Ryu was originally a Sky Forcer code-named "W6" alongside his girlfriend Rie Aoi. The two loved each other greatly and were effective together in combat. This led Commander Aya Odagiri to select them for her Jetman project. On the day they were scheduled to receive their Birdonic Waves, Vyram attacked their military base just as soon as Ryu got his power. Rie was sucked out of the base into space and presumed dead. The remaining Birdonic Waves travelled to Earth and struck four random civilians. Ryu and his commander Aya escaped the exploding base and set out to find the four to form the Jetman.

Ryu recruited Raita Oishi and Kaori Rokumeikan without much difficulty, but had particular trouble with Gai Yuki, who hated his straight-laced attitude. He and Gai even came to blows when they first met, but due to other circumstances, Gai did end up joining the team regardless. Once Ako Hayasaka was also found, Chojin Sentai Jetman fully assembled with Ryu as the field leader.