Nippon Kokusai Ku-8 "Gander"
Nippon Kokusai Koku Kogyo · Japan · first flew 1941 · glider
The Nippon Kokusai Ku-8 was a Japanese military transport glider of WWII, designed to carry troops and light cargo in assault landings. It was one of the Imperial Japanese Army's primary assault gliders.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × none, embedded-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 13.31 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Japanese WWII military glider, usually unpowered
- Unpowered sailplane — no engine (towed variant)
- High-wing design for troop and cargo carrying
Large high-wing glider with a box-section fuselage, wide high-set wing for troop accommodation, fixed undercarriage, and a conventional tail; the broad, flat fuselage distinguishes it from powered Japanese transports.
Specifications
- The Nippon Kokusai Ku-8 has a length of 13.31 m (44 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 23.2 m (76 ft).
- Typical crew: 2 (pilot) + up to 18 troops.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Developed in the early 1940s, the Ku-8 entered service with the Japanese Army and saw operational use in the Pacific theatre, including in the Philippines and other island campaigns. It was typically towed by Ki-21 or Ki-57 aircraft. The type was produced in reasonable numbers and remained in service until Japan's defeat in 1945.
Variants
The Ku-8-I and Ku-8-II were the main variants, differing in detail design and capacity.
Where you'll see it
Served with the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force from 1941 to 1945 in assault transport and logistical support roles across the Pacific.
Related aircraft
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