Mitsubishi Ki-51 "Sonia"

The Mitsubishi Ki-51 "Sonia" was a Japanese light bomber and ground-attack aircraft used extensively by the Imperial Japanese Army Air Service during World War II, starting from 1939. Known for operating from rough airfields, it supported ground forces in China, Burma, and the Pacific, eventually serving in kamikaze missions. 
 
Key Details of the Mitsubishi Ki-51 "Sonia":
Role: Light bomber, dive bomber, reconnaissance, and later, kamikaze.
Performance: The aircraft was relatively slow, with a top speed of around 263-264 mph. It was highly maneuverable, well-armored, and easy to maintain, which made it popular with crews despite its vulnerability to Allied fighters.
Operational Use: It saw combat throughout the Pacific War, particularly in the China-Burma-India theater, and was utilized heavily for close-air support.
Production: Around 2,385 were produced by Mitsubishi Jukogyo KK and the Tachikawa 1st Army Air Arsenal.
Kamikaze Role: By 1944-1945, these aircraft were frequently used for kamikaze attacks. One well-documented incident involved a Ki-51 impacting the HMS Sussex in July 1945, leaving a distinct imprint on the ship's hull.
Armament: Typically armed with machine guns in the wings and for the observer, and capable of carrying bombs, often adapted to carry a 250 kg bomb for suicide missions. 
 
Although outclassed by later Allied aircraft, the "Sonia" proved to be a versatile and robust aircraft in its designed role throughout the conflict