Designed in 1959, the Nanchang CJ -6 became a widely used two seat training aircraft for the Chinese PLAAF, the aircraft having well harmonised controls, good aerobatic capabilities and a respectable performance. They began to be imported into western countries when pilots learned of the type’s modest operating costs, good flying characteristics and classic military personality. This 1968 manufactured aircraft was discovered in Adelaide and came to Omaka in 2016. It didn’t go unnoticed by the new owner that the aircraft’s general style - with its noisy, smoky radial engine and long canopy, resembled a number of WWII Japanese aircraft, particularly those of the Imperial Japanese Navy’s (IJN) torpedo and reconnaissance types.
ZK-KWI, or “the Jap Chang,” is owned and operated by an art director film maker and is presented as an Axis aircraft to promote educational interest in the Pacific War. The colour scheme is modelled on IJN markings. The Nanchang was designed to fly with the rear canopy removed which the owner has taken advantage of. A combat sortie sees animated gunner ‘Tojo’ along for the ride as aircrew - his ingeniously improvised machine gun making for what would have been a significant defence against attacking Allied fighters.
About Marlborough Lines Classic Fighters Omaka: The airshow is the main fundraising event for the Omaka Aviation Heritage Museum, located in Blenheim, Marlborough NZ.
