01/15/2019. Remarks by Walter van Tilborg: "Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd (Fuji Jukogyo KK) developed its LM/KM series from the Beechcraft T-34A Mentor trainer (which was license-built by the company) to meet a JGSDF (Japan Ground Self Defense Force) requirement for a four-seat liaison and communications aircraft. The LM/KM differed from the T-34 having a more powerful engine in the KM, a redesigned mid-fuselage with accommodation for four persons and a new and larger cockpit canopy.

LM-1 Nikko: The first variant, which was powered by a 225 hp Continental O-470-13A, as used in the T-34A, driving a two-bladed propeller. The first aircraft (registered JA3098) flew on June 7, 1955 and a small batch was delivered to the JGSDF.
LM-2: Designation for three modified LM-1 aircraft, converted during 1963-1966, with a more powerful 340 hp Lycoming IGSO-480-B1A6 with three-bladed propeller and receiving new serial numbers (21051-21053). Externally these aircraft differed from the LM-1 in having a small additional air scoop on the port side of the cowling. The three aircraft later went to private owners in the USA.
XKM: One prototype aircraft, modified from an LM-1, with a 340 hp IGSO-480-B1A and first flown on December 1, 1958, preceding the similarly-powered LM-2. This version was intended a fully IFR-equipped four-seat utility aircraft for civil use, but development was stopped.
KM-1: One new production aircraft which was very similar to the XKM and it was delivered to the Japanese Government.
KM-2: Developed for the JMSDF (Japan Maritime Self Defense Force) as dual-control trainer with side-by-side seating, although it retained the large LM type canopy and it had optional seating for four persons. Power came from a 340 hp IGSO-480-A1F6 and the final 34 production aircraft received a larger intake and spinner. The KM-2 featured additional cockpit windows and the entry door was relocated to the port side. The first KM-2 made the first flight in 1962.
KM-2B (T-3A): Much developed tandem two-seat trainer model.
KM-2D (T-5/KM-2Bkai): Private venture prototype which led to the T-5 trainer.
TL-1: Designation for two JMSDF KM-2 aircraft which were later modified into full four-seaters for use in the liaison and communications role with the JGSDF. The TL-1s were delivered in 1981. Both aircraft were re-transferred to the JMSDF during the ealy-1990s and designated as KM-2 again."