintenance limited by spare-part shortages and fragile engines.

Pilot Roster (1 February 1944 – 1945)
Pilots 44/02/01: 39 → after 45/01/02: 42
MAJ Rokurō Seto (Commander Sentai) – XP 60 – entry 1944/02/01
CPT Noritake Koya (Hikotai Leader) – XP 57 – entry 1944/02/01
CPT Shōchi Mitamura (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 56 – entry 1944/02/01
CPT Tsuneo Fukuyama (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 55 – entry 1944/02/01
CPT Yukio Sasawara (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 55 – entry 1944/02/01
MAJ Kumeji Wakayama (Maintenance Section Leader) – XP 56 – entry 1944/02/01
7161 – WO Saburō Ikeda – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/03
7162 – WO Hisao Tanaka – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/03
7163 – 2LT Shōji Kawamura – XP 48 – entry 1944/12/03
7164 – 2LT Haruo Takahashi – XP 48 – entry 1944/12/03
7165 – WO Shigeo Yamamoto – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/03
7166 – WO Toshio Ogawa – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/03
7167 – CPT Kiyoshi Nakajima – XP 58 – entry 1944/12/03
7168 – WO Kiyoshi Nishikawa – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/03
7169 – WO Masao Ueda – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/03
7170 – 2LT Yoshio Fujimoto – XP 47 – entry 1944/12/03
7171 – WO Ichirō Kawano – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/03
7172 – 1LT Shōichi Hasegawa – XP 51 – entry 1944/12/03
7173 – CPT Fumio Andō – XP 58 – entry 1944/12/03
7174 – WO Yasuo Matsumoto – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/03
7175 – WO Kōji Okada – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/03
7176 – WO Masaru Endō – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/03
7177 – 2LT Minoru Murata – XP 48 – entry 1944/12/03
7178 – WO Tadao Fujii – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/03
7179 – WO Tatsuo Shimizu – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/03
7180 – CPT Michio Nishida – XP 58 – entry 1944/12/03
7181 – CPT Masaaki Yoshida – XP 58 – entry 1945/01/02
7182 – 2LT Hirotsugu Oide – XP 48 – entry 1945/01/02
7183 – 2LT Susumu Sugiyama – XP 48 – entry 1944/12/03
7184 – WO Noboru Takeda – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/03
7185 – WO Yoshio Kondō – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/03
7186 – WO Shōji Harada – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/03
7187 – CPT Yoshihiro Kawai – XP 58 – entry 1944/12/03
7188 – 1LT Hiroshi Kaneko – XP 51 – entry 1944/12/03
7189 – WO Masayuki Ono – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/03
7190 – WO Tōru Yamaguchi – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/03
7191 – 2LT Akira Kobayashi – XP 48 – entry 1944/12/03
7192 – WO Shinsuke Noguchi – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/03
7193 – CPT Keizō Iida – XP 58 – entry 1944/12/03
7194 – WO Takeo Hoshino – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/03
7195 – 2LT Kuniomi Watanabe – XP 48 – entry 1945/01/02
7196 – 1LT Masahiro Endō – XP 51 – entry 1944/06/02

Averages (as of 1 February 1944)
• Average XP: 51 (Veterans 55–60 | Flight school graduates 40–45)
• Average Morale: 70 (Experienced leadership, strong motivation, limited technical reliability)

Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Development)
1944 – 39 pilots → Avg XP 50.1
1945 – 3 pilots → Avg XP 49.0
Total: 42 pilots → Overall Avg XP 50.0

Evaluation
The 19th Hiko Sentai was a modern mid-war formation characterized by disciplined leadership and a technically advanced but maintenance-heavy aircraft inventory.
The introduction of the Ki-61 Hien marked a qualitative leap in range and firepower but was constrained by fragile engines and chronic shortages of parts.
Under Major Seto’s command, the unit evolved into a stable and tactically proficient home-defense group with solid training and dependable morale.
Compared with similar formations such as the 18th and 21st Sentai, the 19th was seen as a reliable, technically advanced unit whose operational effectiveness was ultimately limited more by materials than by men.
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Peiper1944 · Post by **Peiper1944** » Sat Nov 08, 2025 7:46 pm

20th Hiko Sentai (第20飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 December 1943
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 December 1943): Itami, Japan
Higher Command: 3rd Air Division / 1st Air Army
Commanding Officer (1 December 1943)
Lieutenant Colonel Gorō Yamamoto – seasoned front-line officer from the early war years. Known as a pragmatic and assertive commander with strong technical understanding and an emphasis on discipline. He led the 20th Hiko Sentai during its reorganization and preparation for renewed front-line deployment in Southeast Asia.
Attributes: Skill 63 | Inspiration 56 | Naval 20 | Air 67 | Land 46 | Admin 58 | Aggression 52 | Political 18
Formation & Background
The 20th Hiko Sentai was originally formed in 1938 as a regular IJAAF fighter unit, first seeing action in Central China.
By 1941 it was equipped with the Nakajima Ki-27 Nate and transferred to Thailand in late autumn to participate in the Malaya invasion.
Assigned to the 3rd Air Division, the unit supported advancing ground forces, conducted escort and reconnaissance missions, and contributed significantly to establishing air superiority.
Its pilots ranked among the most experienced front-line airmen of the IJAAF, many having served over Wuhan and Hankow. By the outbreak of the Pacific War, the unit was fully operational, highly disciplined, and tactically coordinated—an exemplary representation of early-war IJAAF combat efficiency.
Organization (as of 1 December 1943)
– Structure: 2 Chutai, about 15 pilots each (≈30 aircraft total)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” – reequipped with Ki-43-I Hayabusa from spring 1942 onward
– Role: Frontline fighter unit (air superiority, escort, reconnaissance)
– Personnel: Approx. 40–45 pilots, majority veterans (≈60%), remainder new flight school graduates
– Operational Readiness: ~90 %
Aircraft Strength (1 December 1943)
– Total: 30 – Operational: 20 – Under maintenance/damaged: 6 – Reserve: 2
Remarks: Aircraft in good technical condition; experienced maintenance crews and reliable logistics through Bangkok ensured high serviceability.
Pilot Roster (1 December 1943)
Pilots 41/12/06: 27 → after 41/12/08: 30
45 – CPT Kiyotaka Yamagata (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
46 – CPT Sadakazu Kobayashi (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06
47 – CPT Toyoaki Yokota (Maintenance Section Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7199 – MAJ Isao Takahama – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7200 – CPT Hisashō Ohato – XP 48 – entry 1941/12/06
7201 – CPT Toshio Maebashi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7202 – WO Shigeru Suzuki – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7203 – WO Juichirō Fujita – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7204 – WO Juichirō Nakamura – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7205 – WO Tomo-o Ōtsuka – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7206 – WO Sakuichirō Sakumi – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7207 – WO Kiyoshi Itō – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7208 – WO Toshiharu Akiyama – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7209 – WO Jirō Hiramatsu – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7210 – WO Masanori Shibata – XP 48 – entry 1941/12/06
7211 – WO Tadashi Araki – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7212 – WO Minoru Noguchi – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7213 – WO Teruo Fujita – XP 41 – entry 1941/12/06
7214 – WO Shigetoshi Tanakada – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7215 – WO Hiroshi Andō – XP 52 – entry 1941/12/06
7216 – WO Hideo Muraoka – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7217 – WO Tetsuo Kameda – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
Averages (as of 1 December 1943)
• Average XP: 51 (Veterans 55–60 | Flight school graduates 40–45)
• Average Morale: 74 (High operational motivation, strong internal discipline)
Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Development)
1943 – 30 pilots → Avg XP 51.0 (Kobayashi 68; Fujita 41)
Total: 30 pilots → Overall Avg XP 51.0
Evaluation
The 20th Hiko Sentai ranked among the most reliable and combat-effective IJAAF fighter formations during the southern offensives of 1941–42.
Its cohesive veteran core, tactically skilled leadership, and well-trained maintenance personnel enabled precise and coordinated operations.
Operating over Malaya and Burma, the Sentai achieved multiple successful interceptions against Allied bomber formations.
Through strict discipline and low attrition, it preserved its combat strength well beyond the early war years.
In the broader assessment, the 20th Hiko Sentai stood as a model formation of the early-war IJAAF—experienced, tactically sound, and organizationally exemplary.
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22nd Hiko Sentai (第22飛行戦隊)
Founded: 5 March 1944
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 5 March 1944): Chōfu, Japan
Higher Command: 10th Air Division / 1st Air Army (Homeland Air Defense Command)

Commanding Officer (5 March 1944)
Major Jōzō Iwahashi – experienced officer of the China front and a reliable commander. Active as a combat pilot in 1941–42, he later transitioned to ground command duties from 1943 onward. From March 1944 he led the newly formed 22nd Hiko Sentai during its conversion to the Ki-84 Hayate. Known as a calm, technically adept organizer with a clear grasp of training and material conditions.
Attributes: Skill 60 | Inspiration 54 | Naval 22 | Air 66 | Land 46 | Admin 55 | Aggression 50 | Political 17

Formation & Background
The 22nd Hiko Sentai was established in March 1944 as part of the IJAAF’s modernization program introducing the new Nakajima Ki-84 Hayate.
Roughly three-quarters of its personnel were fresh flight school graduates, supported by a small cadre of veterans transferred from the 64th Sentai with combat experience from China.
The unit was placed under the 1st Air Army and assigned to homeland defense operations over Honshū. Simultaneously, it functioned as a transitional and evaluation unit for the Hayate’s initial operational deployment.
Operational readiness at formation was approximately 70%, but chronic fuel shortages and mechanical issues with the early-model Ha-45 engines severely limited flight training and sorties.

Organization (as of 5 March 1944)
– Structure: 3 Chutai, about 15 pilots each (≈45 aircraft total)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-84-I Hayate (“Frank”)
– Role: Homeland air defense and transition training for the new fighter type
– Personnel: ~40 pilots (≈25% veterans, ≈75% flight school graduates)
– Effective Readiness: ~70 % of nominal strength

Aircraft Strength (5 March 1944)
– Total: 36 – Operational: 28 – Under maintenance/damaged: 6 – Reserve: 2
Remarks: Early-production models, several adapted for training use. Engine overheating and poor fuel quality caused frequent technical failures, rendering the unit only partially combat-capable.

Pilot Roster (5 March 1944 – 1945)
Pilots 44/03/05: 28 → after 45/06/06: 29

049 – MAJ Jōzō Iwahashi (Commander Sentai) ★ (20 victories) – XP 81 – entry 1944/03/05
050 – MAJ Yoshihiro Kanaya (Hikotai Leader) – XP 59 – entry 1944/03/05
051 – CPT Hiroshi Shimada (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 57 – entry 1944/03/05
7220 – CPT Takashi Saitō (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 56 – entry 1944/03/05
7221 – CPT Yoshihiko Kuroiwa (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 52 – entry 1944/03/05
7222 – CPT Masami Takeshita (Maintenance Leader) – XP 55 – entry 1944/03/01
7223 – 2LT Shizunari Kumamoto – XP 41 – entry 1944/03/05
7224 – WO Yotarō Satō – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/05
7225 – WO Shigeharu Kawaguchi – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/05
7226 – WO Gorō Furugori ★ (25+ victories) – XP 79 – entry 1944/03/05
7227 – 1LT Ryōhei Koda – XP 45 – entry 1944/03/05
7228 – WO Kōichi Akai – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/05
7229 – WO Yukiharu Okada – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/05
7230 – WO Miwao Sugiyama – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/05
7231 – WO Isao Ōdō – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/05
7232 – WO Fujio Isogai – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/05
7233 – 1LT Takashi Nakai – XP 45 – entry 1944/03/05
7234 – WO Mizuo Shigematsu – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/05
7235 – WO Toshimasa Tachikawa – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/05
7236 – MAJ Shigeo Uehara – XP 59 – entry 1944/03/05
7237 – MAJ Susumu Jimbo – XP 59 – entry 1944/03/05
7238 – 1LT Takemasa Katsuta – XP 45 – entry 1944/03/05
7239 – WO Masayasu Okami – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/05
7240 – WO Fukashi Morozumi – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/05
7241 – WO Chiaki Jinnai – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/05
7242 – WO Tatsugorō Katō – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/05
7243 – MAJ Eiichi Kitajima – XP 68 – entry 1945/06/06
7244 – 1LT Shirō Funabashi – XP 53 – entry 1944/03/05
7245 – WO Masaharu Wakai – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/05

Averages (as of 5 March 1944)
• Average XP: 49 (Veterans 55–65 | Flight school graduates 38–44)
• Average Morale: 62 (Motivated, but technically inexperienced and limited in combat readiness)

Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Development)
1944 – 28 pilots → Avg XP 49.7 (Iwahashi 81; Kumamoto 41)
1945 – 1 pilot → Avg XP 68.0 (Kitajima 68)
Total: 29 pilots → Overall Avg XP 50.3

Evaluation
The 22nd Hiko Sentai represented a late-war standard formation whose strength lay more in technical modernization than in combat experience.
A small veteran cadre ensured discipline and tactical cohesion, while the majority of its pilots remained in transition from training to active service.
Mechanical unreliability of the Ki-84 Hayate and the chronic fuel shortage severely curtailed operations.
Compared to its sister units, the 21st and 23rd Sentai, the 22nd demonstrated slightly better training standards but was more constrained logistically.
Overall, it typified the 1944 homeland defense Sentai—dedicated, modern, yet operationally limited.
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23rd Hiko Sentai (第23飛行戦隊)
Founded: 11 October 1944
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 October 1944): Ōta, Japan
Higher Command: Homeland Air Defense Command

Commanding Officer (11 October 1944)
Major Jurō Fujita – veteran officer of the China front. In 1941 he personally led a small detachment in combat; by autumn 1944 he was assigned to command the newly created 23rd Hiko Sentai — in practice little more than an expanded training squadron under the Homeland Air Defense Command.
Attributes: Skill 59 | Inspiration 53 | Naval 21 | Air 65 | Land 45 | Admin 54 | Aggression 49 | Political 16

Formation & Background
The 23rd Hiko Sentai was organized in October 1944 at Ōta Airfield as part of the late-war expansion wave of the Homeland Air Defense Command (Honshū Bōei Shireibu).
Its creation came amid increasing American B-29 raids over the Kantō region.
Operationally, the Sentai was attached to the 10th Air Division of the 1st Air Army, responsible for the air defense of the Tokyo–Yokohama metropolitan area.
Personnel came primarily from the Ōta Kyōdō Hikotai of the Hitachi Kyōdō Hiko Shidan, supplemented by graduates from the Akeno and Mito flight schools.
The instructor-to-trainee ratio was roughly one to four or five. Most pilots possessed fewer than 180 total flight hours — well below prewar operational standards.
Fuel and parts shortages further reduced flight training opportunities, and true combat readiness rarely exceeded 65–70%.

Organization (as of 11 October 1944)
– Structure: 3 Chutai, about 15 pilots each (≈45 aircraft total)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-43-I Hayabusa (“Oscar”)
– Role: Homeland air defense and transitional flight training under the Homeland Air Defense Command
– Personnel: Mix of instructors (Ōta / Hitachi) and recent flight-school graduates (Akeno, Mito)

Aircraft Strength (11 October 1944)
– Total: 45 – Operational: 28 – Under maintenance/damaged: 9 – Reserve: 2
Remarks: Many aircraft were obsolete trainers or hastily repaired airframes, armed only with twin 12.7 mm Ho-103 machine guns. Engine wear and parts scarcity kept operational output low.

Pilot Roster (11 October 1944)
Pilots 44/10/11: 15

7250 – MAJ Jurō Fujita (Commander Sentai) – XP 59 – entry 1944/10/11
7251 – CPT Katokichi Sasaki (1st Hikotai Leader) – XP 55 – entry 1944/10/11
7252 – CPT Yoshihiko Taya (2nd Hikotai Leader) – XP 54 – entry 1944/10/11
7253 – CPT Masami Hioki ★ Ace (11 victories) – XP 70 – entry 1944/10/11
7254 – WO Takashi Muto – XP 41 – entry 1944/10/11
7255 – WO Tomo-o Yamada – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/11
7256 – WO Shigeo Nakayama – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/11
7257 – 2LT Kyusaku Abe – XP 41 – entry 1944/10/11
7258 – WO Mitsuhiro Nagano – XP 40 – entry 1944/10/11
7259 – CPT Makoto Kimura – XP 52 – entry 1944/10/11
7260 – WO Jirō Hoshitake – XP 42 – entry 1944/10/11
7261 – WO Shigeaki Ōmori – XP 39 – entry 1944/10/11
7262 – 2LT Tomokitsu Yamada – XP 48 – entry 1944/10/11
7263 – WO Yoshiji Okazaki – XP 41 – entry 1944/10/11
7264 – WO Yūichi Yoshinaga – XP 41 – entry 1944/10/11

Averages (as of 11 October 1944)
• Average XP: 46 (Instructors 55–60 | Trainees 38–43)
• Average Morale: 63 (High idealism but little combat experience or technical confidence)

Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Development)
1944 – 15 pilots → Avg XP 47.1 (Fujita 59; Hioki 70)
Total: 15 pilots → Overall Avg XP 47.1

Evaluation
The 23rd Hiko Sentai never achieved full operational capability and epitomized the IJAAF’s late-war improvisation phase.
It reflected the gap between ambition and reality — a unit created to project strength at a time when Japan could barely field serviceable aircraft.
Despite minimal combat power, the Sentai served as a transition and training formation for young pilots later pressed into emergency alert and special attack units during the final defense of Japan.
Among its sister units (21st to 25th Sentai), the 23rd was one of the least combat-effective but accurately mirrored the state of Japan’s air defense in late 1944: high morale, low effectiveness, and no meaningful influence on the war’s course.
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24th Hiko Sentai (第24飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 September 1938
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 6 December 1941): Takao, Formosa
Higher Command: 7th Air Brigade → 3rd Air Division → Southern Army → Aviation HQ
Commanding Officer (6 December 1941)
Major Takeshi Takahashi – experienced officer with prior service on the China front. Still an active combat pilot in 1941, he was known as a disciplined, steady leader — less charismatic than simply reliable.
Attributes: Skill 63 | Inspiration 56 | Naval 23 | Air 68 | Land 48 | Admin 57 | Aggression 50 | Political 18
Formation & Background
The 24th Hiko Sentai was formed in September 1938 as part of the expansion of the IJAAF’s front-line fighter forces in China.
By 1941, in preparation for the Pacific War, it was transferred to the Philippines under the 5th Hikoshidan.
The unit was one of the IJAAF’s most experienced fighter formations, composed largely of China and Manchukuo veterans, reinforced by new pilots from the Akeno and Tachiarai flight schools.
At Japan’s entry into the war on 8 December 1941, the Sentai was stationed at Laoag, northern Luzon, and took part immediately in air operations against Clark Field. Its pilots achieved early and notable success against Allied bombers and fighters, particularly in the first days of the campaign.
Organization (as of 6 December 1941)
– Structure: 3 Chutai, about 10 pilots each (27–30 active pilots after the start of hostilities)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (conversion to Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” began in 1942)
– Personnel: high proportion of veterans (over 50%), remainder recent graduates
– Operational Readiness: ≈75 %
Aircraft Strength (6 December 1941)
– Total: 45 – Operational: 35 – Under maintenance/damaged: 7 – Reserve: 3
Remarks: Early production aircraft of high reliability. Maintenance conditions on Luzon were initially good, deteriorating after the first weeks due to material wear and supply shortages.
Pilot Roster (6 December 1941)
Pilots 41/12/06: 30 → after 41/12/07: 28
053 – MAJ Takeshi Takahashi (Commander Sentai) – XP 60 – entry 1941/12/06
054 – MAJ Hajime Tabuchi (Hikotai Leader) – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06
055 – CPT Tsugoo Kojima (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 57 – entry 1941/12/06
056 – CPT Hyōe Yonaga ★ Ace (16 victories) – XP 77 – entry 1941/12/06
057 – CPT Shōichirō Hironotsune (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 56 – entry 1941/12/06
058 – WO Yasu Usami – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
059 – WO Morio Matsui ★ Ace (21 victories) – XP 84 – entry 1941/12/06
060 – WO Gorō Miyamoto ★ Top Ace (26 victories) – XP 85 – entry 1941/12/06
061 – WO Mitsuo Ogura ★ Ace (14 victories) – XP 60 – entry 1941/12/06
062 – WO Megumu Ono ★ Ace (15 victories) – XP 61 – entry 1941/12/06
063 – 2LT Chiyoshi Saitō ★ Ace (24 victories) – XP 82 – entry 1941/12/06
064 – WO Saburō Saitō – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
065 – CPT Isao Kojima – XP 56 – entry 1941/12/06
7267 – WO Kaichi Suga – XP 43 – entry 1942/03/01
7268 – WO Shinzō Izumoji – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7269 – CPT Hyōsuke Hinotsume – XP 59 – entry 1943/05/01
7270 – CPT Heisuke Hizume – XP 59 – entry 1941/12/06
7271 – WO Tōgō Tatsumi – XP 43 – entry 1943/09/15
7272 – WO Tomoshige Yoshida – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7273 – WO Kunitoshi Samejima – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7274 – 1LT Tetsuji Watanabe – XP 51 – entry 1942/07/20
7275 – WO Yukio Koshibara – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7276 – WO Hikoto Satō – XP 43 – entry 1943/02/01
7277 – 1LT Tadashi Koga – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7278 – WO Naoji Menya – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/25
7279 – 1LT Toshio Yanagizawa – XP 51 – entry 1944/06/03
7280 – 1LT Kinji Kuroda – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7281 – WO Tetsunosuke Suda – XP 43 – entry 1942/04/01
7282 – WO Ryūsuke Shibata – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7283 – 1LT Motosuke Kashima – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7284 – WO Shōji Mizuno – XP 43 – entry 1942/05/01
7285 – 2LT Takurō Ishiguro – XP 48 – entry 1941/12/06
7286 – WO Toshio Sahara – XP 43 – entry 1943/12/15
7287 – WO Masao Shirato – XP 43 – entry 1943/05/01
7288 – WO Tomio Aoki – XP 43 – entry 1942/06/10
7289 – WO Ryōbei Sumida – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7290 – 1LT Hiroshi Maruyama – XP 51 – entry 1944/02/10
7291 – WO Katsunobu Nishinami – XP 43 – entry 1943/05/01
7292 – 1LT Masahiro Fujiwara – XP 51 – entry 1943/01/01
7293 – WO Toshimi Ōhira – XP 43 – entry 1943/05/01
7294 – WO Yoshiichi Yamamoto – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/07
7295 – WO Genpei Takewara – XP 43 – entry 1943/03/20
7296 – WO Ichirō Michishita – XP 43 – entry 1943/05/01
7297 – WO Sutejirō Yamakawa – XP 43 – entry 1942/07/01
7298 – WO Yoshikoto Yoshioka – XP 43 – entry 1944/01/20
7299 – WO Kesaji Maruyama – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7300 – 1LT Teisaku Ajiki – XP 51 – entry 1943/05/01
7301 – WO Takeo Kondō – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7302 – WO Kōji Ishizawa ★ Ace (11 victories) – XP 57 – entry 1942/01/10
7303 – WO Katsutaki Kira ★ Ace (18 victories) – XP 72 – entry 1941/12/06
7304 – 1LT Shōgo Saitō ★ Top Ace (25 victories) – XP 84 – entry 1942/08/20
7305 – CPT Haruyoshi Furukawa (7 victories) – XP 70 – entry 1941/12/06
7306 – 1LT Eichirō Takeuchi – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7307 – CPT Kanji Kikuchi – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7308 – WO Akira Kumagaya – XP 43 – entry 1942/03/01
7309 – WO Kōzō Ishibashi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7310 – WO Kazuo Miyasaki – XP 43 – entry 1942/05/01
7311 – WO Iwao Higashiyama – XP 43 – entry 1942/07/01
7312 – WO Hideaki Inayama ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 53 – entry 1941/12/06
7313 – WO Morichiki Kamae – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
Averages (as of 6 December 1941)
• Average XP: 55–56
• Average Morale: 75
Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Development)
1941 – 30 pilots → Avg XP 55.0 (Matsui 84; Miyamoto 85; Saitō C. 82; Saitō Shōgo 84)
1942 – 14 pilots → Avg XP 48.0
1943 – 11 pilots → Avg XP 46.0
1944 – 3 pilots → Avg XP 48.0
Total: 58 pilots → Overall Avg XP 51.0
Evaluation
The 24th Hiko Sentai was among the most battle-tested IJAAF units of the early war. It was distinguished by disciplined leadership, a high veteran ratio, and strong individual pilot performance.
Between 1941 and 1942 it participated in nearly every major operation in the Philippines and the Netherlands East Indies, achieving an impressive victory record with comparatively low losses.
By 1943, its combat power declined due to material fatigue, personnel transfers, and difficulties converting to new aircraft, yet the Sentai remained an experienced and respected formation through 1944.
Its operational history exemplifies the evolution of the IJAAF from elite early-war formations into increasingly strained front-line units as the conflict dragged on.
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26th Hiko Sentai (第26飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 October 1942
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 October 1942): Yamentun (near Tsitsihar, Manchuria)
Higher Command: (likely 2nd Air Army / Kwantung Army Air Force)

Commanding Officer (1 October 1942)
Major Takashi Shimatani – seasoned officer who still flew combat sorties during 1941–42. Although initially leading from the cockpit, he later shifted toward ground-based coordination and administrative command.
Attributes: Skill 58 | Inspiration 52 | Naval 21 | Air 64 | Land 45 | Admin 54 | Aggression 49 | Political 16

Formation & Background
The 26th Hiko Sentai was organized on 1 October 1942 at Yamentun, Manchuria, primarily composed of personnel drawn from the 77th Sentai and newly graduated pilots from the Akeno and Mito flight schools.
It was part of the Kwantung Army’s regional air defense network, though soon earmarked for possible transfer to the southern front.
The unit’s early months were marked by shortages of modern aircraft — it operated mainly older Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” fighters, with a gradual transition to the Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” by late 1942.
With fewer than 20 aircraft available, the Sentai initially conducted defensive patrols and limited training operations across northern China.

Organization (as of 1 October 1942)
– Structure: 3 Chutai (understrength, roughly 18–20 aircraft total)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (early re-equipment with Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” from late 1942)
– Personnel: about 45 pilots – roughly 20 veterans from the 77th Sentai, remainder from Akeno and Mito
– Role: Regional air defense and training

Aircraft Strength (1 October 1942)
– Total: 18 – Operational: 14 – Damaged/Under repair: 3 – Reserve: 1

Pilot Roster (1942/10/01 – 1944/12/30)

7318 – MAJ Takashi Shimatani (Commander Sentai) – XP 60 – entry 1942/10/01
7319 – CPT Naosuke Kurokawa (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1942/10/01
7320 – CPT Shiro Ban-nai (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1942/10/01
7321 – CPT Kunihiko Takano (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1942/10/01
7322 – WO Kiyoo Ishikawa – XP 43 – entry 1942/10/01
7323 – WO Matsuo Mori – XP 43 – entry 1942/10/01
7324 – WO Michitaka Yamato – XP 43 – entry 1942/10/01
7325 – WO Chiesaburō Uenishi – XP 43 – entry 1942/10/01
7326 – WO Ren Uchida – XP 43 – entry 1942/10/01
7327 – 1LT Fujio Nawa – XP 51 – entry 1942/10/01
7328 – MAJ Tadao Sakaguchi – XP 68 – entry 1942/10/01
7329 – WO Takashi Iwamoto – XP 43 – entry 1942/10/01
7330 – WO Risuke Okamoto – XP 43 – entry 1943/06/20
7331 – WO Toyozō Yasumoto – XP 43 – entry 1942/10/01
7332 – CPT Nobuaki Umeoka – XP 58 – entry 1944/01/10
7333 – WO Yoshinori Noguchi – XP 43 – entry 1942/10/01
7334 – CPT Koji Kuwahata – XP 58 – entry 1944/03/01
7335 – 1LT Kenki Yoshida – XP 51 – entry 1943/11/01
7336 – WO Goro Haraguchi – XP 43 – entry 1943/11/05
7337 – WO Tadashi Mizui – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/11
7338 – WO Shigehiro Maekawa – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/11
7339 – MAJ Ryohei Nagata – XP 68 – entry 1944/12/30
7340 – 1LT Asaki Tsukakoshi – XP 51 – entry 1944/03/04

Averages (as of 1 October 1942)
• Average XP: 51
• Average Morale: 71

Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Development)
1942 – 15 pilots → Avg XP 55.4
1943 – 3 pilots → Avg XP 47.0
1944 – 8 pilots → Avg XP 52.0
Total: 26 pilots → Overall Avg XP 51.0

Evaluation
The 26th Hiko Sentai exemplified a typical mid-war front-line formation of 1942 — small, disciplined, but materially limited.
Under Major Shimatani, the unit maintained respectable readiness despite shortages in aircraft and replacements. It later functioned as a feeder and training base for newly raised Chutai before being redeployed to the southern defense zone in 1943–44.
A classic standard unit: reliable, professional, but never legendary.
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29th Hiko Sentai (第29飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 February 1944
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 September 1944): Hailin, Manchuria
Higher Command: Kwantung Army Air Force
Commanding Officer (1 February 1944)
Major Takeo Kawada – career IJAAF officer with extensive training and administrative background. Prior to assuming command of the newly formed 29th Hiko Sentai in Manchuria, he served primarily in flight-school and staff assignments. Pragmatic and disciplined, Kawada was more of an organizer than a frontline combat leader, concentrating on developing the Sentai into a capable training and patrol formation.
Attributes: Skill 60 | Inspiration 54 | Naval 20 | Air 63 | Land 45 | Admin 58 | Aggression 45 | Political 17
Formation & Background
The 29th Hiko Sentai was officially established on 1 February 1944 in Manchuria as part of the Kwantung Army Air Force’s regional defense network.
Initially equipped with aging Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” fighters, its primary role was airspace surveillance, pilot training, and local defense. Though nominally an operational unit, it served mainly as a transitional formation bridging combat squadrons and replacement-training units.
Most of its personnel were recent graduates from the Akeno and Mito flight schools, gaining their first operational experience under field conditions.
Chronic fuel shortages and the lack of modern aircraft sharply limited flying hours. Planned conversion to the Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” was repeatedly delayed and ultimately never fully realized.
Organization (as of 1 March 1944)
– Structure: 3-Chutai standard organization (approx. 31 pilots)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”
– Role: Air patrol, regional defense, and operational flight training
– Personnel: Largely composed of flight-school graduates; only a handful of experienced instructors
Aircraft Strength (as of 1 March 1944)
– Total: 31 – Operational: 22 – Under maintenance/damaged: 6 – Reserve: 3
Remarks: Most aircraft were refurbished training types; intended re-equipment with the Ki-43 was cancelled due to logistical constraints and the worsening fuel situation.
Pilot Roster (as of 1 February 1944)
Pilots 44/02/01: 15
MAJ Takeo Kawada (Commander Sentai) – XP 64 – entry 1944/02/01
CPT Masatsugu Tsuchihashi (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/02/01
CPT Fumihiro Yabuta (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/02/01
CPT Tokuji Chijiiwa (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/02/01
CPT Seyoto Masai (Seibitai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/02/01
CPT Ryusuke Kinugasa – XP 58 – entry 1944/02/01
WO Iwao Ohmachi – XP 43 – entry 1944/02/01
WO Yoshiyuki Shiotani – XP 43 – entry 1944/02/01
WO Koichi Ishikawa – XP 43 – entry 1944/02/01
WO Katsujiro Fujiwara – XP 43 – entry 1944/02/01
WO Tatsuya Iwanaga – XP 43 – entry 1944/02/01
WO Fumiaki Shigeoka – XP 43 – entry 1944/02/01
WO Junichi Kogoma – XP 43 – entry 1944/02/01
WO Takuitsu Togame – XP 43 – entry 1944/02/01
Unit Averages (as of 1 February 1944)
• Average XP: 48
• Average Morale: 57
Evaluation
The 29th Hiko Sentai was a late-war hybrid formation — nominally a combat unit, but functionally a regional training and patrol command.
Despite solid leadership and administrative discipline under Major Kawada, the Sentai’s operational effectiveness was constrained by obsolete aircraft and the near-total absence of combat experience.
Its real contribution lay in maintaining basic air defense coverage over northern Manchuria and in providing transitional flying experience for newly graduated pilots before their reassignment to front-line Sentai during 1944–45.
A quiet, dutiful unit that reflected the fading ambitions of the late IJAAF — structured, loyal, and ultimately irrelevant to the war’s outcome.
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Peiper1944 · Post by **Peiper1944** » Sat Nov 08, 2025 7:47 pm

31st Hiko Sentai (第31飛行戦隊)
Founded: 18 February 1943
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 18 February 1943): Paicheng, Manchuria
Higher Command: 3rd Air Army (China Area Army)
Commanding Officer (18 February 1943)
Major Masateru Kashima – veteran officer of the China front. In 1941 still an active combat pilot, he was known for strict discipline and reliability rather than charisma. Commanded the unit during the reorganization of the North China air formations.
Attributes: Skill 60 | Inspiration 54 | Naval 22 | Air 66 | Land 46 | Admin 55 | Aggression 50 | Political 17
Formation & Background
The 31st Hiko Sentai was established in February 1943 at Paicheng Airfield in Manchuria.
It was formed from remnants of older China-based units and initially served the 3rd Air Army as a security and training formation.
At its inception the unit was equipped with the outdated Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate,” but by mid-1943 it gradually converted to the Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” (Oscar).
Its personnel consisted of a small core of seasoned officers and NCOs from earlier China campaigns, supplemented by numerous new graduates from the Akeno and Mito flight schools.
The Sentai remained active in northern China until late 1944, when it was redeployed to central China to conduct escort, patrol, and security missions in support of army operations.
Organization (as of 18 February 1943)
– Structure: 3 Chutai
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (conversion to Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” during 1943)
– Personnel: veteran cadre reinforced by flight-school graduates
– Role: fighter patrol, convoy escort, and rear-area air defense
Aircraft Strength (as of 18 February 1943)
– Total: 24 – Operational: 18 – Damaged/Maintenance: 4 – Reserve: 2
Pilot Roster (as of 18 February 1943)
Pilots 41/12/06: 0 → after 41/12/07: 32
7345 – MAJ Masateru Kashima (Commander Sentai) – XP 59 – entry 1943/02/18
7346 – CPT Isao Ishii (Hikotai Leader) – XP 60 – entry 1943/02/18
7347 – CPT Kazutami Okano (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1943/02/18
7348 – CPT Hisao Nakazawa (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1943/02/18
7349 – CPT Minao Masunaga (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1943/02/18
7350 – CPT Tatsumaru Sugiyama (Seibitai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1943/02/18
7351 – WO Fukuzō Kitakaze – XP 43 – entry 1943/02/18
7352 – 1LT Shinya Takahashi – XP 51 – entry 1943/02/18
7353 – WO Nobuo Iwabe – XP 43 – entry 1943/02/18
7354 – 2LT Yukio Kizuka – XP 51 – entry 1943/02/18
7355 – 1LT Mitsuyoshi Yamashita – XP 51 – entry 1943/02/18
7356 – WO Shim Ishikawa – XP 43 – entry 1943/02/18
7357 – WO Harumi Hara – XP 43 – entry 1943/02/18
7358 – WO Teruichi Kiuchi – XP 43 – entry 1943/02/18
7359 – 2LT Teruo Takenaka – XP 51 – entry 1943/02/18
7360 – 1LT Teruto Hasegawa – XP 51 – entry 1943/02/18
7361 – WO Tadamitsu Iwahara – XP 43 – entry 1943/02/18
7362 – WO Hisao Fujinaga – XP 43 – entry 1943/02/18
7363 – 1LT Hiroshi Tsukada – XP 51 – entry 1943/07/20
7364 – WO Takuzo Moriyama – XP 43 – entry 1944/01/10
7365 – CPT Mitsuo Araki – XP 58 – entry 1943/05/15
7366 – WO Eiji Naruse – XP 43 – entry 1943/08/05
7367 – 2LT Kazuhiko Hori – XP 40 – entry 1943/04/01
7368 – WO Jiro Takahata – XP 43 – entry 1944/06/03
7369 – 1LT Shunji Obata – XP 51 – entry 1943/05/25
7370 – WO Yoshikazu Ando – XP 43 – entry 1943/03/10
7371 – CPT Toru Matsuo – XP 58 – entry 1944/02/10
7372 – CPT Takeshi Kosai – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01
7373 – 2LT Shigeru Sugita – XP 40 – entry 1945/01/08
7374 – 2LT Takatoshi Nakamori – XP 40 – entry 1945/01/08
7375 – WO Seiko Konno – XP 43 – entry 1943/03/01
7376 – WO Masamishi Sawai – XP 43 – entry 1943/03/10
Unit Averages (as of 18 February 1943)
• Average XP: 52–53
• Average Morale: 73
Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Development)
1943 – 23 pilots → Avg XP 49.5
1944 – 7 pilots → Avg XP 49.0
1945 – 2 pilots → Avg XP 40.0
Total: 32 pilots → Overall Avg XP 48.8
Evaluation
The 31st Hiko Sentai was a textbook example of a mid-war transitional fighter formation. Its mix of experienced China-front veterans and newly graduated pilots produced consistent, if unremarkable, performance.
Neither an elite nor a training unit, it fulfilled its duties reliably as a standard IJAAF Sentai assigned to escort and security missions across northern and central China.
Overall assessment: average, disciplined, dependable — but without distinction or fame.
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33rd Hiko Sentai (第33飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 August 1938
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 6 December 1941): Xingshu, China
Higher Command: 3rd Air Brigade / 3rd Hikō Shidan (China Area Army)
Commanding Officer (6 December 1941)
Lieutenant Colonel Kiyoshi Harada – veteran of the China campaign, known for his reliability and steady leadership. Active in combat until 1942, later transitioned to ground command functions. Under his direction the 33rd Sentai maintained discipline, cohesion, and a steady operational tempo with comparatively few losses.
Attributes: Skill 61 | Inspiration 55 | Naval 23 | Air 67 | Land 47 | Admin 56 | Aggression 51 | Political 18
Formation & Background
The 33rd Hiko Sentai originated in late 1938 from elements of earlier China-based air formations, including detachments from the 59th Independent Flying Chutai and sections of the 11th Sentai.
Operating from the Wuhan–Hankow sector, it was tasked with maintaining air superiority over central China. Prior to formal reorganization, the “Xingshu Detachment” had already conducted front-line operations using Ki-27 “Nate” fighters in support of Japanese ground offensives toward Chongqing.
The Sentai remained continuously engaged on the China front, participating only indirectly in Southeast Asian operations. Re-equipment with the Nakajima Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” (Oscar) began gradually from 1942 onward.
Organization (as of 6 December 1941)
– Structure: 3 Chutai (approx. 24 pilots at the outbreak of war; increased to about 38 after Pearl Harbor)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (conversion to Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” from 1942)
– Personnel: mix of China veterans and new flight-school graduates
Aircraft Strength (as of 6 December 1941)
– Total: 45 – Operational: 34 – Damaged/Maintenance: 8 – Reserve: 3
Pilot Roster (as of 6 December 1941)
Pilots 41/12/06: 26 → after 41/12/07: 31
077 – LT COL Kiyoshi Harada (Commander Sentai) – XP 64 – entry 1941/12/06
078 – CPT Masaharu Miura (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
079 – CPT Takeo Kawada (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
080 – CPT Takeo Satō (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
081 – 2LT Kiyoshi Namai ★ Ace (14 victories) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
082 – 2LT Ryotaro Jobo ★ Ace (20 victories) – XP 82 – entry 1941/12/06
083 – WO Gonnohsin Satō – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7379 – WO Shiro Ohtake – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/07
7380 – CPT Saburo Ohtsuka – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/08
7381 – WO Tsuguo Shimada – XP 43 – entry 1943/01/10
7382 – 1LT Fujio Ichihashi – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7383 – WO Kameo Okada – XP 43 – entry 1944/01/20
7384 – 1LT Yoshio Kaminosono – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7385 – MAJ Shimoo Morikawa – XP 68 – entry 1942/08/07
7386 – WO Kaneru Yakata – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7387 – CPT Yuto Sakashita – XP 58 – entry 1943/06/15
7388 – 1LT Ichiro Sakai – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7389 – CPT Yasuto Ohtsuno – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7390 – MAJ Hideyasu Furutani – XP 68 – entry 1943/02/01
7391 – MAJ Kumimitsu Taguchi – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/08
7392 – 1LT Yasuto Ohtsubo – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/07
7393 – WO Tamotsu Watanabe – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/08
7394 – WO Teruo Yajima – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
7395 – WO Shigeru Tanaka – XP 43 – entry 1943/06/20
7396 – WO Yoshiaki Terayama – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7397 – WO Shigenobu Hoshi – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/07
7398 – MAJ Mitsuo Takekawa – XP 68 – entry 1943/07/01
7399 – 2LT Kiyotake Takahashi – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7400 – WO Teruo Tsuji – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
7401 – MAJ Hiroshi Yamashita – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06
7402 – WO Shiro Fukuda – XP 43 – entry 1943/01/01
7403 – MAJ Akira Watanabe – XP 68 – entry 1942/07/01
7404 – WO Yukiji Nogawa – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/08
7405 – WO Hiroshi Tanaka – XP 43 – entry 1944/02/01
7406 – MAJ Yasuo Hasegawa – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/08
7407 – MAJ Hirotsugo Nakajima – XP 68 – entry 1942/08/07
7408 – 1LT Yoshibumi Suzuka – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/08
7409 – WO Shironushi Kumagaya – XP 43 – entry 1943/06/15
7410 – 2LT Kiku-ichi Aona – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7411 – WO Takuzo Matsumura – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/08
7412 – 2LT Masanobu Nakamura – XP 51 – entry 1943/02/01
7413 – MAJ Toshitaro Sakaeda – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/08
7414 – MAJ Tatsu Tomatsu – XP 68 – entry 1942/08/07
7415 – MAJ Shigeharu Takemori – XP 68 – entry 1943/07/01
7416 – MAJ Hiroshi Narazaki – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06
7417 – WO Ichiro Kochi – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
7418 – WO Hideo Satō – XP 43 – entry 1943/02/01
7419 – MAJ Sakae Kasai – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06
7420 – WO Shiro Midorino – XP 43 – entry 1942/07/01
7421 – MAJ Hiroshi Yamaura – XP 68 – entry 1943/06/20
7422 – 2LT Taeyoshi Kuroki ★ Ace (8 victories) – XP 57 – entry 1943/11/01
7423 – 2LT Shinobu Terada ★ Ace (9 victories) – XP 58 – entry 1942/01/05
7424 – WO Mitsuo Yamato ★ Ace (8 victories) – XP 56 – entry 1942/01/01
7425 – 1LT Yukio Komatsu – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7426 – WO Mitsuo Matsumoto – XP 40 – entry 1942/01/05
7427 – WO Seiji Ohya – XP 39 – entry 1942/01/05
7428 – MAJ Nobuo Chigira – XP 42 – entry 1942/01/05
7429 – CPT Manpei Yuge – XP 58 – entry 1942/01/05
7430 – MAJ Kimata Hori – XP 43 – entry 1942/05/01
7431 – WO Takashi Murakami – XP 43 – entry 1942/07/01
7432 – 1LT Hitoshi Yamamoto – XP 51 – entry 1944/11/01
7433 – 1LT Tetsuzo Kuroki – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
Unit Averages (as of 6 December 1941)
• Average XP: 54–55
• Average Morale: 75
Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Development)
1941 – 26 pilots → Avg XP 57.2 (Jobo 82)
1942 – 12 pilots → Avg XP 51.0
1943 – 14 pilots → Avg XP 52.5
1944 – 5 pilots → Avg XP 46.0
Total: 57 pilots → Overall Avg XP 53.0
Evaluation
The 33rd Hiko Sentai represented a typical China-based IJAAF fighter formation of the mid-war period — steady, reliable, and professionally led. Not an elite unit by reputation, but a consistent and durable presence over central China.
Its strength lay in tactical discipline and the leadership of experienced officers such as LtCol Harada, who maintained cohesion despite the strain of long operational service.
From 1942 to 1943 the 33rd Sentai formed a key component of the IJAAF’s central China air defense network. By 1944, attrition and redistribution of personnel reduced its prominence, though it remained respected for its endurance and stability.
Summary: dependable China-front workhorse — effective, disciplined, and unglamorous.
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47th Independent Fighter Chutai (第47独立戦闘中隊)
Founded: 1 November 1941
Classification: Experimental Fighter Unit
Base (as of 6 December 1941): Saigon, Indochina
Higher Command: 5th Air Brigade → 3rd Air Division → Southern Army → Aviation HQ
Commanding Officer (6 December 1941)
Major Toshio Sakagawa – seasoned officer from the China front, known for composure and personal courage. In 1941 he still led combat flights himself, commanding his small unit directly in the field. Calm, pragmatic, and respected by subordinates for his fairness and skill.
Attributes: Skill 59 | Inspiration 53 | Naval 21 | Air 65 | Land 44 | Admin 54 | Aggression 48 | Political 16
Formation & Background
The 47th Independent Fighter Chutai (Dokuritsu Sentō Chūtai) was established on 1 November 1941 at Saigon, Indochina.
Formed as a small experimental unit, it was placed directly under the 3rd Air Division for the opening stages of the Southern Operation (南方作戦, Nampō Sakusen).
Its mission: provide air cover for advancing Army formations in Malaya and Indochina, and test the new high-speed interceptor Nakajima Ki-44 “Shōki” (Tojo) under combat conditions.
The Chutai drew most of its pilots from China-front elite units such as the 1st and 11th Hiko Sentai, forming a nucleus of highly experienced fliers. From early December 1941 it conducted escort and interception missions from Saigon toward Kota Bharu and Singora, playing a pioneering role in IJAAF fighter tactics in Southeast Asia.
Organization (as of 6 December 1941)
– Structure: 1 Chutai (approx. 15 pilots)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-44-I “Shōki”
– Role: High-speed interceptor, air cover for ground offensives
– Personnel: compact veteran cadre, later reinforced with new graduates in 1942
Aircraft Strength (as of 6 December 1941)
– Total: 18 – Operational: 13 – Damaged/Maintenance: 3 – Reserve: 2
Pilot Roster (as of 6 December 1941)
Pilots 41/12/06: 15 → after 41/12/07: 11
091 – MAJ Toshio Sakagawa ★ Ace (15 victories) – XP 78 – entry 1941/12/06
092 – CPT Yasuhiko Kuroe ★ Top Ace (30 victories) – XP 85 – entry 1941/12/06
093 – 2LT Shinji Sugiyama – XP 35 – entry 1941/12/06
7437 – WO Noboru Shimoyama – XP 35 – entry 1943/06/20
7438 – CPT Toshio Kijima – XP 50 – entry 1942/08/07
7439 – CPT Yasurō Mazaki – XP 50 – entry 1941/12/06
7440 – WO Yoshio Mita – XP 35 – entry 1942/01/05
7441 – WO Takashi Awamura – XP 35 – entry 1941/12/06
7442 – WO Masumi Sachi – XP 35 – entry 1943/02/01
7443 – WO Kiyoshi Suzuki – XP 35 – entry 1941/12/06
7444 – 1LT Heikichi Yoshizawa – XP 35 – entry 1942/07/01
7445 – WO Chūichi Nakajima – XP 35 – entry 1941/12/06
7446 – CPT Tōro Nakahara – XP 50 – entry 1942/08/07
7447 – CPT Teiichi Hatano – XP 50 – entry 1943/07/01
7448 – CPT Shin-ichi Matsuzaki – XP 50 – entry 1941/12/06
7449 – WO Kaneaki Sanpei – XP 35 – entry 1944/01/10
7450 – WO Isamu Sakamoto ★ Ace – XP 62 – entry 1945/01/15
7451 – CPT Toshihide Ohmori – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7452 – WO Seiji Nakamura – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
7453 – WO Keiichi Takeuchi – XP 43 – entry 1942/05/01
7454 – CPT Susumu Jinbo – XP 50 – entry 1941/12/06
7455 – 1LT Etsuji Mitsumoto – XP 35 – entry 1941/12/06
7456 – WO Tokutaro Takakura – XP 35 – entry 1941/12/06
7457 – WO Naosuke Okada – XP 35 – entry 1941/12/06
7458 – WO Takao Ito – XP 35 – entry 1941/12/06
7459 – WO Satoshi Tanaka – XP 35 – entry 1941/12/06
Pilot Averages (as of 6 December 1941)
• Average XP: ≈ 53
• Average Morale: ≈ 71
Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Development)
1941 – 15 pilots → Avg XP 53.4
1942 – 5 pilots → Avg XP 41.0
1943 – 3 pilots → Avg XP 40.0
1944 – 1 pilot → Avg XP 35.0
1945 – 2 pilots → Avg XP 62.0
Total: 26 pilots → Overall Avg XP 46.8
Evaluation
The 47th Independent Fighter Chutai was one of the smallest yet most experienced IJAAF fighter units at the outbreak of the Pacific War.
Its pilots, many of them hardened veterans of China, were the first to bring the Ki-44 “Shōki” into combat and demonstrated the aircraft’s strengths as a high-speed interceptor against Allied bombers and reconnaissance planes.
Despite its limited size, the unit played a crucial role in securing air superiority during the Malaya campaign. By mid-1942 the Chutai was gradually disbanded, with its best pilots transferred to elite formations such as the 59th and 64th Sentai, where they trained and led the next generation of IJAAF fighter aces.
A short-lived but historically pivotal formation — small in number, large in influence.
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48th Hiko Sentai (第48飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 July 1943
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 July 1943): Probably Luzon, Philippines
Higher Command: 3rd Air Army (Southeast Asia Area Army)
Commanding Officer (1 July 1943)
Major Masao Matsuo – seasoned IJAAF officer originally from a China-based formation. In 1943 he assumed command of the newly organized 48th Hiko Sentai, composed mainly of experienced pilots drawn from the 77th and 204th Sentai.
Matsuo was a calm and disciplined commander who emphasized tactical order and coordination over individual aggression.
Attributes: Skill 60 | Inspiration 54 | Naval 22 | Air 66 | Land 46 | Admin 55 | Aggression 50 | Political 17
Formation & Background
The 48th Hiko Sentai was established in July 1943 during the reorganization of the southern air forces.
Initially, it operated the Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” as a training and transition aircraft, serving both as an operational and replacement unit for the Philippines sector.
Its personnel comprised about forty officers and NCOs, most of them veterans from active front-line formations such as the 77th and 204th Sentai.
Despite its capable leadership, the unit suffered from chronic shortages of modern aircraft and spare parts, which limited combat readiness.
In the second half of 1943 the Sentai conducted training, escort, and patrol operations over Luzon and Mindanao, contributing indirectly to the air defense network of Southeast Asia.
Organization (as of 1 July 1943)
– Structure: 2 Chutai (partial strength, approx. 40 pilots)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”
– Role: Training, escort, and reinforcement operations
– Personnel: mostly veterans from 77th and 204th Sentai
Aircraft Strength (as of 1 July 1943)
– Total: 30 – Operational: 23 – Damaged/Maintenance: 5 – Reserve: 2
Pilot Roster (as of 1 July 1943)
Pilots 41/12/06: 0 → after 41/12/07: 23
7463 – MAJ Masao Matsuo (Commander Sentai) – XP 64 – entry 1943/07/01
7464 – CPT Tadashi Nishikawa (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1943/07/01
7465 – CPT Kazue Masuda (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1943/07/01
7466 – WO Katsuji Kurosaka – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
7467 – WO Nobuyuki Hoshi – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
7468 – WO Takuma Hashimoto – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
7469 – 2LT Masaki Nihei – XP 51 – entry 1943/07/01
7470 – WO Masao Sawada – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
7471 – 1LT Takeju Yamamoto – XP 51 – entry 1943/07/01
7472 – WO Jun Ohno – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
7473 – WO Tsukasa Harayoshi – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
7474 – 2LT Kiyoshi Mochizuki – XP 51 – entry 1943/07/01
7475 – 2LT Minoru Tayama – XP 51 – entry 1943/07/01
7476 – 1LT Hiroyoshi Nishikawa – XP 51 – entry 1943/07/01
7477 – CPT Gun-ichi Yamada – XP 58 – entry 1943/07/01
7478 – WO Minoru Honma – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
7479 – 1LT Kenzo Azuma – XP 51 – entry 1943/07/01
7480 – 1LT Masukichi Kimura – XP 51 – entry 1943/07/01
7481 – WO Shigeru Tanno – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
7482 – WO Tomisaburō Takemura – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
7483 – WO Yoshihiro Nakanishi – XP 41 – entry 1943/07/01
7484 – WO Susumu Ito – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
7485 – 1LT Kinya Nakajima – XP 51 – entry 1944/04/29
7486 – WO Sou Okabe – XP 41 – entry 1945/08/01
Unit Averages (as of 1 July 1943)
• Average XP: 48–50 (Officers 58–64 | NCOs 41–43)
• Average Morale: 72 (strong discipline, steady morale)
Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Development)
1943 – 21 pilots → Avg XP 46.5
1944 – 1 pilot → Avg XP 51.0
1945 – 1 pilot → Avg XP 41.0
Total: 23 pilots → Overall Avg XP 48.0
Evaluation
The 48th Hiko Sentai typified the mid-war IJAAF standard formation: capable leadership, cohesive discipline, but limited combat potential due to obsolete aircraft and supply constraints.
Under Major Matsuo’s command, the unit maintained stability and operational reliability, serving primarily as a training and replacement formation for the southern air forces.
Though it never achieved major combat distinction, the Sentai contributed meaningfully to sustaining IJAAF air operations in Southeast Asia during a period of growing logistical decline.
Summary: dependable, steady, and quietly professional — a backbone unit without glamour, but without failure.
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50th Hiko Sentai (第50飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 September 1940
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 6 December 1941): Takao, Formosa
Higher Command: 7th Air Brigade → 3rd Air Division → Southern Army → Aviation HQ
Commanding Officer (6 December 1941)
Major Yasuo Makino – veteran of the China campaigns, known for calm, steady leadership and precise tactical discipline. Not a flamboyant leader, but a reliable and measured commander who continued to fly operational sorties during 1941.
Attributes: Skill 62 | Inspiration 55 | Naval 23 | Air 68 | Land 47 | Admin 56 | Aggression 50 | Political 18
Formation & Background
The 50th Hiko Sentai was organized on 1 September 1940 from elements of the 77th and 85th Hiko Chutai.
It was among the first IJAAF formations earmarked for the Southern Operation.
By autumn 1941 it was stationed on Formosa (Takao) under the 5th Air Division, forming part of the air assault component for the Philippine campaign. Its early missions included the devastating strikes against Iba, Clark Field, and Del Carmen.
The unit’s personnel combined seasoned China veterans with recent graduates from Tachiarai and Akeno flight schools. Makino’s leadership favored discipline, formation integrity, and teamwork over flamboyant individualism.
Organization (as of 6 December 1941)
– Structure: 3 Chutai (approx. 29 pilots, expanded to 38 after Pearl Harbor)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (re-equipment to Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” began in 1942)
– Personnel: core of combat-experienced veterans supported by young school graduates
Aircraft Strength (as of 6 December 1941)
– Total: 45 – Operational: 35 – Damaged/Maintenance: 7 – Reserve: 3
Unit Averages (as of 6 December 1941)
• Average XP: 55–56
• Average Morale: 75
Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Development)
1941 – 27 pilots → Avg XP 57.0 (Anabuki 87; Sasaki 84)
1942 – 37 pilots → Avg XP 48.0
1943 – 2 pilots → Avg XP 47.0
1944 – 1 pilot → Avg XP 51.0
Total: 67 pilots → Overall Avg XP 52.0
Pilot Roster (as of 6 December 1941)
Pilots 41/12/06: 27 → after 41/12/07: 40
095 – MAJ Yasuo Makino (Commander Sentai) – XP 64 – entry 1941/12/06
096 – CPT Shigetsuhi Nitta (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
097 – CPT Takehisa Yakuyama (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
098 – CPT Fujiro Sakaguchi (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
099 – WO Yojiro Obusa ★ Top Ace (19 victories) – XP 64 – entry 1941/12/06
100 – WO Isamu Sasaki ★ Ace (38 victories) – XP 84 – entry 1941/12/06
101 – WO Yukio Shimokawa ★ Ace (16 victories) – XP 72 – entry 1941/12/06
102 – CPT Teizo Kanamaru ★ Ace (13 victories) – XP 74 – entry 1941/12/06
103 – 2LT Koki Kawamoto ★ Ace (8 victories) – XP 57 – entry 1941/12/06
104 – 1LT Masao Miyamaru ★ Ace (8 victories) – XP 59 – entry 1941/12/06
105 – WO Tomesaku Igarashi ★ Top Ace (15 victories) – XP 60 – entry 1941/12/06
106 – CPT Katsumi Naganawa – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7491 – 1LT Yoshihisa Iguro – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7492 – 2LT Yasumitsu Wada – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7493 – 1LT Minoru Ni-ino – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7494 – MAJ Sadao Kimizuka – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06
7495 – 1LT Minoru Higuchi – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7496 – MAJ Kimiyoshi Araya – XP 68 – entry 1942/01/05
7497 – WO Toshisada Kurosawa – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7498 – WO Hiroshi Maeda – XP 43 – entry 1942/02/01
7499 – WO Yoshinobu Matsui – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7500 – CPT Seiji Takahashi – XP 58 – entry 1942/01/05
7501 – 1LT Fumitoshi Ogawa – XP 51 – entry 1943/07/20
7502 – WO Hisao Yamaguchi – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/07
7503 – WO Nobuyuki Kitahara – XP 43 – entry 1943/02/01
7504 – 2LT Keizo Nishimura – XP 51 – entry 1942/12/01
7505 – 1LT Masaki Tokunaga – XP 51 – entry 1944/02/10
7506 – 2LT Shigeru Nakazaki ★ Ace (13 victories) – XP 62 – entry 1942/08/01
7507 – WO Gentaro Wada – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
7508 – WO Atsuo Nagata – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7509 – 1LT Kazuhiko Ohyama – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7510 – WO Ken-ichi Ohgane – XP 43 – entry 1942/05/01
7511 – WO Kazuo Fuji – XP 43 – entry 1942/07/01
7512 – 1LT Shozaburo Kondo – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7513 – 1LT Keiji Yamamoto – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7514 – 1LT Hideshiro Muraki – XP 51 – entry 1942/07/01
7515 – WO Jukichi Sugawara – XP 43 – entry 1942/03/01
7516 – CPT Yoshihiro Takanarita – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7517 – 1LT Noriyuki Saito – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7518 – WO Masaharu Tabuchi – XP 41 – entry 1942/05/01
7519 – WO Masuo Tanaka – XP 43 – entry 1942/07/01
7520 – CPT Takashi Tomomune – XP 58 – entry 1942/01/05
7521 – WO Matsuo Kimoto – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7522 – WO Yoshio Maekawa – XP 41 – entry 1942/01/05
7523 – 2LT Takemi Takagi – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7524 – WO Harumi Watanabe – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7525 – 1LT Mamoru Koga – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7526 – 1LT Takumi Fukui – XP 51 – entry 1942/07/01
7527 – 2LT Toshiro Ishii – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7528 – WO Sadashige Kotaki – XP 43 – entry 1942/03/01
7529 – 1LT Kiyotaka Nagashima – XP 51 – entry 1942/05/01
7530 – WO Masaru Nakajima – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
7531 – WO Sadayuki Nakatake – XP 43 – entry 1942/07/01
7532 – WO Yashin Naito – XP 43 – entry 1942/03/01
7533 – WO Kimie Kato – XP 41 – entry 1942/05/01
7534 – WO Koichi Nagumo – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/08
7535 – WO Noboru Kirihara – XP 41 – entry 1942/01/05
7536 – WO Riichi Maekawa – XP 43 – entry 1942/07/01
7537 – 2LT Tokizo Nakamura – XP 51 – entry 1942/03/01
7538 – WO Norio Kubo – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7539 – MAJ Tatsuyo Fujii – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06
7540 – WO Fujio Muramatsu – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7541 – WO Otohiko Mori – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7542 – 1LT Norimoto Ninomiya – XP 51 – entry 1942/05/01
7543 – WO Yutaka Ohikudo – XP 43 – entry 1942/07/01
7544 – 1LT Keiichi Orimoto – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7545 – CPT Shoichi Mitamura – XP 58 – entry 1942/01/05
7546 – WO Harujiro Morita – XP 43 – entry 1942/03/01
7547 – 1LT Hanzo Sakurama – XP 51 – entry 1942/07/01
7548 – WO Noboru Mune ★ Top Ace (14 victories) – XP 62 – entry 1941/12/06
7549 – WO Satoru Anabuki ★ Top Ace (51 victories) – XP 87 – entry 1941/12/06
Evaluation
The 50th Hiko Sentai was a model early-war frontline formation: disciplined, combat-tested, and tactically efficient.
Its leadership cadre and ace pilots—Sasaki, Anabuki, and Makino—gave the Sentai an above-average combat value. The unit fought intensively over the Philippines, Dutch East Indies, and Burma, maintaining a strong operational record through 1943.
Though later weakened by attrition and shortages, it was never classified as exhausted or ineffective. The 50th Sentai embodied the archetype of the IJAAF “workhorse unit”: rarely in the spotlight, yet consistently effective, carrying the air war on the shoulders of a few outstanding veterans.
Summary: dependable, lethal, and battle-proven — one of the most solid standard Sentai of the 5th Air Division.
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51st Hiko Sentai (第51飛行戦隊)
Founded: 28 April 1944
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 28 April 1944): Ozuki Airfield, Honshū
Higher Command: Likely 6th Air Division / Homeland Air Defense Command
Commanding Officer (28 April 1944)
Major Tsuneo Nakajima – veteran of the China campaigns; pragmatic, dutiful, and methodical. In the early phase of the Sentai’s formation, he continued flying combat sorties himself before assuming a primarily ground-based leadership role.
Attributes: Skill 59 | Inspiration 53 | Naval 21 | Air 65 | Land 45 | Admin 54 | Aggression 48 | Political 16
Formation & Background
The 51st Hiko Sentai was established in April 1944 at Ozuki Airfield on Honshū as part of the late-war IJAAF restructuring.
It was one of several newly raised mixed-transition formations, combining veteran officers from older China-based units with newly graduated pilots from the flight schools.
Its primary role was local air defense of western Japan and training on the Nakajima Ki-43 “Hayabusa”, later preparing for conversion to the Ki-84 “Hayate.”
Operational readiness was moderate; only a fraction of pilots had actual combat experience. The unit’s veteran cadre provided structure and instruction, but lack of combat exposure and limited fuel and parts curtailed its fighting potential.
Organization (as of 28 April 1944)
– Structure: 1–2 Chutai (approx. 18 pilots, understrength)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-84 “Hayate” (initial training use)
– Role: Air defense and conversion training
– Personnel: small veteran cadre; majority newly commissioned flight-school graduates
Aircraft Strength (as of 28 April 1944)
– Total: 27 – Operational: 20 – Damaged/Maintenance: 5 – Reserve: 2
Remarks: Aircraft from early production lots; engine reliability issues and limited spare-part availability restricted readiness.
Pilot Roster (as of 28 April 1944)
Pilots 41/12/06: 0 → after 44/04/28: 18
7551 – MAJ Tsuneo Nakajima (Commander Sentai) – XP 64 – entry 1944/04/28
7552 – CPT Chikashi Nishikawa (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/04/28
7553 – CPT Toshio Ohbuchi (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/04/28
7554 – CPT Michio Yanashiro (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/04/28
7555 – CPT Tsutomu Hiramatsu (Seibitai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/04/28
7556 – 1LT Mitsuhiro Ito – XP 51 – entry 1944/04/28
7557 – WO Mutsuro Ohsawa – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/28
7558 – 2LT Hideo Ariyasu – XP 51 – entry 1944/04/28
7559 – 1LT Masaaki Kawano – XP 51 – entry 1944/04/28
7560 – WO Susumu Odagiri – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/28
7561 – 1LT Kemzo Mitsuishi – XP 51 – entry 1944/04/28
7562 – MAJ Bonpu Nakajima – XP 68 – entry 1944/04/28
7563 – WO Kazushige Ohhashi – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/28
7564 – WO Kazumi Tokuoka – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/28
7565 – WO Masahide Sakamoto – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/28
7566 – CPT Toshio Abe – XP 58 – entry 1944/04/28
7567 – WO Kazuo Sato – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/28
7568 – CPT Tadao Ikeda – XP 58 – entry 1944/12/01
7569 – WO Fujio Tsunemi – XP 43 – entry 1944/11/03
Unit Averages (as of 28 April 1944)
• Average XP: 49–50 (Officers 58–64 | NCOs 43–51)
• Average Morale: 71 (disciplined, but lacking combat exposure)
Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Development)
1944 – 18 pilots → Avg XP 51.0
Total: 18 pilots → Overall Avg XP 51.0
Evaluation
The 51st Hiko Sentai typified the late-war IJAAF transitional formations—competently led but operationally underpowered.
Experienced officers such as Nakajima and Nishikawa provided organizational stability, yet the predominance of new pilots and chronic equipment shortages limited combat value.
Primarily tasked with training and homeland air defense, the Sentai served as a feeder formation preparing pilots for reassignment to front-line air defense groups.
Summary: steady, structured, and dutiful — a late-war unit built to train and hold the line rather than to win the air war.
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Peiper1944 · Post by **Peiper1944** » Sat Nov 08, 2025 7:47 pm

52nd Hiko Sentai (第52飛行戦隊)
Founded: 28 April 1944
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 28 April 1944): Osaka Airfield
Higher Command: Homeland Air Defense Command
Commanding Officer (28 April 1944)
Major Nobuhiko Kuwabara – veteran of the China campaigns; energetic yet pragmatic. Known for personal bravery, he continued flying combat missions during 1941–42 before assuming higher command duties.
Attributes: Skill 60 | Inspiration 54 | Naval 22 | Air 66 | Land 46 | Admin 55 | Aggression 50 | Political 17
Formation & Background
The 52nd Hiko Sentai was newly organized in April 1944 at Osaka Airfield, forming part of Japan’s late-war homeland defense network.
This period marked the IJAAF’s shift to concentrating its most advanced fighter units around the Home Islands, equipped with the new Nakajima Ki-84 “Hayate.”
The Sentai drew its personnel from seasoned veterans of the 11th and 25th Hiko Sentai, reinforced by new graduates from Akeno and Hitachi Flight Schools.
Although designated a front-line formation, the unit also functioned as a conversion and test unit for the Hayate, helping to refine tactics and maintenance routines for the new high-performance aircraft.
Organization (as of 28 April 1944)
– Structure: newly formed, approx. 31 pilots (2–3 Chutai)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-84 “Hayate” (early production models, first deliveries from May 1944)
– Personnel: ~40 pilots total, including veterans from the 11th and 25th Sentai
Aircraft Strength (as of 28 April 1944)
– Total: 45 – Operational: 34 – Damaged/Maintenance: 8 – Reserve: 3
Remarks: The unit received early production models of the Ki-84. Engine reliability, parts scarcity, and fuel shortages limited operational availability to roughly 70–75%.
Pilot Roster (as of 28 April 1944)
Pilots 41/12/06: 0 → after 44/04/28: 30
7572 – MAJ Nobuhiko Kuwabara (Commander Sentai) – XP 59 – entry 1944/04/28
7573 – CPT Itsuo Awane (Hikotai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/04/28
7574 – WO Atsuo Ogata (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/04/28
7575 – CPT Hisao Ogawa (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 55 – entry 1944/04/28
7576 – 2LT Kazuo Mori ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 52 – entry 1944/04/28
7577 – CPT Masaru Setoguchi – XP 58 – entry 1944/04/28
7578 – MAJ Takayuki Uchinori – XP 68 – entry 1944/04/28
7579 – WO Mamoru Yamada – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/28
7580 – WO Mitsuru Morosawa – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/28
7581 – WO Hiroshi Takeda – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/28
7582 – WO Yukichi Moriyama – XP 43 – entry 1944/09/29
7583 – WO Shin Yoshioka – XP 43 – entry 1944/09/29
7584 – WO Shinji Tada – XP 43 – entry 1944/05/29
7585 – 1LT Shinsuke Ozato – XP 51 – entry 1944/05/29
7586 – CPT Yoshitaka Sawayama – XP 58 – entry 1945/01/15
7587 – WO Kazuhisa Hisakawa – XP 43 – entry 1944/08/28
7588 – WO Masanao Momiyama – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/07
7589 – WO Takeshi Takahashi – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/07
7590 – WO Jun Matsunaga – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/28
7591 – WO Hisakiyo Maeda – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/28
7592 – 1LT Hiroto Sakai – XP 51 – entry 1944/04/28
7593 – WO Matao Shimano – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/28
7594 – WO Tokunobu Matsumoto – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/28
7595 – WO Takeshi Urabe – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/28
7596 – WO Yoshimitsu Sasaki – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/28
7597 – WO Kenji Tada – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/28
7598 – 1LT Ichiro Ikeda – XP 51 – entry 1944/04/28
7599 – WO Hitoshi Okabe – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/28
7600 – WO Yoshihide Ito – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/28
7601 – WO Kazuo Wakahara – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/28
7602 – WO Tsutomu Narisawa – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/28
7603 – MAJ Akira Takano (Commander) – XP 68 – entry 1945/07/01
Unit Averages (as of 28 April 1944)
• Average XP: 51 (Veterans 58–68 | New pilots 43–51)
• Average Morale: 73 (high motivation, limited combat exposure)
Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Development)
1944 – 29 pilots → Avg XP 49.5
1945 – 1 pilot → Avg XP 68.0
Total: 30 pilots → Overall Avg XP 50.2
Evaluation
The 52nd Hiko Sentai embodied the final phase of Japan’s air defense mobilization—modern aircraft, limited resources, and dwindling time.
Under Major Kuwabara’s leadership, the unit developed into a competent though overstretched formation within the Homeland Air Defense Command.
Its operations focused on intercepting B-29 raids over the Kansai region and sporadic engagements over Kyūshū during 1944–45.
Despite solid leadership and a respectable cadre of veteran pilots, the unit’s overall combat effectiveness was hampered by maintenance failures, spare-part scarcity, and chronic fuel shortages.
Summary: brave, disciplined, and tragically outmatched — a late-war Sentai fighting for survival under impossible odds.
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53rd Hiko Sentai (第53飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 May 1944
Classification: Standard Unit / Night Fighter
Base (as of 1 May 1944): Tokorozawa Airfield (near Tokyo)
Higher Command: Homeland Air Defense (likely 10th Air Division / 1st Air Army)
Commanding Officer (1 May 1944)
Major Masato Kodama – veteran of the China campaigns; previously led a provisional flight detachment in 1941. Known as a capable and unpretentious officer who initially flew combat missions himself but later assumed full ground command responsibilities.
Attributes: Skill 58 | Inspiration 52 | Naval 21 | Air 64 | Land 45 | Admin 54 | Aggression 49 | Political 16
Formation & Background
The 53rd Hiko Sentai was established on 1 May 1944 at Tokorozawa Airfield, close to Tokyo.
It was one of the few IJAAF night-fighter formations, operating the twin-engine Kawasaki Ki-45 Kai “Toryu” (Nick).
Formed from a small cadre of China veterans and supplemented by new graduates from Akeno and Mito flight schools, the Sentai was conceived as an experimental night-interception unit under the 10th Air Division.
Severe shortages of radar, radio gear, and replacement parts crippled operational potential, leaving it more a developmental and emergency-interception unit than a sustained combat force.
Organization (as of 1 May 1944)
– Structure: 1–2 Chutai, approx. 16 pilots
– Type: Kawasaki Ki-45 Kai “Toryu”
– Role: Night interception / homeland air defense
– Personnel: small veteran nucleus supported by newly graduated pilots
Aircraft Strength (as of 1 May 1944)
– Total: 12 – Operational: 9 – Damaged/Maintenance: 2 – Reserve: 1
Remarks: Lack of replacement parts and inadequate radar and radio equipment severely limited combat effectiveness, especially during night operations.
Pilot Roster (as of 1 May 1944)
Pilots 41/12/06: — → after 44/05/01: 16
7607 – MAJ Masato Kodama (Commander Sentai) – XP 64 – entry 1944/05/01
7608 – CPT Hideo Ueda (Hikotai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/05/01
7609 – CPT Tatsumi Mukai (Seibitai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/05/01
7610 – CPT Masami Sawamoto – XP 58 – entry 1944/05/01
7611 – 2LT Yasuo Watanabe – XP 51 – entry 1944/05/01
7612 – 1LT Kunio Sugawara – XP 51 – entry 1944/05/01
7613 – 1LT Kaijirō Hasegawa – XP 51 – entry 1944/05/01
7614 – WO Gorō Imai – XP 43 – entry 1944/05/01
7615 – 2LT Osamu Hirose – XP 51 – entry 1944/05/01
7616 – WO Keniji Yamada – XP 43 – entry 1944/05/01
7617 – 1LT Katsumi Kobayashi – XP 51 – entry 1944/05/01
7618 – WO Masaji Izutsu – XP 43 – entry 1944/05/01
7619 – WO Rikio Takaishi – XP 43 – entry 1944/05/01
7620 – 2LT Tetsuro Aoki – XP 51 – entry 1944/05/01
7621 – WO Shigeo Iioka – XP 37 – entry 1944/05/01
7622 – WO Hisashi Tagami – XP 34 – entry 1944/05/01
Unit Averages (as of 1 May 1944)
• Average XP: 49.3 (Veterans 55–64 | Trainees 34–45)
• Average Morale: 69 (high enthusiasm, limited combat experience)
Annual Pilot Statistics (XP Development)
1944 – 16 pilots → Avg XP 50.1
Total: 16 pilots → Overall Avg XP 50.1
Evaluation
The 53rd Hiko Sentai was one of the IJAAF’s smallest and least-equipped night-fighter units.
Despite Major Kodama’s measured leadership and the dedication of his pilots, the Sentai never achieved full operational capacity due to the crippling lack of radar and radio navigation systems.
Serving mainly as a test and emergency defense formation, it launched limited interceptions against B-29 night raids over Tokyo during late 1944–45.
Although its practical results were minor, the unit stood as a symbol of persistence — a handful of men and machines rising nightly into darkness with almost no chance of success.
Summary: valiant but underpowered — a desperate experiment in nocturnal defense, carried out with courage and almost no tools.
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54th Hiko Sentai (第54飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 July 1941
Classification: Standard Unit / Night Fighter
Base (as of 6 December 1941): Hankow, China
Higher Command: 5th Air Army (China Front)
Commanding Officer (6 December 1941)
Major Yasunari Shimada – veteran of the China front, took over an understrength formation in 1941 and personally flew missions during its formative phase. Energetic but cautious rather than daring, his disciplined leadership ensured the unit’s survival through the difficult early war years.
Attributes: Skill 60 | Inspiration 54 | Naval 22 | Air 66 | Land 46 | Admin 55 | Aggression 49 | Political 17
Formation & Background
The 54th Hiko Sentai was established in mid-1941 at Hankow as part of the IJAAF’s reorganization of its China-based air units.
Initially tasked with night interception and escort duties over the central China front, it entered the Pacific War with barely half its authorized strength (12 pilots), later reinforced to over 20 after December 1941.
From 1942 onward the unit began partial re-equipment with the Nakajima Ki-43-I “Hayabusa,” though many older Ki-27 “Nate” fighters remained in use for training and local escort missions.
Despite chronic shortages of radar and searchlight coordination, the Sentai’s crews built up practical night-fighting experience—primitive but valuable for later homeland defense units.
Organization (as of 6 December 1941)
– Structure: 3 Chutai (in formation, approx. 24 aircraft)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (partial transition to Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” from 1942)
– Role: Night interception, local air defense, convoy escort
– Personnel: small veteran cadre, supplemented by flight-school graduates
Aircraft Strength (as of 6 December 1941)
– Total: 24 – Operational: 18 – Damaged: 4 – Reserve: 2
Pilot Roster (as of 6 December 1941)
Pilots 41/12/06: 17 → after 41/12/07: 21
108 – MAJ Yasunari Shimada (Commander Sentai) – XP 64 – entry 1941/12/06
109 – CPT Shōji Tomita (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7627 – CPT Toshio Dozono (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7628 – CPT Yaichirō Hayashi – XP 58 – entry 1943/02/01
7629 – 1LT Chiyoichi Yuasa – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/07
7630 – 1LT Ken-ichi Hosoi – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7631 – WO Kazuka Kobayashi – XP 43 – entry 1942/07/01
7632 – WO Kunihiro Nakano – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/08
7633 – 1LT Mitsunori Akiyama – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7634 – 1LT Keiji Fujino – XP 51 – entry 1943/07/01
7635 – CPT Isamu Takeda – XP 58 – entry 1944/12/03
7636 – 1LT Isao Iwasa – XP 51 – entry 1943/12/01
7637 – CPT Masaaki Nagakari – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7638 – CPT Chikashi Koshi-ishi – XP 58 – entry 1942/01/05
7639 – WO Masao Fukuda – XP 43 – entry 1944/01/15
7640 – WO Mitsuaki Nakamura – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7641 – WO Iwao Narikiyo – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/07
7642 – 1LT Chisato Honbu – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7643 – WO Kizō Matsuda – XP 43 – entry 1943/02/01
7644 – WO Shigeru Ōki – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
7645 – WO Yasuo Shigematsu – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7646 – 1LT Yoshio Magori – XP 51 – entry 1943/06/20
7647 – WO Sukeyoshi Kichigashima – XP 43 – entry 1942/07/01
7648 – WO Kishio Kikuchi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7649 – WO Masuo Ezaki – XP 43 – entry 1943/12/01
7650 – 1LT Masao Yamamoto – XP 51 – entry 1942/11/28
7651 – WO Akira Sugimoto – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7652 – CPT Masaru Okada – XP 58 – entry 1942/01/05
7653 – 1LT Toshio Kaneko – XP 52 – entry 1942/01/05
7654 – WO Mitsuo Uehara – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/08
7655 – 2LT Minoru Harada – XP 48 – entry 1942/07/01
7656 – WO Shizuo Hino – XP 44 – entry 1944/01/10
7657 – CPT Tomokazu Matsui – XP 56 – entry 1942/08/07
7658 – 1LT Keisuke Kobori – XP 50 – entry 1944/02/01
7659 – WO Naoyuki Ogata – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
Unit Averages (as of 6 December 1941)
• Average XP: 51.8
• Average Morale: 71
Annual XP Development
1941 – 17 pilots → Avg XP 54.9
1942 – 11 pilots → Avg XP 50.1
1943 – 6 pilots → Avg XP 48.0
1944 – 4 pilots → Avg XP 47.5
Total: 38 pilots → Overall Avg XP 51.8
Evaluation
The 54th Hiko Sentai entered the Pacific War as an incomplete but steady front-line unit on the China front.
Despite manpower shortages and aging equipment, it carried out escort and night-interception missions with consistency and discipline.
Major Shimada’s measured leadership style and focus on order and training ensured cohesion during a period of expansion and re-equipment.
By 1942 the unit began night-defense and interception work against USAAF aircraft over central China.
Limited radar coordination and inadequate aircraft prevented major success, yet the Sentai fulfilled its defensive role competently.
Summary: solid, disciplined, and quietly effective — a modest night-fighter formation that embodied the resilience of the IJAAF’s China-based forces.
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55th Hiko Sentai (第55飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 March 1944
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 March 1944): Taishō Airfield, Japan
Higher Command: 3rd Air Army (Home Defense / Training Command)
Commanding Officer (1 March 1944)
Major Shigeo Iwahashi – experienced officer with service in China; originally commanded a depleted formation in 1941 and personally flew missions before being tasked with reconstituting the 55th Sentai in 1944. Disciplined, methodical, and more of an organizer than a hunter-type pilot—he excelled at keeping his men cohesive under increasingly desperate conditions.
Attributes: Skill 57 | Inspiration 52 | Naval 21 | Air 63 | Land 44 | Admin 53 | Aggression 48 | Political 16
Formation & Background
The 55th Hiko Sentai was reformed in March 1944 at Taishō Airfield after the near-dissolution of its original 1942 structure.
Part of the 3rd Air Army, it served Japan’s homeland air defense and training framework during the later stages of the war.
Though ambitious in planning, the Sentai was composed mostly of newly graduated pilots—over two-thirds from Akeno, Mito, and Hamamatsu flight schools—with only a handful of veterans from early China campaigns providing leadership.
Fuel shortages, worn-out Kawasaki Ki-61-II “Hien” (Tony) fighters, and lack of spare parts prevented the unit from achieving full operational status until late summer 1944.
Organization (as of 1 March 1944)
– Structure: 3 Chutai, ~15 pilots each (approx. 45 aircraft total)
– Type: Kawasaki Ki-61-II “Hien” (Tony)
– Role: Training and limited air defense
– Personnel: small veteran nucleus, majority new graduates
Aircraft Strength (as of 1 March 1944)
– Total: 45 – Operational: 18 – Damaged/Maintenance: 7 – Reserve: 3
Remarks: Many aircraft were mechanically overused and some had partially disabled armament systems, reducing combat readiness.
Pilot Roster (as of 1 March 1944)
Pilots 41/12/06: 0 → after 44/03/01: 22
111 – MAJ Shigeo Iwahashi (Commander Sentai) – XP 64 – entry 1944/03/01
112 – CPT Takekuni Yano (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/03/01
7663 – CPT Akira Ohnishi (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 54 – entry 1944/03/01
7664 – CPT Kazuichi Uemura (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 54 – entry 1944/03/01
7665 – 1LT Minoru Shirota (4 victories) – XP 58 – entry 1944/03/01
7666 – 2LT Takeo Adachi – XP 51 – entry 1944/03/01
7667 – 2LT Jisaburō Aikawa – XP 51 – entry 1944/03/01
7668 – WO Tetsuo Ihashi – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/01
7669 – CPT Shigeru Maeda – XP 58 – entry 1944/03/01
7670 – WO Shigeo Takamura – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/01
7671 – 1LT Yoshitaka Kiyono – XP 51 – entry 1944/03/01
7672 – WO Kikuo Murakami – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/01
7673 – CPT Tetsuo Ishibashi – XP 58 – entry 1944/03/01
7674 – WO Minoru Fujisawa – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/01
7675 – 1LT Rinji Hayashi – XP 51 – entry 1944/03/01
7676 – 2LT Susumu Okubo – XP 48 – entry 1944/03/01
7677 – WO Katsumi Nishio – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/01
7678 – WO Akira Fukui – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/01
7679 – WO Keigo Shiozaki – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/01
7680 – WO Chiyokichi Ogawa – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/01
7681 – 1LT Toshiki Shimakura – XP 51 – entry 1944/03/01
7682 – WO Koichi Ogata – XP 43 – entry 1944/03/01
Unit Averages (as of 1 March 1944)
• Average XP: 51 (Veterans 57–64 | New Pilots 43–51)
• Average Morale: 65 (high discipline, minimal combat experience)
Annual XP Development
1944 – 22 pilots → Avg XP 51.0
Total: 22 pilots → Overall Avg XP 51.0
Evaluation
The 55th Hiko Sentai represented a transitional formation—caught between front-line combat and training responsibilities.
It embodied the mid-war IJAAF dilemma: traces of experience still present, but a growing shortage of veterans and resources.
Active operations were limited to interception drills and short-range alert scrambles in southern Japan.
Though never an elite combat unit, its organizational discipline and officer quality made it one of the more stable home-defense groups of 1944.
Summary: a tired but dutiful fragment of Japan’s once-formidable air arm—holding the line through procedure and persistence rather than prowess.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
56th Hiko Sentai (第56飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 March 1944
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 March 1944): Taishō Airfield, Osaka
Higher Command: Homeland Air Defense Command (1st Air Army, Osaka Sector)
Commanding Officer (1 March 1944)
Major Haruyoshi Furukawa – veteran of the China campaigns, assumed command of the 56th Hiko Sentai in 1943 when it was still incomplete. Initially flew a few sorties himself before moving to full ground coordination. Known as a calm and disciplined organizer who managed to keep the unit operational despite a chronic lack of materials and inexperienced pilots.
Attributes: Skill 58 | Inspiration 52 | Naval 21 | Air 64 | Land 45 | Admin 54 | Aggression 49 | Political 16
Formation & Background
The 56th Hiko Sentai was formed in March 1944 at Taishō Airfield near Osaka as a fighter unit of the Homeland Air Defense Command.
It originated from a training cadre of the 47th Flying Training Group and was tasked with defending western Japan (Osaka–Kobe–Kansai) from the increasing B-29 bombing raids.
Due to late formation, fuel shortages, and repeated re-equipment cycles—from Ki-43 “Hayabusa” to Ki-61-II “Hien”—the Sentai remained only partially combat-ready.
Its personnel mix included a small cadre of China veterans surrounded by newly graduated pilots, averaging around 200 flight hours, which was wholly inadequate for high-altitude interception work.
Organization (as of 1 March 1944)
– Structure: 3 Chutai, roughly 15 pilots each (approx. 45 aircraft total)
– Type: Kawasaki Ki-61-II “Hien” (Tony)
– Role: Air defense (Osaka, Kobe, Kansai region)
– Personnel: small veteran core, majority of 1943–44 flight school graduates
Aircraft Strength (as of 1 March 1944)
– Total: 45 – Operational: 28 – Damaged/Maintenance: 9 – Reserve: 2
Remarks: Frequent engine failures (Ha-140) and lack of spare parts reduced real operational readiness to below 60%.
Pilot Roster (as of 1 March 1944)
Pilots 41/12/06: 0 → after 43/03/01: 18
7685 – MAJ Haruyoshi Furukawa (Commander Sentai) – XP 64 – entry 1943/03/01
7686 – CPT Jun-ichi Ogata (Hikotai Leader, 4 victories) – XP 58 – entry 1943/03/01
7687 – 2LT Ryōzō Imada – XP 51 – entry 1943/03/01
7688 – 1LT Shunrō Wakui – XP 51 – entry 1943/03/01
7689 – CPT Junzō Oka – XP 58 – entry 1943/03/01
7690 – WO Ryōsaku Arai – XP 43 – entry 1943/03/01
7691 – CPT Hayashi Inoue – XP 58 – entry 1943/03/01
7692 – 2LT Hideo Adachi – XP 51 – entry 1943/03/01
7693 – WO Tsutomu Ono – XP 43 – entry 1943/03/01
7694 – 2LT Hiroshi Nakagawa – XP 51 – entry 1943/03/01
7695 – WO Tomotoshi Fujii – XP 43 – entry 1943/03/01
7696 – WO Kazuo Nozaki – XP 43 – entry 1943/03/01
7697 – 1LT Jiro Ishigami – XP 51 – entry 1943/03/01
7698 – CPT Masuo Nagano – XP 58 – entry 1943/03/01
7699 – 2LT Minoru Kobori – XP 51 – entry 1943/03/01
7700 – WO Shoichi Yamaguchi – XP 43 – entry 1943/03/01
7701 – 1LT Keisuke Fujikawa – XP 51 – entry 1943/03/01
7702 – WO Ryōzō Kanemoto – XP 43 – entry 1943/03/01
7703 – CPT Rinsaku Matsunaga – XP 58 – entry 1943/03/01
7704 – WO Eiichi Morita – XP 43 – entry 1943/03/01
7705 – 2LT Michio Kuroda – XP 51 – entry 1943/03/01
7706 – CPT Akira Funakoshi – XP 58 – entry 1943/03/01
7707 – WO Tadao Sumi ★ Ace (6 victories) – XP 43 – entry 1943/03/01
7708 – 2LT Jun-ichi Nakamura – XP 51 – entry 1943/03/01
7709 – 2LT Yutaka Nakagawa – XP 51 – entry 1943/03/01
Unit Averages (as of 1 March 1944)
• Average XP: 51.2 (Veterans 58–64 | Trainees 43–51)
• Average Morale: 65 (conscientious, but inexperienced)
Evaluation
The 56th Hiko Sentai epitomized the late-war IJAAF condition—administratively stable, operationally starved.
Even with Major Furukawa’s measured leadership, persistent technical failures and insufficient pilot training crippled its effectiveness.
Operating under constant shortages, the unit nonetheless maintained defensive readiness through early 1945, participating sporadically in intercept attempts over Kansai.
Its limited battlefield impact mirrored the state of Japan’s air defense at that time: capable officers, green pilots, and aircraft more familiar with repair bays than the sky.
Summary: dutiful, under-equipped, and holding the line out of sheer persistence rather than power.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
59th Hiko Sentai (第59飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 July 1938
Classification: Elite Unit – Burma Front
Base (as of 6 December 1941): Kompong Trach, Thailand
Higher Command: 5th Air Brigade → 3rd Air Division → Southern Army → Army Aviation HQ
Commanding Officer (6 December 1941)
Major Reinouske Tanimura – veteran of the China campaigns and an active combat leader in 1941. He inherited a well-structured and cohesive Sentai, which he initially led from the cockpit before shifting to ground coordination as operations intensified. A skilled organizer whose steady leadership transformed the 59th into one of the IJAAF’s most respected fighter units on the Burma front.
Attributes: Skill 61 | Inspiration 55 | Naval 22 | Air 67 | Land 47 | Admin 56 | Aggression 50 | Political 17
Formation & Background
The 59th Hiko Sentai, formed in July 1938, first fought over China before being transferred south in late 1941 for the Southern Expansion Campaign.
It quickly established a formidable reputation in Burma, operating with high discipline and professionalism. The Sentai’s balanced composition—experienced China veterans paired with promising newcomers—remained one of its key strengths through 1943.
The unit became renowned for its air superiority battles over Rangoon, Akyab, and later northern Burma, where it proved a persistent threat to the RAF Hurricanes and Spitfires and, later, USAAF aircraft.
Organization (as of 6 December 1941)
– Structure: 2 Chutai (expanded to 3 in 1942)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” (Oscar I)
– Personnel: solid veteran cadre from China, reinforced with younger flight-school graduates
Aircraft Strength (as of 6 December 1941)
– Total: 30 – Operational: 24 – Damaged: 4 – Reserve: 2
Pilot Roster (as of 6 December 1941)
7714 – MAJ Reinouske Tanimura (Commander Sentai) – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06
7715 – CPT Hirokuni Muta (Hikotai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7716 – CPT Naganori Makekawa (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7717 – CPT Kan Tashiro (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7718 – 1LT Takeshi Nakajima – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7719 – WO Koshio Yamaguchi – XP 43 – entry 1943/02/01
7720 – WO Yasuhiko Sakakibara – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
7721 – 1LT Kunio Iwasaki – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7722 – 1LT Shigeo Kitahara – XP 51 – entry 1942/07/01
7723 – WO Saburō Matsumura – XP 43 – entry 1943/06/20
7724 – MAJ Tsuguroku Nakao – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06
7725 – 1LT Shigeto Kuwata – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7726 – 1LT Kunihiko Kuroishi – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7727 – 1LT Shōhei Inaba – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/07
7728 – 1LT Takeshi Hara – XP 51 – entry 1943/07/01
7729 – WO Shin-ichi Kubo – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7730 – 1LT Kazumi Umeoka – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7731 – WO Zenjirō Umetani – XP 43 – entry 1943/02/01
7732 – WO Saburō Ochi – XP 43 – entry 1942/07/01
7733 – WO Kikuo Shimanto – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7734 – 1LT Shōzō Fukuhara – XP 51 – entry 1943/12/01
7735 – WO Jurō Yahata – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7736 – WO Hisao Takarabe – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
7737 – WO Tatsuo Sugano – XP 43 – entry 1943/02/01
7738 – WO Suezo Uno – XP 43 – entry 1944/01/15
7739 – 2LT Hideji Nakamura – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7740 – WO Tōichi Nishino – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/07
7741 – 2LT Masanao Masazawa – XP 51 – entry 1942/07/01
7742 – WO Akijirō Katō – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
7743 – 1LT Shigeo Nango ★ Ace (~15 victories) – XP 72 – entry 1941/12/06
7744 – WO Takeomi Hayashi ★ Ace (8 victories) – XP 56 – entry 1942/01/05
7745 – WO Tomio Hirohata ★ Ace (14 victories) – XP 60 – entry 1943/02/01
7746 – WO Yutaka Kimura ★ Ace (9 victories) – XP 56 – entry 1943/06/01
7747 – CPT Hiroshi Onozaki ★ Ace (15 victories) – XP 77 – entry 1941/12/06
7748 – 2LT Norio Shindo ★ Ace (18 victories) – XP 77 – entry 1941/12/06
7749 – WO Masaru Takahashi – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
7750 – 2LT Seiji Sugimoto – XP 51 – entry 1943/07/15
7751 – WO Koji Yamane – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7752 – 1LT Hiroshi Kurata – XP 51 – entry 1942/12/01
7753 – CPT Tatsunosuke Fukuda – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7754 – WO Shigeru Hino – XP 43 – entry 1943/02/01
7755 – WO Nobuo Morioka – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/07
7756 – WO Takeshi Nakanishi – XP 43 – entry 1942/03/01
7757 – WO Takuo Oda – XP 43 – entry 1942/07/01
7758 – 2LT Katsutaro Takahashi – XP 46 – entry 1942/01/05
7759 – 1LT Takeyoshi Fujikawa – XP 51 – entry 1942/03/01
7760 – WO Masuro Ageruma – XP 43 – entry 1942/07/01
7761 – MAJ Takao Fukuda – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06
7762 – 1LT Ko Kosegawa – XP 51 – entry 1942/05/01
7763 – WO Kazuo Shimizu ★ Ace (18 victories) – XP 60 – entry 1941/12/06
7764 – CPT Kenjiro Kobayashi – XP 58 – entry 1943/11/30
7765 – 1LT Masaaki Yoshida – XP 51 – entry 1943/11/30
7766 – MAJ Takeo Sato – XP 68 – entry 1943/12/25
7767 – MAJ Susumu Nishi – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06
7768 – WO Isamu Kashiide ★ Ace (7+ victories) – XP 56 – entry 1941/12/06
7769 – CPT Shigeki Namba – XP 58 – entry 1942/01/05
Unit Averages (as of 6 December 1941)
• Average XP: 55
• Average Morale: 78
Annual XP Development
1941 – 17 pilots → Avg XP 61.9
1942 – 16 pilots → Avg XP 48.4
1943 – 14 pilots → Avg XP 52.6
1944 – 1 pilot → Avg XP 43.0
Total: 48 pilots → Overall Avg XP 52.9
Evaluation
The 59th Hiko Sentai stood among the most capable and feared IJAAF fighter formations of the war.
Strong leadership, exceptional pilot discipline, and a core of seasoned veterans gave it a combat performance rivaled by few.
Throughout the Burma campaign, its pilots achieved impressive results against Allied air power—particularly against RAF Hurricanes and Spitfires—and later held their own against USAAF fighters in increasingly dire conditions.
Though gradually worn down by attrition, the unit’s tactical cohesion and esprit de corps endured.
By late 1944 the Sentai was depleted but still respected, its legacy cemented as one of the last true elite units of the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force.
Summary: elite, battle-hardened, and professional — a symbol of the IJAAF’s fighting spirit on the Burma front.
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Peiper1944 · Post by **Peiper1944** » Sat Nov 08, 2025 7:48 pm

63rd Hiko Sentai (第63飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 February 1943
Classification: Standard Unit (Training / Home Defense)
Base (as of 1 February 1943): Hachinohe, Honshū
Higher Command: 2nd Air Army (Home Defense / Training Reserve)

Commanding Officer (1 February 1943)
Major Magoji Hara – veteran of the China campaigns who, by December 1941, commanded little more than a skeleton unit. Personally flew missions during the early phase of the Sentai’s formation and carried the burden of building the unit into operational shape. Calm, pragmatic, and quietly persistent despite limited means.
Attributes: Skill 56 | Inspiration 51 | Naval 20 | Air 62 | Land 43 | Admin 52 | Aggression 47 | Political 15

Formation & Background
The 63rd Hiko Sentai was formed on 1 February 1943 at Hachinohe Airfield on Honshū.
Originally part of the 2nd Air Army, its purpose was dual: home defense and training replacement pilots for front-line fighter units.
The Sentai consisted of a small cadre of China veterans and a majority of new flight-school graduates, reflecting Japan’s growing shortage of experienced aviators by 1943.
Its primary function was to train and refresh young pilots on the Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”, which had already been phased out of front-line service.
Operational combat missions were rare and limited to local defense alerts or weather training flights.

Organization (as of 1 February 1943)
– Structure: 3 Chutai (understrength)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”
– Role: Pilot training and local defense
– Personnel: small core of veterans, majority new graduates

Aircraft Strength (as of 1 February 1943)
– Total: 14 – Operational: 10 – Damaged/Maintenance: 3 – Reserve: 1

Pilot Roster (as of 1 March 1943)
Pilots 41/12/06: 0 → after 43/03/01: 14

7772 – MAJ Magoji Hara (Commander Sentai) – XP 62 – entry 1943/03/01
7773 – CPT Teruo Yasuiro (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 56 – entry 1943/03/01
7774 – CPT Tomio Matsumoto (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 56 – entry 1943/03/01
7775 – CPT Shihichiro Watanabe (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 56 – entry 1943/03/01
7776 – WO Isao Iwamitsu – XP 43 – entry 1943/03/01
7777 – WO Tatsuichirō Katagiri – XP 43 – entry 1943/03/01
7778 – 1LT Takeshi Hamasuna – XP 51 – entry 1943/03/01
7779 – WO Takamitsu Yamamoto – XP 43 – entry 1943/03/01
7780 – 1LT Yasuji Ogi – XP 51 – entry 1943/03/01
7781 – WO Shigekatsu Shimoura – XP 43 – entry 1943/03/01
7782 – 2LT Toshio Matsuura ★ Ace (12 victories) – XP 63 – entry 1943/03/01
7783 – 1LT Kiyoshi Hasegawa – XP 56 – entry 1943/03/01
7784 – WO Tadashi Oishi – XP 48 – entry 1943/03/01
7785 – WO Mitsuhiro Kono – XP 42 – entry 1943/03/01

Unit Averages (as of 1 February 1943)
• Average XP: 52.1 (Hara 62; Yasuiro 56; Matsuura 63)
• Average Morale: 55

Evaluation
The 63rd Hiko Sentai functioned primarily as a replacement and refresher training unit rather than a combat formation.
Under Major Hara’s steady leadership, it remained small but well-organized, providing a transitional bridge between flight schools and active Sentai at the front.
Its pilots had limited combat exposure, reflected in an average experience of just above 50 XP—sufficient for local air patrols but far below front-line standards.
The unit typified the mid-war stagnation of the IJAAF: too late to share in early victories, too underpowered to influence the later homeland battles.
Summary: quiet but essential — a modest training and defense formation that kept Japan’s pilot pipeline alive through discipline and routine.
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64th Hiko Sentai (第64飛行戦隊)
“Flying Tigers of the IJAAF”

Founded: 01 Aug 1938
Classification: Elite Unit
Base (as of 01 Dec 1941): Kompong Trach / Thailand
Higher Command: 5th Air Division / Southern Army (Burma–Thailand Sector)

Commanding Officer 06 Dec 1941
Major Katō, Tateo – legendary fighter pilot and charismatic leader.
Already famous from the China War, he became the IJAAF’s poster figure in 1941.
He personally led his men into combat, scored numerous victories himself, and became the icon of Ki-43 employment.
Katō was regarded as the symbol of Japanese air tactics; his discipline and camaraderie-driven leadership style shaped generations of young pilots.

Attributes: Skill 78 | Inspiration 83 | Naval 26 | Air 85 | Land 51 | Admin 62 | Aggression 71 | Political 27

Formation & Background
The 64th Hiko Sentai was formed on 1 August 1938 from elements of the 33rd and 59th Hiko Sentai and initially served in the China campaign.
It quickly developed a reputation as an elite IJAAF formation, distinguished by strict flight discipline, precise combat execution, and solid unit cohesion.

At the outbreak of the Pacific War the unit was subordinated to the 5th Air Division and transferred to the Burma front.
Under Katō’s command in 1941/42 it seized air superiority over Malaya, Burma, and Thailand.
Its pilots flew the new Nakajima Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” (Oscar), whose agility and range outclassed Allied types in the early phase.

The Allies later referred to the 64th Sentai with respect as the “Flying Tigers of the IJAAF”, since it was this unit that confronted AVG pilots under Claire Chennault in Burma.
During Katō’s tenure (until his death on 22 May 1942 near Rangoon) the unit achieved over 260 confirmed victories.

After his death a succession of experienced officers – including Maj. Yokoyama Hachio and Maj. Teranishi Tamiya – carried on the tradition.
In 1943–44 the unit fought from Saigon, Bangkok, and Rangoon against the growing Allied superiority.
Despite shortages of materiel and a thinning veteran core, the name “64th” remained synonymous with courage, skill, and tactical discipline.
Organization (as of 06 Dec 1941)
Structure: 3 Chutai (1st–3rd)
Type: Nakajima Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” (Oscar)
Personnel: High veteran share, many China veterans
Role: Air superiority and escort in Southeast Asia (Malaya–Burma campaign)

Aircraft Inventory (as of 06 Dec 1941)
Total: 45 | Operational: 37 | Damaged: 5 | Reserve: 3

Averages (as of 06 Dec 1941)
Avg. XP: 62–64 | Avg. Morale: 81

Yearly Pilot Metrics (XP Development)
1941: 34 pilots → avg. XP 63.5 (Sumino 84; Nakamura 80)
1942: 22 pilots → avg. XP 48.5
1943: 10 pilots → avg. XP 52.0
Total: 66 pilots → avg. XP 56.8
Pilot List (as of 06 Dec 1941)
Pilots 41/12/06: 34 → after 41/12/07: 32

127 – MAJ Katō, Tateo (Sentai Commander) – XP 75 – entry 1941/12/06
128 – CPT Fujimoto, Akisuke (Hikotai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/08
129 – CPT Takahashi, Saburo (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
130 – CPT Takayama, Tadao (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
131 – CPT Anma, Katsumi ★ Ace (12 victories) – XP 73 – entry 1941/12/06
132 – 1LT Tamaoki, Kaneichi – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
133 – WO Shimoyama, Kōichi – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
134 – WO Kitajima, Yasukichi – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
135 – WO Nakano, Yoshioka – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
136 – CPT Yonekura, Tadayuki – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/07
137 – WO Katō, Hideo – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
138 – WO Toba, Masami – XP 43 – entry 1943/06/20
139 – 1LT Sumino, Goichi ★ Ace (27 victories) – XP 84 – entry 1941/12/06
140 – WO Shake, Kazuo – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7789 – 1LT Nishihara, Masamori – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7790 – WO Kinoshita, Tadashi – XP 43 – entry 1943/12/01
7791 – CPT Hongō, Takeo – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7792 – 1LT Nakamura, Saburō ★ Ace (20 victories) – XP 80 – entry 1941/12/06
7793 – CPT Okazaki, Shōzō – XP 58 – entry 1943/02/01
7794 – WO Nakamichi, Kazuo – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/07
7795 – WO Tsuzuki, Masayoshi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7796 – WO Okumura, Hiroshi – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
7797 – WO Wakayama, Shigekatsu – XP 43 – entry 1943/02/01
7798 – 1LT Oizumi, Naritake – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7799 – 1LT Katō, Rokuzō – XP 51 – entry 1942/07/01
7800 – 1LT Takeyama, Takashi – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7801 – 1LT Hatta, Yonesaku – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7802 – WO Saitō, Junki – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
7803 – WO Tatsumi, Hideo – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7804 – 1LT Kuni’i, Masabumi – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7805 – WO Okuyama, Chōichi – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/07
7806 – 2LT Kikuchi, Aito – XP 51 – entry 1943/02/01
7807 – 1LT Kuroki, Tameyoshi ★ Ace (16 victories) – XP 73 – entry 1941/12/06
7808 – 1LT Okumura, Muneyuki – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7809 – WO Wada, Haruto – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7810 – WO Gotō, Tsutomu – XP 43 – entry 1942/07/01
7811 – WO Misago, Eikichi – XP 43 – entry 1943/12/01
7812 – 1LT Kataoka, Masashi – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7813 – WO Shimizu, Takeshi – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
7814 – 2LT Katō, Momizō – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7815 – WO Saeki, Atsuyoshi – XP 43 – entry 1943/02/01
7816 – 1LT Asakawa, Masami – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/07
7817 – WO Kondō, Kikuya – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7818 – WO Maruo, Haruyasu – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
7819 – WO Yamada, Akio – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7820 – WO Itō, Hisajirō – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
7821 – WO Akabane, Hajime – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/07
7822 – 1LT Yukimoto, Hirao – XP 51 – entry 1943/02/01
7823 – 1LT Endō, Takeshi – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7824 – WO Hirano, Tamotsu – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
7825 – WO Watanabe, Miyoshi – XP 43 – entry 1943/12/01
7826 – 1LT Mori, Kōichi – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7827 – 1LT Takahashi, Shunji – XP 51 – entry 1942/07/01
7828 – WO Shidara, Kanji – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7829 – 2LT Suzuki, Shirō – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/07
7830 – WO Nishizawa, Daisuke – XP 43 – entry 1943/02/01
7831 – 1LT Ishii, Sanae – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7832 – WO Uchimura, Hiroshi – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
7833 – WO Fujiwara, Noburō – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
7834 – 1LT Hokyō, Hajime – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7835 – WO Takahama, Yoshiaki – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/07
7836 – 1LT Niwa, Masayoshi – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7837 – WO Ono, Kiyoshi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7838 – WO Nagao, Hiroshi – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
7839 – WO Yamamoto, Teizō – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
7840 – 1LT Yamamoto, Kenjirō – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
7841 – 2LT Sanada, Yasuo – XP 51 – entry 1942/07/01
7842 – WO Kano, Misao – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7843 – WO Kamiguchi, Tomio – XP 43 – entry 1943/12/01
7844 – WO Hashiguchi, Torao – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
7845 – 2LT Inagaki, Chikayuki – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/05
7846 – WO Nakasone, Yasuharu – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/07
7847 – 2LT Kubodera, Tarō – XP 51 – entry 1943/02/01
7848 – WO Ōshima, Mamoru – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7849 – 1LT Satō, Takashi – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7850 – CPT Kurosawa, Naoshi – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7851 – WO Kimura, Yōichi – XP 43 – entry 1942/07/01
7852 – WO Watanabe, Masatoshi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7853 – CPT Itō, Naoyuki (8 victories) – XP 68 – entry 1943/06/20
7854 – WO Ōmori, Toshihide ★ Ace (9 victories) – XP 56 – entry 1942/07/01
7855 – WO Takeuchi, Shōgo ★ Ace (19 victories) – XP 74 – entry 1941/12/06
7856 – 1LT Saigo, Sadamasa (7 victories) – XP 57 – entry 1943/02/01
7857 – CPT Miyabe, Hideo ★ Ace – XP 74 – entry 1941/12/06
7858 – MAJ Teranishi, Tamiya – XP 70 – entry 1941/12/06
7859 – MAJ Yokoyama, Hachio – XP 70 – entry 1941/12/06
7860 – CPT Maruta, Fumio – XP 62 – entry 1941/12/06
7861 – CPT Suzuki, Gorō – XP 62 – entry 1941/12/06
Assessment
The 64th Hiko Sentai stands as the showcase formation of Japanese fighter aviation.
No other unit combined tactical discipline, aggressiveness, and cohesion as effectively.
Its successes in the Malaya and Burma campaigns became legend, and its name grew into a myth respected even by the Allies.

After Katō’s death in May 1942, the elite status held through 1943; thereafter, shortages of equipment and mounting losses reduced combat strength.
Even so, the unit remained active to the end of the war and was still fighting over Thailand and Indochina in 1944–45.

The 64th Sentai symbolizes both the zenith and the decline of Japan’s fighter tradition —
from the brilliant beginning over Burma to the stubborn defensive end —
a unit that carried Katō’s spirit through every turn of the war.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
64th Hiko Sentai – Detachment D (第64飛行戦隊分遣隊D)
Founded: 1 October 1943
Classification: Elite Sub-unit (Detachment of 64th Sentai)
Base (as of 1 October 1943): Unknown (Burma Theater)
Higher Command: Presumed 3rd Air Division, Burma Front

Commanding Officer (1 October 1943)
Major Masami Yagi – veteran officer of the 64th Sentai, chosen to lead the Detached Chutai for independent operations over Burma and Malaya.
A disciplined, methodical commander from Katō’s old cadre, Yagi applied the same tactical doctrines that had made the 64th famous—tight formations, mutual support, and relentless attack.
Attributes: Skill 68 | Inspiration 56 | Naval 24 | Air 67 | Land 47 | Admin 58 | Aggression 50 | Political 17

Formation & Background
Detachment D was created in autumn 1943 as a forward-operating Chutai detached from the 64th Hiko Sentai.
Its mission: conduct independent offensive sweeps and escort sorties across the Irrawaddy corridor and Rangoon sector with minimal ground support.
Composed mainly of combat-tested veterans from the parent Sentai and a handful of younger officers from the latest courses, Det D developed a reputation for precision, endurance, and aggression.
Allied intelligence often misidentified it as a full Sentai due to its high sortie rate and tactical cohesion—an indication of how fiercely it fought despite its small size.

Organization (as of 1 October 1943)
– Structure: 1 Chutai (~15 pilots)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” (Oscar)
– Role: Escort and interception over Burma
– Personnel: veteran nucleus with selected new graduates

Aircraft Strength (as of 1 October 1943)
– Total: 15 – Operational: 12 – Damaged: 2 – Reserve: 1

Pilot Roster (reference composition)
142 – CPT Yohei Hinoki ★ Ace (12 victories) – XP 64 – entry 1941/12/06
143 – CPT Hannoshin Nishio – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7866 – CPT Masuzō Ohtani – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7867 – MAJ Masami Yagi – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06
7868 – CPT Jirō Seki – XP 58 – entry 1942/01/06
7869 – CPL Sakuichi Umeda – XP 41 – entry 1942/03/01
7870 – MAJ Takeo Akera – XP 68 – entry 1942/01/05
7871 – WO Masashi Yokoi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7872 – 1LT Tarō Takemura – XP 51 – entry 1942/05/01
7873 – WO Toshimi Ishibashi – XP 43 – entry 1942/07/01
7874 – 1LT Katsutoshi Nishizawa – XP 51 – entry 1942/03/01
7875 – CPT Kanshi Ishikawa – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7876 – 1LT Takashi Imajin – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
7877 – CPT Ayao Aihara – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7878 – WO Mikio Kondō – XP 41 – entry 1942/05/01
7879 – WO Shigeru Takuwa – XP 43 – entry 1942/07/01
7880 – WO Teruo Satō – XP 41 – entry 1942/03/01
7881 – WO Masahiro Fujikawa – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7882 – WO Yoshio Hayashi – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
7883 – WO Ryūzō Yamamoto – XP 43 – entry 1942/03/01
7884 – WO Rokurō Seto – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7885 – WO Hisashi Horiuchi – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
7886 – WO Kazuo Hattori – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
7887 – WO Futoshi Ogawa – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06

Unit Averages (as of 1 October 1943)
• Average XP: 52–53
• Average Morale: 73

Evaluation
The 64th Hiko Sentai Detachment D was a small, sharp-edged blade forged from the veteran steel of Katō’s legacy.
Operating far from its parent command, it upheld the tactical discipline and aggressiveness that defined the 64th: tight formation fighting, instinctive teamwork, and precision gunnery.
Its pilots—nicknamed “Katō no Tora no Shishi” (“Katō’s Young Lions”)—kept the flame of the original Sentai alive as the war turned against Japan.
Among IJAAF peers it was remembered as an elite within the elite, one of the last truly cohesive veteran detachments to dominate Burma’s skies.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
68th Hiko Sentai (第68飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 March 1942
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 March 1942): Harbin, Manchukuo
Higher Command: 2nd Hiko Shidan (later 2nd Air Division, Kwantung Army)
Commanding Officer (1 March 1942)
Major Noboru Shimoyama – veteran of the China campaigns and a measured, disciplined commander. Known for his reliability rather than daring, he was respected as a steady leader who kept his unit cohesive during difficult transitions. Active pilot in 1941–42, he combined professionalism with a calm temperament—a stabilizing force rather than a showman.
Attributes: Skill 60 | Inspiration 54 | Naval 22 | Air 66 | Land 46 | Admin 55 | Aggression 49 | Political 17
Formation & Background
The 68th Hiko Sentai was established in March 1942 at Harbin, formed from veteran cadres of the 59th and 64th Sentai. Initially assigned to the Kwantung Army’s northern defense network, it was intended to protect Manchukuo’s borders and later served as a mobile reserve.
The unit transitioned from the Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” to the Ki-43-I “Hayabusa”, marking its modernization phase.
Its pilots were drawn from experienced China hands and from those who had fought in the Nomonhan border clashes with the USSR.
The 68th never enjoyed the fame of frontline Burma units, but its discipline, tactical precision, and methodical flight training made it a reliable formation—quietly professional, rarely flamboyant.
Organization (as of 1 March 1942)
– Structure: 3 Chutai (approx. 28 pilots; 24 at founding, expanded after December 1941)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (transitioning to Ki-43-I “Hayabusa”)
– Role: Air defense and tactical reserve (Kwantung Army)
– Personnel: Veteran cadre reinforced by Akeno and Manchurian flight school graduates
Aircraft Strength (as of 1 March 1942)
– Total: 36 – Operational: 28 – Damaged: 6 – Reserve: 2
Pilot Roster (as of early 1942)
145 – MAJ Shimoyama, Noboru (Commander Sentai) – XP: 64 – entry 1942/03/01
146 – CPT Asano, Masateru (1st Chutai Leader) – XP: 56 – entry 1942/03/01
147 –CPT Maita, Yoshimi (2st Chutai Leader) – XP: 56 – entry 1942/03/01
148 –CPT Izuta, Yushi (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP: 56 – entry 1942/03/01
149 – WO Kitaoka, Seishi – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
150 – WO Yoshida, Akira – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7889 – CPT Izuta, Yushi – XP:58, entry 1942/03/01
7890 – WO Oki, Sho-ichi – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7891 – 1LT Ogawa, Noboru – XP:51, entry 1942/03/01
7892 – WO Ogawa, Yoshita – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7893 – 1LT Shima, Tsutomu – XP:51, entry 1942/03/01
7894 – WO Shirogane, Ginzo – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7895 – WO Sekiya, Hideji – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7896 – 1LT Hashimoto, Kikuo – XP:51, entry 1942/03/01
7897 – WO Nishikawa, Sadao – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7898 – 1LT Yamauchi, Masahiro – XP:51, entry 1942/03/01
7899 – WO Tomoi, Hisashi – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7900 – WO Hibino, Shigeru – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7901 – 1LT Ideta, Takayuki – XP:51, entry 1942/03/01
7902 – CPT Koyama, Shigeru – XP:58, entry 1942/03/01
7903 – WO Ito, Kiyoshi – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7904 – 1LT Tsujii, Ryūzō – XP:51, entry 1942/03/01
7905 – WO Chiba, Shigeru – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7906 – WO Hazama, Hajime – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7907 – WO Fujimoto, Masuichi – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7908 – WO Shibakiyo, Tadashi – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7909 – WO Yamazaki, Tamisaku – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7910 – WO Ikeda, Hideo – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7911 – CPT Motoyama, Akenori – XP:58, entry 1942/03/01
7912 – WO Kobayashi, Sen-ichi – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7913 – MAJ Kimura, Kiyoshi – XP:68, entry 1942/03/01
7914 – WO Kawamoto, Masaru – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7915 – WO Noguchi, Takashi ★ Ace (6 victories) – XP:54, entry 1942/03/01
7916 – WO Kajita, Yoshizo – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7917 – WO Nakamura, Rokusaburō – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7918 – WO Nagae, Seiichi – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7919 – WO Kirihara, Tasuku – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7920 – 1LT Yamamoto, Kazue – XP:51, entry 1942/03/01
7921 – WO Hirahara, Kinji – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7922 – WO Takahashi, Heisuke – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7923 – 2LT Yamada, Yukiho – XP:51, entry 1942/03/01
7924 – 1LT Sekiguchi, Hiroshi ★ Ace (13 victories) – XP:70, entry 1942/03/01
7925 – CPT Yasuda, Yoshito ★ Ace (10 victories) – XP:74, entry 1942/03/01
7926 – MAJ Mimura, Kiyoshi – XP:68, entry 1942/03/01
7927 – 1LT Kiyosuke, Yasutiko – XP:51, entry 1942/03/01
7928 – WO Hada, Sakio – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7929 – WO Sakagami, Yoshio – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7930 – WO Kuroiwa, Tomohiko – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7931 – WO Koyama, Susumu ★ Ace (8 victories) – XP:47, entry 1942/03/01
7932 – WO Tahata, Iwao – XP:43, entry 1942/03/01
7933 – WO Furuhashi, Katsumi – XP:41, entry 1942/03/01
7934 – WO Okada, Shoji – XP:41, entry 1942/03/01
7935 – 1LT Noguchi, Yoshinori (2 victories) – XP:52, entry 1942/03/01
7936 – 2LT Noguchi, Takeshi (1 victory) – XP:47, entry 1942/03/01
7937 – CPT Kajinami, Susumu (5 victories) ★ Ace – XP:61, entry 1942/03/01

Unit Averages (as of 1 March 1942)
• Average XP: 54–55
• Average Morale: 74 (calm, disciplined unit with veteran core)
Evaluation
The 68th Hiko Sentai was a model of quiet professionalism—solid, steady, and utterly unglamorous.
It lacked the drama of Burma or the Pacific but compensated with training excellence and consistency.
After conversion to the Ki-43 “Hayabusa,” it became one of the IJAAF’s most stable regional Sentai, providing a dependable air shield for Manchukuo and northern Japan.
Its reputation rested not on flashy victories but on reliability—a disciplined unit that stood its post long after others burned bright and vanished.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
70th Hiko Sentai (第70飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 March 1941
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 6 December 1941): Dongjingcheng, China
Higher Command: 5th Air Division / China Expeditionary Army
Commanding Officer (6 December 1941)
Major Mutsuo Eyama – China veteran and pragmatic officer. Personally led the small forward element in combat during 1941–42, calm and without any trace of theatrics. His steady leadership helped the young unit develop into a functional, disciplined formation.
Attributes: Skill 57 | Inspiration 52 | Naval 20 | Air 63 | Land 44 | Admin 53 | Aggression 48 | Political 16
Formation & Background
The 70th Hiko Sentai was established in March 1941 from elements of the Hamamatsu Army Flying School and stationed at Dongjingcheng in northern China.
Its mission was to maintain local airspace security and provide tactical support to the 5th Army’s operations along the northern China front.
At the outbreak of the Pacific War, the Sentai was still in formation—barely two Chutai in strength—and composed mostly of new graduates with only a handful of veterans.
During 1942, the unit converted from the Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” to the Ki-43-I “Hayabusa,” gaining greater mobility and combat effectiveness.
It remained active in the China theater, conducting local patrols, escort, and limited ground-support missions throughout 1943–44.
Organization (as of 6 December 1941)
– Structure: Two Chutai (in formation), about 15–20 pilots total
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (transition to Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” in 1942)
– Role: Tactical air support and local air defense
– Personnel: Small veteran core with majority of new flight-school graduates
Aircraft Strength (as of 6 December 1941)
– Total: 18 – Operational: 12 – Damaged: 4 – Reserve: 2
Pilot Roster (as of 6 December 1941)
0152 – MAJ Mutsuo Eyama – XP 64 – entry 1941/12/06
0153 – MAJ Akira Watanabe ★ Ace (7 victories) – XP 72 – entry 1941/12/06
0154 – CPT Bonpu Nakajima – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
0155 – CPT Saburo Tashiro – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
0156 – CPT Masatsugu Tsuchihashi – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
0157 – CPT Atsuyuki Sakata – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7942 – 2LT Kichigorō Haraguchi ★ Ace (24 victories) – XP 82 – entry 1941/12/06
7943 – 2LT Fumisuke Ikuno ★ Ace (8 victories) – XP 57 – entry 1941/12/06
7944 – 2LT Makoto Ogawa ★ Ace (9 victories) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
7945 – WO Yoshio Yoshida ★ Ace (6 victories) – XP 54 – entry 1941/12/06
7949 – CPT Kensui Kono ★ Ace (9 victories) – XP 69 – entry 1941/12/06
7951 – WO Yoshihiko Kimura ★ Ace (15 victories) – XP 62 – entry 1941/12/06
7952 – WO Taro Kobayashi ★ Ace (10 victories) – XP 59 – entry 1942/12/01
7953 – CPT Kauzo Aoki – XP 58 – entry 1943/03/10
7956 – CPT Norio Hayashi – XP 58 – entry 1943/05/18
7946 – WO Yoshio Sato – XP 43 – entry 1943/06/12
7947 – WO Ken-ichi Kumagaya – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
7948 – WO Hajime Yoshida – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/25
7950 – CPT Kanji Honda – XP 58 – entry 1944/08/20
7954 – WO Sadao Miyazawa – XP 41 – entry 1945/02/01
7955 – WO Shin-ichi Urushibara – XP 43 – entry 1943/04/22
7957 – WO Hideo Okumura – XP 43 – entry 1943/05/30
Unit Averages (as of 6 December 1941)
• Average XP: 47–48
• Average Morale: 69
Evaluation
The 70th Hiko Sentai entered the Pacific War as a small, inexperienced formation still finding its footing.
Lacking the prestige of elite units, it nonetheless evolved under Major Eyama into a disciplined, reliable force for regional air defense.
Its pilots gained steady experience over the China front, producing several future aces but rarely drawing public notice.
By 1943, the Sentai had matured into a competent yet unsung formation—typical of the quiet, workmanlike backbone that sustained Japan’s wartime air operations.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
71st Hiko Sentai (第71飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 April 1944
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 April 1944): Kameyama, Japan
Higher Command: Homeland Air Defense Command (likely under 10th Air Division, 1st Air Army)
Commanding Officer (1 April 1944)
Major Itsuo Ayabe – experienced officer who, in 1944, had to rebuild the unit almost from scratch. Frequently led the small formation personally during 1944–45. Known for his composure and discipline rather than fame or flair, Ayabe represented the quiet professionalism of Japan’s late-war commanders.
Attributes: Skill 56 | Inspiration 51 | Naval 20 | Air 62 | Land 43 | Admin 52 | Aggression 47 | Political 15
Formation & Background
The 71st Hiko Sentai was formed in April 1944 at Kameyama Airfield as part of Japan’s final homeland defense reorganization.
Its ranks were filled primarily with freshly graduated pilots from the Akeno and Mito flight schools, with only a handful of officers carrying front-line experience from China or Burma.
The Sentai’s main purpose was not active combat but the accelerated training and tactical refinement of new aircrew before assignment to operational defense groups.
Though nominally part of the homeland air defense structure, its limited resources and shortage of experienced flight leaders meant that it rarely saw sustained combat.
Organization (as of 1 April 1944)
– Structure: 2–3 Chutai (approx. 20–25 pilots total)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-43-II “Hayabusa”
– Role: Training and limited air defense
– Personnel: Mostly flight-school graduates, few veterans
Aircraft Strength (as of 1 April 1944)
– Total: 20 – Operational: 14 – Damaged: 4 – Reserve: 2
Pilot Roster (as of 1 April 1944)
7958 – MAJ Itsuo Ayabe – XP 64 – entry 1944/04/01
7959 – CPT Hirobumi Ishii – XP 58 – entry 1944/04/01
7960 – CPT Jitsusaburō Yamamoto – XP 58 – entry 1944/04/01
7961 – WO Tamizo Shimamura – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/01
7962 – WO Minoru Sakatani – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/01
7963 – 1LT Shigeo Tazawa – XP 56 – entry 1944/04/01
7964 – WO Yoshitaka Kubo – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/01
7965 – 2LT Masao Haruta – XP 48 – entry 1944/04/01
7966 – WO Mizunori Fukuda – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/01
7967 – CPT Tetsuo Sora – XP 58 – entry 1944/04/01
7968 – 2LT Takashi Nishimura – XP 46 – entry 1944/04/01
7969 – 1LT Masazumi Ikeuchi – XP 51 – entry 1944/04/01
7970 – WO Kaichi Tsuji – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/01
Unit Averages (as of 1 April 1944)
• Average XP: 46–47 (Officers 55–64 | NCOs 43–48)
• Average Morale: 67 (high enthusiasm, limited experience)
Evaluation
The 71st Hiko Sentai was one of the many late-war formations built from enthusiasm rather than strength.
Under Major Ayabe’s patient leadership, the Sentai managed to maintain order and discipline, but fuel scarcity, outdated equipment, and minimal combat experience left it unprepared for serious defense operations.
Its pilots performed limited training and interception duties, contributing mainly to Japan’s dwindling pilot pool rather than the front lines.
A unit born from duty rather than ambition—symbolizing the quiet, stoic resolve of an air arm that had already given its best years to war.
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Peiper1944 · Post by **Peiper1944** » Sat Nov 08, 2025 7:49 pm

72nd Hiko Sentai (第72飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 April 1944
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 April 1944): Kita-Ise, Japan
Higher Command: Homeland Air Defense Command

Commanding Officer (1 April 1944)
Major Eisuke Tsuzaki – a seasoned officer with China campaign experience. Not a celebrated ace, but a reliable professional who earned respect through consistency rather than charisma. In 1944 he often led his young Sentai personally from the cockpit, later shifting to organization and logistics as the war situation deteriorated.
Attributes: Skill 58 | Inspiration 52 | Naval 21 | Air 64 | Land 45 | Admin 54 | Aggression 49 | Political 16

Formation & Background
The 72nd Hiko Sentai was activated on 1 April 1944 at Kita-Ise Airfield, Honshū, as part of Japan’s desperate late-war effort to strengthen homeland air defense.
The unit combined a small cadre of veterans with a majority of newly minted pilots from Akeno and Mito flight schools. Its core mission was dual: defend central Japan and provide tactical conversion training for the new Nakajima Ki-84 “Hayate.”
Severe shortages of fuel, maintenance crews, and replacement parts crippled its readiness. Average pilot flight time rarely exceeded fifteen hours per month.
Actual interception sorties only increased in mid-1945, when the unit joined the fragmented defense network against U.S. bomber incursions.

Organization (as of 1 April 1944)
– Structure: 3 Chutai (approx. 45 pilots total)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-84 “Hayate”
– Role: Homeland air defense / tactical conversion training
– Personnel: Veteran nucleus, majority inexperienced pilots

Aircraft Strength (as of 1 April 1944)
– Total: 45 – Operational: 27 – Damaged: 8 – Reserve: 3
Note: Fuel scarcity limited average flight time to under 15 hours monthly.

Pilot Roster (as of 1 April 1944)
7974 – MAJ Eisuke Tsuzaki – XP 64 – entry 1944/04/01
7975 – CPT Tsuneo Inoue – XP 58 – entry 1944/04/01
7976 – CPT Suguru Katsuraguchi – XP 58 – entry 1944/04/01
7977 – CPT Tsukasa Toda – XP 58 – entry 1944/04/01
7978 – WO Yoichi Masuda – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/01
7979 – 1LT Yoshiyuki Ishii – XP 51 – entry 1944/04/01
7980 – CPT Kunihiko Hongyo – XP 58 – entry 1944/04/01
7981 – 1LT Shigeo Wakasa – XP 51 – entry 1944/04/01
7982 – 2LT Hajime Shintani – XP 46 – entry 1944/04/01
7983 – WO Yuichi Yoshinaga – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/01
7984 – 2LT Takashi Furukawa – XP 46 – entry 1944/04/01
7985 – 2LT Nobuyuki Okoshi – XP 46 – entry 1944/04/01
7986 – 2LT Kazuo Takahashi – XP 46 – entry 1944/04/01
7987 – 2LT Fumio Kasahara – XP 46 – entry 1944/04/01
7988 – 2LT Toru Sato – XP 46 – entry 1944/04/01
7989 – WO Haruo Matsukawa – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/01
7990 – WO Minoru Kubo – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/01
7991 – WO Toshiharu Deguchi – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/01
7992 – WO Takashi Onishi – XP 41 – entry 1944/04/01
7993 – WO Kimihiro Usuba – XP 41 – entry 1944/04/01
7994 – WO Shiro Tone – XP 41 – entry 1944/04/01

Unit Averages (as of 1 April 1944)
• Average XP: 49–50 (veterans 58–64 | trainees 41–46)
• Average Morale: 71 (solid cohesion, limited combat experience)

Evaluation
The 72nd Hiko Sentai represented the IJAAF’s final defensive phase—courage undiminished, capability eroded.
Its composition reflected Japan’s exhaustion: a handful of seasoned officers surrounded by eager but barely trained youth, all flying advanced aircraft they could scarcely maintain.
While its combat record remained modest, its existence symbolized the transition of Japan’s air arm from an offensive force to a desperate homeland shield.
A unit sustained by discipline and resolve when material strength had already run out.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
73rd Hiko Sentai (第73飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 April 1944
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 April 1944): Kita-Ise, Japan
Higher Command: Homeland Air Defense Command
Commanding Officer (1 April 1944)
Major Teruo Misumi – veteran of the China campaigns, who in 1941–42 had commanded only a skeletal detachment rather than a full Sentai. Pragmatic and unpretentious, he embodied the weary professionalism of late-war IJAAF officers. Known for his reliability and sense of duty rather than charisma.
Attributes: Skill 55 | Inspiration 50 | Naval 20 | Air 61 | Land 43 | Admin 52 | Aggression 47 | Political 15
Formation & Background
The 73rd Hiko Sentai was activated on 1 April 1944 at Kita-Ise Airfield as part of the last organized wave of homeland air defense units.
Although officially listed as a full Sentai, in practice it existed mostly on paper, struggling to reach operational strength. Its manpower came from a mix of battle-worn veterans of the 1st and 4th Sentai and a larger influx of newly graduated pilots from the Akeno, Hitachi, and Mito schools.
Its intended mission was to defend the Kinki region and serve as a tactical conversion and reserve pool for more active air defense groups.
Persistent shortages of Ki-84 parts, aviation fuel, and maintenance crews crippled its effectiveness; training sorties were limited to a few hours per week.
Organization (as of 1 April 1944)
– Structure: 1 Hikotai (3 Chutai, approx. 30 pilots total)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-84 “Hayate” (Frank)
– Role: Homeland defense / transition and training
– Personnel: Small veteran cadre, majority new flight school graduates
Aircraft Strength (as of 1 April 1944)
– Total: 15 – Operational: 9 – Damaged: 3 – Reserve: 3
Pilot Roster (as of 1 April 1944)
7999 – MAJ Teruo Misumi – XP 64 – entry 1944/04/01
8000 – CPT Hiromitsu Kajiwara – XP 58 – entry 1944/04/01
8001 – CPT Jirō Awata – XP 58 – entry 1944/04/01
8002 – WO Shunji Nakahara – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/01
8003 – WO Kōichi Murayama – XP 43 – entry 1944/04/01
8004 – 1LT Kōichi Tanaka – XP 51 – entry 1944/04/01
8005 – CPT Yoshihiro Kanki – XP 58 – entry 1944/04/01
8006 – 2LT Kiichi Yoshida – XP 46 – entry 1944/04/01
8007 – 2LT Yasutami Kawahara – XP 46 – entry 1944/04/01
8008 – WO Yukio Arai – XP 41 – entry 1944/04/01
8009 – 2LT Takio Shirai – XP 46 – entry 1944/04/01
Unit Averages (as of 1 April 1944)
• Average XP: 45–46 (veterans ~58 | new pilots ~43)
• Average Morale: 66 (high enthusiasm, limited experience)
Evaluation
The 73rd Hiko Sentai was among the last Sentai to form during Japan’s final defense phase—a unit of good intentions but scarce means.
Its small cadre of veterans provided structure and training discipline, yet chronic resource shortages prevented it from functioning as a true operational group.
Primarily used as a conversion and holding formation for pilots learning the Ki-84, it symbolized the hollow expansion of the late-war IJAAF: formations created faster than they could be equipped or supplied.
A Sentai more symbolic than strategic—its endurance measured not in victories, but in persistence.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
77th Hiko Sentai (第77飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 July 1938
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 6 December 1941): Formosa (preparing for southern deployment)
Higher Command: 3rd Air Division → 5th Air Brigade
Commanding Officer (6 December 1941)
Major Hiroshi Yoshioka – an experienced officer who took command of an almost skeletal formation in late 1941. Personally led the small advance group into southern operations during the early months of the Pacific War. Calm, methodical, and reliable, Yoshioka was a stabilizing figure in a period of structural chaos.
Attributes: Skill 56 | Inspiration 51 | Naval 20 | Air 62 | Land 44 | Admin 52 | Aggression 47 | Political 15
Formation & Background
The 77th Hiko Sentai, formed on 1 July 1938, ranked among the older fighter units of the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force.
Originally stationed in northern China, it was later reassigned to Formosa in preparation for southern operations. By December 1941, it was midway through reorganization and modernization, with many pilots still undergoing conversion from the Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” to the Ki-43-I “Hayabusa.”
Only a fraction of the unit was combat-ready, the rest being administrative or in training detachments.
Despite its transitional state, several of its officers later distinguished themselves in the Malaya, Burma, and New Guinea campaigns.
Organization (as of 6 December 1941)
– Structure: 3 Chutai (approx. 30–35 aircraft)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (to be replaced by Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” in 1942)
– Role: Air defense and early-phase southern deployment
– Personnel: Small veteran cadre, majority new flight-school graduates
Aircraft Strength (as of 6 December 1941)
– Total: 12 – Operational: 8 – Damaged: 2 – Reserve: 2
Pilot Roster (as of 6 December 1941)
0162 – MAJ Kensui Kono – XP 64 – entry 1941/12/06
0163 – CPT Yoshio Hirose ★ Ace (12 victories) – XP 70 – entry 1941/12/06
0164 – CPT Toyoki Eto ★ Ace (12 victories) – XP 74 – entry 1941/12/06
0165 – CPT Mitsuhiro Matsuda – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
8013 – CPT Yoshiro Kuwabara ★ Ace (13 victories) – XP 73 – entry 1941/12/06
8014 – WO Konteu Ri – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/07
8015 – WO Kikuji Kishida – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8016 – 1LT Shigeru Suzuki – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
8017 – WO Takeshi Kitazaka – XP 43 – entry 1943/06/20
8018 – 1LT Kanekichi Yamamoto – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
8019 – WO Saichi Yoshida – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
8020 – CPT Shizusada Nakao – XP 58 – entry 1943/02/01
8021 – CPT Michio Miyamoto – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
8022 – WO Koichi Mitoma – XP 43 – entry 1942/07/01
8023 – WO Shironushi Kobayakawa – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8024 – WO Shoichi Hashimoto – XP 43 – entry 1943/12/01
8025 – MAJ Kunio Matsumoto – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06
8026 – WO Wakichi Fukushima – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
8027 – CPT Naosuke Kurakawa – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
8028 – CPT Yoshihide Matsuo – XP 58 – entry 1942/10/01
8029 – 1LT Tsuguo Kojima – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/01
8030 – WO Kensui Kono – XP 43 – entry 1942/01/05
8031 – WO Yasuo Kagawa – XP 43 – entry 1943/02/01
8032 – 1LT Masashi Someya – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
Unit Averages (as of 6 December 1941)
• Average XP: 46–47
• Average Morale: 67
Evaluation
The 77th Hiko Sentai entered the Pacific War only half-formed, its combat value limited but its potential clear.
Caught between reorganization and deployment, the unit’s early missions were primarily patrol and escort duties during the Malaya and Burma offensives.
Although understrength and equipped with aging Ki-27s, the Sentai’s core of capable leaders laid the foundation for later successes once the Ki-43 “Hayabusa” arrived.
By mid-1942, several of its aces—Hirose, Eto, and Kuwabara—had become central figures in Japan’s southern air war, transforming a transitional unit into one of the 3rd Air Division’s respected fighter groups.
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77th Hiko Sentai – Detachment A (第77飛行戦隊分遣隊A)
Founded: 1 September 1944
Classification: Standard Sub-unit (Detachment of 77th Sentai)
Base (as of 1 September 1944): Kita-Ise, Japan
Higher Command: Homeland Air Defense Command
Commanding Officer (1 September 1944)
Detachment Leader (likely a Captain from the 77th Sentai) – pragmatic, grounded, and field-oriented. Personally directed missions from the cockpit, managing his men without the luxury of full staff support. A capable and disciplined pilot-officer typical of Japan’s late-war emergency formations.
Attributes: Skill 56 | Inspiration 50 | Naval 19 | Air 61 | Land 42 | Admin 51 | Aggression 47 | Political 14
Formation & Background
Detachment A of the 77th Hiko Sentai was established in September 1944 at Kita-Ise Airfield as part of the Homeland Air Defense Command’s decentralized defense structure.
Composed of selected pilots from the parent Sentai, the detachment’s purpose was to conduct short-range air patrols over the Ise Bay region and intercept isolated Allied reconnaissance aircraft.
Its strength never exceeded one understrength Chutai. While officially combat-rated, in practice it functioned primarily as a local airfield guard and training-support element.
The unit’s aircraft were outdated Ki-27 “Nate” fighters, hopelessly obsolete by 1944 standards, yet the pilots maintained discipline and professionalism in their limited duties.
Organization (as of 1 September 1944)
– Structure: 1 Chutai (≈15 pilots)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”
– Role: Homeland defense / training support
– Personnel: Small veteran nucleus reinforced by 1944 flight-school graduates
Aircraft Strength (as of 1 September 1944)
– Total: 15 – Operational: 10 – Damaged: 3 – Reserve: 2
Pilot Roster (as of 1 September 1944)
0167 – WO Kiyoshi Kobayakawa – XP 43 – entry 1944/09/01
0168 – MAJ Juichi Morimoto – XP 68 – entry 1944/09/01
8034 – WO Kenkichi Kojima – XP 43 – entry 1944/09/01
8035 – WO Ki-ichi Kanda – XP 43 – entry 1944/09/01
8036 – 1LT Kisaji Beppu – XP 51 – entry 1944/09/01
8037 – 2LT Shinjiro Nagoshi – XP 51 – entry 1944/09/01
8038 – 1LT Teizo Yatabe – XP 51 – entry 1944/09/01
8039 – 1LT Masaru Takeda – XP 51 – entry 1944/09/01
8040 – WO Kazuo Fujimoto – XP 41 – entry 1944/09/01
8041 – CPT Hirotoshi Yokoyama – XP 58 – entry 1944/09/01
8042 – WO Shoji Endo – XP 43 – entry 1944/09/01
Unit Averages (as of 1 September 1944)
• Average XP: 45–46 (veterans 60+ | new pilots ≈ 43)
• Average Morale: 66 (motivated but inexperienced)
Evaluation
The 77th Hiko Sentai Detachment A embodied the late-war reality of Japan’s air arm: small, improvised, and under-resourced, yet maintained through sheer discipline.
Operating obsolete aircraft with dwindling supplies, its pilots performed limited reconnaissance interception and field-defense duties around the Ise region.
Though strategically insignificant, it served as a transitional bridge between training and emergency defense units, preserving the Sentai’s operational framework when most of Japan’s air power was collapsing.
A modest but dutiful fragment of the once-formidable 77th Sentai—holding the line more through resolve than capability.
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78th Hiko Sentai (第78飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 March 1942
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 September 1944): Liaoyang, Manchuria
Higher Command: 3rd Air Army (Manchurian Defense Command)

Commanding Officer (1 March 1943)
Major Isao Abe – senior officer with prior IJAAF staff service, assigned to command the 78th during its long transition from a paper unit to a functioning formation. By 1943 he was largely an administrative leader rather than an active combat pilot, valued for steady organization rather than battlefield flair.
Attributes: Skill 57 | Inspiration 51 | Naval 20 | Air 63 | Land 44 | Admin 56 | Aggression 46 | Political 16

Formation & Background
The 78th Hiko Sentai was created in March 1942 in Manchuria as part of a broad IJAAF effort to bolster northern defensive readiness. Initially envisioned as a reserve and training Sentai, it spent its first year in reorganization and pilot instruction duties.
It did not reach full operational status until mid-1943, by which time the unit’s focus had shifted to border patrols and protection of key industrial and logistic centers in the Harbin–Liaoyang region.
Most of its pilots were new graduates with minimal combat experience, while a handful of veterans provided structure and instruction.
The Sentai’s missions were routine and uneventful—training flights, weather patrols, and long, monotonous Soviet border reconnaissance.

Organization (as of 1 March 1943)
– Structure: 3 Chutai (~31 pilots)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (conversion to Ki-43 delayed)
– Role: Patrol, regional defense, and advanced training
– Personnel: Predominantly new graduates with limited veteran cadre

Aircraft Strength (as of 1 March 1943)
– Total: 31 – Operational: 22 – Damaged: 6 – Reserve: 3
Note: Many airframes were refurbished trainers; Ki-43 introduction delayed by fuel shortages.

Pilot Roster (as of 1 August 1943)
0170 – WO Chuichi Ichikawa ★ Ace (10 victories) – XP 59 – entry 1943/08/01
0171 – CPT Sadao Nakahama (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1943/08/01
8049 – CPT Motoya Yamashita (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1943/08/01
8050 – CPT Ryoichi Tateyama (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1943/08/01
8051 – 1LT Tojiro Ninoi – XP 51 – entry 1943/08/01
8052 – WO Toyshi Midera – XP 43 – entry 1943/08/01
8053 – 1LT Kunji Fujita – XP 51 – entry 1943/08/01
8054 – 1LT Kunihiko Suzuki – XP 51 – entry 1943/08/01
8055 – 1LT Hiroshi Suemitsu – XP 51 – entry 1943/08/01
8056 – WO Kurajiro Umezawa – XP 43 – entry 1943/08/01
8057 – 1LT Ryosuke Mori – XP 51 – entry 1943/08/01
8058 – WO Hajime Ushijima – XP 43 – entry 1943/08/01
8059 – CPT Yoshichika Mutaguchi – XP 58 – entry 1943/08/01
8060 – WO Kanematsu Sakuma – XP 43 – entry 1943/08/01
8061 – WO Takeo Waku – XP 43 – entry 1943/08/01
8062 – WO Isoo Nitta – XP 43 – entry 1943/08/01
8063 – WO Tadatoshi Tejima – XP 43 – entry 1943/08/01
8064 – 2LT Gosaburo Kaneguchi – XP 51 – entry 1943/08/01
8065 – WO Masshi Shimoe – XP 43 – entry 1943/08/01
8066 – MAJ Akira Takatsuki – XP 68 – entry 1943/08/01
8067 – WO Makoto Matsumoto – XP 43 – entry 1943/08/01
8068 – WO Yoshi-ichi Azuma – XP 43 – entry 1943/08/01
8069 – CPT Tetsushi Yamamoto – XP 58 – entry 1943/08/01
8070 – 1LT Kyutaro Yagi – XP 51 – entry 1943/08/01
8071 – 1LT Mitsusada Asai ★ Ace (7 victories) – XP 57 – entry 1943/08/01
8072 – CPT Kenji Takahashi – XP 58 – entry 1943/08/01
8073 – 1LT Keiji Takamiya – XP 51 – entry 1944/01/05
8074 – WO Fujio Tanogami – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/08
8075 – WO Shiro Nonaka – XP 43 – entry 1945/03/01
8076 – 1LT Takashi Tomishima – XP 51 – entry 1944/05/01
8077 – WO Tokuyasu Ishizuka – XP 43 – entry 1945/01/01
8078 – WO Shogo Saito – XP 43 – entry 1945/03/01
8079 – MAJ Shigechika Tomari – XP 68 – entry 1944/05/01

Unit Averages (as of 1 March 1943)
• Average XP: 48
• Average Morale: 57

Evaluation
The 78th Hiko Sentai was the epitome of a mid-war reserve formation—organized, reliable, yet strategically irrelevant.
It spent most of its service life performing border patrols and training replacements rather than engaging in front-line combat.
Despite housing a few competent officers and aces, its lack of contact with the enemy and reliance on obsolete aircraft kept it firmly in the background of the IJAAF’s Manchurian defense system.
A well-disciplined but obscure unit, remembered more for endurance and quiet professionalism than for combat distinction.
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84th Independent Fighter Chutai (第84独立飛行中隊)
Founded: 1 July 1939
Classification: Standard / Heritage Unit
Base (as of 6 December 1941): Hanoi, French Indochina
Higher Command: 5th Air Brigade → 3rd Air Division → Southern Army → Army Aviation Headquarters
Commanding Officer (6 December 1941)
Major Tsunao Nagano – seasoned IJAAF officer and combat veteran of the China campaign. Renowned for calm leadership, firm tactical discipline, and excellent coordination between air and ground echelons. In December 1941, Nagano commanded the 84th Independent Fighter Chutai from Hanoi in direct support of the Malaya invasion, leading by example from the cockpit.
Attributes: Skill 61 | Inspiration 57 | Naval 25 | Air 66 | Land 48 | Admin 58 | Aggression 52 | Political 17
Formation & Background
Formed in mid-1939, the 84th Independent Fighter Chutai originated from experienced elements of the 1st and 11th Hiko Sentai.
Initially deployed over China, it moved to French Indochina in 1941 to support preparations for the Southern Operation under the 3rd Air Division.
By late 1941, it functioned as a flexible, semi-autonomous fighter detachment—nominally independent but operating in concert with the 5th Air Brigade.
Its mission profile included securing air superiority over the Hanoi–Saigon axis, providing escort for bomber formations, and intercepting Allied reconnaissance activity prior to the invasion of Malaya.
Organization (as of 6 December 1941)
– Structure: 2 Chutai (~30 aircraft, ~15 pilots each)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”
– Role: Air superiority and bomber escort for southern operations
– Personnel: Balanced mix of China veterans and recently graduated pilots
Aircraft Strength (as of 6 December 1941)
– Total: 30 – Operational: 24 – Damaged: 4 – Reserve: 2
Pilot Roster (as of 6 December 1941)
8458 – MAJ Tsunao Nagano (Chutai Commander) – XP 64 – entry 1941/12/06
8459 – MAJ Hajime Takagi – XP 64 – entry 1941/12/06
8460 – 1LT Kimimichi Okazaki – XP 52 – entry 1941/12/06
8461 – 1LT Yushio Izawa – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
8462 – 1LT Tadashi Kitayama – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
8463 – 2LT Yutaka Nishimine – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06
8464 – WO Kazuo Ikoma – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8465 – WO Takashi Iki – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8466 – WO Shinji Mori – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8467 – CPT Kokichi Kawada – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
8468 – WO Masao Kawada – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8469 – CPT Tomonori Onuma – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
8470 – 2LT Jiro Ieiri – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06
8471 – WO Misao Yamada – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8472 – WO Hiroshi Maruno – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8473 – WO Tatsuwaka Ogura – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8474 – 1LT Osami Wakamatsu – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
Unit Averages (as of 6 December 1941)
• Average XP: 60 (veterans 65–75 | newer pilots 45–50)
• Average Morale: 80 (excellent esprit de corps and tactical cohesion)
Evaluation
The 84th Independent Fighter Chutai represented one of the IJAAF’s most capable small-unit formations at the outbreak of the Pacific War.
Combining pre-war professionalism with the mobility of an independent detachment, it achieved notable success in escorting bombers and securing early air superiority over Indochina and northern Malaya.
Though not classified as an “elite” Sentai, its pilots performed at a consistently high level, bridging the disciplined precision of the older China-war generation with the aggressive flexibility demanded by the southern campaigns.
A quietly outstanding unit whose legacy lay in the seamless execution of tactical missions—never glamorous, but always effective.
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Peiper1944 · Post by **Peiper1944** » Sat Nov 08, 2025 7:50 pm

85th Hiko Sentai (第85飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 March 1941
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 6 December 1941): Hankow, China
Higher Command: 10th Air Brigade → 5th Air Division → China Expeditionary Army Air Command

Commanding Officer (6 December 1941)
Major Gorō Yamamoto – veteran of the China campaign and an active combat pilot even in late 1941. A strict, pragmatic officer—respected more for his dependability than for bold tactics. His leadership style emphasized order and tactical discipline rather than heroics.
Attributes: Skill 59 | Inspiration 53 | Naval 21 | Air 65 | Land 45 | Admin 55 | Aggression 49 | Political 16

Formation & Background
Formed in March 1941 at Hankow from personnel of the 33rd and 77th Hiko Sentai, the 85th Hiko Sentai was tasked with securing the central Yangtze corridor and supporting bomber operations under the 5th Air Division.
Its pilots carried out numerous strike and escort missions across Hunan and Guangxi during 1941–42, providing reliable, methodical support to the China Expeditionary Army.
The Sentai began gradual re-equipment with the Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” in 1942, improving its flexibility, though most of its missions remained defensive or tactical in nature.
A mix of hardened China veterans and fresh graduates gave it a stable but unremarkable performance profile—a classic example of a competent but unsung IJAAF fighter unit.

Organization (as of 6 December 1941)
– Structure: 2 Chutai (~30 pilots; ~30 aircraft)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (partial Ki-43-I transition from 1942 onward)
– Role: Air superiority, bomber escort, and tactical ground support
– Personnel: Balanced veteran core with rotation of new graduates

Aircraft Strength (as of 6 December 1941)
– Total: 30 – Operational: 24 – Damaged: 4 – Reserve: 2

Pilot Roster (as of 6 December 1941)
0173 – MAJ Gorō Yamamoto (Sentai Commander) – XP 64 – entry 1941/12/06
0174 – CPT Mitsugu Sawada ★ Ace (11 victories, Hikotai Leader) – XP 74 – entry 1941/12/06
0175 – CPT Haruyoshi Furukawa (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
0176 – CPT Michiaki Tōjō (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
0177 – CPT Yoshiaki Nakahara (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
0178 – 2LT Hiroshi Gomi ★ Ace (7 victories) – XP 56 – entry 1941/12/06
0179 – MAJ Yukiyoshi Wakamatsu ★ Ace (18 victories) – XP 81 – entry 1941/12/06
0180 – WO Tokuya Sudō ★ Ace (10 victories) – XP 59 – entry 1941/12/06
8084 – WO Akiyoshi Nomura ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 53 – entry 1941/12/06
8085 – WO Shigeharu Sasaki – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8086 – 1LT Yoshiji Shiki – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
8087 – WO Toshiaki Hirai – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8088 – WO Tamotsu Nishikawa – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8089 – WO Sakio Hade – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8090 – WO Hidesue Ikubo – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8091 – 1LT Kiyoya Kon-i – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
8092 – WO Tadashi Kikikawa – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8093 – WO Haruzō Hayakawa – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8094 – WO Keiichi Kimura – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
8095 – 1LT Tadashi Okano – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
8096 – WO Masanori Katayama – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
8097 – 1LT Yukichi Takano – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
8098 – WO Masanori Ikenoue – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
8099 – CPT Hajime Saitō – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
8100 – WO Toshiji Shōji – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
8101 – WO Hajime Wakabayashi – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
8102 – WO Tsuneichi Ishikawa – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
8103 – WO Kōji Hikosaka – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
8104 – WO Hiroji Shimoda – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
8105 – WO Tatsuji Uebo – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
8106 – WO Masashi Saibori – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
8107 – WO Toshio Miyamoto – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
8108 – CPT Nobuyuki Hironaka – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
8109 – 1LT Toshiyuki Shondō – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05
8110 – MAJ Morio Nakamura – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06
8111 – WO Kaname Hagiyama – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
8112 – WO Kiyoaki Tachiwa – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
8113 – WO Heihachirō Nishino – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
8114 – 2LT Hiroshi Iida – XP 46 – entry 1945/01/01
8115 – WO Masuo Takigawa – XP 43 – entry 1944/05/01
8116 – WO Hideo Kanbayashi – XP 43 – entry 1944/05/01
8117 – 1LT Tsuneo Kurihara – XP 51 – entry 1944/05/01
8118 – CPT Yoshikazu Okimoto – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
8119 – WO Kiyoshi Hoshino – XP 43 – entry 1944/05/01
8120 – 2LT Haruo Nishigaki – XP 46 – entry 1945/01/01
8121 – WO Rokurō Shikura – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
8122 – WO Fukuichi Okada – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
8123 – CPT Akira Horaguchi – XP 58 – entry 1942/01/05
8124 – WO Kenzō Uchinami – XP 43 – entry 1944/05/01
8125 – WO Yoshitaka Iguchi – XP 43 – entry 1945/01/01
8126 – 1LT Masashi Endō – XP 51 – entry 1944/05/01
8127 – WO Misao Ōkubo ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 67 – entry 1941/12/06
8128 – WO Fumio Yonezu ★ Ace (5 victories) – XP 53 – entry 1941/12/06

Unit Averages (as of 6 December 1941)
• Average XP: 51–52
• Average Morale: 71

Evaluation
The 85th Hiko Sentai typified the solid, professional quality of Japan’s mid-war China-based air units.
It lacked the glamour of the elite 64th or 25th Sentai but maintained steady operational efficiency throughout the early Pacific campaigns.
Its veteran cadre later supplied experienced leaders to several high-performing southern formations, ensuring continuity in IJAAF combat effectiveness.
Though rarely celebrated, the 85th embodied the disciplined persistence of the China Expeditionary Air Force—reliable, durable, and quietly essential.
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87th Hiko Sentai (第87飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 March 1941
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 6 December 1941): Harbin, Manchuria
Higher Command: 2nd Air Division (Kwantung Army Air Force)
Commanding Officer (6 December 1941)
Lieutenant Colonel Tsune-enon Shindō – prewar officer with extensive administrative and staff experience. By 1941 he served primarily as an organizational leader, focused on training efficiency and formation discipline rather than personal combat flying. Respected for calm professionalism and attention to structure rather than daring or flair.
Attributes: Skill 60 | Inspiration 55 | Naval 22 | Air 66 | Land 47 | Admin 58 | Aggression 46 | Political 18
Formation & Background
The 87th Hiko Sentai was established in March 1941 at Harbin as part of the Kwantung Army’s ongoing air defense buildup.
Its primary tasks were air patrols along the Soviet–Manchurian border and localized ground-support missions in northern China.
Although equipped with modern Ki-27 fighters, the unit initially consisted mostly of young, inexperienced graduates gaining their first operational exposure.
A handful of China veterans—among them Kanai Moritsugu and Takiyama Yamato—formed the tactical backbone of an otherwise green Sentai.
In character and capability, it typified the IJAAF’s mid-tier Manchurian formations: steady, structured, but untested.
Organization (as of 7 December 1941)
– Structure: 3 Chutai (~28–30 pilots)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (conversion to Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” began 1942)
– Role: Border defense, air patrol, and limited ground support
– Personnel: Predominantly flight school graduates; few veterans
Aircraft Strength (as of 7 December 1941)
– Total: 45 – Operational: 36 – Damaged: 6 – Reserve: 3
Pilot Roster (as of 6 December 1941)
0182 – 2LT Isamu Hosono – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
0183 – CPT Hiroshi Yamaura (Hikotai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
0184 – 1LT Moritsugu Kanai ★ Ace (26 victories) – XP 83 – entry 1941/12/06
0185 – CPT Yamato Takiyama (1st Chutai Leader) ★ Ace (9 victories) – XP 69 – entry 1941/12/06
0186 – CPT Ryōichi Nagaoka (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
8131 – CPT Kanai Gunji (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
8132 – 1LT Hiroshi Hashimoto – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
8133 – WO Mitsuo Kobayashi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8134 – WO Kadoaki Nomachi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8135 – WO Hideo Kuriyama – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8136 – WO Kiyomitsu Satō – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8137 – WO Ryōichi Kanefuku – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8138 – WO Seikichi Ōnishi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8139 – WO Moriyuki Ogawa – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8140 – WO Naokichi Takahashi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8141 – 1LT Kyōji Naganuma – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
8142 – WO Sakae Hagimoto – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8143 – WO Kyōji Onodera – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8144 – WO Seiji Satō – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8145 – WO Satoshi Takiyama – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8146 – CPT Kenkichi Hasegawa – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
8147 – WO Jun’ichi Takemoto – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8148 – 2LT Haruo Kinoshita – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
8149 – WO Ryōzō Okada – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8150 – 2LT Kiyoshi Fujimura – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06
8151 – WO Takeo Nishimoto – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8152 – WO Yoshio Muraki – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8153 – CPT Takeshi Katō – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
Unit Averages (as of 7 December 1941)
• Average XP: 55.8
• Average Morale: 69
Evaluation
The 87th Hiko Sentai embodied the transitional nature of the Kwantung Army Air Force at the dawn of the Pacific War—organizationally sound, technically proficient, but with minimal combat seasoning.
While its handful of aces gave it a touch of credibility, the Sentai was primarily a proving ground for young officers destined for more active theaters.
Its discipline and training focus made it a dependable but unremarkable formation—one that contributed quietly to the defensive stability of Manchuria without ever achieving fame or distinction.
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101st Hiko Sentai (第101飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 July 1944
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 July 1944): Kita-Ise, Japan
Higher Command: 5th Air Division → 1st Air Army (Home Defense Command)
Commanding Officer (1 July 1944)
Major Hyōe Yonaga – veteran officer and former IJAAF instructor. After combat service in central China, Yonaga assumed command of the newly organized 101st Sentai in 1944. Not a flamboyant figure but a methodical organizer who emphasized discipline and aircraft readiness under desperate material shortages. His pragmatic leadership kept morale high despite the deteriorating wartime situation.
Attributes: Skill 68 | Inspiration 56 | Naval 25 | Air 65 | Land 48 | Admin 60 | Aggression 50 | Political 18
Formation & Background
The 101st Hiko Sentai was created in July 1944 at Kita-Ise Airfield as part of the final wartime expansion of the Homeland Air Defense Command.
Built upon the cadre of the 1st Hiko Kyōdōtai, the Sentai absorbed partially trained pilots from Akeno and Hitachi flight schools.
Material circumstances were dire—fuel scarcity, maintenance difficulties, and inadequate aircraft turnover hampered even routine sorties.
Despite these obstacles, Yonaga’s professionalism and insistence on steady training made the 101st one of the more organized late-war home defense units.
Organization (as of 1 July 1944)
– Structure: 3 Chutai (~12–15 pilots each, ~40–45 aircraft total)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-43-I/II “Hayabusa” (Oscar)
– Role: Homeland defense and tactical training
– Personnel: Veteran instructors blended with newly graduated pilots from Akeno and Mito
Aircraft Strength (as of 1 July 1944)
– Total: 45 – Operational: 30 – Damaged: 8 – Reserve: 7
Note: Many aircraft were overhauled trainers with limited flight hours remaining.
Pilot Roster (as of 1 July 1944)
8157 – MAJ Hyōe Yonaga (Sentai Commander) – XP 68 – entry 1944/07/01
8158 – MAJ Bigaku Sakamoto – XP 68 – entry 1944/07/01
8159 – CPT Masao Suenaga (Hikotai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01
8160 – 1LT Masami Kodama – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01
8161 – CPT Fukuo Sasaki – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01
8162 – CPT Hiroshi Oda – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01
8163 – CPT Yukiichi Kōzu – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01
8164 – 1LT Shōji Takamura – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01
8165 – WO Kōzō Murayama – XP 43 – entry 1944/07/01
8166 – CPT Minoru Nakahara – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01
8167 – WO Kazuo Fukui – XP 43 – entry 1944/07/01
8168 – 1LT Michio Hayakawa – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01
8169 – CPT Masaru Yamanaka – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01
8170 – WO Etsuo Ishibashi – XP 43 – entry 1944/07/01
8171 – 2LT Shōhei Kaneko – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01
Unit Averages (as of 1 July 1944)
• Average XP: 54.9
• Average Morale: 66
Evaluation
The 101st Hiko Sentai reflected the realities of Japan’s final air defense buildup: under-equipped, fuel-starved, but kept functional through officer professionalism.
Yonaga’s quiet discipline preserved order and maintained flight proficiency under constant logistical strain.
Although the Sentai saw little direct combat, it served as a vital reserve and conversion unit, preparing replacement pilots for homeland interception duties.
Within the crumbling IJAAF structure of 1944–45, the 101st stood out for its stability and coherence—proof that leadership, even without resources, could still impose a semblance of efficiency on chaos.
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102nd Hiko Sentai (第102飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 July 1944
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 July 1944): Kita-Ise, Japan
Higher Command: 5th Air Division → 3rd Air Army → Homeland Air Defense Command
Commanding Officer (1 July 1944)
Major Kaoru Kakimi – seasoned officer and China campaign veteran. By 1944, he was tasked with leading one of Japan’s last newly established home-defense Sentai. Known as a calm, disciplined commander, Kakimi maintained steady control and morale among his young pilots despite crippling shortages of aircraft, fuel, and manpower. Not a front-line ace, but a respected professional.
Attributes: Skill 57 | Inspiration 52 | Naval 20 | Air 63 | Land 44 | Admin 53 | Aggression 48 | Political 16
Formation & Background
The 102nd Hiko Sentai was created at Kita-Ise Airfield in July 1944, part of Japan’s frantic effort to counter increasing B-29 incursions.
Its nucleus came from instructors and experienced airmen of the 5th Air Division’s training command, reinforced by graduates from Akeno and Hamamatsu flight schools.
The Sentai’s twin purpose was homeland interception and transition training for pilots converting to the new Nakajima Ki-84 “Hayate.”
Logistical collapse, fuel rationing, and a severe shortage of mechanics meant that operational flight time was minimal. Nonetheless, the unit retained strong internal discipline and a surprisingly intact command structure.
Organization (as of 1 July 1944)
– Structure: 3 Chutai (~10–12 pilots each; ≈ 30–35 aircraft total)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-84 “Hayate”
– Role: Homeland air defense and Ki-84 conversion training
– Personnel: Small veteran cadre, majority of newly trained pilots
Aircraft Strength (as of 1 July 1944)
– Total: 30 – Operational: 20 – Damaged/Maintenance: 6 – Reserve: 4
Note: Early production Hayate fighters with persistent engine problems reduced overall sortie capability.
Pilot Roster (as of 1 July 1944)
8175 – MAJ Kaoru Kakimi (Sentai Commander) – XP 68 – entry 1944/07/01
8176 – CPT Iwao Hayashi (Hikotai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01
8177 – CPT Yoshitoshi Mokuri (Seibitai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01
8178 – 2LT Takemoto Kanazawa – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01
8179 – 1LT Masami Nagakura – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01
8180 – CPT Shoichi Honda – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01
8181 – 1LT Tamotsu Shimizu – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01
8182 – CPT Haruo Takasugi – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01
8183 – 1LT Michinori Okada – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01
8184 – WO Kiyoshi Nishimoto – XP 43 – entry 1944/07/01
8185 – 2LT Shunji Fujikawa – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01
8186 – WO Eiji Matsuo – XP 43 – entry 1944/07/01
8187 – CPT Yasuo Tanabe – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01
8188 – 1LT Shozo Inagaki – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01
8189 – WO Keitaro Hori – XP 43 – entry 1944/07/01
8190 – 1LT Kanji Nagakura – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01
8191 – WO Iwao Higashiyama – XP 43 – entry 1944/07/01
8192 – 2LT Hiroshi Hayashi – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01
8193 – WO Heiichi Ishiga – XP 41 – entry 1944/07/01
8194 – 2LT Jiro Ito – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01
8195 – 2LT Haruo Hayashi – XP 51 – entry 1944/07/01
Unit Averages (as of 1 July 1944)
• Average XP: 51.0
• Average Morale: 69
Evaluation
The 102nd Hiko Sentai mirrored Japan’s late-war air defense dilemma: equipped with modern fighters but undermined by a hollow logistical base.
While Major Kakimi’s leadership instilled solid discipline and training focus, fuel scarcity and mechanical failures prevented effective operations.
Functionally, the Sentai stood halfway between an operational squadron and a flight school, serving mainly as a conversion and reinforcement pool for Japan’s shrinking air arm.
Its existence illustrated the paradox of the IJAAF in 1944—technically advanced, organizationally coherent, yet strategically powerless.
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103rd Hiko Sentai (第103飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 August 1944
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 August 1944): Itami, Japan
Higher Command: Homeland Air Defense Command (1st Air Army)

Commanding Officer (1 August 1944)
Major Michiaki Tōjō – veteran officer with China combat experience, appointed to form and lead the newly organized 103rd Sentai in mid-1944. Not a flamboyant fighter ace but a deliberate, disciplined commander with a pragmatic approach to leadership. His professionalism and calm control ensured the Sentai’s stability despite chronic supply failures.
Attributes: Skill 56 | Inspiration 51 | Naval 20 | Air 62 | Land 43 | Admin 52 | Aggression 47 | Political 15

Formation & Background
The 103rd Hiko Sentai was founded in the summer of 1944 at Itami Airfield as part of the emergency buildup of Japan’s air defense network.
Drawn from the Akeno and Tachiarai flight schools, as well as a few veterans of disbanded Sentai, it was tasked with both air defense of the Kansai region and advanced pilot training on the Ki-43 “Hayabusa.”
The unit functioned primarily as a tactical conversion and reserve formation rather than an active combat outfit.
Severe fuel shortages, spare-parts scarcity, and limited flying hours meant most sorties were instructional rather than operational, averaging only two or three per week.

Organization (as of 1 August 1944)
– Structure: 2–3 Chutai (~15 pilots each; ≈ 30–45 aircraft)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-43 “Hayabusa” (Oscar)
– Role: Air defense and tactical training
– Personnel: Small veteran cadre, majority of newly graduated pilots from Akeno and Tachiarai

Aircraft Strength (as of 1 August 1944)
– Total: 45 – Operational: 30 – Damaged/Maintenance: 9 – Reserve: 6
Note: Aircraft comprised mixed Ki-43-I and Ki-43-II variants, many without radio equipment and frequently grounded for lack of spares.

Pilot Roster (as of 1 August 1944)
0188 – 2LT Tomesaku Yajima ★ Ace (16 victories) – XP 72 – entry 1944/08/15
0189 – CPT Tomojiro Ogawa (Hikotai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/08/01
8199 – MAJ Michiaki Tōjō (Sentai Commander) – XP 68 – entry 1944/08/01
8200 – WO Gorō Toyoda – XP 43 – entry 1944/08/01
8201 – CPT Toshio Kobayashi – XP 58 – entry 1944/08/15
8202 – 1LT Shunpei Hoshino – XP 51 – entry 1944/09/01
8203 – WO Haruo Sugiyama – XP 43 – entry 1944/09/20
8204 – 2LT Noboru Ishikawa – XP 51 – entry 1944/10/01
8205 – WO Takeo Matsui – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/10
8206 – CPT Masaru Andō – XP 58 – entry 1944/11/01
8207 – 1LT Seiji Noguchi – XP 51 – entry 1944/11/15
8208 – WO Keizō Hirabayashi – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/01
8209 – 1LT Ryōhei Morimoto – XP 51 – entry 1944/11/20
8210 – 2LT Satō Yajima – XP 49 – entry 1944/10/01
8211 – 2LT Tetsuya Sō – XP 42 – entry 1945/04/01

Unit Averages (as of 1 August 1944)
• Average XP: 51.9
• Average Morale: 66

Evaluation
The 103rd Hiko Sentai typified Japan’s late-war home defense squadrons—organized, motivated, yet crippled by the physical decay of the war economy.
Its pilots trained diligently but seldom faced the enemy, constrained by fuel rationing and mechanical attrition.
Under Major Tōjō’s steady hand, the Sentai remained disciplined and cohesive, contributing primarily to pilot conversion and reserve defense.
It stood as a model of professionalism in decline: structurally intact, spiritually committed, but operationally spent—one more symbol of an air force fighting exhaustion rather than the enemy.
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104th Hiko Sentai (第104飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 July 1944
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 July 1944): Ozuki Airfield, Japan
Higher Command: 3rd Air Division – Homeland Air Defense Command
Commanding Officer (1 July 1944)
Major Yamato Takiyama – veteran officer with combat service in China and previous experience in homeland defense. Appointed to form and command the newly organized 104th Hiko Sentai in mid-1944. More administrator than combat flier, Takiyama was known for his composure and strict professionalism, keeping the understrength unit operational despite chronic shortages.
Attributes: Skill 55 | Inspiration 50 | Naval 20 | Air 61 | Land 43 | Admin 52 | Aggression 47 | Political 15
Formation & Background
The 104th Hiko Sentai emerged during the IJAAF’s final large-scale reorganization of 1944. Formed at Ozuki Airfield, its establishment reflected Japan’s desperation to bolster home defense while still providing transitional training for newly graduated pilots.
Personnel came from the Akeno and Mito flight schools, reinforced by a few veterans of the China and southern campaigns. The unit’s role straddled the line between training detachment and active defense formation, with limited combat readiness from the start.
Its Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” fighters, inherited from training commands, were worn, short on parts, and often unserviceable.
Organization (as of 1 July 1944)
– Structure: 3 Chutai (~15 pilots each; ≈ 45 aircraft total)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” (Oscar)
– Role: Homeland air defense and transition training
– Personnel: Core of veteran officers; majority fresh graduates from flight schools
Aircraft Strength (as of 1 July 1944)
– Total: 45 – Operational: 31 – Damaged/Maintenance: 9 – Reserve: 5
Note: Most aircraft were overused trainer conversions; spare parts shortages and corrosion limited sortie reliability.
Pilot Roster (as of 1 July 1944)
0191 – CPT Susumu Maeda (Hikotai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01
0192 – CPT Shigeto Kinjo (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01
0193 – CPT Mitsuo Tomiya (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01
8215 – MAJ Yamato Takiyama (Sentai Commander) – XP 68 – entry 1944/07/01
8216 – CPT Yoshitaka Kusano (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/07/01
8217 – WO Tadanori Nagata – XP 43 – entry 1944/08/01
8218 – WO Yoshihiro Akeno – XP 43 – entry 1944/08/01
8219 – WO Tetsuo Kataoka – XP 43 – entry 1944/08/01
8220 – 1LT Takao Shimizu – XP 51 – entry 1944/09/01
8221 – CPT Minoru Arakawa – XP 58 – entry 1944/09/15
8222 – WO Kenji Fujita – XP 43 – entry 1944/09/20
8223 – 2LT Haruo Nishida – XP 51 – entry 1944/10/01
8224 – WO Masao Ishihara – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/15
8225 – CPT Koji Ueda – XP 58 – entry 1944/11/01
8226 – WO Shigeo Takano – XP 43 – entry 1944/12/01
Unit Averages (as of 1 July 1944)
• Average XP: 51.0
• Average Morale: 66
Evaluation
The 104th Hiko Sentai embodied the state of the late-war IJAAF: structurally complete but materially hollow.
Its aircraft were outdated and overused, its pilots a mix of veterans and barely trained newcomers, and its missions limited to patrol and training flights.
Major Takiyama’s leadership maintained order and routine in an otherwise collapsing defense network.
Though never fully combat-ready, the unit fulfilled its symbolic duty—defending Japan’s skies on paper while preparing young aviators for a war that by then was already lost.
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105th Hiko Sentai (第105飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 August 1944
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 August 1944): Taichung Airfield, Formosa (Taiwan)
Higher Command: Formosa Air Defense Command / 8th Air Division
Commanding Officer (1 August 1944)
Major Chōichirō Yoshida – mid-generation IJAAF officer with prior service in China. In 1944, he was ordered to organize the 105th Hiko Sentai on Formosa under increasingly desperate conditions. Known for steady discipline and administrative efficiency, Yoshida focused on keeping the unit coherent and minimally combat-ready despite catastrophic logistical decline.
Attributes: Skill 55 | Inspiration 50 | Naval 20 | Air 61 | Land 43 | Admin 52 | Aggression 47 | Political 15
Formation & Background
The 105th Hiko Sentai was one of the last IJAAF formations established during the war, created in the summer of 1944 at Taichung Airfield to reinforce Formosa’s defenses against the impending American advance.
It drew its cadre from the 8th Air Division’s training and replacement pools, supplemented by new graduates from the Akeno, Tachiarai, and Kumagaya flight schools.
The unit was designated as a Ki-61 “Hien” (Tony) fighter group, but its early operations were crippled by engine failures, insufficient maintenance facilities, and the use of unfinished or cannibalized aircraft.
In practice, some squadrons had to train temporarily on Ki-43 “Hayabusa” fighters while waiting for usable Ki-61 deliveries.
Organization (as of 1 August 1944)
– Structure: 3 Chutai (~12–15 pilots each; ≈ 40–45 aircraft total)
– Type: Kawasaki Ki-61-I “Hien” (Tony)
– Role: Air defense of Formosa; fighter and bomber-escort missions
– Personnel: Few veterans; majority fresh graduates from flight schools
Aircraft Strength (as of 1 August 1944)
– Total: 45 – Operational: 28 – Damaged/Maintenance: 9 – Reserve: 3
Note: Chronic Ha-40 engine failures and lack of replacement parts kept more than one-third of the fleet grounded.
Pilot Roster (as of 1 August 1944)
8230 – MAJ Chōichirō Yoshida (Sentai Commander) – XP 68 – entry 1944/08/01
8231 – CPT Jirō Kawakami (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/08/01
8232 – CPT Miharu Kuriyama (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/08/01
8233 – CPT Akira Iwamoto (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/08/01
8234 – 1LT Takayuki Morita – XP 51 – entry 1944/08/15
8235 – WO Jinsaku Nakamura – XP 43 – entry 1944/09/01
8236 – CPT Yoshiharu Tanabe – XP 58 – entry 1944/09/15
8237 – 2LT Shigeo Fujimoto – XP 51 – entry 1944/10/01
8238 – WO Kunio Oishi – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/20
8239 – 1LT Tetsurō Kawai – XP 51 – entry 1944/11/01
8240 – WO Masanori Takeda – XP 43 – entry 1944/11/20
8241 – CPT Shunichi Hayakawa – XP 58 – entry 1944/12/01
8242 – 2LT Fujito Naganuma – XP 51 – entry 1944/10/01
Unit Averages (as of 1 August 1944)
• Average XP: 51.0
• Average Morale: 66
Evaluation
The 105th Hiko Sentai embodied the IJAAF’s late-war contradiction—technically advanced in design but functionally paralyzed.
Its Ki-61 fighters, once symbols of modernization, became maintenance liabilities that drained manpower and morale.
Major Yoshida’s balanced, methodical leadership preserved internal order and limited operational output, but the Sentai never achieved effective combat status.
Like most of Japan’s 1944–45 home-defense formations, it existed more as a bureaucratic and symbolic presence than a fighting force—another paper shield raised against the inevitable collapse of the Empire’s air power.
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Peiper1944 · Post by **Peiper1944** » Sat Nov 08, 2025 7:51 pm

111th Hiko Sentai (第111飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 July 1945
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 August 1945): Honshū, Japan
Higher Command: Homeland Air Defense Command
Commanding Officer (1 July 1945)
Lt. Col. Tadashi Ishikawa – senior IJAAF officer assigned to command one of Japan’s last formally activated Sentai. By mid-1945 his duties were purely administrative; he coordinated personnel rosters and paperwork for a unit that never saw flight. A veteran bureaucrat in a war of dwindling machines.
Attributes: Skill 59 | Inspiration 54 | Naval 21 | Air 65 | Land 46 | Admin 57 | Aggression 45 | Political 17
Formation & Background
The 111th Hiko Sentai had appeared nominally on organizational charts since 1941 but was only officially activated in July 1945 as part of Japan’s last defensive mobilization.
By that point, the Imperial Army Air Force was collapsing—Formations existed on paper, airfields were cratered, and aviation fuel was rationed by the barrel.
The 111th was intended to defend central Honshū using Nakajima Ki-84 “Hayate” fighters, but not a single aircraft was ever assigned.
Its pilots, drawn mostly from flight schools and replacement depots, possessed minimal operational experience; the handful of older veterans, including the famed ace Major Yōhei Hinoki, provided little more than moral ballast in an otherwise symbolic force.
Organization (as of 1 July 1945)
– Structure: Nominally 4 Chutai (~30–35 pilots; in reality about 31)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-84 “Hayate” (planned; never delivered)
– Role: Homeland air defense (Central Japan)
– Personnel: Predominantly young graduates with less than 100 flight hours; veterans under 10% of total strength
Aircraft Strength (as of 1 July 1945)
– Total: 0 – Operational: 0 – Damaged: 0 – Reserve: 0
Note: Aircraft allocation cancelled after American carrier strikes crippled logistics; the Sentai remained a “paper unit.”
Pilot Roster (as of 1 July 1945)
8084 – CPT Akio Mihara (5th Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1945/07/01
8085 – CPT Ichirō Tada (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1945/07/01
8086 – CPT Toriyuki Ieda (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1945/07/01
8087 – CPT Hisa-aki Itō (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1945/07/01
8088 – MAJ Yōhei Hinoki ★ Ace (12 victories, 4th Chutai Leader) – XP 76 – entry 1945/07/01
8089 – CPT Katsuji Sugiyama – XP 58 – entry 1945/07/01
8090 – CPT Akio Mihara – XP 58 – entry 1945/07/01
8091 – 1LT Masaharu Kondō – XP 51 – entry 1945/07/01
8092 – WO Hisashi Takigawa – XP 43 – entry 1945/07/01
8093 – 2LT Yasuo Nishimoto – XP 51 – entry 1945/07/01
8094 – CPT Saburō Hayashi – XP 58 – entry 1945/07/01
8095 – WO Keiji Arakawa – XP 43 – entry 1945/07/01
8096 – 1LT Tetsuji Morioka – XP 51 – entry 1945/07/01
8097 – CPT Shunpei Fujikawa – XP 58 – entry 1945/07/01
8098 – WO Kazuharu Hino – XP 43 – entry 1945/07/01
8099 – 2LT Michio Tanaka – XP 51 – entry 1945/07/01
8100 – 1LT Shigeru Okabe – XP 51 – entry 1945/07/01
8108 – CPT Hideaki Inayama – XP 48 – entry 1945/07/01
8109 – MAJ Takeo Kusakari – XP 52 – entry 1945/07/01
Unit Averages (as of 1 July 1945)
• Average XP: 53.8 (Hinoki’s 76 excluded → effective mean ≈ 46)
• Average Morale: 48–52 (declining sharply as war ended)
Evaluation
The 111th Hiko Sentai existed only as an echo of the IJAAF’s former structure—officers without aircraft, pilots without flight time, and orders without fuel.
Its few veterans, men like Major Hinoki, lent prestige to what was essentially a bureaucratic placeholder.
No combat missions were flown, no aircraft ever issued.
By the time of Japan’s surrender in August 1945, the 111th was a “unit” in name only—an administrative fiction that reflected the total collapse of Japan’s air power and the quiet dignity of those still pretending to command it.
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112th Hiko Sentai (第112飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 July 1945
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 August 1945): Nitta Airfield, Japan
Higher Command: Homeland Air Defense Command (Kantō Region)

Commanding Officer (1 July 1945)
Lt. Col. Hidemi Yusuhara – a career staff officer of the late-war IJAAF. Assigned command during the final weeks of Japan’s existence, Yusuhara’s role was administrative only; he had neither aircraft to direct nor an operational staff to manage. His “command” consisted of incomplete rosters and a handful of fuel-starved airframes that never left the ground.
Attributes: Skill 58 | Inspiration 53 | Naval 21 | Air 64 | Land 46 | Admin 57 | Aggression 44 | Political 17

Formation & Background
The 112th Hiko Sentai was among the very last IJAAF formations created, officially activated at Nitta Airfield on 1 July 1945.
It was conceived as part of the Homeland Air Defense Command’s final mobilization effort to guard the Kantō region against Allied raids—an intention already rendered meaningless by the devastation of Japan’s infrastructure and fuel reserves.
Personnel were scraped together from flight schools, replacement depots, and administrative units. Most had barely completed transition training to the Ki-84 “Hayate,” with flight experience often under 80 hours total.
The Sentai never achieved operational readiness. It lacked trained mechanics, functioning aircraft, and even proper housing. Its existence was nominal—an entry on a roster rather than a fighting squadron.

Organization (as of 1 July 1945)
– Structure: Nominally 4 Chutai (≈ 40–45 pilots; in reality fewer than 30)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-84 “Hayate” (planned equipment; never delivered)
– Role: Homeland air defense and emergency interceptor training
– Personnel: Predominantly inexperienced flight school graduates

Aircraft Strength (as of 1 July 1945)
– Total: 0–15 (incomplete airframes and unassembled fuselages)
– Operational: 0 – Damaged/Maintenance: 0 – Reserve: 0
Note: No aircraft ever became flight-ready before the war ended; records mention only scattered deliveries to Nitta.

Pilot Roster (as of July 1945)
8091 – MAJ Jiro Tsugawa (Hikotai Leader) – XP 52 – entry 1945/07/01
8092 – CPT Masao Hara (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 48 – entry 1945/07/01
8093 – CPT Fumio Takahashi (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 48 – entry 1945/07/01
8094 – CPT Kageyori Takasugi (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 48 – entry 1945/07/01
8095 – CPT Ryōichirō Ishihata (4th Chutai Leader) – XP 48 – entry 1945/07/01
8096 – MAJ Shin-ichi Yamazaki (Seibitai Leader) – XP 52 – entry 1945/07/01
8097 – CPT Norio Takagi – XP 48 – entry 1945/07/05
8098 – 1LT Kenji Nishio – XP 44 – entry 1945/07/10
8099 – WO Hideo Yamamoto – XP 39 – entry 1945/07/15
8100 – 2LT Masaharu Fujita – XP 44 – entry 1945/07/20
8101 – 1LT Yoshinori Aoyama – XP 44 – entry 1945/07/25
8102 – CPT Tatsuo Mori – XP 48 – entry 1945/07/01
8103 – WO Tomokazu Saitō – XP 41 – entry 1945/07/01
8110 – CPT Eisaku Saotome – XP 48 – entry 1945/07/01

Unit Averages (as of July 1945)
• Average XP: 44.6
• Average Morale: 47–50 (dropping toward 40–45 as Japan’s defeat became evident)

Evaluation
The 112th Hiko Sentai was a unit in name only—a final administrative gesture of a collapsing air force.
No aircraft, no fuel, no combat record. Its “pilots” were idealistic youths awaiting orders that never came.
Lt. Col. Yusuhara presided over a ghost formation, emblematic of the IJAAF’s terminal decline.
By August 1945, the 112th represented not an operational force but the end of an era: a paper squadron in a nation whose skies had already fallen silent.
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200th Hiko Sentai (第200飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 October 1944
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 October 1944): Nitta / Akeno, Japan
Higher Command: Army Air Training Command (Akeno Kyōiku Hikōshidan)
Commanding Officer (1 October 1944)
Lt. Col. Takeshi Takahashi – a veteran prewar officer of the Akeno training establishment. By late 1944 he was a ground-based commander responsible for organization, training, and logistics rather than active combat flying. Takahashi’s leadership was administrative, dependable, and cautious—qualities increasingly valuable in an air force collapsing under mechanical and logistical strain.
Attributes: Skill 61 | Inspiration 55 | Naval 22 | Air 67 | Land 47 | Admin 58 | Aggression 46 | Political 18
Formation & Background
The 200th Hiko Sentai was formed on 1 October 1944 in the Akeno–Nitta area during the IJAAF’s frantic final expansion phase.
It was formally assigned to the Army Air Training Command, intended as a hybrid unit for advanced conversion training and emergency homeland defense.
Its personnel were primarily drawn from Akeno, Hitachi, and Kumagaya flight schools—eager but untested graduates supplemented by a small number of China and Southeast Asia veterans.
Initial equipment consisted of the Nakajima Ki-84-I “Hayate” fighter, but deliveries were slow, engines unreliable, and spare parts virtually unobtainable.
The Sentai’s operations quickly devolved into maintenance exercises and short, fuel-rationed training flights rather than genuine combat missions.
Organization (as of 1 October 1944)
– Structure: 3 Chutai (≈ 29 pilots)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-84 “Hayate” (Frank)
– Role: Advanced training, conversion, and limited home defense
– Personnel: ~80% flight school graduates; small cadre of veterans from China and Southeast Asia
Aircraft Strength (as of 1 October 1944)
– Total: 29 – Ready: 24–26 – Damaged/Maintenance: 2–3 – Reserve: 1–2
Note: Ha-45 “Homare” engine defects and fuel scarcity routinely grounded large portions of the unit.
Pilot Roster (as of 12 October 1944)
204 – 2LT Nobuo Kanazawa – XP 46 – entry 1944/10/12
205 – MAJ Toshio Sakagawa (Executive Officer) – XP 68 – entry 1944/10/12
8286 – CPT Chinnosuke Nakagawa (Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1944/10/12
8287 – CPT Masaru Tabata – XP 58 – entry 1944/10/12
8288 – CPT Kazuo Fukami – XP 58 – entry 1944/10/12
8289 – CPT Masao Miyamaru – XP 58 – entry 1944/10/12
8290 – CPT Tokio Kono – XP 58 – entry 1944/10/12
8291 – CPT Shigeru Kuwabara – XP 58 – entry 1944/10/12
8292 – CPT Saburō Kawaguchi – XP 58 – entry 1944/10/12
8293 – WO Shirō Seki – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/12
8294 – 2LT Ryōsuke Nakazono – XP 51 – entry 1944/10/12
8295 – WO Shigenori Nishioka – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/12
8296 – WO Shintarō Kashima – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/12
8297 – 1LT Masakuni Takahashi – XP 51 – entry 1944/10/12
8298 – WO Kōichi Miyake – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/12
8299 – WO Koshiji Ōishi – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/12
8300 – WO Nobuo Kiyono – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/12
8301 – 1LT Masatane Nakatake – XP 51 – entry 1944/10/12
8302 – 1LT Yoshio Ōmori – XP 51 – entry 1944/10/12
8303 – WO Kiyoyoshi Morita – XP 41 – entry 1944/10/12
8304 – 2LT Naobumi Nakajima – XP 46 – entry 1944/10/12
8305 – MAJ Ichirō Kamata – XP 68 – entry 1944/10/12
8306 – WO Noboru Mune – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/12
8307 – WO Tokijirō Yoshino – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/12
8308 – 1LT Ryōjirō Shirowa – XP 51 – entry 1944/10/12
8309 – 1LT Tetsuo Nishi – XP 51 – entry 1944/10/12
8310 – WO Arata Ueno – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/12
8311 – WO Shichinosuke Kajita – XP 43 – entry 1944/10/12
8312 – WO Katsuaki Kira ★ Ace (21 victories) – XP 78 – entry 1944/10/12
Unit Averages (as of 1 October 1944)
• Average XP: 52.4
• Effective Combat Mean (excluding Kira): ≈ 48
• Average Morale: 55–60 (declining toward 45–50 by late 1944)
Evaluation
The 200th Hiko Sentai was a late-war construct of fatigue and futility.
Created more to absorb graduates than to fight, it flew only sporadically due to fuel and engine shortages.
While a handful of experienced officers lent some credibility, the majority of its pilots had never faced enemy aircraft.
A few short air patrols were reportedly flown over central Japan, but no confirmed engagements occurred.
In the end, the 200th stood as a reflection of Japan’s 1944 air situation—competent organization, collapsing resources, and men waiting for missions that history never allowed them to fly.
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204th Hiko Sentai (第204飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 April 1942
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 April 1942): Zhenxi, China
Higher Command: Under formation (later attached to Central China Air Army, 3rd Air Division)
Commanding Officer (1 April 1942)
Major Hajime Tabuchi – a veteran of the early China campaigns and one of the few combat-experienced officers available for new unit formation in 1942. Initially a front-line pilot, Tabuchi led the Sentai through its unstable early months before shifting to administrative command once the formation matured. He was widely regarded as pragmatic and dependable—a steady hand rather than a flamboyant tactician.
Attributes: Skill 59 | Inspiration 53 | Naval 21 | Air 65 | Land 45 | Admin 55 | Aggression 49 | Political 16
Formation & Background
The 204th Hiko Sentai emerged during the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force’s 1942 reorganization phase, intended to consolidate its overstretched fighter resources in China.
Established at Zhenxi, the unit drew its foundation from veteran pilots of the China front and a large influx of Akeno and Mito flight school graduates.
Equipped with the Nakajima Ki-43-I “Hayabusa,” it represented the IJAAF’s effort to replace aging Ki-27 units with a faster, more agile design suited for both escort and air superiority roles.
Its early operations over Hunan, Hankow, and Guangxi revealed both promise and growing pains: while veterans like Tabuchi and Yamaguchi scored early successes, the inexperience of new recruits caused uneven performance and high attrition.
Organization (as of 1 April 1942)
– Structure: 3 Chutai (approx. 37 aircraft, 36–38 pilots)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” (Oscar)
– Role: Fighter escort and air superiority in central/southern China
– Personnel: mix of prewar veterans and new Akeno graduates
Aircraft Strength (as of 1 April 1942)
– Total: ~37 – Ready: 30–32 – Damaged/Maintenance: 3–4 – Reserve: 1–2
Average Ratings (April 1942)
• Average XP: 49–50
• Average Morale: 68–70 (dropping to 55–58 after combat losses)
Pilot Roster (April 1942 – March 1944)
210 – CPT Hiroshi Takiguchi ★ Ace (9 victories) – XP 69 – entry 1942/04/01
211 – 1LT Shigetsune Nishioka ★ Ace (8 victories) – XP 56 – entry 1942/04/01
212 – WO Kenji Katō – XP 43 – entry 1942/04/01
213 – WO Bunichi Yamaguchi ★ Ace (19 victories) – XP 76 – entry 1942/04/01
8316 – MAJ Hajime Tabuchi (Sentai Commander) – XP 68 – entry 1942/04/01
8317 – CPT Junzō Yamamoto (Hikotai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1942/04/01
8318 – CPT Tomohiko Kanazawa (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1942/04/01
8319 – CPT Masami Nakajima (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1942/04/01
8320 – CPT Shōchi Itō – XP 58 – entry 1942/04/01
8321 – 1LT Noritsune Kitada – XP 51 – entry 1942/04/01
8322 – WO Masuo Tamura – XP 43 – entry 1942/04/01
8323 – WO Tomekichi Nagasaki – XP 43 – entry 1942/04/01
8324 – 1LT Toshio Ōtsubo – XP 51 – entry 1942/04/01
8325 – WO Toshio Nagaoka – XP 43 – entry 1942/04/01
8326 – WO Kōkichi Hashiguchi – XP 43 – entry 1943/04/01
8327 – WO Kin’ichi Fujimoto – XP 43 – entry 1943/04/01
8328 – CPT Takehiro Suzuki – XP 58 – entry 1943/04/15
8329 – 2LT Toshinaga Nakashio – XP 46 – entry 1943/05/01
8330 – 1LT Takao Kawase – XP 51 – entry 1943/05/01
8331 – WO Takeshi Endō – XP 43 – entry 1943/05/20
8332 – WO Hayashi Nakamura – XP 43 – entry 1943/06/01
8333 – WO Kyūgo Kataoka – XP 43 – entry 1943/06/01
8334 – WO Kenzō Horii – XP 43 – entry 1943/06/15
8335 – WO Takuzō Kasahara – XP 43 – entry 1943/06/15
8336 – 1LT Yoshiaki Kawamura – XP 51 – entry 1943/07/01
8337 – WO Kin’ichirō Matsui – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
8338 – CPT Tomio Araki – XP 58 – entry 1943/07/15
8339 – 2LT Saburō Shimizu – XP 46 – entry 1943/08/01
8340 – WO Takashi Okabe – XP 43 – entry 1943/08/01
8341 – 1LT Keizō Hoshino – XP 51 – entry 1943/08/15
8342 – WO Shinsaku Tanabe – XP 43 – entry 1943/08/15
8343 – CPT Toshio Minami – XP 58 – entry 1943/09/01
8344 – 1LT Jirō Nishikawa – XP 51 – entry 1943/09/01
8345 – WO Masayoshi Kurata – XP 43 – entry 1943/09/15
8346 – 2LT Yutaka Aoyagi – XP 46 – entry 1944/01/01
8347 – WO Nobuo Tsuru – XP 43 – entry 1944/01/01
8348 – WO Nao Kōshū – XP 43 – entry 1944/01/01
8349 – MAJ Torashirō Aizawa – XP 68 – entry 1944/03/01
Unit Averages (by Year)
1942: 13 pilots → ∅ XP 55.4
1943: 21 pilots → ∅ XP 49.5
1944: 3 pilots → ∅ XP 51.3
Overall: 37 pilots → ∅ XP 51.7
Evaluation
The 204th Hiko Sentai exemplified the middle tier of Japan’s wartime fighter units—competent, dutiful, but rarely celebrated.
It produced several strong aces such as Yamaguchi (19 victories) and Takiguchi (9 victories), yet remained overshadowed by the 64th and 59th Sentai in both fame and aggressiveness.
Its discipline and structure were sound, but tactical innovation was limited.
By late 1943, with experienced men siphoned off for new formations, the 204th transitioned into a replacement and training unit, its operational edge dulled by attrition.
The Sentai’s legacy was one of quiet reliability—a professional if unglamorous contributor to Japan’s overstretched air war in China.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
144th Hiko Sentai (第144飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 July 1941
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 April 1942): Chōfu, Japan
Higher Command: Kantō Homeland Defense Sector → 10th Air Division → 1st Air Army
Commanding Officer (as of 1 July 1943)
Major Shigechika Tomari – a seasoned officer of the prewar IJAAF who took over command of the 144th after its 1943 reorganization. A calm and even-tempered leader, he was known more for his discipline and composure than for flamboyant air combat exploits. Initially he flew sorties himself but later focused on staff and administrative duties as the Sentai evolved into a defense and training unit.
Attributes: Skill 60 | Inspiration 54 | Naval 21 | Air 66 | Land 46 | Admin 55 | Aggression 49 | Political 16
Formation & Background
The 144th Hiko Sentai was established in mid-1941 as part of the IJAAF’s structural modernization program. Initially slated for deployment to China, it remained in Japan following the outbreak of war, serving under the Kantō Air Defense network.
Its pilots trained intensively in interception and formation tactics, operating the aging Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate.” A conversion to the newer Ki-43 “Hayabusa” began in 1942 but progressed slowly due to shortages and prioritization of front-line units.
By 1943, under Maj. Tomari’s leadership, the Sentai transitioned into a semi-operational homeland defense unit, conducting limited intercept missions against U.S. reconnaissance aircraft approaching the Tokyo region. It functioned simultaneously as a tactical reserve and as a feeder organization, supplying trained pilots to combat units overseas.
Organization (as of 6 December 1941)
– Structure: 3 Chutai (approx. 15 pilots each; ~45 aircraft)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (transition to Ki-43 planned in 1942)
– Role: Homeland defense and pilot training
– Personnel: Predominantly new graduates with a small veteran core
Aircraft Strength (as of 6 December 1941)
– Total: 45 – Ready: 30 – Damaged/Maintenance: 9 – Reserve: 6
Pilot Roster (as of 6 December 1941)
198 – CPT Tōgō Saitō (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
199 – CPT Tomokuni Iwakura (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
200 – CPT Seiji Nozaki (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
201 – WO Takeo Yoshida – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
202 – WO Kiyoshi Andō – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8353 – MAJ Shigechika Tomari (Sentai Commander) – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06
8354 – 2LT Shōichi Takayama – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
8355 – WO Kazuo Honda – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8356 – CPT Tsutomu Ōhara – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
8357 – WO Setsuho Takada – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8358 – CPT Nagao Shirai ★ Ace (13 victories) – XP 74 – entry 1941/12/06
8359 – WO Nobuji Negishi ★ Ace (6 victories) – XP 54 – entry 1941/12/06
8360 – WO Tadao Sumi ★ Ace (6 victories) – XP 54 – entry 1941/12/06
8361 – 2LT Teruhiko Kobayashi ★ Ace (12 victories; later CO of 244th Sentai) – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06
8362 – 1LT Masao Itagaki ★ Ace – XP 76 – entry 1941/12/06
8363 – 1LT Matsumi Nakano – XP 65 – entry 1941/12/06
8364 – CPT Tōru Shinomiya – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06
8365 – 1LT Masao Yamaguchi – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
8366 – CPT Shōji Nishimura – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
8367 – WO Tameichi Fukui – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8368 – 2LT Ichirō Harada – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
8369 – WO Takashi Sugimoto – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8370 – 1LT Seiji Okabe – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06
8371 – WO Norio Tanaka – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8372 – CPT Tōru Kinoshita – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06
8373 – WO Hachirō Matsuda – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8374 – 2LT Mitsuyuki Tange – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06
8375 – WO Ryūzō Nakatsukasa – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8376 – WO Kiyoshi Hamada – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06
8377 – WO Tadashi Abe – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06
8378 – WO Shigeru Kuroishikawa – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06
Unit Totals (as of 6 December 1941)
32 pilots → ∅ XP 52.6
Unit Averages (as of December 1941)
• Average XP: 48–50
• Average Morale: 65–68 (dropping to 55–57 after early losses)
Evaluation
The 144th Hiko Sentai was a well-structured, moderate-performance formation typical of Japan’s homeland defense units at the start of the Pacific War.
Its pilots were competent, several of them evolving into notable aces later in the conflict—most famously Teruhiko Kobayashi, who would command the elite 244th Sentai.
However, the 144th itself remained a transitional organization: part training squadron, part reserve interceptor group.
It neither distinguished itself in major combat nor suffered catastrophic losses. Instead, it embodied the steady, workmanlike side of the IJAAF—discipline without dramatics, professionalism without prestige.
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246th Hiko Sentai (第246飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 August 1942
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 August 1942): Kakogawa Airfield, Japan
Higher Command: Army Air Training Area, Kansai (Rikugun Kōkū Kunren Shireibu)
Commanding Officer (as of 1 August 1942)
Major Takeo Miyamoto – a disciplined, methodical officer and former flight leader from the 59th Hiko Sentai. Assigned to organize the new 246th, Miyamoto brought structure, patience, and high training standards to a formation composed mostly of Akeno graduates. Though not a flamboyant commander, his calm authority earned respect from both veterans and cadets.
Attributes: Skill 59 | Inspiration 53 | Naval 21 | Air 65 | Land 45 | Admin 55 | Aggression 48 | Political 16
Formation & Background
The 246th Hiko Sentai was created at Kakogawa Airfield in August 1942 as part of the IJAAF’s rapid expansion of its pilot training infrastructure.
It was one of several “bridge units” designed to convert newly qualified pilots from the Ki-27 “Nate” to the more advanced Ki-43 “Hayabusa” fighter.
While its establishment mirrored combat formations in structure, its role was predominantly instructional, preparing replacement pilots for front-line Sentai operating in China and Burma.
Veteran NCOs and a few China War aces formed the backbone of the teaching cadre, while graduates from Akeno and Mito provided the bulk of flight strength.
The unit became known for its disciplined training regimen, combining realistic gunnery and formation practice with strict adherence to flight safety—a necessity, as mechanical failures and accidents were common with the aging Ki-27 airframes still in use.
Organization (as of 1 August 1942)
– Structure: 3 Chutai (approx. 30 pilots; ~30 aircraft)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”
– Role: Transitional training / replacement preparation
– Personnel: Majority new graduates; small veteran and instructor cadre
Aircraft Strength (as of 1 August 1942)
– Total: 30 – Ready: 22 – Under repair: 5 – Reserve: 3
Note: Many aircraft were refurbished trainers, prone to engine wear and instrument failure.
Pilot Roster (as of 1 August 1942)
215 – CPT Takehisa Yakuyama (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01
216 – CPT Noburu Okuda (Hikotai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01
8383 – MAJ Takeo Miyamoto (Sentai Commander) – XP 68 – entry 1942/08/01
8384 – CPT Kiyonori Sano (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01
8385 – WO Masuo Kuroda – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8386 – WO Jirō Ōmae – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8387 – WO Shōzō Kawamoto – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8388 – 1LT Hyō Nakazawa – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/01
8389 – WO Kaname Murai – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8390 – WO Tetsuzō Mochizuki – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8391 – WO Yoshio Ueno – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8392 – WO Hiroshi Ōta – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8393 – CPT Sadahiko Otonari – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01
8394 – WO Minori Hara – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8395 – WO Eisaku Suzuki ★ Ace (11 victories) – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01
8396 – WO Toshio Satō-ura ★ Ace (15 victories) – XP 62 – entry 1942/08/01
8397 – WO Shintarō Kashima ★ Ace (10 victories) – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01
8398 – WO Kōichi Iwase ★ Ace (10 victories) – XP 59 – entry 1942/08/01
8399 – WO Yoshio Matsui – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8400 – 1LT Kōzō Ishihara – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/01
8401 – CPT Tomiji Nakano – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01
8402 – WO Eizō Sugiyama – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8403 – 2LT Saburō Yamagishi – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/01
8404 – WO Tadashi Taniguchi – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8405 – 1LT Ryōzō Kinoshita – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/01
8406 – WO Tameichi Umeda – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8407 – CPT Tōru Shibata – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01
8408 – WO Haruo Takagaki – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8409 – MAJ Tsuneyuki Ishikawa – XP 68 – entry 1942/08/01
Unit Totals (as of 1 August 1942)
29 pilots → ∅ XP 52.4
Unit Averages (as of August 1942)
• Average XP: 48–49
• Average Morale: 66–68 (falling to 55–57 after early training losses and accidents)
Evaluation
The 246th Hiko Sentai stood as a model of quiet professionalism—an efficient, if unsung, link between the flight schools and Japan’s front-line air units.
While never deployed in combat, its influence was widespread: dozens of future Sentai pilots received their final tactical training under its instructors.
The presence of several ace NCOs, such as Satō-ura, Kashima, and Iwase, lent experience and credibility to its program, fostering a disciplined atmosphere rarely matched in late-war IJAAF formations.
By late 1943 the Sentai had effectively evolved into a replacement reservoir for the 59th and 64th Hiko Sentai, sustaining Japan’s fighter arm at a time when combat losses outpaced training capacity.
It was a formation without fame, but of undeniable necessity—an invisible pillar holding together the crumbling framework of Japan’s wartime air power.
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248th Hiko Sentai (第248飛行戦隊)
Founded: 1 August 1942
Classification: Standard Unit
Base (as of 1 August 1942): Ashiya Airfield, Japan
Higher Command: Western District Army Air Command (Heimon Chiku Kōkū Shireibu)
Commanding Officer (as of 1 August 1942)
Major Yasuo Makino – a disciplined officer with prior service in flight instruction and command training. Appointed to form and lead the 248th at Ashiya, Makino emphasized flight precision, tactical awareness, and unit cohesion over flamboyant display. His quiet professionalism gave the Sentai a reputation for reliability and strong internal order.
Attributes: Skill 60 | Inspiration 54 | Naval 21 | Air 66 | Land 46 | Admin 56 | Aggression 49 | Political 17
Formation & Background
The 248th Hiko Sentai was established in August 1942 as part of the IJAAF’s expanding homeland defense and training infrastructure.
Stationed at Ashiya, its original role was to support the Western Air Defense Zone through readiness patrols, transition training, and reserve formation management.
It was modeled as a hybrid unit—part operational, part instructional—mirroring Japan’s growing need for trained replacements as front-line Sentai suffered escalating losses in China and Southeast Asia.
Personnel were drawn primarily from flight schools such as Akeno and Mito, with a nucleus of seasoned NCO pilots transferred from China-based formations like the 11th and 59th Sentai.
While its aircraft—the Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”—were outdated, the 248th maintained a rigorous training and air defense program over the Kyūshū region, later beginning gradual re-equipment with the Ki-43-I “Hayabusa.”
Organization (as of 1 August 1942)
– Structure: 3 Chutai (~15 pilots each; total ~45 aircraft)
– Type: Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (transitioning to Ki-43-I “Hayabusa” by 1943)
– Role: Local defense, interception training, reserve readiness
– Personnel: Predominantly new graduates, supplemented by veteran NCOs
Aircraft Strength (as of 1 August 1942)
– Total: 45 – Ready: 36 – Under repair: 6 – Reserve: 3
Note: Most aircraft were older, worn Ki-27 trainers repurposed for defense duties; maintenance issues were frequent but managed effectively.
Pilot Roster (1942/08/01–1943/10/31)
218 – CPT Saburō Sakaya (1st Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01
219 – CPT Nobuo Tokunaga (2nd Chutai Leader) – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01
8411 – MAJ Yasuo Makino (Sentai Commander) – XP 68 – entry 1942/08/01
8412 – 1LT Hideo Ōhata (3rd Chutai Leader) – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/01
8413 – WO Sōsaku Suzuki – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8414 – WO Shirō Toda – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8415 – 1LT Hisamatsu Ejiri – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/01
8416 – WO Ryōichi Ichikawa – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8417 – WO Yoshimata Katō – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8418 – 1LT Masaji Fueki – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/01
8419 – CPT Hideyuki Shimizu – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01
8420 – WO Sumio Sakoda – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8421 – WO Ichirō Nakayama – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8422 – WO Masaosa Furukawa – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8423 – WO Matsuo Tsutsut – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8424 – 1LT Yoshihari Maekawa – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/01
8425 – WO Takeo Nakatsuka – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8426 – MAJ Shin-ichi Muraoka – XP 68 – entry 1942/08/01
8427 – CPT Shigeo Kojima – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01
8428 – 1LT Keiji Koga – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/01
8429 – 1LT Tomokazu Howashi – XP 51 – entry 1942/08/01
8430 – CPT Kaneji Ikakura – XP 58 – entry 1942/08/01
8431 – WO Yoshio Tagomori – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/01
8432 – WO Kenkichi Matsushita – XP 43 – entry 1942/08/20
8433 – 1LT Masao Tanimoto – XP 51 – entry 1942/09/01
8434 – CPT Keiji Fujikawa – XP 58 – entry 1942/09/15
8435 – WO Toshirō Okabe – XP 43 – entry 1942/10/01
8436 – 2LT Shunsuke Araki – XP 51 – entry 1942/10/10
8437 – 1LT Shintarō Morizawa – XP 51 – entry 1942/11/01
8438 – WO Kōhei Nishida – XP 43 – entry 1942/11/15
8439 – CPT Hideo Uehara – XP 58 – entry 1942/12/01
8440 – WO Haruo Tomimoto – XP 43 – entry 1942/12/15
8441 – WO Hiroshi Yoshida – XP 43 – entry 1943/10/01
8442 – 2LT Hideo Ōta – XP 51 – entry 1943/11/09
8443 – 2LT Yoshihari Mayekawa – XP 43 – entry 1943/11/09
8444 – 2LT Nobuo Wakayama – XP 46 – entry 1943/06/01
8445 – WO Toyoshi Midera – XP 43 – entry 1943/07/01
8446 – CPT Nobuyoshi Totsuka – XP 58 – entry 1943/06/01
8447 – WO Akiharu Saitō – XP 43 – entry 1943/08/01
8448 – WO Yukitami Nakazawa – XP 43 – entry 1943/09/01
8449 – MAJ Takefumi Kuroda – XP 68 – entry 1944/01/12
8450 – WO Yasuo Saitō – XP 43 – entry 1943/10/31
8451 – WO Takeshi Aihara – XP 41 – entry 1943/10/31
Unit Totals
1942: 27 pilots → ∅ XP 52.1
1943: 14 pilots → ∅ XP 48.6
1944: 2 pilots → ∅ XP 54.5
Overall: 43 pilots → ∅ XP 51.0
Unit Averages (as of 1 August 1942)
• Average XP: 49–50
• Average Morale: 67–69 (falling to 55–57 after attrition and transfers)
Evaluation
The 248th Hiko Sentai embodied the stable middle ground of Japan’s air defense and training structure during the mid-war period—competent, unglamorous, and indispensable.
Its pilots maintained regular patrols over Kyūshū and the Inland Sea, intercepting reconnaissance incursions and performing constant training rotations.
While never a front-line combat unit, its organization and continuity provided crucial reinforcement for Japan’s defensive air network.
Under Maj. Makino, the Sentai became known for tight formation flying and methodical readiness drills, serving as both a reserve pool and a proving ground for upcoming fighter leaders.
By 1944 it was fully integrated into the Western Air Defense Command’s replacement system, feeding trained pilots to combat units in the Home Islands.
It was a formation of quiet endurance—its significance measured not by victory counts but by the steady flow of prepared aviators it delivered to a war growing ever more desperate.
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Tanaka · Post by **Tanaka** » Mon Nov 10, 2025 5:18 pm

Wow amazing work the devs should include this in the new patch. If not I hope you will be making a mod!

RangerJoe · Post by **RangerJoe** » Mon Nov 10, 2025 7:19 pm

Tanaka wrote: Mon Nov 10, 2025 5:18 pm Wow amazing work the devs should include this in the new patch. If not I hope you will be making a mod!

Just to let you know, if case you have forgotten or have never read about this, but there is nothing to be added to the latest patch being worked on and it will be the very last patch.

Tanaka · Post by **Tanaka** » Tue Nov 11, 2025 5:46 pm

RangerJoe wrote: Mon Nov 10, 2025 7:19 pm
Tanaka wrote: Mon Nov 10, 2025 5:18 pm Wow amazing work the devs should include this in the new patch. If not I hope you will be making a mod!
Just to let you know, if case you have forgotten or have never read about this, but there is nothing to be added to the latest patch being worked on and it will be the very last patch.

Yes I know just wishful thinking I said should! Hehe

Peiper1944 · Post by **Peiper1944** » Sat Nov 15, 2025 5:37 am

Imperial Japanese Army Air Force (IJAAF) – Flight Schools Dossier
This dossier on the Flight Schools of the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force (IJAAF) was created to reconstruct, as completely and transparently as possible, the training structure, personnel composition, and organizational depth of the Japanese air forces on 6 December 1941.
Whereas military research and most simulations tend to focus on combat units—the Sentai and Hikō Shidan—the training institutions often remain in the background, despite being the backbone of the entire air arm. Without the systematically layered school system of Akeno, Tachiarai, Kumagaya, and their numerous branch schools, the IJAAF could never have sustained its massive personnel expansion after 1941.

IJAAF – Army Flight Schools – Fighter
Akeno Gakkō
Founded : 01 Dec 1918
Location : Tsu (Mie Prefecture, Honshū)
Classification : Elite Army Flying School (Akeno Heeresfliegerschule)
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
MAJ Takahashi Shōzō – chief instructor and acting school commander.
He took over instruction after the transfer of MAJ Katō Tateo to the front (as CO of the 64th Hikō Sentai, Burma).
Takahashi was a seasoned flight instructor, specialist in tactical formation leadership and attack procedures using the Ki-27 and Ki-43.
Ratings: Skill 68 | Inspiration 64 | Naval 18 | Air 70 | Land 50 | Admin 57 | Aggression 52 | Political 18
Background & Role
The Akeno Gakkō (陸軍飛行学校明野分校) was the principal fighter school of the IJAAF and served as the central institution for the training of fighter pilots, tactical instructors, and squadron leaders.
It combined academic instruction, tactical research, and field testing.
By late 1941 it also functioned as a “Teaching and Experimental Unit” (Jikkenbu) and frequently dispatched instructors to operational front units.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 1–2 training Chutai (each ≈ 30 pilots)
Total personnel : ≈ 60 pilots (instructors, advanced students, rotation staff)
Trainer Aircraft : Nakajima Ki-27b “Nate” (Trainer) — Armament 1 × 7.7 mm Type 89 MG (standard for Ki-27b trainer variant).
Personnel : experienced instructors and rotating front-line pilots
Aircraft inventory : Total 60 | Operational 60 | Damaged 0 | Reserve 0
Pilot average (6 Dec 1941): XP 65.5 | Morale 80
Pilot List
8497 – MAJ Takahashi Shōzō – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06 – Akeno Gakkō | Commanding Officer / Chief Instructor
8498 – CPT Kawakami Osamu – XP 58 – entry 1942/01/05 → Japan
8499 – MAJ Uranaka Naoichi – XP 68 – entry 1942/01/05 → Japan
8500 – CPT Suzuki Sukemichi – XP 58 – entry 1942/01/05 → Japan
8501 – 1LT Kurono Shōjō ★ Ace (12 kills) – XP 70 – entry 1942/01/05 → Japan
8502 – 2LT Nishihara Gorō ★ Ace (12 kills) – XP 68 – entry 1943/12/01 → Japan
8503 – 1LT Sakai Jōri ★ Ace (6 kills) – XP 57 – entry 1942/01/05 → Japan
8504 – CPT Sakuragi Kaoru – XP 58 – entry 1942/01/05 → Japan
8505 – 2LT Sasaki Hiroto – XP 51 – entry 1942/01/05 → Japan
8506 – CPT Ōba Yahei – XP 62 – entry 1941/12/06
8507 – CPT Giga Tetsuji – XP 64 – entry 1941/12/06
8508 – CPT Hashimoto Hidenobu – XP 61 – entry 1941/12/06
Evaluation
Akeno Gakkō embodied the elite core of the IJAAF fighter-pilot training system.
Its instructors were hand-picked veterans — many combat experienced, some decorated aces — and its graduates were sent directly to front-line units to raise their combat efficiency.
Between 1942 and 1943 the school conducted shortened conversion courses and field tests under operational conditions.
It formed the intellectual and tactical heart of the IJAAF — the cadre forge from which nearly all notable Japanese Army fighter pilots emerged.

Tachiarai Gakkō
Founded : 01 Oct 1921
Location : Tachiarai, Fukuoka Prefecture (Kyūshū)
Classification : Advanced Fighter Training School
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
MAJ Takamiyabe Tomomi – Chief Instructor and director of final-phase training before frontline deployment.
An experienced instructor with combat service in China, he oversaw the last stage of fighter pilot training: interception, gunnery, and formation maneuvers.
Ratings: Skill 61 | Inspiration 57 | Naval 20 | Air 63 | Land 48 | Admin 58 | Aggression 44 | Political 18
Background & Role
The Tachiarai Gakkō (陸軍飛行学校太刀洗分校) was the second major IJAAF school after Akeno.
Its curriculum emphasized tactical formation flying, realistic dogfighting, target gunnery, and combat maneuvers under near-war conditions.
It was regarded as the final training stage before assignment to frontline Sentai and had a decisive impact on the combat readiness of units in the early Southeast Asian campaigns.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 2 training Chutai (≈ 60 pilots total)
Type : Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (Trainer) – Armament 1 × 7.7 mm Type 89 MG
Aircraft : Total 60 | Operational 60 | Damaged 0 | Reserve 0
Personnel : Experienced instructors and advanced cadets in final phase
Pilot List (6 Dec 1941)
8512 – WO Tabuchi Shirō – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06 – Tachiarai Gakkō (Pilot)
8513 – WO Yoshioka Masayuki – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06 – Tachiarai Gakkō (Pilot)
8514 – 2LT Kamitono Hiroshi – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06 – Tachiarai Gakkō (Trainee Pilot)
8515 – MAJ Takamiyabe Tomomi – XP 61 – entry 1941/12/06 – Tachiarai Gakkō (Training Director)
Evaluation
Tachiarai Gakkō formed the critical bridge between school and frontline service.
It was notorious for its rigorous discipline and demanding flight schedule.
Many graduates were in combat within weeks over the Philippines, Malaya, and Burma.
As the “final fighter training stage,” it was indispensable for the rapid buildup of IJAAF frontline strength after the outbreak of war.

Kumagaya Gakkō
Founded : 1937
Classification : Fighter Training School
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
CPT Onozaki Hiroshi – Ace (14 victories), veteran instructor from the 59th Sentai; directed advanced fighter training at Kumagaya.
Specialist in formation discipline, combat coordination, and aerial gunnery.
Ratings: Skill 63 | Inspiration 58 | Naval 20 | Air 70 | Land 46 | Admin 55 | Aggression 60 | Political 16
Background & Role
The Kumagaya Gakkō (陸軍飛行学校熊谷分校) was one of the key sub-branches of Akeno.
It focused on fine-tuning young fighters in formation discipline, marksmanship, and squadron coordination.
A portion of the instructors came directly from frontline units, keeping training closely aligned with combat reality.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 2 training Chutai (~ 40 pilots)
Type : Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” – Armament 1 × 7.7 mm Type 89 MG
Aircraft : Total 40 | Operational 36 | Damaged 3 | Reserve 1
Pilot (6 Dec 1941)
8515 – CPT Onozaki Hiroshi – XP 63 ★ Ace (14 victories) – entry 1936 – Kumagaya Gakkō | 59th Sentai (Instructor & Training Director)
Evaluation
Kumagaya Gakkō served as the primary feeder school for Akeno and several frontline IJAAF Sentai.
Its graduates were known for discipline, precision, and superior formation skills.
Close links to the 59th Sentai and other China-based units ensured its training remained combat-relevant and practical.

Mito Gakkō
Founded : c. 1935 (Tokyo region)
Classification : Regional Fighter School (Intermediate Level)
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
CPT Murakami Ken’ichi – lead instructor for intermediate training and tactics; responsible for coordination between basic and advanced phases.
Ratings : Skill 57 | Inspiration 52 | Naval 18 | Air 60 | Land 45 | Admin 50 | Aggression 47 | Political 15
Background & Role
Mito Gakkō (陸軍飛行学校水戸分校) formed the link between the primary schools (Tokorozawa, Kumagaya) and the tactical academies (Akeno, Tachiarai).
It specialized in formation training, dogfight fundamentals, low-level flight, and attack procedures with the Ki-27 “Nate.”
Mito was considered the disciplinary center of the Kantō training region and produced most pilots destined for Akeno and Tachiarai.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 2 training sections (~ 40 pilots)
Aircraft : Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (Trainer) – 1 × 7.7 mm Type 89 MG
Fleet : Total 20 | Ready 14 | Damaged 3 | Reserve 3
Pilot List (6 Dec 1941)
8518 – CPT Murakami Ken’ichi – XP 57 – entry 1941/12/06 – Mito Gakkō (Commanding Instructor)
8519 – CPT Onozaki Hiroshi – XP 63 – entry 1941/12/06 – Mito Gakkō (Guest Instructor, ex-59th Sentai)
8520 – WO Ina Akira – XP 56 – entry 1941/12/06 – Mito Gakkō (Advanced Flight Instructor)
8521 – 2LT Hirose Shuzō – XP 48 – entry 1941/12/06 – Mito Gakkō (Trainee Flight Teacher)
Evaluation
Mito Gakkō served as the tactical bridge between basic and frontline preparation.
Its curriculum focused on standardized combat formations, steep dive training, and realistic aerial maneuvers.
By 1943 it conducted refresher and returnee courses for combat pilots before their re-assignment to front units.

Komaki Bunko
Founded : c. 1936 (Nagoya)
Classification : Fighter Detachment
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
MAJ Hara Yoshinori – veteran of the China campaign; headed the training and test detachment at the Mitsubishi test airfield Komaki.
Responsible for retraining experienced pilots on new fighter types (Ki-27 and early Ki-43) and for tactical comparison flights between series and prototype models.
Ratings : Skill 60 | Inspiration 55 | Naval 20 | Air 65 | Land 48 | Admin 53 | Aggression 50 | Political 17
Background & Role
The Komaki Bunko (陸軍飛行学校小牧分校) operated under Akeno as a special detachment for aircraft testing and conversion training.
Working closely with the Mitsubishi factory and test site at Nagoya, it conducted training flights, tactical evaluations, and comparative maneuvers with new fighter models.
Seasoned pilots from Akeno and Tachiarai were assembled here for technical conversion before transfer to new Ki-43 units.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 1 Chutai (~ 25 pilots)
Aircraft : Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (production and pre-series trainers)
Fleet : Total 25 | Operational 25 | Damaged 0 | Reserve 0
Pilot List (6 Dec 1941)
8508 – CPT Ōba Yahei – XP 62 – entry 1941/12/06 – Komaki Bunko (Instructor)
8509 – CPT Giga Tetsuji – XP 64 – entry 1941/12/06 – Komaki Bunko (Instructor)
8510 – CPT Hashimoto Hidenobu – XP 61 – entry 1941/12/06 – Komaki Bunko (Instructor)
8511 – MAJ Hara Yoshinori – XP 60 – entry 1941/12/06 – Komaki Bunko (Commanding Officer)
Evaluation
Komaki Bunko served as the interface between pilot training and industrial flight testing.
As a combined training and evaluation unit, it supported both Akeno and Mitsubishi in fine-tuning the Ki-27 and early Ki-43 series.
Its experienced instructors also formed the first air defense reserve for the Nagoya region.

Shimoshizu Bunko
Founded : c. 1937 (Tokyo area)
Classification : Fighter / Reconnaissance Branch School
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
CPT Araki Jirō – experienced flight instructor; directed combined training for escort fighters and reconnaissance pilots.
Ratings : Skill 55 | Inspiration 50 | Naval 20 | Air 58 | Land 43 | Admin 48 | Aggression 46 | Political 16
Background & Role
The Shimoshizu Bunko (陸軍飛行学校下志津分校) was administratively subordinate to the Shimoshizu Reconnaissance School.
It trained pilots for mixed roles – escort fighters, tactical reconnaissance, and navigation flights – and acted as a link between fighter and reconnaissance training.
Emphasis was placed on navigational accuracy, radio discipline, and coordination with photo-recon units.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 1 Chutai (~ 25 pilots) | Type : Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”
Aircraft : Total 25 | Ready 20 | Damaged 3 | Reserve 2
Pilot List (6 Dec 1941)
8508 – CPT Ōba Yahei – XP 62 – entry 1941/12/06 – Shimoshizu Bunko (Instructor Pilot)
8509 – CPT Giga Tetsuji – XP 64 – entry 1941/12/06 – Shimoshizu Bunko (Instructor Pilot)
8510 – CPT Hashimoto Hidenobu – XP 61 – entry 1941/12/06 – Shimoshizu Bunko (Instructor Pilot)
8511 – CPT Araki Jirō – XP 55 – entry 1941/12/06 – Shimoshizu Bunko (Commanding Instructor)
Evaluation
Shimoshizu Bunko was a key bridge between fighter and reconnaissance training.
It produced precise and disciplined pilots for escort and photo-flight duties.
Renowned for strict navigation instruction and its close cooperation with the main Shimoshizu School’s reconnaissance departments.

Toyohashi Bunko
Founded : c. 1938 (Nagoya area)
Classification : Fighter Branch School
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
CPT Yamane Takeo – formation and discipline instructor responsible for team flying and tactical coordination.
Ratings : Skill 53 | Inspiration 49 | Naval 17 | Air 57 | Land 42 | Admin 45 | Aggression 44 | Political 13
Background & Role
The Toyohashi Bunko (陸軍飛行学校豊橋分校) conducted advanced formation and team-coordination training for Ki-27 students.
From 1942 onward the school began conversion courses for the Ki-43 “Hayabusa.”
It maintained close ties with the Mitsubishi plants in Nagoya and supported their test and acceptance programs.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 1 Chutai (~ 25 pilots) | Type : Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”
Aircraft : Total 25 | Ready 22 | Damaged 2 | Reserve 1
Pilot List (6 Dec 1941)
8512 – CPT Yamane Takeo – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06 – Toyohashi Bunko (Chief Instructor)
8513 – 2LT Sasaki Hiroto – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06 – Toyohashi Bunko (Trainee Pilot)
8514 – CPT Sakuragi Kaoru – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06 – Toyohashi Bunko (Instructor Pilot)
8515 – 1LT Sakai Jōri – XP 57 – entry 1941/12/06 – Toyohashi Bunko (Instructor Pilot)
Evaluation
Toyohashi Bunko acted as a feeder school for Akeno and specialized in formation and team-flight training.
It was considered highly efficient in group coordination and maintained an excellent reputation for precision and discipline.

Chiran Bunko
Founded : c. 1939 (Kagoshima Prefecture)
Classification : Southern Fighter School
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
MAJ Tsukamoto Hideo – Head of Southern Training Division; experienced instructor for tropical and low-altitude operations.
Ratings : Skill 59 | Inspiration 56 | Naval 19 | Air 62 | Land 46 | Admin 50 | Aggression 52 | Political 15
Background & Role
The Chiran Bunko (知覧分校) was the southernmost IJAAF fighter training facility.
It trained pilots for tropical operations in Formosa, the Philippines, and Southeast Asia.
Thanks to its mild climate, the school operated year-round.
From 1944 onward Chiran became the base of the Special Attack Units (Tokkōtai), but until then it remained a pure training center.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 1–2 Chutai (~ 20 pilots)
Type : Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”
Pilot List (6 Dec 1941)
– MAJ Tsukamoto Hideo – XP 66 – entry 1941/12/06 – Chiran Bunko | Training Director
Evaluation
Chiran functioned solely as a training center without combat deployments.
Its experienced instructors ensured a high success rate for pilots preparing for tropical service.
After 1944 the airfield was converted to special attack operations, but until that point it remained entirely educational in purpose.

Metabaru Bunko
Founded : c. 1939 (Fukuoka)
Classification : Regional Fighter Training School
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
CPT Handa Michio – China veteran, chief instructor for gunnery and dogfight discipline.
Ratings : Skill 58 | Inspiration 54 | Naval 18 | Air 60 | Land 44 | Admin 50 | Aggression 48 | Political 14
Background & Role
The Metabaru Bunko (目達原分校) was subordinate to Tachiarai Gakkō and expanded its gunnery and aerobatic curriculum.
Located in Fukuoka Prefecture, it offered ample airspace for air-combat and firing practice.
It was a pure instructional base with no combat operations.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 1 Chutai (~ 20 pilots)
Type : Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”
Aircraft : Total 20 | Operational 20 | Damaged 0 | Reserve 0
Pilot List (6 Dec 1941)
– CPT Handa Michio – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06 – Metabaru Bunko | Chief Instructor
Evaluation
Metabaru Bunko served as a forward extension of Tachiarai Gakkō, handling live-fire and formation training across western Japan.
Its instructors remained in training duties throughout the war and trained hundreds of fighter cadets.

Korea Bunko
Founded : c. 1938 (Korean Peninsula)
Classification : Regional Fighter Training School (subordinate to Akeno)
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
CPT Ina Akira – Ace (9 victories), experienced China veteran; remained in Korea until the end of the war as chief instructor.
Specialist in advanced maneuver training, gunnery instruction, and emergency procedures under field conditions.
Ratings : Skill 56 | Inspiration 53 | Naval 18 | Air 60 | Land 44 | Admin 48 | Aggression 55 | Political 14
Background & Role
The Korea Bunko (陸軍飛行学校朝鮮分校) was an Akeno branch school stationed on the Korean Peninsula.
It trained reserve and supplementary pilots and maintained local air readiness.
Most of its instructors were combat veterans permanently assigned to teaching duties.
No combat detachments were drawn from this school – its staff remained in place until 1945.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 1 section (~ 10 pilots)
Type : Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (Trainer)
Aircraft : Total 10 | Operational 10 | Damaged 0 | Reserve 0
Pilot List (6 Dec 1941)
– CPT Ina Akira ★ Ace (9 victories) – XP 68 – entry 1941/12/06 – Korea Bunko | Chief Instructor (China veteran, later Korea)
Evaluation
Small but strategically important, Korea Bunko ensured a constant IJAAF presence on the peninsula and trained reserve and replacement pilots with high efficiency.
Its staff was known for methodical discipline and for keeping training standards high under limited conditions.

Miyakonojo Bunko
Founded : c. 1940 (Kagoshima Prefecture)
Classification : Southern Regional Branch School (subordinate to Tachiarai Gakkō)
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
1LT Okamoto Shinsaku – flight instructor and section leader; specialist in formation takeoff procedures. Remained in training service throughout the war.
Ratings : Skill 50 | Inspiration 47 | Naval 18 | Air 55 | Land 42 | Admin 44 | Aggression 42 | Political 13
Background & Role
Under Tachiarai Gakkō command, the Miyakonojo Bunko conducted refresher courses and re-qualification for reservists as well as technical familiarization with new aircraft types.
The mild climate of southern Kyūshū allowed year-round operations.
All instructors remained in training roles until 1945.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 1 section (~ 10 pilots) | Type : Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (Trainer)
Aircraft : Total 10 | Operational 10 | Damaged 0 | Reserve 0
Personnel (Instructors)
8533 – 1LT Okamoto Shinsaku – XP 50 – entry 1941/12/06 – Miyakonojo Bunko (Training Leader)
8534 – WO Tanaka Tetsuo – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06 – Miyakonojo Bunko (Flight Instructor)
8535 – SGT Murase Kiyoshi – XP 42 – entry 1941/12/06 – Miyakonojo Bunko (Assistant Instructor)
Evaluation
A small but steady southern training school; provided reliable instruction for reservists and close coordination with Tachiarai Gakkō.
Remained a pure teaching unit until the end of the war.

Ina Bunko
Founded : c. 1940 (Nagoya region)
Classification : Fighter Detachment
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
WO Takahashi Kōhei – instructor for basic tactics and flight discipline; long-serving teacher within the central Japanese training network.
Ratings : Skill 48 | Inspiration 45 | Naval 17 | Air 52 | Land 41 | Admin 43 | Aggression 41 | Political 12
Background & Role
The Ina Bunko (陸軍飛行学校伊那分校) served as a refresher and disciplinary school in the Nagoya sector.
It handled re-qualification after injuries and standardized elementary combat procedures for returning pilots.
No combat operations were conducted; training continued exclusively until 1945.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 1 section (~ 10 pilots) | Type : Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”
Aircraft : Total 10 | Ready 9 | Damaged 1 | Reserve 0
Personnel (Instructors)
8536 – WO Takahashi Kōhei – XP 48 – entry 1941/12/06 – Ina Bunko (Chief Instructor)
8537 – 1LT Sakai Hideo – XP 50 – entry 1941/12/06 – Ina Bunko (Formation Instructor)
8538 – WO Kondō Masaru – XP 45 – entry 1941/12/06 – Ina Bunko (Assistant Instructor)
Evaluation
Ina Bunko was an important refresher and disciplinary school that maintained pilot standards and ensured steady re-qualification across central Japan.

Utsunomiya Bunko
Founded : c. 1940 (Maebashi area, Kantō)
Classification : Fighter Detachment
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
CPT Ishizaki Yūzō – specialist in escort and navigation procedures; responsible for tactical coordination between fighter and bomber pilots.
Ratings : Skill 55 | Inspiration 52 | Naval 19 | Air 58 | Land 43 | Admin 47 | Aggression 46 | Political 14
Background & Role
The Utsunomiya Bunko (陸軍飛行学校宇都宮分校) linked fighter and bomber training, teaching interception, radio coordination, and night navigation.
It remained a training unit throughout the war without any operational missions.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 1 Chutai (~ 10 pilots) | Type : Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”
Aircraft : Total 10 | Ready 9 | Damaged 1 | Reserve 0
Personnel (Instructors)
8539 – CPT Ishizaki Yūzō – XP 55 – entry 1941/12/06 – Utsunomiya Bunko (Chief Instructor)
8540 – 1LT Takahara Jun – XP 49 – entry 1941/12/06 – Utsunomiya Bunko (Navigation Instructor)
8541 – WO Yamada Ryō – XP 45 – entry 1941/12/06 – Utsunomiya Bunko (Flight Instructor)
Evaluation
Utsunomiya Bunko was a specialized liaison school for fighter-bomber coordination training.
Small but technically refined, it remained continuously active until 1945.

Katori Bunko
Founded : c. 1940 (Tokyo region)
Classification : Regional Fighter Training School
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
2LT Kawahara Mitsuo – junior instructor for home-defense training.
Ratings : Skill 47 | Inspiration 44 | Naval 16 | Air 51 | Land 40 | Admin 42 | Aggression 40 | Political 11
Background & Role
The Katori Bunko (陸軍飛行学校香取分校) was a small regional branch school in the Tokyo area.
It handled basic refresher courses for reservists and home-defense training for local pilots, maintaining close cooperation with Hitachi and Shimoshizu facilities.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 1 section (~ 10 pilots) | Type : Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”
Aircraft : Total 10 | Ready 10 | Damaged 0 | Reserve 0
Personnel (Instructors)
8542 – 2LT Kawahara Mitsuo – XP 47 – entry 1941/12/06 – Katori Bunko (Chief Instructor)
8543 – WO Fujita Kenta – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06 – Katori Bunko (Flight Instructor)
8544 – SGT Endō Takao – XP 40 – entry 1941/12/06 – Katori Bunko (Assistant Instructor)
Evaluation
Katori Bunko was a small home-defense school within the Kantō region.
It continuously produced defense pilots and reserve instructors and remained purely instructional throughout the war.

Tsuchiura Bunko
Founded : c. 1940 (Tokyo region)
Classification : Regional Fighter Training School
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
CPT Imai Seinosuke – leader of local defense flight units.
Ratings : Skill 51 | Inspiration 48 | Naval 17 | Air 56 | Land 43 | Admin 46 | Aggression 45 | Political 13
Background & Role
The Tsuchiura Bunko (陸軍飛行学校土浦分校) was a small Kantō training school dedicated to refresher courses and emergency instruction for reservists and returnees.
It focused on scramble procedures and interception drills and served as an overflow unit for Akeno and Kumagaya.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 1 section (~ 10 pilots) | Type : Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”
Aircraft : Total 10 | Ready 10 | Damaged 0 | Reserve 0
Personnel (Instructors)
8545 – CPT Imai Seinosuke – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06 – Tsuchiura Bunko (Chief Instructor)
8546 – 1LT Nomura Hajime – XP 48 – entry 1941/12/06 – Tsuchiura Bunko (Flight Instructor)
8547 – WO Matsui Daiji – XP 44 – entry 1941/12/06 – Tsuchiura Bunko (Assistant Instructor)
Evaluation
Tsuchiura Bunko served as a regional supplementary school near Tokyo with a stable instructor corps.
It was vital for reserve and home-defense pilot training throughout the final war years.

Hitachi Bunko
Founded : c. 1939 (Honshū)
Classification : Regional Fighter Training School (Home Defense Division)
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
2LT Hirose Shuzō – flight instructor assisted by WOs Kobayashi and Ozaki.
Ratings : Skill 48 | Inspiration 46 | Naval 18 | Air 52 | Land 42 | Admin 45 | Aggression 40 | Political 14
Background & Role
The Hitachi Bunko (陸軍飛行学校日立分校) functioned as a small training detachment of the IJAAF Home Defense Command.
It conducted local conversion courses, type familiarization, and evaluation of new aircraft within eastern Honshū.
By 1943 it was incorporated into the Hitachi Kyōdō Hikō Shidan and remained strictly instructional until 1945.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 1 Chutai (~ 10–12 pilots) | Type : Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”
Aircraft : Total 10 | Ready 7 | Damaged 2 | Reserve 1
Personnel (Instructors)
8555 – 2LT Hirose Shuzō – XP 48 – entry 1941/12/06 – Hitachi Bunko (Chief Instructor)
8556 – WO Kobayashi Yūichi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06 – Hitachi Bunko (Flight Instructor)
8557 – WO Ozaki Kiichi – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06 – Hitachi Bunko (Assistant Instructor)
Evaluation
Hitachi Bunko remained an auxiliary home-defense facility responsible for defensive training and conversion flights.
After 1943 it trained replacement pilots for the final home-defense phase of the war.

Hailar Gakkō
Founded : 1938 (Manchuria)
Classification : Fighter and Reconnaissance Training Detachment
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
CPT Fujimura Kiyoto – veteran of the Nomonhan border clashes; led navigation and meteorology training.
Ratings : Skill 62 | Inspiration 55 | Naval 18 | Air 66 | Land 46 | Admin 50 | Aggression 49 | Political 15
Background & Role
The Hailar Gakkō (陸軍飛行学校海拉爾分校) served as a training and support school for fighter and reconnaissance pilots of the Kwantung Army’s northern front.
Its curriculum combined aerial combat, weather observation, and map-reading under extreme winter conditions.
Students rotated from China-front units for advanced tactical refreshers.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 2 Chutai (~ 40 pilots) | Type : Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”
Aircraft : Total 20 | Ready 14 | Damaged 3 | Reserve 3
Personnel (Instructors)
8561 – CPT Fujimura Kiyoto – XP 62 – entry 1941/12/06 – Hailar Gakkō (Commanding Officer)
8562 – 1LT Yamazaki Toshiharu – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06 – Hailar Gakkō (Flight Instructor)
8563 – WO Nakada Shigeru – XP 48 – entry 1941/12/06 – Hailar Gakkō (Flight Instructor)
8564 – 2LT Hayakawa Fumio – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06 – Hailar Gakkō (Trainee Instructor)
Evaluation
A specialized school for border and meteorological operations, Hailar Gakkō produced reserve instructors for the Kwantung Army’s northern air districts.

Harbin Gakkō
Founded : 1938 (Manchuria)
Classification : Combined Fighter / Bomber Training School
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
MAJ Ōshima Tatsuyuki – navigator and test pilot specialized in cold-weather flights; chief of the multi-engine division.
Ratings : Skill 63 | Inspiration 57 | Naval 20 | Air 68 | Land 47 | Admin 52 | Aggression 54 | Political 16
Background & Role
The Harbin Gakkō (陸軍飛行学校哈爾浜分校) trained pilots and observers for multi-engine and long-range operations under extreme conditions.
Its curriculum combined bomber, reconnaissance, and high-altitude fighter training.
Exercises included formation bombing, navigation accuracy under snow conditions, and aircraft icing procedures.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 2 Chutai (~ 30 pilots) | Types : Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”, Kawasaki Ki-21 “Sally” (training versions)
Aircraft : Total 18 | Ready 12 | Damaged 3 | Reserve 3
Personnel (Instructors)
8565 – MAJ Ōshima Tatsuyuki – XP 63 – entry 1941/12/06 – Harbin Gakkō (Commanding Officer)
8566 – CPT Andō Keisuke – XP 55 – entry 1941/12/06 – Harbin Gakkō (Flight Instructor)
8567 – 1LT Hirano Mitsuo – XP 51 – entry 1941/12/06 – Harbin Gakkō (Navigation Instructor)
Evaluation
Technically one of the most demanding training centers of the IJAAF, Harbin Gakkō served as the Manchurian school for cold-weather and multi-engine operations.
It remained active through 1945 as both a training and testing facility.

Peiping Gakkō
Founded : 1939 (North China)
Classification : Overseas Fighter Training School
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
CPT Noguchi Kyūshichi – Ace (9 victories); chief instructor for China-based cadets.
Ratings : Skill 69 | Inspiration 60 | Naval 20 | Air 72 | Land 48 | Admin 52 | Aggression 58 | Political 17
Background & Role
The Peiping Gakkō (陸軍飛行学校北平分校) was the principal IJAAF training center in North China.
It educated pilots attached to occupation units and served as a refresher and retraining hub for airmen rotating out of front-line service.
Training included ground-attack, escort tactics, and coordination with reconnaissance units.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 1 Chutai (≈ 15 pilots) | Type : Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”
Aircraft : Total 12 | Ready 9 | Damaged 2 | Reserve 1
Personnel (Instructors)
8568 – CPT Noguchi Kyūshichi – XP 69 – entry 1941/12/06 – Peiping Gakkō (Commanding Officer)
Evaluation
Peiping Gakkō was the most important IJAAF training base in North China, ensuring steady qualification of locally stationed air units and replenishment of China expeditionary forces.

Nanking Gakkō
Founded : 1939 (Central China)
Classification : Fighter and Bomber Branch School
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
CPT Kumeda Ryūsaku – specialist in crew coordination and flight navigation; head of the combined training squadron.
Ratings : Skill 58 | Inspiration 53 | Naval 19 | Air 61 | Land 45 | Admin 48 | Aggression 50 | Political 15
Background & Role
The Nanking Gakkō (陸軍飛行学校南京分校) combined fighter and bomber instruction for IJAAF occupation forces in Central China.
It focused on tactical cooperation between single- and twin-engine units, long-range navigation, and precision bombing from medium altitude.
Courses were adapted for mixed Japanese and auxiliary cadets serving under supervision.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 1 Chutai (≈ 20 pilots) | Types : Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate”, Kawasaki Ki-48 “Lily”
Aircraft : Total 14 | Ready 10 | Damaged 3 | Reserve 1
Personnel (Instructors)
8570 – CPT Kumeda Ryūsaku – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06 – Nanking Gakkō (Commanding Officer)
8571 – 1LT Fujita Haruo – XP 50 – entry 1941/12/06 – Nanking Gakkō (Flight Instructor)
Evaluation
Nanking Gakkō was the principal mixed-training base in Central China.
It provided bomber crews, gunners, and fighter-bomber pilots for occupation and supply operations until 1945.

Hamamatsu Gakkō
Founded : c. 1933 (Central Japan)
Classification : Main Bomber Training School
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
MAJ Koyama Tokiharu – chief instructor for bombing technique and crew coordination.
Ratings : Skill 64 | Inspiration 59 | Naval 21 | Air 68 | Land 49 | Admin 55 | Aggression 53 | Political 17
Background & Role
The Hamamatsu Gakkō (陸軍飛行学校浜松分校) formed the backbone of IJAAF bomber instruction.
It specialized in formation bombing, precision aiming, and crew communication within multi-engine aircraft.
Graduates typically joined Ki-21 “Sally” and Ki-48 “Lily” units in China and Southeast Asia.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 2 Chutai (~ 40 pilots) | Types : Ki-21 “Sally”, Ki-48 “Lily”
Aircraft : Total 18 | Ready 14 | Damaged 2 | Reserve 2
Personnel (Instructors)
8527 – MAJ Koyama Tokiharu – XP 64 – entry 1941/12/06 – Hamamatsu Gakkō (Commanding Officer)
8528 – CPT Watanabe Ryōichi – XP 56 – entry 1941/12/06 – Hamamatsu Gakkō (Instructor)
8529 – 1LT Fujita Hideo – XP 50 – entry 1941/12/06 – Hamamatsu Gakkō (Instructor)
Evaluation
Serving as the core of IJAAF bomber development, Hamamatsu Gakkō produced the first complete Ki-21 and Ki-48 crews.
It remained Japan’s premier heavy-bomber academy through the end of the war.

Utsunomiya Gakkō
Founded : c. 1935 (East Japan)
Classification : Bomber Training School
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
MAJ Amano Shigeru – senior instructor for navigation and bombing coordination.
Ratings : Skill 61 | Inspiration 56 | Naval 20 | Air 66 | Land 47 | Admin 52 | Aggression 49 | Political 15
Background & Role
The Utsunomiya Gakkō (陸軍飛行学校宇都宮分校) was one of the two main IJAAF bomber academies in Japan proper.
It provided advanced training in multi-engine handling, crew management, and navigation for crews destined for China and Southeast Asia.
Its curriculum focused on formation discipline and medium-altitude bombing accuracy.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 2 Chutai (~ 40 pilots + crew students)
Aircraft : Ki-48 “Lily”, Ki-49 “Helen” (training configurations)
Total 18 | Ready 14 | Damaged 2 | Reserve 2
Personnel (Instructors)
8580 – MAJ Amano Shigeru – XP 61 – entry 1941/12/06 – Utsunomiya Gakkō (Commanding Officer)
8581 – CPT Ishibashi Tadakazu – XP 55 – entry 1941/12/06 – Utsunomiya Gakkō (Flight Instructor)
8582 – 1LT Matsumura Kiyoshi – XP 50 – entry 1941/12/06 – Utsunomiya Gakkō (Navigation Instructor)
Evaluation
Utsunomiya Gakkō was the eastern pillar of IJAAF bomber training.
Its graduates became core aircrew for Ki-49 Sentai deployed in China and the South.
The school remained active through 1945 as a conversion and replacement center.

Harbin Gakkō (Bomber Branch)
Founded : c. 1938 (Manchuria)
Classification : Overseas Bomber School
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
CPT Ishikawa Masao – expert in cold-weather multi-engine operation and navigation under polar conditions.
Ratings : Skill 60 | Inspiration 55 | Naval 19 | Air 64 | Land 46 | Admin 49 | Aggression 47 | Political 14
Background & Role
The Harbin Gakkō (陸軍飛行学校哈爾浜分校) was established to train bomber crews for operations in northern Manchuria and Siberia.
It emphasized long-range navigation, fuel management, and formation bombing in extreme temperatures.
The school also tested engine performance and de-icing equipment for the Kwantung Army.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 1 Chutai (~ 25 pilots) | Types : Ki-21 “Sally”, Ki-49 “Helen”
Aircraft : Total 12 | Ready 9 | Damaged 2 | Reserve 1
Personnel (Instructors)
8583 – CPT Ishikawa Masao – XP 60 – entry 1941/12/06 – Harbin Gakkō (Commanding Officer)
8584 – 1LT Hirai Toshio – XP 50 – entry 1941/12/06 – Harbin Gakkō (Flight Instructor)
8585 – WO Nakayama Eiji – XP 47 – entry 1941/12/06 – Harbin Gakkō (Gunnery Instructor)
Evaluation
Harbin Gakkō served as the northern extension of the IJAAF bomber training network.
Its graduates reinforced Kwantung Army air units and provided experienced crews for Siberian contingency planning.

Nanking Gakkō (Bomber Sub-School)
Founded : c. 1939 (China)
Classification : Bomber Branch School
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
1LT Aramaki Kōji – chief instructor for basic twin-engine flight and formation discipline.
Ratings : Skill 52 | Inspiration 48 | Naval 18 | Air 56 | Land 43 | Admin 46 | Aggression 44 | Political 12
Background & Role
The Nanking Gakkō (陸軍飛行学校南京分校) functioned as a support school for local garrisons in Central China.
It handled basic and intermediate training for bomber crews and introduced Chinese auxiliary cadets under Japanese supervision.
Courses covered crew coordination, level bombing, and elementary navigation.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 1 Section (~ 25 pilots + crew) | Type : Kawasaki Ki-48 “Lily”
Aircraft : Total 8 | Ready 6 | Damaged 1 | Reserve 1
Personnel (Instructors)
8536 – 1LT Aramaki Kōji – XP 52 – entry 1941/12/06 – Nanking Gakkō (Commanding Officer)
8537 – WO Hino Taketoshi – XP 45 – entry 1941/12/06 – Nanking Gakkō (Instructor)
8538 – 2LT Endō Kei – XP 43 – entry 1941/12/06 – Nanking Gakkō (Instructor)
Evaluation
A minor but steady training unit that helped stabilize IJAAF air presence in Central China.
Its graduates usually joined mixed recon and light-bomber groups within the China Expeditionary Army.

Shimoshizu Gakkō
Founded : 1935 (Tokyo Area)
Classification : Reconnaissance School
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
MAJ Nishida Kanzō – experienced observer and navigation specialist; head of photo and cartography training.
Ratings : Skill 64 | Inspiration 58 | Naval 19 | Air 68 | Land 48 | Admin 54 | Aggression 47 | Political 16
Background & Role
The Shimoshizu Gakkō (陸軍飛行学校下志津) served as the central reconnaissance academy of the IJAAF.
It trained navigators, aerial photographers and map officers and developed doctrine for strategic and tactical recon missions.
The school worked closely with the Army Air Technical Research Center to standardize camera mounts and film methods.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 2 Chutai (~ 40 trainees) | Types : Mitsubishi Ki-15 “Babs”, Mitsubishi Ki-46 “Dinah”
Aircraft : Total 20 | Ready 15 | Damaged 3 | Reserve 2
Personnel (Instructors)
8521 – MAJ Nishida Kanzō – XP 64 – entry 1941/12/06 – Shimoshizu Gakkō (Commanding Officer)
8522 – CPT Araki Jirō – XP 55 – entry 1941/12/06 – Shimoshizu Gakkō (Navigation Instructor)
8523 – WO Kobayashi Eiji – XP 47 – entry 1941/12/06 – Shimoshizu Gakkō (Flight Instructor)
Evaluation
Shimoshizu Gakkō stood at the heart of the IJAAF reconnaissance network.
It produced nearly all staff navigators and photographic technicians for army air divisions throughout the war.

Tokorozawa Gakkō
Founded : 1919 (Saitama Prefecture)
Classification : Primary & Reconnaissance Training School
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
CPT Matsuda Keiichirō – aviation pioneer and lecturer in navigation and meteorology.
Ratings : Skill 59 | Inspiration 55 | Naval 18 | Air 63 | Land 45 | Admin 50 | Aggression 43 | Political 14
Background & Role
The Tokorozawa Gakkō (陸軍飛行学校所沢) was Japan’s oldest army flying school.
It combined basic flight instruction with observer and navigation courses, forming the foundation for all subsequent IJAAF training systems.
Meteorology, cartography, and instrument flight made up its core curriculum.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 1–2 Sections (~ 30 pilots) | Types : Ki-9, Ki-36
Aircraft : Total 15 | Ready 11 | Damaged 2 | Reserve 2
Personnel (Instructors)
8524 – CPT Matsuda Keiichirō – XP 59 – entry 1941/12/06 – Tokorozawa Gakkō (Commanding Officer)
8525 – 1LT Takahashi Satoru – XP 52 – entry 1941/12/06 – Tokorozawa Gakkō (Flight Instructor)
8526 – WO Hayashi Kenji – XP 48 – entry 1941/12/06 – Tokorozawa Gakkō (Basic Instructor)
Evaluation
Tokorozawa Gakkō served as the keystone of IJAAF elementary and reconnaissance training.
Every observer or navigator in the army air force could trace his instruction lineage back to this school.

Harbin Gakkō (Recon Branch)
Founded : 1938 (Manchuria)
Classification : Overseas Reconnaissance School
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
CPT Yamaguchi Tadashi – specialist in meteorology and long-range navigation.
Ratings : Skill 61 | Inspiration 54 | Naval 19 | Air 65 | Land 46 | Admin 49 | Aggression 48 | Political 14
Background & Role
The Harbin Gakkō (陸軍飛行学校哈爾浜分校) trained weather and mapping aircrews for the Kwantung Army.
It taught long-range radio navigation, polar meteorology, and aerial survey techniques for northern operations.
The school also functioned as a testing center for cold-weather equipment and film materials.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 1 Chutai (~ 20 pilots) | Types : Ki-46 “Dinah”, Ki-15 “Babs”
Aircraft : Total 12 | Ready 9 | Damaged 2 | Reserve 1
Personnel (Instructors)
8527 – CPT Yamaguchi Tadashi – XP 61 – entry 1941/12/06 – Harbin Gakkō (Commanding Officer)
8528 – 1LT Ueda Haruo – XP 50 – entry 1941/12/06 – Harbin Gakkō (Navigation Instructor)
8529 – WO Okabe Toshi – XP 46 – entry 1941/12/06 – Harbin Gakkō (Flight Instructor)
Evaluation
Harbin Gakkō was the northernmost IJAAF reconnaissance academy.
It supplied technically trained crews for weather and strategic survey missions and maintained operations throughout the war.

Hailar Gakkō (Recon Branch)
Founded : 1938 (Manchuria)
Classification : Border & Meteorological Reconnaissance School
Commanding Officer (6 Dec 1941)
LT Yamazaki Toshiharu – observer and frontier-flight specialist.
Ratings : Skill 58 | Inspiration 52 | Naval 17 | Air 60 | Land 44 | Admin 47 | Aggression 45 | Political 13
Background & Role
The Hailar Gakkō (陸軍飛行学校海拉爾分校) supported the northern defense zones of the Kwantung Army with weather and border patrol missions.
Its students practiced low-altitude mapping, frontier recon routes, and meteorological data collection for air division HQs.
Organization (6 Dec 1941)
Structure : 1 Section (~ 20 pilots) | Types : Ki-15 “Babs”, Ki-36 “Ida”
Aircraft : Total 10 | Ready 7 | Damaged 2 | Reserve 1
Personnel (Instructors)
8530 – LT Yamazaki Toshiharu – XP 58 – entry 1941/12/06 – Hailar Gakkō (Commanding Officer)
8531 – WO Arai Noboru – XP 45 – entry 1941/12/06 – Hailar Gakkō (Meteorology Instructor)
8532 – SGT Okuno Ryōta – XP 41 – entry 1941/12/06 – Hailar Gakkō (Assistant Flight Instructor)
Evaluation
A specialized unit for meteorological survey and frontier reconnaissance, Hailar Gakkō remained a pure training and support base with no combat operations throughout the war.

Imperial Japanese Army Air Force – Flight Training Network
(as of 6 December 1941)

I. Organizational Structure
At the apex of the IJAAF training system stood the Inspectorate General of Army Aviation (Rikugun Kōkū Sōkan-bu) under General Tominaga Kyōji.
Directly subordinate was the Army Aviation Headquarters (Rikugun Kōkū Honbu), which administered all educational and experimental institutions.
These institutions were organized into three core branches:
1.Fighter Training Division (Sentōki Kyōiku-bu)
2.Bomber Training Division (Bakugekiki Kyōiku-bu)
3.Reconnaissance and Navigation Training Division (Teisatsu Kyōiku-bu)
Each major academy (Gakkō) maintained a web of branch schools (Bunko), detached units, and regional sub-schools, ensuring a nationwide flow of trained pilots, observers, and instructors.

II. Fighter Training Network
Primary Command Schools
· Akeno Gakkō – Elite Tactical Fighter School (HQ in Tsu, Mie Prefecture)
· Tachiarai Gakkō – Advanced Combat Training School (Kyūshū)
· Kumagaya Gakkō – Tactical Refinement Wing (Honshū)
Supporting Branches
Mito, Komaki, Toyohashi, Chiran, Metabaru, Korea, Miyakonojo, Ina, Utsunomiya, Katori, Tsuchiura, Hitachi
Each focused on specialized disciplines: formation control, gunnery, tropical operations, reserve refresher courses, or home-defense training.
Aircraft in Use
· Nakajima Ki-27 “Nate” (main trainer)
· Early Ki-43 prototypes (modified for dual control)
Armament – typically 1 × 7.7 mm Type 89 MG on trainer variants.
Training Emphasis
Aerial discipline, formation combat, and instructor rotation from the front.
Graduation required ≈ 180–200 flight hours plus live-fire qualification.

III. Bomber Training Network
Main Academies
· Hamamatsu Gakkō – Central Bomber School (Ki-21 & Ki-48 training)
· Utsunomiya Gakkō – Eastern Bomber Academy (navigation & crew coordination)
· Harbin Gakkō (Manchuria) – Cold-weather and high-altitude operations
· Nanking Gakkō (China) – Light-bomber branch under occupation command
Key Curriculum Elements
Crew coordination, precision bombing, night navigation, formation discipline.
Each crew member (pilot, navigator, bombardier, radio operator, gunner) received parallel training cycles.
Output Function
Provided fully trained Ki-21 / Ki-48 / Ki-49 crews for the expanding 3rd, 5th and 7th Air Divisions.

IV. Reconnaissance & Meteorological Training Network
Principal Schools
· Shimoshizu Gakkō (Tokyo) – Central Reconnaissance Academy
· Tokorozawa Gakkō (Saitama) – Primary & Observer School
· Harbin & Hailar Gakkō (Manchuria) – Weather and mapping training
Core Aircraft
Mitsubishi Ki-15 “Babs” · Mitsubishi Ki-46 “Dinah” · Tachikawa Ki-36 “Ida” · Ki-9 trainers
Primary Objectives
Navigation precision, meteorology, aerial cartography, camera operation and radio discipline.
Produced reconnaissance staff officers and photo interpreters for each Air Division HQ.

V. Personnel and Scale (1941)
· 18 Major Schools (Gakkō)
· 30 + Branch Units (Bunko)
· ≈ 2 500 active pilots and instructors
· ≈ 9 000 cadets and trainees
Annual Graduation Output (1941)
· ≈ 1 200 fighter pilots
· ≈ 500 bomber pilots
· ≈ 300 observers / navigators

VI. Evaluation
The IJAAF training system was a highly disciplined hierarchy capable of tracking every cadet from primary school to combat unit.
Its strength lay in methodical standardization and the constant rotation of front-line veterans back into training posts.
From 1943 onward the system weakened under attrition and fuel shortages, yet the Akeno–Tachiarai–Shimoshizu triad remained the intellectual core of Japanese Army aviation until 1945.

Peiper1944 · Post by **Peiper1944** » Sat Nov 15, 2025 1:00 pm

INSPECTORATE GENERAL OF ARMY AVIATION & ARMY AVIATION HEADQUARTERS

陸軍航空総監部 & 陸軍航空本部 – INSPECTORATE GENERAL OF ARMY AVIATION & ARMY AVIATION HEADQUARTERS
Status: 6 December 1941
(The central command, administrative and planning center of the Army air arm)

Overall Integration
Subordination:
Under the Army Section of the Daihon’ei (大本営陸軍部 – Imperial General Headquarters, Army Section). The Army air arm is organized here in two pillars:

[]陸軍航空総監部 – Inspectorate General of Army Aviation (Rikugun Kōkū Sōkan-bu)
[]陸軍航空本部 – Army Aviation Headquarters (Kōkū Hombu)

Together they form the “brain” of the IJAAF:
Inspectorate = standards, training, personnel, research
Kōkū Hombu = implementation, supply, command and equipping of divisions and brigades.

1. 陸軍航空総監部 – Inspectorate General of Army Aviation (Rikugun Kōkū Sōkan-bu)

Leadership & Location

[]Commander: Gen. Tominaga Kyōji
[]Chief of Staff: Lt. Gen. Sugiyama Hajime
Location: Tokyo (Army General Staff / Kōkū Hombu complex)

Staff strength (Dec 1941)

[]approx. 420 officers
[]approx. 1,900 NCOs, civilian specialists and technicians
total: about 2,400 personnel in administration, research and inspection

Brief characterization
The Inspectorate General of Army Aviation is the “supreme authority” for everything that makes the Army air arm what it is:

[]It defines training, doctrine, organization, personnel policy and materiel standards.
[]It coordinates closely with the Army General Staff and the armaments authorities.
Strategic planning, personnel rotation, school organization and procurement policy converge here.

In short: the Sōkan-bu is where it is decided how the IJAAF fights, learns, grows and is supplied with aircraft.

Internal Structure – Bureaus of the Inspectorate

Personnel Bureau (人事局)
Responsible for appointments, transfers, promotions, and casualty (wounded / killed) reporting for all flying and ground-based units.

Training Bureau (教育局)
Responsible for curricula, examination regulations and control of the flying schools:

[]Akeno
[]Kumagaya
[]Hamamatsu
[]Tachiarai

Standardizes course lengths, examination formats and tactical teaching content.

Operations Bureau (作戦局)
Develops and maintains the operational doctrine of the IJAAF and coordinates cooperation between air divisions and army commands (Home, Kwantung, Southern, China).

Intelligence Bureau (情報局)

[]Analysis of enemy aircraft types
[]Photo-reconnaissance interpretation
Signals and communications intelligence

Its findings flow into training, operational doctrine and target selection.

Materiel & Procurement Bureau (整備局)

[]Procurement, production and distribution of aircraft, engines, spare parts and fuel
[]Standardization of maintenance guidelines
Control of airworthiness

Medical & Sanitation Bureau (航空衛生部)

[]Flight medical examinations
[]Health standards in training
[]Organization of medical evacuation
[]Research into altitude physiology and crew stress

Central Tasks & Procedures

Key Functions

[]Approval of new aircraft types (including Ki-27, Ki-43, Ki-48, Ki-21)
[]Annual planning for pilot and observer intake
[]Standardization and supervision of flying schools (curricula, examinations, course density)
[]Definition of maintenance intervals, spare parts reserves and maintenance policy
Ongoing liaison with the aircraft manufacturers Nakajima, Mitsubishi, Kawasaki

Directly subordinated institutions

Army Air Technical Research Institute (陸軍航空技術研究所, Tachikawa)
Research on airframes, equipment, radio and instrument technology, materials testing.

Army Air Experimental Department (陸軍航空実験部, Tokorozawa)
Test flights, engine test stands, weapons trials; central agency for practical flight tests.

Army Air Communications Regiment (航空通信連隊, Tokyo)
Builds and operates the IJAAF radio network: approx. 24 long-distance radio stations for all air divisions.

Aviation Medical Institute (航空衛生研究部)

[]Research on hypoxia and long-range flight stress
[]Statistical analysis of emergency and crash landings
Development of improved safety equipment (e.g. seats and harnesses, early emergency-exit concepts)

Map & Photo Section (地図・写真班, Tachikawa)
Central photo interpretation and map production; training of photo-reconnaissance personnel; archiving of aerial photos.

Coordination Committees

[]Aircraft Armament Committee (機体兵装委員会) – development of new armament, sighting systems and sensors.
[]Training Advisory Council (教育審議会) – review of training, evaluation of flying instructors, adjustment of standards.
Personnel Replacement Council (要員補充会議) – annual target numbers for recruitment, unit strengths and class sizes.

Administrative figures 1941

[]Pilot candidates 1941: approx. 4,700 flight students
[]Flight instructors: about 780
[]Rotation principle: regular shift between front-line and training posts roughly every 6 months
[]Priority programs to standardize avionics and onboard radio sets.

Technical Infrastructure

Communications system

[]Central radio network:
- []hub at Tachikawa
  []relay stations at Saigon, Hankow, Hsinking, Keijō (Seoul)
[]Shortwave networks (9–13 MHz): strategic long-range communications
[]VHF band (33–50 MHz): tactical control of air divisions
[]Morse units (通信中隊): one radio platoon per air division as standard, from 1942 onwards gradually strengthened by portable radar sets (電探).

Meteorological Section (気象部)

[]Central nationwide weather reports
[]Daily synoptic charts for the Southern Army and Kwantung Army
[]Training of specialist weather officers (primarily at Hamamatsu)
[]Close cooperation with civilian weather services.

Industry Liaison (航空産業連絡)

[]Direct links to the main production centers:
- []Nakajima (Musashino, Ōta)
  []Mitsubishi (Nagoya)
  []Kawasaki (Akashi)
[]Supervision of serial production (e.g. Ki-43-I, Ki-21-II, Ki-48-I)
[]Acceptance and quality control by Army inspectors before operational release.

2. 陸軍航空本部 – Army Aviation Headquarters (Kōkū Hombu, Tokyo)

Leadership & Mission

[]Commander (administrative head): Lt. Gen. Aramaki Teiichi
[]Chief of Staff: Maj. Gen. Yoshida Haruo

Mission

[]Central planning and deployment of air units
[]Equipping, supply and logistics
[]Supervision of depots and aircraft works
[]Oversight of training units and air divisions at home and in the theaters of operations

Personnel & Means (Dec 1941)

[]approx. 1,200 officers
[]approx. 6,000 technical experts and civilian specialists
around 400 non-operational aircraft (training & test types: Ki-9, Ki-55, Ki-54, Ki-57)

Brief characterization
If the Sōkan-bu is the “forge of norms”, the Kōkū Hombu is the “control center” in which doctrine and tables are turned into real squadrons, divisions and supply chains. Here:

[]divisions are assigned to theaters,
[]maintenance and repair capacities are coordinated,
[]airfields are planned and built,
[]and the air war is organized in practical terms.

Internal Structure – Main Sections of Kōkū Hombu

Operations & Deployment Section (作戦課)

[]Preparation of air situation and deployment plans
[]Alert and readiness planning
Coordination of redeployments (e.g. Formosa → Southern Army, Kwantung → China)

Maintenance & Supply Section (整備課)

[]Control of spare parts flows
[]Allocation of workshop capacities
Organization of field repairs and depot overhauls

Training & Doctrine Section (教育課)

[]Harmonization of the Sōkan-bu’s training directives with the reality of the schools
[]Acceptance of courses, examinations and training units
Allocation of training aircraft and technical resources

Personnel Section (人事課)

[]Personnel management for officers, instructors and ground organization
[]Transfer of key personnel (e.g. experienced pilots into instructor roles)

Communications & Intelligence Section (通信・情報課)

[]Construction and operation of the radio and communications network
[]Coordination of long-range reconnaissance (long-range, photo, weather)
Maintenance of encryption and code systems

Airfield Construction & Facilities (航空施設課)

[]Planning of new airfields (e.g. Katori, Hamamatsu, Tachiarai)
[]Expansion of existing bases (runway extension, dispersal areas, shelters)
Coordination with construction and engineer units

Geographical Basis & Depots

Primary locations under Kōkū Hombu

[]Tokyo (HQ)
[]Tachikawa (research & technology)
[]Tokorozawa (flight & type testing)
[]Hamamatsu (bomber training)
[]Kumagaya (navigation & radio)
[]Akeno (fighter tactics)

Key depots & works

[]Tachikawa Arsenal
[]Gifu Air Depot
[]Hamamatsu Repair Works
[]Ōita Engine Depot
Kisarazu Communications Hub

Doctrinal Focus (late 1941)

[]Promotion of a fighter doctrine oriented toward defensive air superiority
[]Emphasis on twin-engine bombers for tactical support and operational deep strikes
[]Expansion of communications and meteorological services for Southern and China operations
[]Preparation for extended supply lines (Japan–Formosa–Saigon–Bangkok–Rangoon)

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

HOME DEFENSE AIR COMMAND

日本本土防空航空軍 – HOME DEFENSE AIR COMMAND (Japan Proper)
Status: 6 December 1941
(“Air shield” of the homeland: home defense, training and alert forces)

Overall Integration
Subordinate to Kōkū Hombu; responsible for the air defense of the Japanese Home Islands and, at the same time, for a major share of training, conversion and provision of replacement pilots.

Leadership, Strength, Locations

[]Commander: Lt. Gen. Abe Sadamu
[]Chief of Staff: Maj. Gen. Tada Shigeyoshi
Headquarters: Greater Tokyo area (central army and air base)

Strength (Dec 1941)

[]approx. 550 aircraft
[]approx. 8,000 personnel
[]average XP: ~50
[]morale: ~74

Main bases
Tokorozawa, Shimoshizu, Chōfu, Itami, Fukuoka, Kumagaya, Hamamatsu

Brief Characterization
The Home Defense Air Command is a hybrid:

[]On the one hand a defensive formation (airspace surveillance over Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, coastal defense).
[]On the other hand a training and replacement pool that channels pilot flows from the schools to front-line sentai.

Here new types are tested (e.g. Ki-43 for home defense), alert units are held at readiness, and the air war over Japan is methodically prepared long before the enemy actually appears.

Tasks & Responsibilities

[]Permanent airspace surveillance over the metropolitan areas Tokyo–Nagoya–Osaka
[]Management of training flows from Akeno, Kumagaya, Tachiarai toward operational sentai
[]Testing of new defense systems (early-warning radar, AA reporting networks)
[]Coordination with civil aviation and police for air-raid warnings, airspace restrictions, etc.
Establishment and control of a 24/7 interception and alert service in the Kantō region

Directly subordinate major formation: 第1飛行師団 – 1st Air Division

1st Air Division (Dai-ichi Hikō Shidan)

[]HQ: Tokyo
[]Chief of Staff: Maj. Gen. Tada Shigeyoshi (dual role)

Mission

[]Air defense of Kantō and Kansai
[]Coordination with AA units
Provision of replacement pilots for front-line sentai

Strength (Dec 1941)

[]approx. 200 aircraft
[]approx. 3,000 personnel
[]average XP: ~52
[]morale: ~75

Main bases
Tokorozawa, Katori, Utsunomiya, Shimoshizu, Chōfu

第17飛行団 – 17th Air Brigade

Commander: Maj. Gen. Tada Shigeyoshi (dual command division / brigade)

Mission

[]Home fighter and conversion formation
[]Control of alert squadrons in the Kantō region
Testing and introduction of the Ki-43 in home defense roles

Strength

[]approx. 70 aircraft (Ki-27, early Ki-43)
[]average XP: ~56
morale: ~77

Main base
Tokorozawa

Components of the 17th Air Brigade

5th Hiko Sentai (Ki-27, Tokorozawa)
Mission: CAP over Tokyo, night readiness, training and replacement tasks.

144th Hiko Sentai (Ki-27 → Ki-43)
Role: conversion unit preparing the transition from Ki-27 to Ki-43.

Experimental Detachment Tokorozawa (Ki-44)
Mission: testing the Ki-44 as future interceptor, tactics trials, performance tests.

Supporting units

[]2nd Airfield Company – airfield construction, infrastructure, taxiways, bunker installations
[]1st Maintenance Chutai – fighter fleet maintenance, engine overhauls
AA Liaison Detachment (Katori) – link to AA, reporting system, radar experiments

教育飛行団 – Training Air Group (Kyōiku Hikōdan)

Aggregated strength

[]approx. 330 aircraft
[]approx. 4,000 personnel

Mission

[]From basic to advanced flying training
[]Type conversion (fighter / bomber / recon)
[]Squadron- and unit-level training
[]Provision of replacements for front-line sentai

Structure & Locations

101st Educational Group (Mito / Tokyo sector)

[]Core unit: 13th Hiko Sentai (Ki-27 training)
[]Branch fields: Mito, Shimoshizu, Utsunomiya, Katori, Tsuchiura, Hitachi
[]Commandant: Col. Ishida Masao
[]Personnel: about 80 flying instructors, around 400 flight students

102nd Educational Group (Hamamatsu / Gifu)

[]Focus: multi-engine and reconnaissance training
[]Aircraft: Ki-46, Ki-21 (navigation, formation, bombing training)
Supplementary: navigation and radio courses at Kumagaya

103rd Educational Group (Tachiarai, Kyūshū)

[]Focus: fighter and light-bomber training (4th & 54th Hiko Sentai as cadre)
[]Firing and bombing ranges: Chiran, Metabaru, Miyakonojo

Korea Bunko (Keijō / Seoul)

[]Advanced fighter training for the Korea sector
[]Focus: winter and cold-weather operations
Strength: approx. 60 aircraft (Ki-27 / Ki-43 mix)

Supporting services

[]Aviation medical service
[]Meteorological service
Photo-reconnaissance training

直属航空学校群 – Specialized Army Flying Schools

Specialist schools directly associated with the Home Defense Air Command (administratively under Kōkū Hombu):

[]Akeno – advanced fighter tactics, unit leadership, air combat
[]Kumagaya – instrument flying, navigation, radio
[]Tokorozawa – testing and type conversion
[]Hamamatsu – bomber academy (formation flying, bombing, long-range planning)

Other facilities:

[]Tachikawa – test and proving center of the Army air arm
[]Katori – gunnery and bombing range
4th Transport Chutai (Gifu) – logistical support (transport and redeployment) for the 1st Air Division

Airborne and special forces

Teishin Shudan (挺進集団 – Army Paratroop Command)

[]1st & 2nd Raiding Sentai (Tachiarai / Kisarazu)
[]Missions: glider and parachute training; cooperation with 1st Transport Group (Ki-56, Ki-34, Ki-57)

Operational readiness (Dec 1941)

[]1st Air Division: fully operational, fighter alert service around the clock in the Kantō region
[]Training units: 70–85% ready (limiting factors: fuel and instructor availability)
[]Specialist schools: administratively under HQ, professionally closely integrated with Kōkū Hombu
[]Expansion planning 1942: formation of a 2nd Home Air Division (Nagoya area)

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

KWANTUNG ARMY AIR FORCE[/]

関東軍航空部隊 – KWANTUNG ARMY AIR FORCE
Status: 6 December 1941
(“Northern Front & Training Laboratory” of the IJAAF in Manchukuo)

Overall Integration
The Kwantung Army Air Force (関東軍航空部隊, Kantōgun Kōkū Butai) is the air arm of the Kwantung Army in Manchukuo. It is formally under Kōkū Hombu in Tokyo, but operationally tightly integrated with the Kwantung Army.

Functional roles

[]Security of the Manchurian–Soviet border
[]Air support for Kwantung ground forces
[]Large-scale training and reserve pool of the IJAAF
[]Testing ground for cold-weather and field operations procedures

1. Command, Strength, Area

Command structure (Dec 1941)

[]Commander: Lt. Gen. Teramoto Kumaichi
[]Chief of Staff: Maj. Gen. Hirano Katsumi
Headquarters: Hsinking (長春, Changchun)

Air & personnel strength

[]Aircraft: approx. 780
[]Personnel: approx. 10,200
[]Average XP: ~47
[]Morale: ~72

Air base cluster
Harbin · Mukden · Qiqihar · Antung (on the Yalu) · Hailar · Paichentzu

Brief characterization
The Kwantung air formations serve simultaneously as:

[]an operational front force facing the USSR,
[]a training and test area for cold-weather and field operations,
and the strategic reserve bank of the IJAAF.

Many crews who later “had to work” in Burma or the Southern Area had first been cycled through Manchukuo.

2. Overall Mission & Composition Framework (1941)

Primary missions

[]Defend Manchukuo and secure the Soviet–Manchurian border (Primorje–Amur–Ussuri line)
[]Provide close air support and reconnaissance for Kwantung Army
[]Train and test units under extreme winter conditions (down to −30 °C)
[]Maintain a quickly deployable air reserve in case of escalation with the USSR
Protect resource and rail axes (Harbin–Mukden–Antung) against air and partisan threats

Core command structure 1941

[]2nd Air Division (第2飛行師団) as divisional HQ at Hsinking
[]Subordinate brigades:
- []2nd Air Brigade
  []6th Air Brigade
  []8th Air Brigade
  []9th Air Brigade
  []13th Air Brigade
[]Plus several independent reconnaissance and transport chutai
Plus its own school and training network (Harbin, Hailar, Paichentzu, etc.)

第2飛行師団 – 2nd Air Division (Dai-ni Hikō Shidan)

Divisional data

[]Headquarters: Hsinking (Changchun)
[]Chief of Staff: Brig. Gen. Araki Fumio
[]Strength: approx. 320 aircraft, ~4,200 personnel
[]Average XP: ~49
Morale: ~74

Mission

[]Strategic coordination of all air forces in northern Manchukuo
[]Protection of the key industrial and administrative centers:
- []Changchun (Hsinking)
  []Harbin
  []Mukden
[]Control of operational air reconnaissance along the Soviet border
Flexible allocation of units to threatened sectors

Aircraft mix (Dec 1941)

[]Fighters: Ki-27, limited early Ki-43
[]Bombers: Ki-21, Ki-48 (partly assigned via brigades)
[]Reconnaissance: Ki-46, Ki-15
[]Liaison and light recon: Ki-36

Key bases & sectors
Harbin (operational hub) · Mukden (bomber & depot) · Antung (border air arm on the Yalu) · Hailar (highland & winter trials) · Paichentzu (training & replacement focus) · Qiqihar (recon, mapping, weather research)

4. Subordinate Air Brigades of the 2nd Air Division

4.1 第2飛行団 – 2nd Air Brigade (Harbin / Hailar)

[]Commander: Maj. Gen. Takatsuki Yoshiro
[]Mission: border defense and fighter force in north-eastern Manchukuo; interception, border patrol and reconnaissance

Air assets & performance

[]approx. 90 aircraft
[]Types: Ki-27, early Ki-43, Ki-15 (recon)
Average XP: ~50

Component units

24th Hiko Sentai (Harbin – Ki-27)
Role: CAP, readiness and training fighter formation; partly used to train new pilots in proximity to the front.

33rd Hiko Sentai (Hailar – Ki-27 / early Ki-43)
Role: border patrols; winter tests for operational doctrine at low temperatures; cold-weather trials on engines and armament.

Recon Detachment Harbin (Ki-46)
Role: photo and high-altitude reconnaissance along the border; weather reconnaissance and mapping flights.

Supporting elements

[]Airfield Company (Hailar) – construction and maintenance of highland airfields
[]Signals Detachment – maintenance of radio network along the frontier
Weather Detachment (Hailar) – specialist analysis of highland and cold-weather patterns

4.2 第6飛行団 – 6th Air Brigade (Changchun / Mukden)

[]Commander: Brig. Gen. Tadaichi Sakon
[]Mission: tactical reserve of the Kwantung air forces; emphasis on bomber and reconnaissance operations against Soviet airfields and transport nodes in wartime

Air assets

[]approx. 80 aircraft
[]Types: Ki-21 (heavy bomber), Ki-48 (light bomber), Ki-46 (recon)
Average XP: ~48

Component units

60th Hiko Sentai (Mukden – Ki-21)
Long-range bomber unit; strategic strikes deep into enemy territory; training for northern operations.

81st Hiko Sentai (Changchun – Ki-48)
Light bomber unit; close support, tactical strikes on troops and infrastructure.

15th Independent Recon Chutai (Ki-46)
Long-range reconnaissance; target identification for bomber groups; documentation of Soviet positions.

Support

[]Maintenance depot Mukden – focus on heavy bomber maintenance
[]2nd Transport Chutai – feeder traffic and supply for forward fields

4.3 第8飛行団 – 8th Air Brigade (Harbin / Qiqihar)

[]Commander: Maj. Gen. Noguchi Kenzo
[]Mission: long-range reconnaissance, photo-mapping, navigator and observer training

Air assets

[]approx. 70 aircraft
[]Types: Ki-15, Ki-46, Ki-36
Average XP: ~45

Component units

28th Recon Sentai (Qiqihar – Ki-46)
Photo reconnaissance, weather research and mapping updates for North China and Manchukuo.

87th Hiko Sentai (Harbin – Ki-27)
Role: escort and protection of recon units; at the same time trainer and conversion formation.

206th Training Chutai (Ki-36)
Tasks: mapping flights, liaison duties, training of observers and cartographers.

4.4 第9飛行団 – 9th Air Brigade (Mukden / Antung)

[]Commander: Col. Inoue Tsutomu
[]Mission: border surveillance along the Yalu and maritime reconnaissance over the Japan Sea

Air assets

[]approx. 60 aircraft
[]Types: Ki-27, Ki-51, Ki-15
Average XP: ~47

Component units

82nd Hiko Sentai (Antung – Ki-51)
Tactical bomber and ground-attack formation; closely integrated with frontier troops and armored units.

18th Recon Chutai (Ki-15)
Sea and coastal reconnaissance; liaison with the Navy.

Support

[]1st Air Signal Company – radio and communications links in the Yalu sector
[]9th Airfield Construction Section – expansion and camouflage of forward strips near the border

4.5 第13飛行団 – 13th Air Brigade (Paichentzu)

[]Commander: Brig. Gen. Fukuda Kiyoshi
[]Mission: training and replacement command for the Kwantung air forces; management of schools and reserves

Air assets

[]approx. 90 aircraft
[]Types: Ki-27, Ki-36, Ki-9 (trainers)
Average XP: ~42

Component units

95th Hiko Sentai (Ki-27)
Basic pilot training; fundamental fighter instruction.

204th Hiko Sentai (Ki-36)
Reconnaissance training, target marking, cooperation with ground and artillery units.

208th Hiko Sentai (Ki-9)
Elementary flying training, basic instruction for new students.

Brigade HQ Paichentzu

[]Exam and check-flight center
[]Organization of flight checks, examinations and instructor selection
Coordination of maintenance and airfield organization for the entire school network

Supporting services

[]Airfield maintenance (Hsinking)
[]Photo lab (Mukden) – analysis of training and exercise films
Weather office (Harbin) – support for training flights

5. Training & School Network under the Kwantung Air Force

Hailar Gakkō

[]Focus: recon and fighter training in mountain climate
[]Inventory: approx. 40 aircraft (Ki-27, Ki-36)
Special role: cold- and high-altitude training; landings on icy runways

Harbin Gakkō

[]Focus: tactical bomber training, navigation and radio procedures
[]Serves as springboard for future bomber crews in China and South Asia

Mukden Technical Section

[]Tasks: engine maintenance, radio and electronics test work, aptitude tests for pilots and technicians
[]Role as technical backbone of the northern air formations

Hsinking Central Air Training Depot

[]Central training depot
[]Final examinations, flight medical checks, selection and training of instructors
Hub for transferring training staff to other theaters

Qiqihar Gunnery Range

[]Firing and bombing range
[]Live-fire, bombing and low-level attack training
Data collection on accuracy and tactics refinement

6. Division-level Support Services

Directly subordinated to the 2nd Air Division (Shidan-direct):

76th Recon Chutai (Hsinking)
Photo reconnaissance, weather flights, long-term surveillance of rail lines and border regions.

Mixed Transport Flight (Changchun – Ki-34, Ki-56)
Personnel and materiel transport, spare part deliveries, casualty evacuation.

Meteorological Section (Harbin)
Regional weather center for northern Manchukuo; data relay to Tokyo and Kwantung HQ.

Air Communications Company (Mukden)
Construction, maintenance and operation of radio and relay lines.

Mobile Repair Unit (Changchun)
Deployable workshop for forward fields; repairs of landing gear, engines, structural and battle damage.

7. Strategic Assessment & Special Features (Dec 1941)

[]The 2nd Air Division is the largest training and reserve center of the IJAAF in 1941.
[]More than 20% of the Army air personnel pass through this area for training, retraining or refresher courses.
[]Cold-weather operations (down to −30 °C) enable realistic testing of lubricants, engines, weapons and crew endurance – experience that is nearly absent in other theaters.
[]From early 1942, conversion to Ki-43 and introduction of the twin-engine Ki-45 as training and later front-line type is planned.
[]Functionally, the Kwantung air arm is a mixture of:
- []frontline command facing the USSR,
  []training and test center,
  []and strategic reserve pool for other theaters (China, Southern Army).

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

SOUTHERN ARMY AIR COMMAND

南方軍航空部 – SOUTHERN ARMY AIR COMMAND
Status: 6 December 1941
(The “spearhead” of the IJAAF in Southeast Asia)

Overall Integration
The 南方軍航空部 (Nanpōgun Kōkūbu) is the air component of the Southern Army. It is formally under Kōkū Hombu in Tokyo, but operationally closely tied to the Southern Army (Malaya, Thailand, Philippines, later Burma / NEI). This is the formation with which Japan actually opens the war in the south: air superiority, close air support and operational air logistics in one hand.

Chain of command (short form)
Daihon’ei Rikugun-bu → Inspectorate General of Army Aviation → Kōkū Hombu (Tokyo) → 南方軍航空部 (Saigon) → 第3飛行師団 → 5th, 7th and 1st Air Brigades + reserve and transport units.

1. Command, Strength, Area

Command structure (Dec 1941)

[]Commander: Lt. Gen. Sugawara Michio
[]Chief of Staff: Maj. Gen. Ōnishi Sōzō
[]Headquarters: Saigon / Tan Son Nhut
[]Forward elements: Phnom Penh, Tourane, Takao, Heitō, Bangkok

Air & personnel strength

[]Aircraft: approx. 720
[]Personnel: approx. 8,500
[]Average XP: ~52
[]Morale: ~75

Brief characterization
The Southern Army Air Command simultaneously acts as offensive and campaign command:

[]air superiority over northern Malaya and southern Thailand,
[]cover for landing forces,
[]support of 14th Army in the Philippines,
[]and air transport axis for troops and supplies southward.

Without this structure, the swift blows against Malaya, Singapore and Luzon would simply not be feasible.

2. Overall Mission & Strategic Role

Primary missions

[]Conduct and coordinate all air operations in Southeast Asia
[]Support ground offensives in Malaya, Thailand and the Philippines
[]Secure beachheads and advance routes of the Southern Army
[]Coordinate with the Navy air arm (especially 22nd Air Flotilla)
[]Build an air supply line between Japan/Formosa and Saigon/Bangkok
[]Stage and forward reinforcements from the Home Islands

Strategic significance
This command is the “hub” between:

[]Home (Formosa, main Japanese islands),
[]Southern front (Malaya, Singapore, Burma),
and the eastern theatre (Philippines).

It ties bomber, fighter, recon and transport units into one tightly interlocked system.
In game terms: this is the air HQ that enables the historical early victories in the south, provided you don’t mismanage it.

3. 第3飛行師団 – 3rd Air Division (Dai-san Hikō Shidan)

Divisional data

[]HQ: Saigon / Tan Son Nhut
[]Chief of Staff: Brig. Gen. Nakamura Toyosaku
[]Strength: approx. 480 aircraft, ~6,000 personnel
[]Average XP: ~54
[]Morale: ~76
[]Main bases: Saigon, Bien Hoa, Phnom Penh, Tourane, Heitō, Takao, Bangkok, Don Muang

Mission of the division

[]Operational control of all Southern Army air forces
[]Tactical and strategic air support for:
- []Malaya campaign
  []Occupation of Thailand / landing operations
  []Support of 14th Army on Luzon (Philippines)
[]Security of sea lanes in the South China Sea through reconnaissance and escort

The 3rd Air Division is thus the real operational HQ of the southern air forces – the command that arranges the brigade groups in the right order and on the right targets.

4. Subordinate Air Brigades and Reserve Units

4.1 第5飛行団 – 5th Air Brigade (Phnom Penh / Saigon)
“Main striking force Malaya / Thailand”

[]Commander: Maj. Gen. Takatsuki Michio
[]Mission: primary assault formation for Malaya and Thailand operations; mixed fighter-bomber group covering landings and axes of advance

Air assets

[]approx. 180 aircraft
[]Types: Ki-27, Ki-43, Ki-21, Ki-48
[]Average XP: ~55
[]Morale: ~77
Main bases: Phnom Penh, Saigon, Tourane, Bien Hoa

Component units (Sentai level)

1st Hiko Sentai (Ki-27, Phnom Penh)
Role: escort, CAP, forward fighter screen over northern Malaya and southern Thailand.

11th Hiko Sentai (Ki-43-I, Saigon)
Modern fighter group; offensive missions, air superiority, bomber escort.

59th Hiko Sentai (Ki-43-I, Tourane)
Air cover, fighter sweeps, pre-emptive patrols ahead of ground thrusts; convoy and landing protection.

64th Hiko Sentai (Ki-43-I, Phnom Penh – elite)
The “sharp sword” of the IJAAF in the south; highly skilled fighter unit tasked with rapidly breaking enemy air forces.

12th Hiko Sentai (Ki-21, Bien Hoa – heavy bomber)
Strikes against airfields, ports and rear British bases.

98th Hiko Sentai (Ki-21-II, Saigon)
Additional heavy bomber group; also used for deeper-range targets.

75th Hiko Sentai (Ki-48, Tourane)
Light bomber; tactical support, bridges, columns, forward airfields.

90th Hiko Sentai (Ki-48, Phnom Penh)
Ground-support and partly converted to transport / supply; very flexible.

47th & 84th Independent Fighter Chutai (Ki-43)
Mobile fighter reinforcements; quickly redeployable to prop up weaker sectors.

Various recon detachments (Ki-15 / Ki-46)
Photo and weather recon; target scouting for bombers; sea and land reconnaissance.

Support

[]2nd Airfield Company
[]5th Maintenance Chutai
Meteorological section Saigon

Short version: the 5th Air Brigade is the “hammer tool”. If you want to crack Malaya historically, you basically use this mix.

4.2 第7飛行団 – 7th Air Brigade (Formosa Group – Takao / Heitō)
“Bridgehead Formosa – Luzon”

[]Commander: Maj. Gen. Kume Ichirō
[]Mission: staging and provision of air forces for strikes against Luzon; protection of convoys between Formosa and the Philippines; base and staging command

Air assets

[]approx. 150 aircraft
[]Types: Ki-43, Ki-21, Ki-48, Ki-30
[]Average XP: ~51
[]Morale: ~74
Main bases: Takao, Heitō, Tainan, Matsuyama

Component units

24th Hiko Sentai (Ki-43, Heitō)
Fighter sweeps over Luzon; engagement of Allied fighters in the initial phase.

50th Hiko Sentai (Ki-43, Takao)
Escort and CAP; protection for bombers and transports.

8th Hiko Sentai (Ki-21, Tainan)
Heavy bomber formation; strikes against Luzon airfields and infrastructure.

14th Hiko Sentai (Ki-21, Takao)
Additional bomber group; especially for northern Luzon targets.

62nd Hiko Sentai (Ki-48, Heitō)
Medium bomber; tactical attacks on ports, forward strips, supply routes.

31st Hiko Sentai (Ki-30, Matsuyama)
Light bomber; ground attack and strikes on soft targets and shipping concentrations.

15th Recon Chutai (Ki-46, Heitō)
Photo and weather reconnaissance over Luzon; sea reconnaissance.

Support

Meteorological flight (Tainan) – West Pacific weather patterns, vital for bomber streams

4.3 第1飛行団 – 1st Air Brigade (Formosa Support / Southern Army Reserve)

[]Commander: Brig. Gen. Satō Keizō
[]Mission: reserve and training command for Southern Army air operations; provision of replacement pilots and aircraft from Formosa

Air assets

[]approx. 110 aircraft
[]Types: Ki-27, Ki-43, Ki-36, Ki-15
[]Average XP: ~45
[]Morale: ~70
Main bases: Heitō, Tainan, Takao

Component units

13th Hiko Sentai (Ki-27 – trainer)
Training and conversion unit; partial reserve for defensive missions.

54th Hiko Sentai (Ki-27 – training reserve)
Replacement pool; reserve training and refresher courses.

52nd Recon Chutai (Ki-15 – coastal reconnaissance)
Coastal and sea reconnaissance; liaison duties.

Transport Detachment Heitō (Ki-56 / Ki-57)
Feeder traffic Formosa–Philippines–Saigon; personnel and cargo transport.

Support

[]1st Maintenance Unit Formosa
[]Weather and radio relay at Tainan

Functionally, the 1st Air Brigade is the “safety net” – the place from where losses in the south are covered with pilots and machines.

4.4 Southern Army Reserve Air Units (Thailand Sector – Bangkok / Don Muang)

[]Commander: Col. Mizuta Shōichi
[]Location: Bangkok / Don Muang
Mission: provision of tactical reserves; air support for landings and advance in Thailand and northern Malaya

Air assets

[]approx. 70 aircraft
[]Types: Ki-43, Ki-48, Ki-21
[]Average XP: ~50
[]Morale: ~73

Component units

77th Hiko Sentai (Ki-43, Bangkok)
Quick-reaction fighter formation; CAP, forward interdiction against RAF and Allied aircraft.

Detached bomber elements of 31st, 62nd and 8th Hiko Sentai at Don Muang
Flexible bomber concentration in support of land operations.

Support

[]4th Airfield Company – construction / maintenance of Thai airfields
[]Mobile refuelling detachments
Liaison signal section – communications link to ground forces and naval units

5. Directly Subordinate Units & Services

Directly subordinated to Southern Army Air Command:

44th Transport Chutai (Ki-56 / Ki-57 – Saigon–Bangkok–Manila route)
Long-range transport; reinforcement flights; evacuation and supply.

51st Recon Chutai (Ki-46 – long-range recon)
Long-range reconnaissance, weather and photo; strategic planning support.

63rd Liaison Chutai (Ki-15 – courier & communications)
Liaison flights; staff travel; documents and orders.

76th Recon Detachment (Ki-15 – weather & photo)
Specialized weather and photo reconnaissance in the operational area.

Meteorological Section Saigon
Coordination of all weather information for the southern theater.

Airfield construction & engineer units (Thailand / Malaya)
Construction of emergency strips; runway extensions; camouflage and dispersal.

6. Operational Overview & Assessment (Dec 1941 – Jan 1942)

Operational chronology (simplified)

[]8 December 1941: first strikes against Alor Star, Kota Bharu (Malaya) and Iba Field (Luzon)
[]Early phase: 64th Sentai and other fighter units quickly gain air superiority over northern Malaya
[]Bomber losses remain low (under 5% in initial phase)
[]Reconnaissance extends to northern Sumatra and Luzon, clarifying sea lanes and supply routes
Coordination with IJN 22nd Air Flotilla via Heitō radio link – joint target planning over the South China Sea

Strategic outlook (early 1942)

[]Construction of a permanent air logistics chain Saigon–Bangkok–Rangoon
[]Formation of a 9th Air Division as reinforcement for the Southern Army
Redeployment of 50th and 64th Hiko Sentai to Burma for operations toward India

Overall assessment
The Southern Army Air Command is the “engine” behind Japan’s advance into Southeast Asia. It combines:

[]strong fighter forces,
[]powerful bomber groups,
[]a respectable transport fleet,
[]and a dense net of weather, signals and construction units.

Militarily: a surprisingly well-organized system that, in the first months of the war, does exactly what it was designed for: deny the enemy any initiative in the air and support Japanese ground operations with maximum pressure.
Politically-strategically: another step into a corner from which Japan cannot exit without total war against the Allies.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

CHINA EXPEDITIONARY ARMY AIR COMMAND

支那派遣軍航空隊 – CHINA EXPEDITIONARY ARMY AIR COMMAND
Status: 6 December 1941
(“Long war on the Yangtze” – air war in the China quagmire)

Overall integration
The 支那派遣軍航空隊 (Shina Hakengun Kōkūtai) is the air arm of the China Expeditionary Army. Formally it is under Kōkū Hombu in Tokyo, but operationally it answers to the high command of the ground forces in central and southern China (11th and 13th Army).

Unlike the Southern Army, which is built for blitzkrieg-style campaigns, this command operates in a grinding long war: extended fronts, overstretched logistics, many medium and small operations instead of one decisive blow.

Chain of command (short form)
Daihon’ei Rikugun-bu → Inspectorate General of Army Aviation → Kōkū Hombu (Tokyo) → 支那派遣軍航空隊 (Nanking) → 第5飛行師団 (Hankow) → 9th, 10th and 11th Air Brigades + transport, reconnaissance and construction units.

1. Command, Strength, Area

Command structure (Dec 1941)

[]Commander: Lt. Gen. Obata Hideyoshi
[]Chief of Staff: Maj. Gen. Kutsuzawa Takao
[]Headquarters: Nanking
[]Forward command posts: Hankow, Canton, Yuncheng, Nanchang, Wuchang

Air & personnel strength

[]Aircraft: approx. 700
[]Personnel: approx. 9,500
[]Average XP: ~49
[]Morale: ~73

Area of operations

[]Central China (Hankow–Changsha–Yichang–Luoyang)
[]South China (Canton, Pearl River Delta, Hengyang)
Links to Kwantung and Southern commands via the Mukden–Peiping–Hankow air route

Brief characterization
The China Expeditionary Army Air Command is a mixture of frontline and occupation air force:

[]bombing of nodes like Changsha, Hengyang, Kweilin,
[]security for garrisons against guerrilla forces,
and maintenance of durable air superiority over much of the Yangtze region.

No spectacular “first war days” as in the south, but constant logistical and personnel attrition.

2. Overall Mission & Strategic Role

Primary missions

[]Close air support for 11th Army (Hankow) and 13th Army (Shanghai–Nanking)
[]Interdiction of enemy supply lines (rail, rivers, road axes)
[]Bombing of communication centers (Changsha, Hengyang, Kweilin)
[]Reconnaissance along the main traffic axes Wuhan–Canton–Hengyang
[]Security of Japanese garrisons against partisan attacks
[]Maintaining air superiority in the Yangtze and South China region
Link to Kwantung Army Air Force via the Mukden–Peiping–Hankow air route

Strategic significance

[]Stabilization of Japanese territorial gains in China
[]Fixing large Chinese forces by continuous air attacks and infrastructure destruction
Preparation and support for operations that indirectly assist the southern strategy (e.g. provision of bases and personnel later shifted to Southeast Asia)

In practice this command forms the “air lid” over a very unstable, permanently simmering theater.

3. 第5飛行師団 – 5th Air Division (Dai-go Hikō Shidan)

Divisional data

[]HQ: Hankow
[]Chief of Staff: Col. Asada Kenkichi
[]Strength: approx. 470 aircraft, ~6,500 personnel
[]Average XP: ~50
[]Morale: ~74
[]Main bases: Hankow, Nanking, Canton, Yuncheng, Nanchang

Mission of the division

[]Close air support, interdiction and strategic bombing in central and southern China
[]Securing the axes:
- []Hankow–Changsha
  []Canton–Hong Kong
[]Continuous air operations (mostly daylight) against Chinese bases, supply routes and troop concentrations
[]Preparation and support of operations that later relieve the Southern Army (e.g. securing the South China coast, groundwork for operations around Hong Kong)

For China, the 5th Air Division is roughly what the 3rd Air Division is for Southeast Asia: the operational core that decides what is bombed or supported, when, how and with what.

4. Subordinate Air Brigades (Examples)

4.1 第9飛行団 – 9th Air Brigade (Canton)
“Southern front – Pearl River Delta & toward Hong Kong”

[]Commander: Brig. Gen. Kaneko Hiroshi
[]Mission:
- []air support of the southern front,
  []attacks on the Pearl River Delta and the rail network,
- preparation and support of operations against Hong Kong.

Air assets

[]approx. 160 aircraft
[]Types: Ki-27, Ki-30, Ki-48, Ki-51
[]Average XP: ~50
[]Morale: ~75
Main bases: Canton, Shaoguan, Hengyang

Component units

34th Hiko Sentai (Ki-30, Canton)
Light bomber; anti-railway missions, attacks on supply nodes and stations.

27th Hiko Sentai (Ki-51, Shaoguan)
Close air support; tight cooperation with infantry; attacks on road columns and field positions.

45th Hiko Sentai (Ki-48, Canton)
Tactical bomber group; strikes on larger rear-area targets, depots, bridges, and sites in the Hong Kong sector.

10th Independent Fighter Chutai (Ki-27)
Fighter and local-defense formation for Canton; local air defense and escort.

18th Recon Chutai (Ki-15, long-range recon)
Photo, sea and weather reconnaissance; target scouting for bombers.

Support

[]Maintenance depot Canton
[]Meteorological liaison post Hankow

4.2 第10飛行団 – 10th Air Brigade (Hankow)
“Strategic bomber brigade Central China”

[]Commander: Maj. Gen. Horiuchi Kiyoshi
[]Mission:
- []strategic bombing of transport and communication targets (bridges, rail hubs, river crossings),
  []direct support of 11th Army (Changsha, Yichang).

Air assets

[]approx. 140 aircraft
[]Types: Ki-21, Ki-48, Ki-46
[]Average XP: ~51
[]Morale: ~73
Main bases: Hankow, Wuchang, Nanchang

Component units

44th Hiko Sentai (Ki-21, Hankow – strategic bomber)
Strikes on major nodes and cities; deep attacks into Chinese territory.

60th Hiko Sentai (Ki-21-II, Nanchang)
Additional heavy bomber group; focus on Changsha and rail-line targets.

2nd Recon Chutai (Ki-46 – photo & cartographic recon)
High-altitude flights, photo reconnaissance and mapping; target assignment for bombers; precise operational preparation.

71st Independent Flight Chutai (Ki-36 – artillery observation & liaison)
Liaison flights, artillery spotting and target observation; link between ground and air forces.

Support

[]5th Transport Chutai
[]12th Transport Chutai
[]16th Transport Chutai
[]Weather and signals detachment at Hankow

4.3 第11飛行団 – 11th Air Brigade (Yuncheng)
“Northern flank – supply axes & convoys”

[]Commander: Brig. Gen. Ōkubo Takeo
[]Mission:
- []support of operations in northern Henan and southern Shaanxi,
  []attacks on supply convoys, rail and road links.

Air assets

[]approx. 130 aircraft
[]Types: Ki-21, Ki-48, Ki-30
[]Average XP: ~48
[]Morale: ~70
Main bases: Yuncheng, Zhengzhou, Luoyang

Component units

61st Hiko Sentai (Ki-21, Yuncheng – long-range bomber)
Attacks on deep supply centers; destruction of bridges and major infrastructure targets.

90th Hiko Sentai (Ki-48, Zhengzhou – tactical bomber)
Effect in the frontline area; support for offensives and defensive battles.

82nd Independent Chutai (Ki-30 – railway interdiction)
Specialized missions against trains, locomotives and bridges; “cutting the veins” of enemy supply.

7th Close Support Unit (Ki-51 – close cooperation with armor and infantry)
Deep integration in ground operations; immediate close air support.

Support

[]3rd airfield construction company
[]Weather service section Yuncheng

5. Directly Attached Units of the 5th Air Division

Direct Attached Units (Shidan Chokusetsu Butai)

Transport units

[]1st Transport Chutai – Ki-56 – courier and supply flights for divisional HQ
[]3rd Transport Chutai – Ki-57 – logistics link to Canton
[]13th Transport Chutai – Ki-56 – troop and medevac transport
[]14th Transport Chutai – Ki-57 – liaison with Kwantung and Southern commands
16th Transport Chutai – Ki-34 – short-range courier service

Reconnaissance & special units

[]8th Recon Chutai – Ki-46 – long-range recon and weather service for Nanking
[]Training elements at Peiping & Nanking – air-gunner, bombardier and navigation training

Support services

[]Meteorological units at Nanking, Hankow, Canton – data collection and relay to Tokyo
[]Airfield construction units at Hankow & Nanchang – repair, expansion and dispersal of airfields
[]Signal & communications section Hankow – coordination of army / air and signal network
[]Photo Intelligence Section Nanking – film processing, analysis, map and target-image production

6. Training, Replacement, Doctrine, Logistics

Training & replacement network

[]Peiping Air School
- []Theoretical training, navigation, basics of bombing.
[]Nanking Air School
- []Advanced training: weapons, formation flying, tactical doctrine.
[]Hankow branch
- []Pilot replacement, technical training, conversion to new types.
[]Changsha detachment
- []Bombing and gunnery ranges; practical combat training.
[]Central China photo-recon school
- []Training of photo and mapping personnel; rapid image exploitation.
[]Signals & communications cadet unit
- []Training of radio operators and communications specialists.

Operational doctrine

[]Emphasis on smaller, flexible groupings (2–3 Sentai per brigade)
[]Combination of tactical reconnaissance with immediate artillery and infantry support
[]Use of the “triangle attack scheme”:
- []two bomber groups + one recon group
  []planning at least 48 hours prior to mission at Hankow HQ
[]Focus on daylight operations to ease assessment and readjustment

Communications & logistics

[]Main communications net via radio relays Hankow–Nanking–Canton
[]Supply lines via Shanghai–Wuhan river route (Yangtze)
Transport means: Ki-56, Ki-57 plus supplementary seaplane routes

7. Operational Tempo, Morale & Assessment

Operational tempo (Dec 1941)

[]High sortie rate: approx. 2,500 sorties per month
[]Focus on strategic and operational bombing plus constant interdiction
[]Wear and tear:
- []losses more due to wear, material fatigue and accidents than enemy action,
- maintenance situation overall stable, but replacement engines and some components already scarce.

Morale & readiness

[]9th Air Brigade: high morale (~76) – visible successes in the Canton / Hong Kong sector
[]10th Air Brigade: solid (~72) – heavy bomb load, high strain
[]11th Air Brigade: stressed (~69) – long operating distances, demanding supply situation
[]Pilot rotation: approx. every 4 months front ↔ rear
[]Experienced instructors increasingly pulled to the Nanking school
[]Fuel reserves tight; engines are rationed and run to the limit

Overall assessment
The China Expeditionary Army Air Command is the workhorse command of the air war:

[]no spectacular single actions,
[]but constant pressure on infrastructure, troop movements and enemy morale.

It is what makes the China theater even remotely manageable for Japan.
At the same time, this continuous effort slowly consumes the best crews and machines – a problem that comes back hard from 1942/43 onwards, when exactly these resources are missing in the Pacific and Burma.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

CROSS-COMMAND SUPPORT & SPECIAL SERVICES

補給・通信・特別部隊 – CROSS-COMMAND SUPPORT & SPECIAL SERVICES
Status: 6 December 1941
(Rear support, logistics, technology and special services of the Army Air Force)

1. Overall Role & Integration

Official designation
補給・通信・特別部隊 (Hokyū / Tsūshin / Tokubetsu Butai) – “Supply, Communications, Special Services” in a broad sense.

Position in the command chain
Daihon’ei Rikugun-bu
→ Inspectorate General of Army Aviation
→ Kōkū Hombu (Tokyo)
→ Cross-Command Support & Special Services

Core mission
This command is not close to the front, but without it literally no aircraft flies:

[]Coordination of all supply, transport and logistics structures of the Army Air Force
[]Construction and operation of signal and radio links between Tokyo, Kwantung, China, Formosa and Southern Army
[]Planning and execution of airfield construction, repair and major technical projects
[]Central meteorology, cartography and photo intelligence
[]Aviation medicine and scientific research into altitude and stress conditions
[]Technical development and testing of new aircraft, weapons and equipment

This complex is the “invisible foundation” of the IJAAF – a logistical and technical system that gives the whole structure range, endurance and learning capability.

2. Leadership, Strength, Geographic Distribution

Top leadership (Logistics Bureau)

[]Commander: Maj. Gen. Miyoshi Naosaburō
[]Chief Engineer: Col. Okabe Takemitsu

Official mission

[]Standardize and direct all support, supply and communications structures of the Army Air Force
[]Ensure supply routes between Japan, Formosa, China, Southeast Asia and Manchukuo
Manage maintenance, meteorology, construction, cartography, photo and radio networks

Strength (Dec 1941)

[]Personnel: approx. 11,000
[]Aircraft: approx. 540 (transport, liaison, training and weather aircraft)
Morale: ~70 (solid but noticeably strained support apparatus)

Locations & nodes

[]Headquarters: Tokyo (Kōkū Hombu – Administrative Section 3)
[]Regional logistics nodes: Tachikawa, Hamamatsu, Heitō, Saigon, Hankow, Hsinking

Main pillars (bureau structure)

[]Transport (航空輸送部)
[]Meteorology (気象部)
[]Signals (通信部)
[]Engineering & airfields (工務部)
[]Photo & Cartography (写真情報部)
[]Aviation medical service (航空医務部)
Technical & experimental (特別研究部)

Taken together, these form the “cross-sectional organs” of the IJAAF that serve all air divisions simultaneously.

3. 航空輸送部 – ARMY AIR TRANSPORT BUREAU (Kōkū Yusō bu)

Leadership

[]Commander: Maj. Gen. Ono Masamichi
[]Deputy: Col. Fukuzawa Takeshi

Mission

[]Control of all transport squadrons and liaison flights of the Army Air Force
[]Maintenance of supply lines between theaters
Strategic and operational airlift of troops, supplies and wounded

Aircraft inventory

[]Type mix: Ki-56, Ki-57, Ki-34, Ki-54
[]Operational fleet: approx. 240 transport aircraft

Main air routes

[]Tokyo – Taihoku/Taipei – Saigon
[]Hsinking – Mukden – Hankow
Bangkok – Rangoon

Key units

[]1st–16th Transport Chutai (distributed by region)
[]44th Transport Chutai (Saigon–Bangkok–Manila)
[]Mixed transport flight (Changchun – Ki-34 / Ki-56 – personnel & materiel)
[]Maintenance and repair section at Tachikawa
[]Air depot service units at Hamamatsu
[]Ground-handling battalions at Tachikawa, Heitō, Hankow

Operational assessment

[]Roughly 60% of the IJAAF’s strategic mobility depends on this bureau
[]Crucial for swift redeployment of units between Kwantung, China and Southern Army
Bottlenecks: engine wear, weather, limited pool of experienced transport pilots

4. 気象部 – METEOROLOGICAL SERVICE BUREAU (Kishō bu)

Leadership

Director: Col. Hino Shigeyuki

Mission

[]Collection, analysis and dissemination of meteorological data for all air operations
[]Forecasting for front-line and long-range flights
Training of specialized weather officers

Stations & network

[]Main station: Tokyo
[]Regional nodes: Harbin, Hankow, Saigon, Heitō, Changchun

Detailed tasks

[]Upper-air soundings (winds, temperature, humidity)
[]Synoptic data exchange with Kwantung Air Force and Southern Army Air Command
[]Training of meteorological officers at Hamamatsu
[]Cooperation with the Navy’s meteorological service for long-range flights (e.g. long-range recon and over-sea missions)

Personnel & equipment

[]approx. 700 weather officers
[]approx. 900 technicians
[]Equipment: sounding balloons (Type Ko-1), anemometers, radio sets, measuring series
[]Importance: basis for high-altitude flight, bomb dispersion, and operational planning under monsoon and winter conditions

5. 通信部 – SIGNALS & COMMUNICATIONS BUREAU (Tsūshin bu)

Leadership

[]Director: Maj. Gen. Higuchi Shunichi
[]Chief Radio Operations: Col. Nakada Isamu

Mission

[]Construction and operation of all radio and signal links between air divisions and Army General Staff
[]Ensuring operational command flow in Japan, China, Manchukuo and Southeast Asia

Structure

[]Central Air Signal Group in Tokyo
[]1st–5th Air Signal Companies as field relays:
- []Formosa
  []Saigon
  []Hankow
  []Mukden
  []Harbin
[]Air Communications School at Kumagaya for radio officers
Maintenance section at Tachikawa (radio sets, antennas, DF installations)

Technical & organizational key points

[]Annual change of ciphers and code systems
[]Field assets: mobile radio trucks (approx. 10 per air division)
[]Direction-finding and relay stations (in total 7 major sites)
[]Personnel strength: approx. 3,200 signal technicians and instructors + approx. 750 trainees

Without this structure, the IJAAF would be nothing but isolated islands – the Tsūshin bu turns it into a connected, if vulnerable, nervous system.

6. 工務部 – ENGINEERING & AIRFIELD CONSTRUCTION BUREAU (Kōmu bu)

Leadership

Director: Brig. Gen. Yamazaki Yutaka

Mission

[]Planning and construction of airfields, hangars, depots, maintenance and infrastructure
[]Providing construction and repair capacity to all theaters

Regional HQs

[]Tokyo
[]Hankow
[]Hsinking
[]Saigon

Core tasks

[]Construction and extension of runways
[]Building of dispersal and protective positions (revetments, shelters, blast protection)
[]Installation of field workshops and depots
[]Introduction of Field Assembly Hangar Type A (1941 model)
Laying of fuel pipelines, e.g. Heitō–Takao–Saigon

Personnel & supporting units

[]approx. 2,000 engineers
[]approx. 10,000 laborers (local battalions and auxiliaries)
[]Airfield construction companies 1–9
[]Mobile repair units
Bridge and infrastructure teams

Technical resources

[]Bulldozers, rollers, mobile generators, field tools
[]Reference value: construction time for a 1,500 m field airstrip ~11 days (under favorable conditions)

Operationally, the Kōmu bu is the prerequisite for “air war mobility”: no forward deployment without new strips, no survivability without dispersal.

7. 写真情報部 – PHOTO & CARTOGRAPHY SECTION (Shashin Jōhō bu)

Leadership

Director: Col. Kawahara Masayuki

Mission

[]Exploitation of aerial photography
[]Creation and updating of operational maps
Target identification for bomber and attack formations

Organization

[]Central photo-intelligence depot: Nanking
[]Branch labs: Harbin, Saigon, Hamamatsu

Tasks

[]Processing and archiving of aerial film
[]Production of operational and target maps
[]Cooperation with recon chutai (Ki-46, Ki-15, etc.)
[]Training in the Rapid Photo Print System (new in 1941) – fast image production for front-line use
Construction and maintenance of a map archive for the China and Malaya fronts

Personnel & equipment

[]approx. 900 photo specialists, cartographers and print staff
[]Equipment: Ki-46 photo sets, Zeiss mapping cameras, mobile darkrooms, copying and reproduction devices

The Shashin Jōhō bu provides the “eyes” of the air force on maps: without it there is no precise target selection and no realistic operational planning.

8. 航空医務部 – AVIATION MEDICAL SERVICE (Kōkū Imu bu)

Leadership

Director: Maj. Gen. Murata Hajime

Mission

[]Flight medical examinations; selection and monitoring of aircrew
[]Care, rehabilitation and reassignment of pilots as instructors
Research into pilot stress limits (altitude, G-forces, fatigue)

Facilities

[]Central air hospital: Tokyo
[]Field hygiene and medical center: Saigon
High-altitude lab: Hsinking

Functions

[]Medical suitability tests for flying students (Akeno, Tachiarai, etc.)
[]Research into altitude physiology and oxygen supply
[]Vaccination programs and tropical medicine for deployments in China and Malaya
[]Rehabilitation programs for wounded personnel with subsequent employment as instructors

Personnel

approx. 1,800 medical staff (doctors, nurses, medics, technicians)

Example research project 1941

“High Altitude Flight Fatigue Study” – stress and fatigue study in cooperation with Tokyo Medical College

This bureau effectively decides whether the air force remains “healthy” in the long run – both physically and in terms of personnel quality.

9. 特別研究部 – TECHNICAL & EXPERIMENTAL BUREAU (Tokubetsu Kenkyū bu)

Leadership

Director: Maj. Gen. Tachibana Masao

Mission

[]Research and development (R&D) for new aircraft, weapons, avionics and protection systems
[]Testing of prototypes and special equipment

Facilities

[]Test and proving ground at Tachikawa
[]Experimental base at Tokorozawa
Kōkū Hombu Laboratory No. 2 (Tokyo)

Ongoing projects (Dec 1941 – examples)

[]Ki-44 interceptor trials (climb performance, new engines, armament)
[]Oxygen mask prototype “Type Ko-2”
[]Gun-camera training systems for gunnery instruction
[]Early warning radar prototype “Type A” – joint trials with Navy laboratory at Kisarazu

Personnel

[]approx. 600 engineers and test pilots
[]approx. 120 mechanics and experimental technicians

Notable test pilots

[]Cpt. Ina Akira
[]Lt. Matsuzaki Kiyoshi
Lt. Uranaka Naoichi

Cooperation

Close ties to Nakajima and Mitsubishi (feedback on airframes, engines, weapons installation)

Status end of 1941

[]Full test capacity
[]3 major ongoing projects, 8 prototype programs in various stages
Budget FY 1941: approx. ¥ 8.3 million (increase of 17% vs. 1940)

10. Overall Summary – Infrastructure & Sustainability

Summary – IJAAF Cross-Command Infrastructure (Dec 1941)

[]Total personnel (support & technical branches): approx. 48,000
[]Serviceable aircraft (transport & liaison types): approx. 530
Operational scope: Japan – Kwantung – China – Formosa – Southeast Asia

Strategic capabilities

[]Self-sustaining air logistics network
[]Full meteorological coverage of the main war theaters
Standardized training and communications doctrine

Doctrinal integration

[]Unified command under Kōkū Hombu
[]Direct lines to Daihon’ei Rikugun-bu (Army Section)

Planned expansion 1942

[]Creation of a dedicated Central Logistics Division
[]Formation of an “Air Technical Command” to concentrate R&D, testing and standardization

Peiper1944 · Post by **Peiper1944** » Sat Nov 15, 2025 1:07 pm

Outlook and Next Steps of the Project

With the current version, the structures of the Army Air (IJAAF) and a large part of the Imperial Army are largely completed, revised, and reorganized. The next steps aim to complete the overall picture and transition from a purely organizational representation to concrete operational history and practical gameplay.

1. Complete “Tree” of the Imperial Army
Following the reconstruction of the air force and Army Air structure, a systematic presentation of the Imperial Army as a whole will follow.
Planned:
– a hierarchical tree from the Daihon’ei down through the army districts to divisions and regiments,
– including commanders, garrisons, and operational roles (as of 6 December 1941).

The goal is to present the army and the Army Air Force not as two isolated blocks but as one coherent system of command, operations, and logistics.
2. Operational Overview 7 December 1941–31 December 1941 (A–Z)
A chronological and thematically structured overview of operations from 7 December 1941 to 31 December 1941:
– IJAAF air operations in Southeast Asia, China, and Manchukuo,
– connections to army operations on the ground,
– embedding the actions into an A–Z overview (key operations, theatres, participating units).

This places the previously “static” order of battle into a temporal context. Readers and players can see how the structures of 6 December 1941 were actually used in the opening weeks of the war.
3. Start of the Navy Air Project – Focus on Carrier Units
Next comes the maritime component: the reorganization and historical reconstruction of the Navy Air (IJNAF).
Planned sequence:
– first the carrier air groups (Akagi, Kaga, Sōryū, Hiryū, Shōkaku, Zuikaku, etc.),
– with their fighter, dive-bomber, and torpedo-bomber units,
– including commanders, pilot profiles, operational roles, and date-specific OOBs.

The aim is to combine the already established Army and IJAAF structure with an equally detailed picture of the naval air arm, presenting Pearl Harbor and the first operations over Luzon, Malaya, and Hong Kong in one coherent whole.
4. Playability and Effects on Pearl Harbor & the First Days of War
After implementing the revised structures, an initial playability test phase will follow.
Focus areas:
– the Pearl Harbor strikes (composition and XP of the carrier air groups),
– the first days of the Southeast Asia and Philippines campaigns,
– the balance between historical Japanese air power and long-term attrition (pilot replacements, training, reinforcements).

The changes aim to:
– better reflect the historical starting position,
– give the Japanese opening offensive a plausible degree of strength,
– ensure that this strength does not “magically” last forever, but declines according to realistic training and replacement structures.
5. Long-term Goal: Full Historical Reconstruction of the Navy Air
After the focus on carrier units, the entire Navy Air structure will be historically rebuilt:
– land-based naval air units (e.g. 11th Air Fleet),
– sea reconnaissance, patrol, and base units,
– naval training and school units,
– and the integration of their operations with the IJAAF during the early war period.

The ultimate goal is a consistent, historically grounded air picture where IJAAF and IJNAF, army and navy, Home Islands, Kwantung, China, and the Southern Army are aligned for both historical analysis and scenario/game design.
6. Historical Reallocation of Transport Units and Army Formations
Another major step was the historical redistribution of transport units and ground formations, especially in Manchukuo. In the original OOB, an excessive number of transport units were clustered there—a distribution that turned out not to be historical but a simplification of game design.

In the revised version:
– transport chutai and air transport units are now distributed historically (Japan, Kwantung, China, Southern Army),
– army units are no longer scattered throughout the Pacific but assigned to their historical major commands (Home Defense, Kwantung Army, China Expeditionary Army, Southern Army),
– logistical hubs (Tachikawa, Hankow, Saigon, Hsinking, Formosa) now function as proper transport nodes supported by the correct formations.

Practical effect:
The game and OOB structure now reflects far more accurately how the Japanese army and air force functioned in 1941—clear areas of responsibility, realistic transport capacity, and no artificial unit clustering in Manchuria. This significantly improves historical plausibility and gameplay transparency.

CV60 · Post by **CV60** » Tue Nov 18, 2025 1:43 pm

This page gives some names for Akagi's pilots at the time of Pearl Harbor:
https://ww2in172.com/?p=3445
here are some names for the Midway operation:
https://j-aircraft.com/faq/midway.htm

Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed

Re: Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed

Re: Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed

Re: Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed

Re: Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed

Re: Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed

Re: Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed

Re: Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed

Re: Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed

Re: Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed

Re: Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed

Re: Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed

Re: Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed

Re: Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed

Re: Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed

Re: Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed

Re: Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed

Re: Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed

Re: Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed

Re: Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed

Re: Japanese Pilot Rosters – Historically Completed