The Imperial Japanese Navy's Best Destroyers During World War II

The nature of 'best' can be subjective, but when considering the effectiveness and impact during World War II, the Shimakaze and the Kagero class both stand out prominently. The Shimakaze's capabilities, although never fully tested, and the Kagero class's active roles in crucial battles make them significant contenders. This article explores the merits of both, supported by historical data and images from 1943 and 1941.

The Shimakaze: The Toughest But Never Fully Tested

Shimakaze was the pinnacle of Imperial Japanese Navy destroyer design during World War II. Commissioned in May 1943, the Shimakaze was equipped with 15 24-inch 61 cm torpedo tubes in three quintuple mounts. These torpedoes were significantly larger, more powerful, and had longer ranges compared to others in the war. She could reach speeds up to 40.9 knots, offering exceptional maneuverability and speed.

However, Shimakaze's capabilities were never fully tested in combat. Her missions included escort duties and occasional shore bombardments, although she was technically involved in the Battle of Samar. Ultimately, she was sunk by air attacks during the Battle of Ormoc Bay.

The Kagero Class: Proven Versatility and Bravery

In terms of operational effectiveness and impact, the Kagero class emerges as the standout choice. Not as overpowered as the Shimakaze, the Kagero class was still highly capable and saw distinguished service. This class included notable ships like Amatsukaze, Nowaki, and Arashi.

A notable achievement of the Kagero class was the single-handed capture of the port of Davao by Amatsukaze. During the hunt in the Indian Ocean, Nowaki and Arashi sunk several enemy vessels, including the destroyer Stronghold, the gunboats Asheville and Yarra, a depot ship, a minesweeper, and an oil tanker. Amatsukaze and Hatsukaze crippled the submarine Perch, which was later finished off by the Yukikaze and Ushio.

The Kageros' first major engagement was the Naval Battle of Guadalcanal in 1942. Yukikaze and Amatsukaze endured heavy combat, sinking the destroyer Barton and helping to sink the light cruiser Juneau. Despite receiving significant damage, Yukikaze survived the battle and later sank the destroyer Laffey with a torpedo hit that detonated her magazines.

Key Battles and Battleships

The Kagero class fought in several significant battles, including the Battle of Tassafaronga in 1943, where the Oyashio crippled the heavy cruiser Pensacola. In 1944, the class participated in the Battle of Leyte Gulf, engaging the crippled destroyer Johnston. The Kageros also faced numerous losses and sinking due to air attacks, submarines, and surface actions by late 1944.

Ultimately, in 1945, three of the surviving Kageros, Amatsukaze, Yukikaze, and Isokaze, were sunk during the Battle of Okinawa, while others were sold for scrap after the war.

Despite the challenges, the Kagero class's legacy continues to be remembered for their remarkable bravery and contributions to the Imperial Japanese Navy during World War II.