The J8M was originally intended to be a licensed reproduction of the Messerschmitt Me 163 Komet.
However, due to the challenges encountered in obtaining technical materials from Germany, the aircraft had to be designed almost entirely from scratch.
In parallel with the J8M, the MXY8 was developed to validate the design and provide pilot training during the interceptor’s development.
The Army designated the type as Ku-13.
Constructed entirely of wood, the MXY8 was equipped with ballast tanks that could be filled with water to simulate the weight and flight characteristics of a fully equipped J8M.
Approximately 50-60 of these gliders were ultimately produced.
Although plans were made for a more advanced trainer, the MXY9, which would have been equipped with a primitive jet engine, it was never manufactured.
Specifications
Crew
1
Length
6.05 m (19 ft 10 in)
Wingspan
9.5 m (31 ft 2 in)
Height
2.7 m (8 ft 10 in)
Wing area
17.73 m2 (190.8 sq ft).
Sources Japanese Aircraft, 1910-1941-Robert Mikesh & Shorzoe Abe The Mainichi Newspapers Co Ltd Yushukan War Memorial Museum Japanese Aircraft of the Pacific War-Rene Francillon, Japanese Aircraft-John Stroud, Japanese Military Aircraft Illustrated.
