Did Any US Submarines Sink a Japanese Battleship During WWII? How Many?

During the tumultuous years of World War II, the United States Navy's submarine fleet played a critical role in the naval conflict, particularly in targeting Japanese merchant ships and oil tankers. However, the question of whether a US submarine managed to sink a significant number of Japanese battleships has often been a subject of discussions and debates.

Overview of Japan's Capital Ships

In the early years of WWII, Japan boasted a formidable fleet including 12 battleships and 13 fleet carriers. By the end of the war, only 1 battleship and 2 fleet carriers remained afloat and surrendered. Notably, only the fleet carrier Katsuragi was considered operable, while the rest were lost in the course of the conflict.

US Submarine Contributions

In the early stages of the war, the primary targets for US submarines were merchant vessels, as they made up the majority of the Japanese fleet. The emphasis on sinking cargo ships and oil tankers was strategic, as these were deemed essential for Japan's war effort. However, US submarines did not shy away from sinking capital ships when the opportunity arose.

Notable Submarine Victories

Three of Japan's fleet carriers were directly sunk by US submarines, while the fate of a fourth carrier was a shared kill. The veteran carrier Shokaku, which had participated in numerous battles including the attack on Pearl Harbor, was sunk by the submarine Cavalla during the Battle of the Philippine Sea. The relatively new carrier Unryu met its end at the hands of the submarine Redfish. And most impressively, the brand-new Shinano, which embarked on her maiden voyage, was sunk by the submarine Archerfish.

A Shared Triumph: The USS Taiho's Fall

Another notable event involved the aircraft carrier Taiho. Despite being hit by a torpedo from the submarine Albacore during the Battle of the Philippine Sea, the damage control officer aboard Taiho inadvertently led to her demise. His effort to dissipate an explosive gas leak using vent fans proved catastrophic, resulting in an explosion that doomed the carrier.

Less Effective Campaigns Against Battleships

While US submarines were effective in targeting carriers, their efforts against Japanese battleships were less successful. Out of the 11 battleships lost during the war, only one, the Kongo, was sunk by a submarine, namely the Sealion. The Kongo was dispatched immediately after the Battle of Leyte Gulf, where she joined the disastrous series of battles that saw Japan's surface fleet all but destroyed. This battle also had a significant impact, claiming four of the 12 Japanese battleships and the carrier Zuikaku, one of the raiders from Pearl Harbor.

These events highlight the complexities of naval warfare during World War II and the crucial role played by US submarines in the conflict. Whether it was sinking merchant ships, fleet carriers, or battleships, the US submarine fleet demonstrated immense bravery and resilience in their pursuit of victory.

Conclusion

The history of US submarine operations against Japanese capital ships during World War II is marked by both success and failure. While the US subs made significant contributions to the overall war effort, particularly through the sinking of merchant ships and oil tankers, they also achieved notable victories against Japanese naval forces. Understanding these efforts provides us with valuable insights into the strategic and tactical aspects of naval warfare during one of the most significant conflicts in world history.