description HIJMS Kaga Overview
Kaga was an Imperial Japanese Navy aircraft carrier originally laid down as a battleship before being converted under the naval treaty restrictions of the 1920s. It participated in operations in China and in the attack on Pearl Harbor as part of Japan's carrier striking force. American carrier aircraft fatally damaged it during the Battle of Midway on 4 June 1942, and Japanese forces subsequently scuttled the ship.
insights Ranking position
HIJMS Kaga ranks #29 of 186 in the Shipwreck ranking, behind USS Johnston (DD-557), ahead of SS Eastland.
help HIJMS Kaga FAQ
Why was Kaga converted from a battleship into an aircraft carrier?
Kaga was laid down as a Tosa-class battleship, but naval limitations imposed during the 1920s changed Japan's construction plans. After the carrier Amagi was damaged in the 1923 Great Kanto earthquake, Kaga was selected for conversion in its place.
What role did Kaga play in the attack on Pearl Harbor?
Kaga was one of six Japanese fleet carriers in the striking force that attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Its aircraft participated in both attack waves against American ships and installations.
How was Kaga sunk at the Battle of Midway?
American dive bombers from USS Enterprise hit Kaga during the carrier attacks on June 4, 1942. Fires and exploding fuel and ordnance left the ship beyond saving, and Japanese destroyers later completed its sinking.
Has the wreck of Kaga been found?
Yes, the crew of the research vessel Petrel identified Kaga's main wreck in October 2019. It lies about 5,400 meters below the surface within Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument.
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