It was necessary to create a Japanese Air Force to accurately film 20th Century Fox’s “Tora! Tora! Tora!” since no World War II Japanese air¬craft existed in any quantity. Three types were needed; Nakajima B5N 2 “Kate” torpedo bombers, Mitsubishi A6M “Zero” fighters, and Aichi D3A “Val” dive bombers. Ten of each were needed.
The “Vals” were made in 1968 by Steward-Davis from BT¬13’s, the Vultee “Vibrator”, also with the 600 hp Pratt & Whitney. Primary modifications to the BT 13 were a new cowl, extended canopy “Green¬house”, re designed vertical fin, wing dive brakes, heavily spatted main gear, and bomb rack. With the larger engine and wheel fairings this aircraft performs better than the original.
Ten were built, the first N56336. One, N63227, crashed in Hawaii during filming.
All Aero 