but, are the N**** numbers US civil serials?
An obscure topic, be interesting to follow this thread to see what further information is known on the topic.
Hi, yes I started this thread to gather info / data on a Tora! feature I am developing for a magazine.
50 years this year since the film was released.
I have discovered during research that N-numbers were assigned to the T-6s in Japan that were used for filming of the Japanese scenes – these are N6520 thru N6539 (some noted in above reply), assigned Dec68 thru Jun69, this lines up with the filming in Japan. The numbers were published in the FAA civil register for Jan 1969 as reserved by the USAF MAA Group?, whoever they are? There were 5 Kate conversions and 3 Zero conversions with the remaining T-6s as standard except for a prop spinner and 3-bladed propeller. Most were T-6G variant rebuilds with, yes, FY 51 serials in the 17xxx grouping.
All JASDF / JMSDF T-6s were retired in 1968 just in time to be used in the movie.
The JASDF serials appear to start at their 52- mark but I cannot line these up to the USAF ones which is what I am ultimately keen to find out.
I’m keen to line up these 8 JSADF serials to the original USAF FY 51 serials:
52-0028, 52-0030, 52-0035, 52-0058, 52-0117, 52-0137, 72-0158, 72-0175
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