This is a heavy weight flight suit worn by Japanese pilots in the Japanese Naval Air Force. The naval flight suits did not contain the rabbit fur lining like the army flight suits. The main drawback to this particular style of suit was they absorbed a large amount of water and became heavy. If the pilots were not saved quickly they faced drowning from the heavy suit.
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
Country of Origin
Japan
Type
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Flight Clothing
Physical Description
Japanese Imperial Navy one piece coverall flying suit; brown gabardine exterior shell; black quilted lining; patch pocket on lower left breast; green patch on upper left breast; zipper on leg cuffs; slash pockets with button closure on hips; patch pockets on thighs with button closure; zip front; four button flap covering front zipper; removable belt with five belt loops.
Dimensions
Clothing: 155.6 x 73.7 x 5.1cm (61 1/4 x 29 x 2 in.)
Materials
Wool gabardine, Cotton, Brass, Steel, Bakelite
Inventory Number
A19602078000
Credit Line
Transferred from the U.S. Air Force
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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