Shokaku-Class Aircraft Carriers: In the Imperial Japanese Navy during World War II

The Shōkaku class aircraft carriers were the most successful designed by the Imperial Japanese Navy, combining excellent striking power with good protection. They participated in all carrier battles with the exception of Midway and Cape Engaño in 1944. This is the history of their design and construction, based on Japanese source material and includes numerous photos and drawings.

Format: Hardback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 28 July 2023
Publisher: Schiffer Publishing Ltd

The Shōkaku class of aircraft carriers, designed by the Imperial Japanese Navy, is widely considered to be the most successful of its kind. These carriers entered service just before the devastating Pearl Harbor attack in December 1941, and their remarkable combat records speak for themselves. In comparison to their predecessors, the Shōkaku class represented a significant design breakthrough, combining excellent striking power with robust protection. Even the United States Navy had high praise for these ships. Throughout the Pacific War, the two ships of the class participated in all major carrier battles, with the exception of Midway. Unfortunately, Shōkaku was lost in the Battle of the Philippine Sea, while Zuikaku was sunk off Cape Engaño (Battle of Leyte Gulf) in 1944. This comprehensive history delves into the design and construction of these remarkable vessels, drawing heavily on Japanese source material and featuring numerous photographs and drawings.

Weight: 864g
Dimension: 235 x 237 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780764366512