The Imperial Japanese Army developed the Kayaba Ka-1 autogyro for reconnaissance, artillery-spotting, and anti-submarine uses. The Ka-1 was based on the Kellett KD-1 first imported to Japan in 1938. The craft was initially developed for use as an observation platform and for artillery spotting duties. The army liked the craft's short take-off span, and especially its low maintenance requirements. Production began in 1941, with the machines assigned to artillery units for spotting the fall of shells. These carried two crewmen: a pilot and a spotter.
The Imperial Japanese Army developed the Kayaba Ka-1 autogyro for reconnaissance artillery-spotting and anti-submarine uses The Ka-1 was based on the Kellett KD-1 first imported to Japan in 1938 The craft was initially developed for use as an observation platform and for artillery spotting duties The army liked the craft's short take-off span and especially its low maintenance requirements Production began in 1941 with the machines assigned to artillery units for spotting the fall of shells These carried two crewmen a pilot and a spotter