The first Mitsubishi company was a shipping firm launched in 1871 although it didn't take the name Mitsubishi Shokai until 1874.

Among the first Mitsubishi aircraft was the 1MF. Designed by Herbert Smith of the Sopwith company, the aircraft was produced by the Mitsubishi Internal Combustion Engine Co. The 1MF entered production in 1921.

Mitsubishi was the first producer of aircraft engines in Japan.

Mitsubishi produced both aircraft and engines for the Imperial Japanese Army and Navy through World War II. During World War II it ranked first in production with 38% of the national output of engines.

The allied occupation after the war split the Mitsubishi companies into smaller enterprises. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries continues to produce civil and military aircraft and engines.

Mitsubishi Corporation is one of the world's most diverse enterprises. This diversity is manifested in MC's 780 subsidiaries and affiliates and its network of 39 offices in Japan and 109 overseas. The company's extensive network and wide-ranging activities give it a decisive edge in gathering the timely, accurate market information vital to success. The company's seven business groups - New Business Initiative, IT & Electronics Business, Energy business, Metals, Machinery, Chemicals and Living Essentials - work closely with clients to develop new business opportunities. Project coordination, sourcing of raw materials, investments and development of sales channels are typical of the ways Mitsubishi Corporation creates value for business partners, customers and shareholders. Mitsubishi Corporation is mid-way through its current three-year business plan, which outlines the company's growth strategies for creating value. These strategies include reshaping our existing business portfolio and forging new business models through the convergence of offline and online businesses.