Four Mitsubishi F1M2 “Pete” floatplanes, relics of World War II, are currently for sale in Blenheim, New Zealand. The airframes, offered by Controller.com, are described as complete fuselages but lacking wings and engines based on photos provided.
By Imperial Japanese Navy – <a rel=”nofollow” class=”external free” href=”https://www.tracesofwar.com/upload/articles/f1m_00637_2g.jpg”>https://www.tracesofwar.com/upload/articles/f1m_00637_2g.jpg</a>, Public Domain, Link
The F1M2 was a reconnaissance floatplane developed by Mitsubishi and served extensively for the Imperial Japanese Navy during the war.
Nicknamed “Pete” by the Allies, the F1M2 saw action in various roles, including reconnaissance, gunnery spotting, anti-submarine warfare, and even limited aerial combat.
While the New Zealand offering consists solely of fuselages, one notably includes its original instrument panel with compass, gunsight, and period-correct radio equipment. The availability of these parts could be valuable for restoration efforts.
The listing presents a unique opportunity for aviation enthusiasts, museums, or collectors seeking to restore a piece of WWII history. The rarity of the F1M2, with no known airworthy examples in existence, adds to the significance of this offering.
Details on pricing and restoration potential are not publicly available. Interested parties are encouraged to contact Controller.com directly using the link below.
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