Historical Background – From Imperial Navy to the USAAF

The Mitsubishi J2M3 Raiden (雷電, “Thunderbolt”)—known by the Allied code name “Jack”—was Japan’s purpose-built high-altitude interceptor designed to climb fast and knock down incoming B-29 bombers. Unlike most Japanese aircraft of the war, the Raiden was heavily armed and armored, prioritizing performance over maneuverability.

Though primarily assigned to homeland defense units, a small number of J2Ms were reportedly deployed to the Philippines in late 1944, likely as an experimental frontline deployment in a tropical environment.

The Raiden at Clark Field – 1945

During the US recapture of the Philippines, one intact J2M3 Raiden was seized at Clark Field (Luzon). Uniquely, the aircraft was repainted with USAAF insignia—white stars on blue circles—marking it as a captured test article. It remains one of the only known Raiden fighters to bear American markings.

The aircraft was lightly restored by US mechanics and photographed on the ground, showing visible US national insignia on the fuselage and wings. Some reports suggest the US considered flying the aircraft, although no official test flight records exist.

Crash and Final Fate

Shortly after its capture, the Raiden was involved in a ground accident or crash, most likely during taxiing or a brief test roll. A well-known photo documents the aircraft lying on its side, nose-down, with bent propeller blades and damaged undercarriage. The US roundels remain clearly visible.

There’s no evidence it ever flew under US control. It was probably dismantled or scrapped shortly afterward—possibly shipped to Tinian or Wright Field for technical evaluation, like other captured Japanese aircraft.Photo evidence exists showing the crashed J2M3 at Clark Field. This iconic image has been published in aviation books such as Captured Japanese Aircraft of WWII and featured in Air Enthusiast and Koku-Fan issues.

Technical Specifications – J2M3 Raiden Type 21

Scale Modeling Guide – Building the Captured Raiden

 Recommended Kits

 USAAF Repaint Colors

 Detail Enhancements

• Cockpit upgrade (Eduard, Quinta Studios)

• Metal pitot tube

• Custom seatbelts in USAAF style

• Minor chipping and oil filters for realistic wear

• Ground crew figure in tropical US uniform