The Other WW2 Jet Fighter that Almost Changed the War

Japan’s Jet Gamble

When Germany unveiled the Messerschmitt Me 262, the world’s first operational jet fighter, Japanese military officials watched in awe. This revolutionary aircraft, with its blistering speed and cutting-edge technology, seemed like the perfect weapon to turn the tide of war. Desperate to reclaim control over the Pacific, Japan’s Imperial Navy knew they needed a jet of their own—one that could rival, or even surpass, the Me 262.

Their answer? The Nakajima Kikka, Japan’s first jet-powered aircraft, a machine born from ambition, necessity, and a race against time.

A Race for Survival

Japan obtained blueprints for the Me 262 and the rocket-powered Me 163, along with designs for Germany’s BMW 003 and Junkers Jumo 004 engines. Engineers Kenichi Matsumura and Kazuo Ohno were tasked with adapting this advanced technology into a working Japanese jet fighter—fast.

With limited resources and no margin for error, Japanese engineers developed the Ne-20 turbojet, inspired by the German BMW 003. However, the Ne-20 lacked the raw power of its German counterpart, and Japan’s dwindling supply chains left little room for refinement. Despite these challenges, Nakajima pressed on, assembling the first Kikka prototype by June 1945. The question was—would it fly before Japan surrendered?

The Japanese Me 262

The Kikka’s resemblance to the Me 262 was unmistakable, but it was smaller and more compact. Measuring 26 feet in length with a 32-foot wingspan, it was built for efficiency. Yet, its performance paled in comparison to its German inspiration.

• Range: 127 miles with a 1,100-pound bomb (compared to the Me 262’s 525-mile range with full fuel tanks).
• Speed: 423 mph, falling short of the Me 262’s 540 mph.
• Armament: A single bomb, whereas the Me 262 carried four 30mm MK 108 cannons, up to 24 R4M rockets, and two bombs—making it a far deadlier war machine.

A Plane Built to Never Land

Recognizing the dire situation, Japan designed the Kikka with foldable wings, allowing it to be hidden in caves or tight spaces—perfect for last-minute strikes and defensive ambushes. But as the war dragged on, it became clear that Japan’s dwindling resources meant the Kikka would likely serve as a Kamikaze aircraft.

However, time ran out. On August 15, 1945, Japan surrendered, halting the Kikka’s development before it could see combat.

A Rare Relic

Only a handful of Kikka prototypes were ever built, and today, one of these rare jets can be seen at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC—a silent testament to Japan’s desperate gamble to bring jet power to the Pacific War.