The Naval Air Technical Arsenal, Kugisho, designed and manufactured the Ne-20 for Japan's first jet aircraft capable of taking off under its own power, the Nakajima Kikka (Orange Blossom). The project was a hurried response to Japan's loss of air superiority at the 1944 Battle of the Marianas. The Ne-20 was an indigenous design, but the German BMW 003 turbojet engine was a major influence.
The first flight of the twin-engine Kikka was on August 7, 1945. Test pilots attempted a second flight before the Japanese surrender on August 15. Only a few of the engines under construction were saved. This one was removed from the second aircraft prototype, which was confiscated by American forces at the end of World War II.
Display Status
This object is on display in Boeing Aviation Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Date
1945
Country of Origin
Japan
Type
PROPULSION-Turbines (Jet)
Designer
Captain Tokiyasu Tanegashima
Manufacturer
Naval Air Technical Arsenal, Kugisho
Physical Description
Type: Turbojet
Thrust: 4,657 N (1,047 lb) at 11,000 rpm
Compressor: 8-stage axial
Combustor: Annular
Turbine: Single-stage axial
Weight: 470 kg (1,035 lb)
Inventory Number
A19610121002
Credit Line
Transferred from the U.S. Navy
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
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