The Hashima class of four units were the first of the IJN's purpose-built cable layer types. They were multipurpose, but built with a small mine compartment, they could only carry four sets of Type 92 remotely-controlled anti-submarine mines. Each set included six mines and a hydrophone sound detector, connected with cables. Their original armament also included nine depth charges (alternatively 18 depth charges could be carried). The holds were enlarged in 1943-44 to enable them to carry 120 mines. The ships were also fitted with a sonar and the number of depth charges carried was increased to 60. This was done at the respective navy yards to which the HASHIMAs were attached. During the later refits, their AA armament also was strengthened. The class carried 20 km length of cable and was able to retrieve the cable with an installed crane and cable reels. The cables were used to secure mines (mostly, Type 92 wired mines). The ships also laid undersea telegraph cables.
| Builder and Year Completed: | Harima, Aioi and Kawasaki, Kobe 1940-1941 |
| Displacement: | 1,560 tons (standard) |
| Dimensions: | 257’4’’ x 33’’.8’ x 11’’4’ |
| Propulsion: | Coal fired reciprocating steam engines, 2 boilers, 2-shafts, 2300 i.h.p., speed 14 knots |
| Armament: | 1-8cm/40cal AA gun, 2-13.2mm mg AA, 2 depth charge throwers 120 mines |
