Tells of the loss of the I.J.N. aircraft carrier HIYO.

Basic Ship Data:

HIYO was formerly the passenger ship HITAKA; recommissioned as an aircraft carrier in 1943.

Displacement: 27,000 tons
Length: 230 meters
Beam: 27 meters
Draft: unknown
Armor: unknown
Speed: 23 knots
Power: diesel (hp unknown)
Aircraft: 60 aircraft
Guns: sixteen 127mm dual-purpose guns
AA Guns: many 47mm and 25mm automatic guns

Damage to and Circumstances of the Loss of the Ship

During the action in the Philippine Sea, HIYO sustained an attack by air (bombs and torpedoes). As a result of this action, one aerial torpedo his the extreme stern section of the ship which damaged the bridge structure, and the ship lost way. Then a submerged attack by submarines resulted in yet another torpedo hit on the ship. A huge fire broke out on board and the carrier quickly sank.

Conclusions:

HIYO was sunk within a few hours from the time it was hit with two torpedoes, one from an aircraft, the other from a submarine.

The loss of the Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS ILLUSTRIOUS will be covered next month in KTB #112.