Takaoka Susumu

A Prominent Figure in Japanese Aviation

Born in 1912 in the city of Tadotsu, Takaoka Susumu witnessed one of the most transformative periods in Japanese aviation. From the Imperial Navy to the Japanese Self-Defense Forces, he left a lasting mark on aviation history, particularly by participating in the first flight of a Japanese jet.

A Military Career in the Service of Aviation

Après avoir obtenu son diplôme de l’Académie navale en 1932, Susumu gravit rapidement les échelons au sein de la Marine impériale japonaise. Il est affecté à des postes stratégiques, notamment sur les porte-avions Soryu et Hiryu. Le 10 septembre 1941, Susumu est affecté au Département des expériences de vol de l’Arsenal de l’aviation navale, en tant que pilote d’essai.

The Kikka and the First Flight of a Japanese Jet

In 1945, he took part in the development of the Nakajima Kikka, Japan's first jet aircraft. On August 7, just days before Japan's surrender, he piloted the aircraft on its maiden flight. This flight, which was expected to mark a significant advancement for Japanese aviation, was abruptly halted by Japan's surrender on September 2, 1945.

A New Flight After the War

With the establishment of the Japan Self-Defense Forces in 1954, Susumu once again played a significant role in aviation development. In 1958, he piloted the Fuji T1F2, Japan’s first jet trainer, symbolizing the rebirth of the country’s aviation industry after the war.

Later Years and Civilian Career

After retiring from the military in 1962, Susumu joined Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, where he worked on projects like the Mitsubishi Mu-2, which he piloted for its maiden flight on September 14, 1963. He retired from the aviation industry in 1974, after a career marked by significant contributions to Japanese aviation.

A Life Dedicated to Aviation

Without personal judgment or opinion, Takaoka Susumu played a major role in the evolution of Japanese aviation, from his early days in the Imperial Navy to his involvement in the civilian aviation industry.

Aircraft for Which Takaoka Susumu Performed the First Flight

On August 7, 1945, Lieutenant Commander Takaoka Susumu performed the first flight of the Nakajima Kikka, which lasted 11 minutes.
Fuji T1F2
With Colonel Takaoka Susumu at the controls, the prototype of the Fuji T1F2 took off for the first time from Utsunomiya Air Base on January 19, 1958.
On September 14, 1963, the prototype of the Mitsubishi MU-2A, equipped with two Turboméca "Astazou" II K turboprop engines mounted under the wings by pylons, made its maiden flight with Takaoka Susumu at the controls.
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