Magnificent Lightning - the Kyushu J7W Shinden
Too late for the fight

The Kyushu J7W Shinden interceptor stands out amidst the numerous technological advancements achieved by Japan late in World War II. Its unique canard design, comprising of smaller wings towards the front and main ones towards the back, was meticulously crafted to intercept and engage B-29's at high altitudes. The Mitsubishi Ha-43 engine, producing 2,130 hp powered the Shinden to theoretical a top speed of 750 km/h, thereby rendering it
a formidable force in the skies.

The first prototype was completed in March of 1945, but it wasn’t until August of that year that it took to the skies. The war concluded before the Shinden could be productionised or utilized in combat. Only two prototypes were ever constructed, and they were ultimately broken up by Allied forces during the occupation of Japan.

The segmented remains of one of the prototypes can be seen today in the Steven F. Udvar Hazy Center as part of the National Air and Space Museum. Washington Dulles International Airport, Chantilly, Virginia