Ki-77 lost over Indian Ocean July 1943

[BrianC]

Hi guys

The special Japanese Ki-77 long-range aircraft departed Japan for Germany and had reached Singapore by 7 July 1943, when it took off headed for a German-occupied airfield in the Crimea.

However, it failed to arrive and was believed to have been shot down by a Burma-based RAF aircraft (or FAA?).

Has anyone further information, please?

Cheers
Brian

[DuncanM]

I checked the Admiralty War Diaries, East Indies, for 6 July - 10 July 1943 and there's no mention of any Japanese transport aircraft being shot down.

However, for 9 July 1943, the following was noted:

Enemy A/C.
Following has been received. _ Addressed C. in C.
E.F. (R) F.L.0. Delhi, A.C.N.B from F.O. Ceylon
following from James. (Begins) 7th July enemy
aircraft over islands 0935 to 1025. Identification
Flying boat four engine navy 97 type height 2500 feet marks body
large red circle enclosed in yellow circle (Ends.) Time of
Receipt 071515. F.G, ends (T.0.0. 071434 July.)
(C. in C.E.F. 091259Z to Admty.)

[Leendert]

A bit more background here: http://www.aviastar.org/air/japan/tachikawa_ki-77.php


Regards,
Leendert

[BrianC]

Hi Duncan and Leendert

Thanks for the input - great work!

Youtube reference from Dave on RAF Commands:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r7PzpHNa8iM

Cheers
Brian