The Mitsubishi Ki-57 was a Japanese passenger transport aircraft, developed from the Ki-21 bomber, during the early 1940s. In 1938, when the Ki-21 heavy bomber began to enter service …

The Mitsubishi Ki-57 was a Japanese passenger transport aircraft, developed from the Ki-21 bomber, during the early 1940s. See below for synonyms. In 1938, when the Ki-21 heavy bomber began to enter service with the Imperial Japanese Army, its …

Mitsubishi Ki-57 (Topsy) MC-20-I / Type 100 Transport Model 1 Technical Information Background When in 1938 the Mitsubishi Ki-21 heavy bomber began to enter service with the Imperial Japanese Army, its capability attracted the attention of Japan Air Lines.

Developed from the Ki-21 bombers by the Mitsubishi Jukogyo KK Design Team, the Ki-57 transports served in both civilian (under designation of MC-20) and military (as Army Type 100 Transport and Navy L4M1 Transport) roles starting in the early 1940s.

Mar 2, 2015 · (Ki-57-II) Two 1,080 hp (805 kW) Mitsubishi Ha-102 14-cylinder air-cooled radial engines. Performance: Maximum speed 292 mph (470 km/h) at 19,030 ft (5800 m); service ceiling 26,245 ft (8000 m).

Oct 27, 2016 · The Mitsubishi Ki-57 started life as a design for a new airliner for Nippon Koku, the Japanese airline. It was derived from the successful Ki-21 bomber, which had impressed the airline with its ability to carry a heavy load for long distances – qualities that …

Feb 6, 2025 · Despite its lesser-known status, the Ki-57 played a critical role in Japan’s wartime efforts, demonstrating reliability and adaptability in diverse roles. Learn how this transport aircraft...

The new passenger airliner, civilly designated MC-20, impressed the Japanese army in turn, and it placed orders for a military version called the Ki-57 or the Type 100 transport aircraft.

The Ki-57 was the standard Japanese army transport plane, and saw extensive duty during the war. A great many were also used by the Japanese civil airlines, under the designation MC-20.

The Mitsubishi Ki-57 "Topsy" was the standard transport aircraft of the Japanese Army. It was a 1939 civilian derivative of the Sally produced for Japan Air Lines (Nihon Koku K.K.) whose production was redirected back to military use.