Japanese battleship Hyūga

Hyūga: The Last of the Ise-Class Battleships

Imagine a time when battleships were not just symbols of naval power but also vessels that could adapt to changing warfare. Enter Hyūga, the second and last of the Ise-class battleships built for the Imperial Japanese Navy during the 1910s. This ship, named after Hyūga Province in Japan, was more than just a floating fortress; it was a testament to the ingenuity and foresight of naval architects.

From Design to Deployment

Hyūga was laid down in 1915 and launched in 1917. By the time she was completed in 1918, the world had already seen the beginning of World War I. However, Hyūga played a minor role in this conflict, patrolling off the coast of Siberia during the Russian Civil War. Her journey began with a focus on traditional battleship capabilities but her future was far from certain.

Modernization and Adaptation

The 1920s and 1930s saw Hyūga undergo significant modernizations, including the installation of improved armor and propulsion machinery. By the eve of World War II, she was considered obsolete for her primary role. Yet, the Japanese Navy had a plan to breathe new life into these aging giants.

The Conversion to a Hybrid Carrier

With the loss of four aircraft carriers during the Battle of Midway in June 1942, alternatives were desperately sought. The Ise-class ships, including Hyūga, were chosen for conversion into hybrid battleship-carriers. This transformation involved removing the rear pair of turrets and replacing them with a flight deck equipped with two rotating catapults.

The conversion was officially completed on 18 November 1943 under Captain Tomekichi Nomura’s command. The ship now had a capacity for nine aircraft, with eleven more stowed on deck, and one on each catapult for a total of twenty-two. This hybrid design allowed Hyūga to operate as both a battleship and an air group carrier.

Service in the Pacific War

Hyūga served with distinction during the early stages of the Pacific War, participating in several notable incidents. In May 1942, while conducting gunnery practice along with Nagato and Mutsu, a breech explosion in Hyūga‘s left-hand gun killed 51 crewmen. The ship returned to Kure for repairs.

The ship’s role expanded as the war progressed. In February 1943, she was assigned to the direct control of the Combined Fleet and transferred to the Third Fleet in May. By October, Hyūga had become the flagship of the Fourth Carrier Division, leading missions that aimed to draw American attention away from other forces.

The Final Days

On 25 February 1945, Hyūga was part of a convoy loaded with troops and munitions for Manila. However, news of heavy American air attacks on Manila forced the convoy to be diverted to the Spratly Islands. The division arrived at Lingga Island near Singapore on 20 November.

The final mission of Hyūga was Operation Kita, where she and her sister ship Ise were loaded with critical supplies and surplus oil workers. On 10 February 1945, the convoy was spotted by British submarine HMS Tantalus but managed to evade attack. The journey ended in disaster when Hyūga was struck by bombs during an American air raid on Kure on 24 July 1945.

The End of an Era

Hyūga was re-designated as a fourth-class reserve ship and towed to Hiroshima Bay. She was attacked by USAAF B-24 Liberators on 29 July, causing progressive flooding that led to her sinking in shallow water. Her crew abandoned the ship three days later.

Hyūga was removed from the Navy List on 20 November 1945 and her wreck was raised and broken up by Kure Dockyard of the Harima Zōsen Corporation between 2 July 1946 to 4 July 1947.

Hyūga’s story is a poignant reminder of the rapid changes in naval warfare and the adaptability required by navies. From a traditional battleship to a hybrid carrier, her journey reflects the challenges faced during one of history’s most tumultuous periods.

In conclusion, Hyūga‘s legacy lies not just in its design but in its ability to evolve with changing circumstances. As we look back at this remarkable ship, it serves as a symbol of innovation and resilience in the face of adversity.