The four units of the Shimushu Class were ordered by the IJN in 1937 as
general purpose escorts. They were also fitted with minesweeping gear. This gear
was removed in May 1942 and the classes' depth charge capacity was doubled to 24
DCs. Experience against American aircraft also resulted in an increase to 15
Type 96 25-mm AA guns. By late 1943, the class was fitted with a 3-inch trench
mortar, Type 22 radar, Type 93 sonar, 6 depth charge throwers and 60 Type 2
depth charges to combat the increasing submarine menace.
Shimushu Class Escort Vessels
Builders and
Year Completed:Various
1940
Displacement:
860-tons standard.
Dimensions:
255' x 32.5' x 10'
Propulsion:
2-shaft geared diesel engines, 4200 b.h.p, speed
19.5 knots
Armament:
3 x 4.7-inch 120-mm)/45 cal HA (3x1), 4 Type 96
25-mm AA (2x2), 12 depth charges.
