Japanese turbojet development began in 1942 at the First Air Technical Arsenal, 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; but was considered to be too heavy. Under development between 1943 and 1944, the TR-30 was an enlarged TR-12B, planned for installation in the Keiun, a reconnaissance plane.

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 1943-1944 Country of Origin Japan Type PROPULSION-Turbines (Jet) Manufacturer Air Technical Arsenal, Japan
 Physical Description Type: Turbojet Thrust: 8,328 N (1,872 lb.) at 12,000 rpm Compressor: 4-stage axial Combustor: Annular Turbine: Single-stage axial Weight: 750 kg (1654 lb) Dimensions Length 247 cm (97.3 in.), Diameter 103 cm (40.6 in.)
 Materials Steel
Non-magnetic Alloy
Paint
Plastic
Copper Alloy
Rubber
 Inventory Number A19710932000 Credit Line Transferred from the U.S. Navy Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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