Mitsubishi J2M3, 3014
History
The specific aircraft on display at the Planes of Fame Museum in Chino is one of the few surviving examples of the J2M3 Raiden. Serial No. 3014 was recovered after the war, and over the years, it has undergone extensive restoration to bring it back to its former glory.
The history of this particular aircraft is not fully documented, but it is believed to have been one of the J2M3s used in the later stages of the Pacific War, likely seeing action in the defense of the Japanese home islands. Given the scarcity of J2M3 aircraft after the war, serial No. 3014 is one of only a handful of examples that still exist, making it a highly valuable artifact for both historical and educational purposes.
In 2003, Planes of Fame Museum acquired the aircraft, and it has since been carefully restored to flying condition, making it one of the few Raiden variants in the world that can still take to the skies. The museum's aircraft, including the J2M3, play a crucial role in educating visitors about the aircraft of World War II and the technological advancements that took place during that period.