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SPECIAL SERIES NO. 32

1 JULY 1945

JAPANESE PARACHUTE TROOPS

MILITARY INTELLIGENCE DIVISION

WAR DEPARTMENT

WASHINGTON, D. C.

United States Government Printing Office

Washington 1945

MILITARY INTELLIGENCE SERVICE SPECIAL SERIES No. 32

MID 461

WAR DEPARTMENT

WASHINGTON 25, D.C.

Notice

1. SPECIAL SERIES is published for the purpose of providing officers with reasonably confirmed information from official and other reliable sources. 2. Reproduction within the military service is encouraged provided that (1) the source is stated, (2) the classification is maintained, and (3) one copy of the publication in which the material is reproduced is forwarded to the Military Intelligence Service, War Department, Washington 25, D.C. 3. Information contained herein is believed to be complete and accurate as of 1 May 1945.

DISTRIBUTION:

AAF(10); AGF(56); ASF(2) T of Opn(25) except China, India-Burma, SWPA & POA(200); Depts(2); Base Comds(2); Island Comds(2); Arm & Sv Bd(2); Def Comd(2); Tech Sv(2) except QMG(65); CWS(10); SvC(2); PC&S(ZI only)(1); Seattle PE (200); Sp Sv Sch(200); USMA(100); UTC(ASF) (200); RTC (AGF) (200).

Following distribution to be made in China, India-Burma, SWPA & POA only. A(2); CHQ(2); D(2); R(E); Bn(1)

Refer to FM 21-6 for explanation of distribution formula.

Contents

CHAPTER I. TRAINING . ...................................1

Training Aims .........................................2

Paratroop Qualifications .................................2

Training in Technique .................................3

Parachute Jumping Technique ............5

Use of Emergency Chutes ...............................6

Mass Jumps ...........................................7

Use of Cargo Chutes ...........................7

Maneuvers ............................................8

Faults ...............................................8

CHAPTER II. ORGANIZATION .............. ..................10

Army Paratroop Units ..................... ............... 10

History ................. ............................... 10

Raiding Group (Teishin Shudan) ......................... 10

Raiding Brigade (Teishin Dan) ........................... 10

Raiding Regiment (Teishin Rentai) ....................... 12

Raiding Flying Brigade (Teishin Hikodan) .................. 12

Raiding Flying Regiment (Teishin Hikosentai) .............. 13

Naval Paratroop Units .................................... 13

1st Yokosuka Special Naval Landing Force.................. 15

CHAPTER III. TACTICS OF JAPANESE PARATROOPS ............. 16

Doctrine ........................................ 16

Introduction .................. ......................... 16

Missions .......... ................. ............. ....... 16

Reconnaissance ........................................ 17

Preparation for the Attack ................................ 17

The Attack ........................................ 18

Actual Paratroop Operations ............................... 23

Palembang ........................................ 23

Operations at Koepang in Timor .................. 28

Naval Parachute Operation ............................... 28

Hunan Operations .... .................................. 29

Interim Operations ..................................... 30

Leyte Operations (6 December 1944) ....................... 31

CHAPTER IV. PLANES AND PARACHUTES ................... 344....

Planes ....................................... . 34

Tops) ................................................. 34

Sally . ...................................... . 36

Other Planes ........................................... 38

Loading Plans ...................................... ... 39

Parachutes ................... ........................... 39

CHAPTER V. JAPANESE PARATROOPERS' WEAPONS .............. 42

Introduction ........................................... 42

Pistols ................................................. 43

Rifles ........................................ 43

Submachine Guns ....................................... 48

Light Machine Guns .................................... 53

Rifle Grenades and Launchers ............................ 53

Grenade Discharger .................................... 53

Antitank Grenades ...................................... 54

Hand Grenades ........................................ 55

Flame Throwers ....................................... 55

Weapons Dropped ...................................... 55

CHAPTER VI. INDIVIDUAL OUTFITTING AND RATIONS ........... 56

Clothing and Insignia ..................................... 56

Clothing ............................................... 56

Insignia ............................................... 58

Individual Equipment .................................... 60

Rations and Water ....................................... 60

Illustrations

Figure Page

1. Japanese paratroops being released from a training tower .............

2. Raiding group (Teishin Shudan) ................... ............. 11

3. Raiding brigade (Teishin Dan) . ...................... 11

4. Raiding regiment (Teishin Rentai) .............................. 12

5. Raiding flying regiment (Teishin Hikosentai) ...................... 13

6. Ist Yokosuka Special Naval Landing Force ........................ 14

7. Squadron formation 1 .................................... 19

8. Squadron formation 2 ......................................... 20

9. Regimental formation 1 ........................................ 21

10. Regimental formation 2 ........................................ 21

11. Regimental formation 3 ........................................ 22

12. Regimental formation 4 ........................................ 22

13. Palembang, Sumatra, looking northeast ............................ 24

14. Oblique view of Pladjoe refinery ................................. 25

15. Vertical view of refineries at Palembang ........................... 26

16. Nell-twin-engine, mid-wing bomber ............................... 35

17. Topsy-twin-engine transport plane ............................... 35

18. Sally-twin-engine bomber ....................................... 37

19. Principal equipment carried by paratroop rifleman .................. 44

20. Type 99 (1939) 7.7-mm take-down rifle ........................... 44

21. Type 99 (1939) 7.7-mm take-down rifle ........................... 45

22. Type 2 (1942) 7.7-mm take-down rifle ............................ 46

23. Type 2 (1942) 7.7-mm take-down rifle ............................ 47

24. Type 100 (1940) 8-mm submachine gun (early model) .............. 48

25. Type 100 (1940) 8-mm submachine gun (early model) .............. 49

26. Type 100 (1940) 8-mm submachine gun (early model) .............. 50

27. Type 100 (1940) 8-mm submachine gun (early model) in chest pack ... 51

28. Type 99 (1939) 7.7-mm light machine gun (paratroop version) ...... 52

29. Type 89 (1929) 50-mm grenade discharger, paratroop model ......... 54

30. Experimental jump suit worn over the standard uniform ............. 57

31. Shock-resisting helmet, worn by Army paratroops .................... 58

32. "Golden Kite" sleeve insignia worn by Army paratroops .............. 59

33. Distinctive sleeve insignia worn by Navy paratroops ......... ........ 59

Chapter I. Training

训练

Training of Japanese Army and Navy paratroopers began in 1940 when training courses of 6 months duration were set up at four centers. Arrival of German paratroop instructors in the summer of 1940 gave further impetus to the program which, upon their suggestion, ultimately was highly intensified and curtailed to about 2 months.

1940年，日本陆军和海军的伞兵开始在4个训练中心开始为期6个月的训练。1940年夏，德国伞兵教官

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发表时间： 2008-2-1 8:08:44 　

这个资料还不错，挺有意思的，不过是转贴的？

不要再悲叹哀怨，切莫再有泪空弹。用鲜花洗涤旧世，剑之锋血光闪闪。

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发表时间： 2008-2-1 11:22:58 　

恩.不过原文作者没有完成全部

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发表时间： 2008-2-2 22:23:38 　

那就找一下原文吧，我们在坛子上翻译一下吧。

不要再悲叹哀怨，切莫再有泪空弹。用鲜花洗涤旧世，剑之锋血光闪闪。

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Chapter II. Organization

Army Paratroop Units

History

Japanese Army Air Force raiding (Teishin) units have been known to exist since 1941. Early in 1944, these consisted of a raiding brigade, raiding regiments, and raiding flying regiments. During the latter part of the year, the expansion of these units was completed with the appearance of the raiding group (Teishin Shudan), a command organization comparable to a division. Since this study is confined solely to paratroop units, a complete study of the units of this raiding divisional organization is not given here. The three types of raiding units which are employed in paratroop operations are: the raiding group, raiding flying brigade (Teishin Hikodan), and raiding flying regiment (Teishin Hikosentai).

Raiding Group (Teishin Shudan)

The raiding group (Teishin Shudan) is the highest echelon of the raiding organization. At present, only one, the 1st Raiding Group, has been identified. In combat in the Philippine Islands, the 1st Raiding Group was under the operational control of an air army. Commanded by a major general, it was composed of a headquarters, a flying brigade, a raiding brigade, two glider infantry regiments, a raiding machine-cannon unit, a raiding signal unit, and a raiding engineer unit. This raiding group had an estimated total strength of 5,575 officers and men. (See Figure 2.)

Raiding Brigade (Teishin Dan)

The raiding brigade (Teishin Dan) is the highest echelon of the parachute troops. Two brigades have been identified, one of which is subordinate to the raiding group, and the other to an air army. The commanding officer may be a colonel or lieutenant colonel. The basic organization consists of a headquarters and two raiding regiments and has an estimated total strength of 1,475 officers and men.

Other component units may be added to the basic organization. For example, in addition to two raiding regiments, a raiding brigade (in December 1944) included a raiding tank unit, a raiding maintenance unit, and three airfield companies. The estimated total strength of the raiding brigade is 2,475 officers and men. (See Figure 3.)

Raiding Regiment (Teishin Rentai)

The raiding regiment (Teishin Rentai) is a paratroop unit, transported by the raiding flying regiment. It is commanded by a lieutenant colonel or a major. Its basic organization consists of a headquarters, three infantry companies, a heavy-weapons company, and a signal unit. The estimated total strength of the basic organization is approximately 700 officers and men. Other units may be added to this organization. For example, a construction unit and a liaison unit were included in one raiding regiment.

Information on the armament of the raiding regiment is very limited. Each rifle company is armed with rifles, grenade dischargers, and light machine guns. The armament of the heavy-weapons company is not known, but it possibly includes heavy machine guns and mortars. The total strength of one identified raiding regiment was approximately 860 officers and men. (See Figure 4.)

Raiding Flying Brigade (Teishin Hikodan)

The raiding flying brigade (Teishin Hikodan) is a new organization, established at the same time as the raiding group. It has command over all troop-carrying units in the raiding organization. The brigade consists of two raiding flying regiments, one glider flying regiment, and a brigade signal unit.

Raiding Flying Regiment (Teishin Hikosentai)

The primary function of the raiding flying regiment (Teishin Hikosentai) is to transport the paratroop units. When not engaged in this, the flying regiments are used by the Japanese Army Air Force. The organization of the two raiding flying regiments which have been encountered is similar to that of normal combat flying regiments. It consists of a headquarters unit and three squadrons and is commanded by a lieutenant colonel or major. The estimated total strength is approximately 500 officers and men. It has approximately 35 aircraft. One report indicates that the Japanese may be intending to use raiding flying regiments consisting of as many as six squadrons. The aircraft are usually Topsys, but some converted Sallys are used. In the Leyte operation each plane carried 10 to 13 paratroopers and a crew of three to five.

The organization of the 2d Raiding Flying Regiment is shown in Figure 5.

Naval Paratroop Units

Only two Japanese naval units have been identified as parachute units - the 1st and 3d Yokosuka Special Naval Landing Forces, organized in October 1941. Each had a Table-of-Organization strength of 844 officers and men. Their duties were similar to those of the Army parachute units, and in addition included guard or security functions. After engaging in the Netherlands East Indies campaign in early 1942, they were returned to Japan and combined. This combined unit was designated the Yokosuka

1st Special Naval Landing Force and has a Table-of-Organization strength of 1,326 officers and men.

Ist Yokosuka Special Naval Landing Force

At Saipan this unit had a total strength of approximately 850 officers and men and consisted of a command platoon, a headquarters company, three infantry companies, and an antitank unit.

The estimated total armament of this Special Naval Landing Force was as follows: 510 rifles; 36 grenade dischargers; 27 light machine guns; 6 heavy machine guns; two 37-mm antitank guns.

Each rifle company was armed with 134 rifles, 12 grenade dischargers. nine light machine guns, and two heavy machine guns. The antitank unit was armed with two 37-mm antitank guns. (See Figure 6.)

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Chapter III

Tactics of Japanese Paratroops

Doctrine

Introduction

The tactical employment of Japanese parachute troops has thus far been limited. The paratroop operation. on Leyte Island, in early December 1944, involved projected use of about 700 airborne troops, and it seems likely that the Japanese have not abandoned plans for the continued use of parachutists. They have studied the parachute operations of other armies and have paid particular attention to German operations, and to Allied airborne activities during the invasion of the European Continent.

In principle, the Japanese follow the conventional doctrine that paratroops should operate with supporting arms and in coordination with ground troops. Both the Japanese Army and Navy have had parachute units, and the tactics employed by these branches of the service have been quite similar.

In the employment of paratroopers, the Japanese have emphasized the role of the individual soldier, equipped with small arms and indoctrinated with suicidal impulses. Such emphasis has caused the expenditure of personnel and materiel with little tactical gain.

Missions

Tactically, the Japanese have used parachute troops in missions of a conventional nature. As often happens in the case of the Japanese, there is a considerable difference between the planning of an operation and its execution.

Paratroopers have been used to delay a retreating enemy until ground forces could come up, or have been assigned the mission of capturing intact vital installations, including oil refineries and airfields. Other missions have included the attempted destruction of Allied aircraft and occu

pation of landing fields in an effort to assure the arrival of a Japanese convoy of reinforcements by sea, unhampered by Allied aerial activity.

Reconnaissance

Japanese doctrine prescribes a thorough reconnaissance of the proposed landing area prior to the assault.

Reconnaissance is made by airplane, submarine, fifth columnists, and other methods. City areas, marshland, and wooded areas and localities where brush and vegetation are higher than a man are avoided. Mountainous or hilly regions are not considered except where elevations slope gently. Soft ground such as sand and silt is believed to be ideal for landing purposes. Hard surfaces such as concrete also are deemed excellent for the Japanese believe that the hardness of such surfaces is offset by the absence of obstacles.

Reconnaissance is also made to determine the extent of defense preparations, including the nature and type of obstacles to be found on the prospective landing area, the location and strength of enemy reinforcements (especially tanks and armored vehicles), and meteorological conditions which might have an effect upon the operation.

Surprise is considered to be the all-important element, and reconnaissance proceeds with extreme caution when there is a possibility that it will disclose the plans of the Japanese.

Preparation for the Attack

The Japanese consider that the ideal landing area is a locality where troops can assemble easily after the jump. The attack objective should be within 3 miles or less from the landing site, although in actual operations the Japanese have landed as far as 12 miles from their objective. If the landing point is too far from the objective the Japanese feel that the element of surprise will be lost, and the enemy will have additional time to make defensive preparations.

The paratroopers are briefed in detail upon completion of the reconnaissance. Frequently, annotated aerial photographs of the installations to be seized are issued, and often rehearsals are held. Assembly areas to be used before and after the assault are selected.

In actual practice, orders for the operation have been specific, covering phases, objectives, and tactics in minute detail. Communications and signal systems are established, with air-ground communication generally effected by panels. Between units on the ground, radio may be used, or improvised methods, such as the sounding of musical instruments and distinctive noises, may be adopted. The latter measures, however, are probably for identification among the supporting units rather than for communication.

The most suitable time for the jump is considered to be dawn or dusk, with dawn being preferred. In actual practice, however, the Japanese have made jumps at other times, including broad daylight.

Japanese doctrine dictates that the jump be preceded by aerial bombardment.

If the position of the defender is organized in strength, steps must be taken to neutralize it temporarily during the descent. The jump is timed to coincide with the moment bombs are exploding on the ground.

In the attack on vital installations, such as airfields and objectives which the Japanese desire to use and maintain, care is taken so that the bombardment does not cause more damage than is absolutely necessary. To prevent a counterattack during the assembly of the parachutists on the ground, strafing and low-level bombing continue until the troops have been organized into prescribed combat formations. The Japanese show little concern for casualties among their own troops that may result from the strafing and bombing.

In order to take full advantage of surprise, the first wave to land is as strong as possible, with the jump being made from an average altitude of 300 to 400 feet. Smoke may be used to cause confusion on the ground and to conceal the direction and extent of the paratroop attack.

The Attack

While sources are at variance as to minor details, it is believed that the basic unit of the attack is a V-shaped formation of three planes in which the lead plane flies at the point of the V with one plane echeloned to the right and one to the left rear. Four V's each of three aircraft make up a squadron. The regimental formation may consist of up to six squadrons.

Japanese rifle and light-machine-gun formations, in general, will take 3 minutes to make ready for combat from the moment they leave the plane.

Heavy-machine-gun and antitank units, of squad strength, require 8 and 10 minutes respectively. A platoon will require 10 minutes to organize from the time of the drop, and 12 minutes if it is equipped with heavy machine guns. A unit of company size, the Japanese say, should be able to organize in about 15 minutes, while 1 hour and 45 minutes are needed effectively to organize a regiment for combat. In actual practice, these time factors do not appear to have been approached closely.

According to Japanese regulations for the use of parachutists, the troops should jump only after antiaircraft opposition has been neutralized, and after elimination of the danger of a counterattack before the troops can organize on the ground. Assembly points are indicated, but the Japanese often do not organize into any definite formation after reaching the ground.

Upon landing, the Japanese often will wait until nightfall before launching the attack. This is particularly true when the relative fire power of' the parachutists has been determined to be weak. Reserves apparently are kept in readiness at base airfields, and these are committed upon call from the attacking forces. Once on the ground, the individual paratrooper makes for the nearest supply chute. In order to facilitate their location, supply chutes are spotted while still in descent, and no time is lost in breaking open supply containers and distributing the materiel.

The nature of the terrain and the assigned mission will determine the type of tactical organization which is adopted.

Until the force assembles, however, the paratroopers, regardless of rank, are instructed to engage in individual combat wherever opportunity offers. When changes in the plan are probable, because of circumstances not apparent at the time of the planning, troops generally a

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Chapter IV

Planes and Parachutes

Planes

The Japanese have a variety of planes suitable for paratroop activity, both transports and medium bombers. The model so far primarily relied on as a troop carrier is the transport Topsy, although models of the DC-2, the DC-3, and the Lockheed "Lodestar" also are available. For cargo carrying and glider tow the Sally, a medium bomber, has been used.

The performance data given below for Topsy and Sally are from Japanese sources; for the other planes the figures are estimates based upon their American equivalents or drawn from performance figures for Japanese medium bombers. It is evident that the Topsy and Sally models already used in all likelihood will be encountered in such subsequent Japanese paratroop operations as may occur. Since the other planes also are available, however, their capabilities are given. Conversion of any medium bombers to carry troops is considered unlikely in view of the alterations required, but any of them can and may be used to carry cargo in paratroop attacks.

Topsy

One of the most extensively used transports is Topsy, a two-engine, low-wing monoplane identified by the Japanese as the Army Type 100 transport plane, Model I. It is 52 feet, 10 inches long and has a wing span of 74 feet. It is powered by two Mitsubishi Type 1, 14-cylinder air-cooled radial engines each rated at 1,050 horsepower. Empty, the plane weighs 13,078 pounds; this weight includes the 660-pound estimated aggregate weight of the four crew members. Fully loaded weights given in the table below do not include the weight of ballast. In airborne attacks, this plane normally flies at 9,000 to 15,000 feet; jumps from it ordinarily are made from an altitude of about 600 feet. Service ceiling of the plane with a normal load is 23,000 feet; it will climb to 20,000 feet in 18.6 minutes.

[Illustrations]

Sally

The medium bomber known to Allied forces as Sally, is designated by the Japanese as the Army Type 97 bomber, Model 2. A low mid-wing monoplane, it has an over-all length of 52 feet and a wing span of 66 feet, 7 inches. It is powered by two Mitsubishi Type 100 14-cylinder, air-cooled, radial engines each rated at 1,460 horsepower. Weight of the plane empty, according to the Japanese, is 13,200 pounds; this weight includes 995 pounds for the crew of six. Service ceiling with a normal load is 29,900 feet; rate of climb is 20,000 feet in 12 minutes.

Other Planes

Significant performance figures for other transports and bombers which may be used in paratroop operations are:

[Table omitted]

Loading Plans

The Japanese estimate that the gross weight of a paratrooper, fully loaded and ready to jump, will range from 220 to 240 pounds. They are aware of the coordination which is necessary between the jumping paratrooper and the dropping of essentials such as heavy weapons, signal equipment, and ammunition, which are not carried on his person. In this respect they have three alternative procedures that can be utilized:

To load each unit's bulk essentials in the planes of each unit's aerial formation and to drop them either before or after the paratroopers jump.

To drop the bulk essentials and personnel at the same time but from different plane formations.

To have the plane formation carrying bulk essentials follow the formation carrying paratroopers and to drop the bulk essentials directly above the paratroopers.

The Japanese doctrine, therefore, is flexible; the governing principle will depend upon the mission, the enemy situation, and the terrain.

Parachutes

Available evidence indicates that Japanese trials with paratroop parachutes may have commenced as late as January 1941. They were conducted on a small scale (whether by Army, Navy, or jointly is not known) with primitive equipment, and resulted in the rejection of pilot (rip-cord

operated) and two-suspension chutes. Among the specifications adopted for paratroop chutes were:

1. Chute should be back-pack, automatically operated.

2. Harness and chute should be one-point connection type.

3. Rate of descent should he 5.2 meters (17 feet) per second for a 7:5 kilogram (165 pounds) parachutist.

4. On a static line 5 meters (16.4 feet) long, the chute should open within 4 seconds.

By the end of 1941, various chutes had been tried. Type 89 (1929) Model 3, modified for automatic (static line) operation, with an emergency chute in a chest pack, was unsatisfactory, primarily because the emergency chute struck the chin of the wearer upon landing. Special Type 97 (1937) Model 2 employed two-point suspension, and oscillated dangerously during the descent which was made at excessive speed. This resulted in a recommendation against chutes of this type. Apparently a more successful chute, Type 1 (1941) Modification I, was developed.

Currently in use by paratroops, it is believed, are Type 3 (1943) Model 2, worn by parachutists taking part in the Leyte operation in December, 1944, and Type 1 (1941) Model 2.

A back-pack, troop (static-line operated) parachute, believed to be Type 3 (1943) Model 2, was captured early in 1944. The workmanship and material of this parachute are very good, but the design is considered below American standards. This troop parachute consists of a 28-foot main canopy, worn on the back, and a 24-foot reserve canopy, worn on the chest. The main canopy, 28 feet in diameter, has 24 panels and suspension lines. The reserve canopy, approximately 24 feet in diameter, has 20 panels and suspension lines, and a vent similar to that in the main canopy. The panels of the main chute are not straight-sided, but are so shaped as to produce a cambered-shaped parachute, which approaches the hemispherical when inflated. The Japanese claim that this shape not only reduces oscillation during descent, but is more efficient aerodynamically than conventional chutes. At the top of the canopy is a vent 30 inches in diameter, which is restricted by two heavy elastic rings to a diameter of approximately 8 inches.

The harness is made of single-thickness, silk webbing of a tensile strength of approximately 2,900 to 3,000 pounds, dyed dark green. Well-fitting, the harness holds the wearer securely. The hardware, small and light, is easily adjusted on the thin silk webbing. It is chromium-plated throughout. A quick-release device is incorporated, which, however, is not considered positive in operation. Rings are provided near the seat sling for attaching battle equipment, a life raft, or food kit. High on the harness risers are D rings for attaching the reserve chute.

The main pack, worn on the back, is closed at a single point and locked over a figure-8-shaped metal fitting. The pack

is a very bulky bundle.

The reserve pack is closed at two points by figure-8 fittings, and carries a roll-type pilot parachute flap which is used in combination with a spring-less-type pilot parachute.

The main parachute and harness weigh 20.8 pounds without static line.

The reserve parachute weighs 10 pounds.

The static line is reported to be in two parts. The lower part, pure white silk about 40 cm (15.7 inches) long, and 75 mm (2.95 inches) in circumference, with a loop at the top, is attached to the chute peak. The upper part, 25 or 26 meters (82 to 85 feet) long and 75 mm in circumference, with a steel snap at the top and a loop at the bottom, is attached to the anchor cable. The two parts of the static line are bound together at the loops in two places with red silk thread.

When the static line is drawn taut by the jump, a steel pin, about 12

cm long and 1 cm in diameter, is automatically drawn from eyelets in the flaps of the parachute pack, releasing the chute.

According to a parachutist captured on Saipan in July, 1944, his unit wore the newly adopted Type 1, Model 2 parachute, which had replaced Type 3. Specifications of this pa

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Chapter V

Japanese Paratroopers' Weapons

Introduction

Japanese paratroopers' weapons may be divided into two classes: those carried by jumping personnel, and those dropped separately by parachute. Except for minor items, it is believed that Army and Navy paratroopers will carry similar weapons and equipment.

Weapons carried during the descent include the following: pistols; rifles and bayonets; submachine guns; light machine guns; grenade dischargers; rifle grenades and launchers; hand grenades; antitank grenades; flame throwers.

While the equipment carried by each paratrooper will vary according to the mission, it is believed that the rifleman carries a rifle complete with bayonet and 120 rounds of ammunition, three hand grenades, a smoke candle (probably self-projecting or hand thrown), binoculars, small pickax, shovel, and a luminous compass.

The light-machine-gun operator carries a light machine gun, with two full magazines, bayonet, and cleaning and preserving material, and two hand grenades. The assistant light-machine-gun operator carries a pistol, 27 rounds of pistol ammunition, 180 rounds of light-machine-gun ammunition, a magazine loader, and three hand grenades.

The grenade-discharger operator, with pistol and 27 rounds of ammunition, carries the discharger, six shells, and two hand grenades.

This equipment is subject to considerable variation depending on the assigned mission. Two days' rations, some medical supplies, and a luminous compass are normally carried by everyone. Standard demolition charges may be carried.

Signal equipment will include portable receivers and transmitters, probably constructed as transreceiver units; several different types of this radio equipment have been recovered.

Pistols

The Type 14 (1925) and the Type 94 (1934) 8-mm pistols are usual paratroop sidearms. They are semiautomatic, recoil-operated pistols and fire interchangeable, rimless, ball ammunition. Type 94 (1934), though a later model, is believed inferior because of poor design and workmanship.

It has been reported that some paratroopers have carried .25-caliber automatic pistols, apparently for suicide, but these are not believed to be issue weapons.

Rifles

Type 99 (1939) and Type 2 (1942) 7.7-mm take-down rifles are designed for paratroop use. Both are modifications of the standard Type 99 (1939) 7.7-mm rifle, and have the same performance. The barrel of Type 99 (1939) is joined to the receiver by an interrupted thread, and is easily detachable. A spring-loaded plunger locks barrel and receiver together for firing. The bolt handle is removable.

Characteristics:

Caliber .................. 7.7 mm (0.303 inch)

Length .................. 44 inches.

Barrel length ........... 25.75 inches.

Weight .................. 8.6 pounds.

Muzzle velocity ........... 2,390 feet per second (Type 99 ball)

Ammunition .............. Rimless; ball, AP, incendiary, tracer.

Sights ................... Rear sight graduated from 300 to 1,500 meters (330 to 1,635 yards).

[Illustrations]

Figure 23.-Type 2 (1942) 7.7-mm take-down rifle.

The Type 2 is the standard paratroop rifle. Although take-down rifles are inherently weak, design and good workmanship make this weapon one of the strongest of its type. The barrel-receiver joint, consisting of a heavy locking lug and cross-key, represents considerable improvement over the method employed in the Type 99. The monopod has been omitted from this rifle, and the bolt handle is not detachable.

Characteristics:

Caliber ................. 7.7 mm (0.303 inch).

Length ........... 44 inches.

Barrel length ............ 25.75 inches.

Weight ................. 9 pounds.

Muzzle velocity .......... 2,390 feet per second (Type 99 hall).

Ammunition ............ Rimless; ball, AP, incendiary, tracer.

Sights .................. Rear sight graduated from 300 to 1,500 meters (330 to 1,635 yards).

Submachine Guns

The first submachine guns known to be used by the Japanese were of Solothurn and Bergmann designs, and were manufactured in Germany. The Japanese also are known to have used Thompson submachine guns captured from the Chinese. The present standard submachine gun, however, was designed and is manufactured in Japan. It is the Type 100 (1940) 8-mm submachine gun, of which at least two versions exist.

Both versions of Type 100 (1940) 8-mm submachine gun are straight blowback-operated, and, according to Japanese sources, fire standard 8-mm pistol ammunition. However, a recent test firing, using 8-mm pistol ammunition, proved unsuccessful. It is not known whether incorrect 8-mm ammunition was used, or whether the weapon itself was defective.

The weapons are fed from curved, box-type magazines mounted on the left. The ejection port is on the right.

Figure 24.-Type 100 (1940) 8-mm submachine gun (early model), left, taken down and right, assembled with carrying pack and accessories.

Light Machine Guns

Although the standard Type 99 (1939) 7.7-mm light machine gun may be carried by paratroopers, a new, specially modified version has been developed for this purpose.

To adapt the standard light machine gun for paratroop use, a new type trigger group and shoulder stock assembly have been developed to fit any Type 99 (1939) 7.7-mmn light machine gun. The new stock is detachable, and the pistol grip, steel instead of wood, can be folded around the trigger guard for protection as well as compactness. Also a quick-change gas piston is fitted to provide a remedy for the excessive carbonization occurring under severe climatic conditions. This modified Type 99 light machine gun may be considered a most effective paratroop weapon.

Characteristics:

Caliber ................. 7.7 mm (0.315 inch)

Length over-all .......... 46.75 inches.

Barrel length ............ 21.75 inches.

Weight firing ............ 25.2 pounds (with loaded magazine)

Muzzle velocity .......... 2,345 feet per second.

Operation ............... Gas.

Rate of fire .............. 540 to 550 rounds per minute (cyclic)

120 rounds per minute (effective).

Ammunition ............. Rimless; ball, AP, incendiary, tracer.

Sights .................. Graduated 200 to 1,500 meters (220 to 1,635 yards).

Rifle Grenades and Launchers

The Type 99 (1939) and Type 2 (1942) 7.7-mm rifles can he fitted with either the Type 2 (1942) cup-type launcher, or the Type 100 (1940) launcher.

The Type 2 (1942) launcher, a copy of the German rifle grenade launcher (Schiessbecher), is used for firing a 40-mm hollow-charge antitank grenade containing 3.8 ounces of TNT. This grenade will penetrate 50 mm of mild steel up to its maximum range of 150 meters (164 yards). This grenade is fired by means of a special cartridge; under no circumstances should ball ammunition be used.

The Type 100 (1940) launcher fires the Type 99 (1939) (a) hand grenade at ranges up to 100 yards. Since this launcher is designed for use with standard ball ammunition it is particularly suited for paratroopers.

Grenade Discharger

For paratroop use, the Type 89 (1929) 50-mm grenade discharger has been modified by fitting a removable base plate. Performance remains the same.

Figure 29.-Type 89 (1929) 50-mm grenade discharger, paratroop model (with detachable base plate).

Characteristics:

Caliber ........................ 50 mm (1.97 inches).

Weight ....................... 10.25 pounds.

Length over-all .................. 26.6 inches.

Length of tube .................. 10 inches.

Maximum range (Model 89 grenade) .711 yards (range scale and test firing).

Maximum range (Model 91 hand grenade) ..................... 175 yards (test firing).

Rate of fire ........ ............ 10 to 20 rounds per minute.

Antitank Grenades

For close-quarter antitank combat it is probable that paratroops will carry the Type 3 (1943) hollow-charge,

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Chapter VI

Individual Outfitting and Rations

Clothing and Insignia

Clothing

Japanese Army parachute troops, who were engaged in the first combat operations early in 1942, wore green or dark khaki overalls. A Japanese manual for parachutists illustrates a man dressed to jump (Frontispiece). He is wearing an overall which is probably this uniform. Overall-type, it had long sleeves, long trousers, and a high neckline with front fastenings all the way up to the neck. Rubber boots and buff-colored crash helmets with ear flaps and chin straps were used.

However, another report, dated September 1941, indicates that all officers, noncommissioned officers, and privates wore flying jackets and trousers, and flying helmets with goggles. Officers carried an electric torch and a haversack with maps and writing utensils. Noncommissioned officers and privates carried a haversack with rations, a complete change of clothing, extra boots, and one mug.

An experimental Army jump suit somewhat similar to the type worn by German paratroops was illustrated in a Japanese magazine late in 1942 (Figure 30). Tight fitting, it was to be worn over the standard uniform. It is sleeveless, with short trousers which fasten at the knee. The turned-down collar has space for rank insignia. Gloves and a close-fitting helmet complete the outfit. As shown in the picture, the number of snaps and fastenings and the inaccessibility of the pockets would offset the advantages of this streamlined creation.

Men encountered in the Leyte landings in 1944 wore green clothing combinations like those of the average ground soldier, consisting of long-sleeved shirts made of a loosely woven fabric, and breeches of closely woven cotton twill.

The Navy parachute troops wear a two-piece uniform, made of a greenish-brown material which is 50 percent cotton and 50 percent silk.

The trousers are worn with adjustable suspenders. The trouser legs taper and are fitted with a silk-wrapped rubber instep. There are five pockets-one at the left hip designed to hold signal flags with telescoping rods, a snap

fastened pocket on each calf, and two general-purpose, snap-fastened hip pockets. The jacket is of the same material, fastening with five snaps in the front. A narrow rubber : waistband and collar insure a snug fit. The jacket is hip-length. It has five pockets: a narrow pistol pocket high on the right side, grenade pockets just below each breast, and

a general-purpose, snap-fastened pocket below each grenade pocket. This uniform is worn winter and summer.

In addition, a flight overall is worn in winter. It is of a heavy silk-and-cotton, dark brown material, lined with rabbit fur. The belt is attached. It has the same pockets as the uniform described above, except the lowest pockets on the calf are somewhat longer. The overall fastens with a zipper in front, and is ordinarily taken off prior to the jump.

Headgear follows the general pattern of those of U. S. tank crews. A buff-colored crash helmet for Army parachute troops, with ear flaps and chin straps, has been noted, as has a special shockproof

Figure 30.-Experimental jump suit worn helmet over the standard uniform. This short coverall fits over the equipment.

The helmet worn by Japanese Navy parachutists has been described as close fitting, made of brown leather with a red silk band at the level of the temples, thick cotton ear pads, and a leather band to cover the mouth. This fastens with a snap at the right end, and a buckle on the left end. A fur-lined version of this garment is worn in winter. Prior to the jump this flight helmet is replaced by the paratroops' standard cap (same material as uniform; havelock style with flaps in back and on each side) worn under the Navy steel helmet.

Special footgear, reaching halfway to the calf and designed for ankle support, is usually worn. Rubber boots also have been used. The Navy issued velvet-lined brown leather boots, with silk laces, 1/2-inch rubber soles,

and 1-inch rubber heels. On Leyte, however, the paratroops wore the regular Japanese Army wrap leggings and canvas rubber tabi (bifurcated shoes).

The clothing worn under the uniform is not unusual. A cream-colored undershirt, buttoning down the front, with elbow-length sleeves and a wide, open collar (to fold over outside jacket collar) ; cotton fundoshi (loin cloth) or drawers; and ordinary issue white socks are standard for summer for the Navy paratroops. In winter, a dark blue, heavy woolen sweater-shirt with wrist-length sleeves and dark blue, heavy woolen underpants, ankle length with elastic ankle bands, are worn over these garments, while heavy wool issue socks replace the others.

The only gloves described are unlined, five-fingered ones made of brown leather, with a 1-inch rubber band around the wrist.

Figure 31.--Shock-resisting helmet, worn by Army paratroops. Army star insignia is on the front.

Insignia

Insignia of branch of service worn by parachutists also varies. The arm band reported worn by Army paratroops is as shown in Figure 32. It was instituted on 10 September 1942 for "the Raiding Force commander and officers and their subordinates who are attached to a Raiding Force and

have been appointed as parachutists." The design represents the golden kite, legendary bird of Japanese history which, by the dazzling light of its plumage, so blinded the enemy host facing the Emperor Jimmu Tenno that the course of the battle was changed. Golden thread or yellow silk was to form the representation of the kite and handle of the spear; silver thread or white silk, the head of the spear, and the rest of the design was of scarlet silk embroidery. The background of the insignia was to be brown woolen cloth. This distinctive arm band was to be worn on the right arm, (4.7 inches) below the shoulder seam, on both winter and summer clothing. It

Figure 32.--"Golden Kite" sleeve insignia worn by Army paratroops. Golden, silver and scarlet embroidery form the design, which is on a brown background.

was to be worn with the good-conduct chevron, if the wearer had been given this award. Information concerning this arm band is from captured orders only-it has not been reported seen in action.

Navy paratroops wear a more orthodox designation of specialty, a circular patch, but in Japan only (Figure 33). Worn on the left shoulder,

Figure 33.-Distinctive sleeve insignia worn by Navy paratroops. Colors of patch are dark blue

and red for the winter uniform; black and white for the summer uniform.

the insignia is composed of two crossed, open parachutes superimposed over a Navy anchor. A cherry blossom above the anchor completes the design.

The insignia to be worn with the winter uniform has a dark blue background on which the designs are superimposed. The parachutes, anchor, and cherry blossom arc done in red. The suspension lines are black on white background. The insignia for the summer uniform has a white background with black parachutes, anchor, and cherry blossom.

In 1944 a report was made of a breast badge of the type worn on the uniform in combat regions by all ground troops. Hand-made, it was a white cloth patch with an appended design (a simple representation of an open parachute) and identifying inscription in black.

Individual Equipment

Parachute troops wear special packs and carriers for their equipment. The first ones observed wore a belt and suspender of very light webbing, supporting two rows of pouches for weapons and ammunition. Attached to the belt was a pistol holster, binocular case, haversack, water bottle, and bayonet frog. The men in the Leyte operations wore special canvas carriers, apparently issued only to paratroops, which were strapped to the outer portion of the thigh and leg. Each man could wear two of these, one on each side. These special carriers usually contained weapons and demolition

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