Akizuki Class Destroyer Summary

This is a 3D printed version of the Akizuki class destroyer from EBard Models. 

The Akizuki class destroyers were designed to complement the Kagerō class and served primarily as an anti-aircraft screening for carrier battle groups. There were 3 subclasses with the final 19 ships of the last subclass being cancelled due to the realities of war.

The Akizuki class was built using the newly developed Type 98 dual-purpose guns in four twin mounts as its main battery. The four turrets were placed in pairs fore and aft, with the middle positions located in a superfiring position. Unlike the larger weapons mounted by the preceding Kagerō class, these were true dual-purpose guns reloadable at any elevation and with a high reliability, rate of fire and range. The hull was 50 feet longer, and the displacement was 700 tons larger than the preceding Kagerō class. Unlike previous Japanese destroyer designs, there were two separate engine and boiler rooms for increased survivability in battle.

As the war progressed, the number of Type 96 guns were gradually increased. In 1942–1943, the twin mounts were replaced by triple mounts, and another two triple mounts were added abreast the smokestack. In late 1944 to early 1945, surviving members of the class received another triple mount abreast the bridge, and up to 24 more single mounts were added to various locations, giving each vessel a total of 41 guns.

During the war, the class proved to be a very capable multipurpose platform and was well regarded within the IJN.

Ship of Class

• Akizuki - Sunk during the Battle off Cape Engaño, October 1944.
• Teruzuki - Scuttled off Savo Island, December 1942
• Suzutsuki - Survived the war
• Hatsuzuki - Sunk during the Battle off Cape Engaño, October 1944
• Niizuki - Sunk during the Battle of Kula Gulf, July 1943
• Wakatsuki  - Sunk during the Battle of Ormoc Bay, November 1944
• Shimotsuki - Sunk off Anambas Islands, November 1944
• Fuyutsuki - Survived the war
• Harutsuki - Survived the war
• Yoizuki - Survived the war
• Natsuzuki - Survived the war
• Michitsuki - Not finished
• Hanazuki - Survived the war

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