Japanese turbojet development began in 1942 at the First Air Technical Arsenal in Hadano, and employed centrifugal compressors. The first of these was undesignated, but served as a prototype for the TR-10, which was to be used in the twin-engine "anti-invasion" bomber Kikka. The designation TR meant Turbine-Rocket and was the Japanese term for aircraft turbine engine.

The TR-12 followed a compressor development pattern similar to German Heinkel-Hirth engines, and represented an improved TR-10 with four axial compressor stages added. The TR-12 was considered to be too heavy. Under development between 1943 and 1944, the TR-30 was an enlarged TR-12B.

In July 1944, photographs of the German BMW 003 turbojet engine arrived by submarine. A companion sub containing production drawings was sunk enroute. Four engines evolved from these photos, including the Ne 20 by the Air Technical Arsenal. Like other Japanese engines, the TR-30 was abandoned in favor of the Ne 20.

Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.

Object Details

Date

Circa 1944

Country of Origin

Japan

Type

PROPULSION-Turbines (Jet)

Manufacturer

Air Technical Arsenal, Japan

Physical Description

Type: Turbojet
Thrust: 8,336 N (1,874 lb) at 12,000 rpm
Compressor: 4-stage axial, single-stage radial
Combustor: Annular
Turbine: Single-stage axial

Dimensions

Length 246.4 cm (97 in.), Diameter 106.7 cm (42 in.)

Materials

Wood
Steel
Adhesive
Paint
Felt

Inventory Number

A19670002000

Credit Line

Transfer from Untied States Army Air Forces

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

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