Difference between revisions of "IJN Aoba"

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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the first part of the description, cover the history of the ship's creation and military application. In the second part, tell the reader about using this ship in the game. Add a screenshot: if a beginner player has a hard time remembering vehicles by name, a picture will help them identify the ship in question.'' -->
 
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Japanese heavy cruiser {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Direct Hit"]].
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The '''Aoba''' (青葉, [[Abbreviations#.28JP.29_Naval|namesake]]: Mount Aoba) was a Japanese heavy cruiser commissioned in September 1927, designed as a modified version of the [[Furutaka (Family)|Furutaka-class]] with improved twin [[20 cm/50 3rd year type No.2 (203 mm)|20.3 cm gun]] turrets and aircraft catapults. Despite being overweight upon completion, she joined the Sixth Squadron alongside her sister ship Kinugasa and the two Furutaka-class vessels, participating in patrols along the China coast during the 1920s and 1930s. During the Second World War, Aoba took part in the invasions of Guam and Wake Island in December 1941, escorted the light carrier Shōhō during the Battle of the Coral Sea in May 1942, and was involved in the Battle of Savo Island in August 1942, where she contributed to the sinking of several Allied cruisers. In October 1942, at the Battle of Cape Esperance, Aoba was severely damaged, losing her second and third turrets and suffering heavy casualties, including the death of Rear Admiral Goto. After repairs, she returned to action but was damaged again by an air raid in April 1943, leading to her being disguised as an island, nicknamed "The Aoba Island", to avoid detection while undergoing emergency repairs. She continued to serve in escort and patrol duties despite engine damage limiting her speed but suffered further torpedo and air attack damages in late 1944, eventually being deemed irreparable and reclassified as a reserve ship. In 1945, Aoba was converted into a floating anti-aircraft battery but was sunk during air raids on Kure in July, settling at the bottom of the harbour with her stern broken off. Her wreck was scrapped between 1946 and 1947.
  
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While orignially part of the Furutaka class heavy cruisers first laid down in 1922, but in 1924 the development of new guns and turrets prompted the modification of Aoba and her sister ship Kinugasa which were then placed into their own class with Aoba being the leadship. Aoba shares her armour and main armament with [https://wiki.warthunder.com/IJN_Furutaka Furutaka] while having vastly improved anti-aircraft capability and can be played in a similar manner.
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' was introduced in [[Update "Direct Hit"]]. She shares her survivability, mobility, and main armament with [[IJN Furutaka|Furutaka]], with the key difference being her vastly improved anti-aircraft capability, which also includes a simple air-search radar but lacks the [[Shipboard reconnaissance aircraft|hydroplane]]. In all other ways, the vessel performs exactly the same as its direct predecessor, possessing excellent main guns, outstanding torpedoes, and a decent capability for dealing with coastal vessels. One of the class's biggest advantages are its deeply submerged magazines, making direct explosions of the [[ammo racks]] much less likely than among the foreign equivalents. However, her poorly protected turrets are easy to knock out, even by enemy destroyers or frigates.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
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{{Specs-Fleet-Armour}}
 
{{Specs-Fleet-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''Talk about the vehicle's armour. Note the most well-defended and most vulnerable zones, e.g. the ammo magazine. Evaluate the composition of components and assemblies responsible for movement and manoeuvrability. Evaluate the survivability of the primary and secondary armaments separately. Don't forget to mention the size of the crew, which plays an important role in fleet mechanics. Save tips on preserving survivability for the "Usage in battles" section. If necessary, use a graphical template to show the most well-protected or most vulnerable points in the armour.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Talk about the vehicle's armour. Note the most well-defended and most vulnerable zones, e.g. the ammo magazine. Evaluate the composition of components and assemblies responsible for movement and manoeuvrability. Evaluate the survivability of the primary and secondary armaments separately. Don't forget to mention the size of the crew, which plays an important role in fleet mechanics. Save tips on preserving survivability for the "Usage in battles" section. If necessary, use a graphical template to show the most well-protected or most vulnerable points in the armour.'' -->
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Aoba is lightly armoured. The belt armour is only 76.2mm of Rolled Homogeneous Armour (RHA) and does not extend towards the front and rear turrets to offer additional protection for the magazines, most other heavy heavy cruisers and some light cruisers have thicker armour. Fortunately, the ammunition magazines for the main guns are bellow the water line and the top is covered by 32mm of RHA. The fuel tanks in the centre are protected by the belt armour, but the thin steel means these will get set on fire which can then spread to the engines. Additional fuel tanks in the bow and stern are completely unprotected and since they are located quite close to the ammunition, the fire can spread to the ammunition. The turrets are large and easy to hit, with only 25mm of RHA. HE from destroyer calibre guns have no issue dissabling the turrets.
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Aoba is lightly armoured. The belt armour is only 76.2 mm of rolled homogeneous armour (RHA) and does not extend towards the front and rear turrets to offer additional protection for the magazines; most other heavy cruisers and some light cruisers have thicker armour. Fortunately, the ammunition magazines for the main guns are below the water line and the top is covered by 32 mm of RHA. The fuel tanks in the centre are protected by the belt armour, but the thin steel means these can be easily set on fire which can then spread to the engines. Additional fuel tanks in the bow and stern are completely unprotected and since they are located quite close to the ammunition, the fire can spread to the ammunition. The turrets are large and easy to hit, with only 25mm of RHA. HE from destroyer calibre guns have no issue disabling the turrets.
  
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With only 657 crew, Aoba has the second least amount of sailors for a heavy cruiser after IJN Kako. This leaves her vulnerable to complete crew loss in a few minutes if concentrated upon by multiple ships.
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With only 657 crew, Aoba has the second fewest number of sailors for a heavy cruiser after [[IJN Kako]]. This leaves her vulnerable to complete crew loss in a few minutes if concentrated upon by multiple ships.
  
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Although can be easily put Aoba out of commission by other cruisers, destroyers will have a hard time dealing any significant damage outside of disabling turrets and starting fires.  
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Although other cruisers can easily put Aoba out of commission, destroyers will have a hard time dealing any significant damage outside of disabling turrets and starting fires.
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
 
{{Specs-Fleet-Mobility}}
 
{{Specs-Fleet-Mobility}}
 
<!-- ''Write about the ship's mobility. Evaluate its power and manoeuvrability, rudder rerouting speed, stopping speed at full tilt, with its maximum forward and reverse speed.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Write about the ship's mobility. Evaluate its power and manoeuvrability, rudder rerouting speed, stopping speed at full tilt, with its maximum forward and reverse speed.'' -->
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''Write about the ship's mobility. Evaluate its power and manoeuvrability, rudder rerouting speed, stopping speed at full tilt, with its maximum forward and reverse speed.''
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With 12 boilers producing 102,000 SHP combined, Aoba will accelerate to her top speed of 72 km/h (38.9 knots) in AB and 62 km/h (33.5 knots) in RB in 40 seconds. In Arcade, the rudder takes 7 seconds to traverse completely from either side to the next and Aoba can complete a sustained turn in 102 seconds. Realistic battles drops Aoba's sustained turn time to 180 seconds. Overall, Aoba has good mobility, closely matching a number of lighter vessels such as the Omaha-class and Leipzig-class cruisers.
  
 
{{NavalMobility}}
 
{{NavalMobility}}
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{{main|20 cm/50 3rd year type No.2 (203 mm)}}
 
{{main|20 cm/50 3rd year type No.2 (203 mm)}}
  
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Aoba has 6 x 20.3cm/50 3rd year type No.2 guns split into 3 turrets with 2 guns each. 2 turrets are forward and a single is aft of the superstructure. The forward turrets are superfiring, meaning the one behind can shoot over the one in front. She can use HE, HE-TF and AP shells. The turrets have a slow rotation speed but great firing angles. The guns have a reload rate of 12 seconds with the top crew skills, putting them on par with the German Admiral hipper class and British County class heavy cruisers.
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Aoba has 6 x 20.3 cm/50 3rd year type No.2 guns split into 3 turrets with 2 guns each. 2 turrets are forward and a single aft of the superstructure. The forward turrets are superfiring, meaning the one behind can shoot over the one in front. She can use HE, HE-TF, and AP shells. The turrets have a slow rotation speed but great firing angles. The guns have a reload time of 12 seconds with the top crew skills, putting them on par with the German Admiral Hipper-class and British County-class heavy cruisers.  
  
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HE-TF should be avoided since the slow turret rotation speed and low rate of fire makes this shell basically useless against air targets and cannot be used against surface targets like HE-VT. The AP has the best HE filler of all the 20.3cm (8 inch) armed cruisers and is shared with the much larger and more powerfull heavy cruisers in the Japanese fleet, Mogami and Tone. The great HE filler deals significant damage to cruisers and has an increased chance of detonating the ammunition storages of enemy ships.
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HE-TF should be avoided since the slow turret rotation speed and low rate of fire makes this shell basically useless against air targets, and it is not effective against surface targets unlike HE-VT. However, the AP has the best HE filler of all the 20.3 cm (8 inch) armed cruisers and is shared with the much larger and more powerful heavy cruisers in the Japanese fleet, [[IJN Mogami|Mogami]] and [[IJN Tone|Tone]]. The great HE filler deals significant damage to cruisers and has an increased chance of detonating the ammunition storages of enemy ships.
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{{:20 cm/50 3rd year type No.2 (203 mm)/Ammunition|20.3 cm Type 0 HE, 20.3 cm Type 91 AP, 20.3 cm Type 0 HE-TF}}
  
 
=== Secondary armament ===
 
=== Secondary armament ===
 
{{Specs-Fleet-Secondary}}
 
{{Specs-Fleet-Secondary}}
 
<!-- ''Some ships are fitted with weapons of various calibres. Secondary armaments are defined as weapons chosen with the control <code>Select secondary weapon</code>. Evaluate the secondary armaments and give advice on how to use them. Describe the ammunition available for the secondary armament. Provide recommendations on how to use them and which ammunition to choose. Remember that any anti-air armament, even heavy calibre weapons, belong in the next section. If there is no secondary armament, remove this section.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Some ships are fitted with weapons of various calibres. Secondary armaments are defined as weapons chosen with the control <code>Select secondary weapon</code>. Evaluate the secondary armaments and give advice on how to use them. Describe the ammunition available for the secondary armament. Provide recommendations on how to use them and which ammunition to choose. Remember that any anti-air armament, even heavy calibre weapons, belong in the next section. If there is no secondary armament, remove this section.'' -->
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{{main|120 mm/45 10th year type (120 mm)}}Aoba comes equiped with 4 turrets with a single 120mm gun each, they . These guns are dual purpose, able to use HE-TF against aircraft. Since there are only 4 guns however, it is unlikey these will deter any oncomming aircraft. With very thin armour, and limited numbers, these guns are not all that usefull.
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{{main|120 mm/45 10th year type (120 mm)}}
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Aoba comes equipped with 4 turrets with a single 120 mm gun each. These guns are dual purpose, able to use HE-TF against aircraft. Since there are only 4 guns however, it is unlikely these will deter any oncoming aircraft. With very thin armour, and limited numbers, these guns are not all that useful.
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{{:120 mm/45 10th year type (120 mm)/Ammunition|120 mm Type 1 HE, 120 mm Type 0 HE}}
  
 
=== Anti-aircraft armament ===
 
=== Anti-aircraft armament ===
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{{main|25 mm/60 Type 96 (25 mm)}}
 
{{main|25 mm/60 Type 96 (25 mm)}}
  
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Aoba sees a great improvement over Furutaka in AA, going from just 4x dual mount 25mm auto cannons and 2x13.2mm machine guns to 15x single mount 25mm auto cannons, 10x double mount 25 and 5x triple mount 25mm cannons. The 25mm auto cannons can shoot down fighters and small attackers with ease, although some heavier aircraft such as bombers can shrug off enough of the fire to get close enough to drop bombs or torpedoes.
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Aoba sees a great improvement over Furutaka in the anti-air department, going from just 4 x dual mount 25 mm auto cannons and 2 x 13.2 mm machine guns, to 15 x single mount, 10 x double mount, and 5 x triple mount 25 mm cannons (a total of 50 cannons overall). The 25 mm auto cannons can shoot down fighters and small attackers with ease, although some heavier aircraft such as bombers can shrug off enough of the fire to get close enough to drop bombs or torpedoes, although the addition of an air search radar allows the player to spot and plan for air attacks.
  
 
=== Additional armament ===
 
=== Additional armament ===
 
{{Specs-Fleet-Additional}}
 
{{Specs-Fleet-Additional}}
 
<!-- ''Describe the available additional armaments of the ship: depth charges, mines, torpedoes. Talk about their positions, available ammunition and launch features such as dead zones of torpedoes. If there is no additional armament, remove this section.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the available additional armaments of the ship: depth charges, mines, torpedoes. Talk about their positions, available ammunition and launch features such as dead zones of torpedoes. If there is no additional armament, remove this section.'' -->
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{{main|Type 93 Model 1, Mod 2 (610 mm)}}The Type 93 torpedoes can be found on Aoba. Also nicknamed the "Long Lance", these are arguably the best family of torpedoes in the game. The ones carried by Aoba are the longer range versions. With a top speed of 93km/h (50 Knots), range of 20km and explosive TNT equivalent of over 600kg, these torpedoes have the power to destroy even battleships with a single salvo.
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{{main|Type 93 Model 1, Mod 2 (610 mm)}}
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The Type 93 torpedoes can be found on Aoba. Also nicknamed the "Long Lance", these are arguably the best family of torpedoes in the game. The ones carried by Aoba are the longer range versions. With a top speed of 93 km/h (50 knots), range of 20 km, and explosive TNT equivalent of over 600 kg, these torpedoes have the power to destroy even battleships with a single salvo.
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the technique of using this ship, the characteristics of her use in a team and tips on strategy. Abstain from writing an entire guide – don't try to provide a single point of view, but give the reader food for thought. Talk about the most dangerous opponents for this vehicle and provide recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of playing with this vehicle in various modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the technique of using this ship, the characteristics of her use in a team and tips on strategy. Abstain from writing an entire guide – don't try to provide a single point of view, but give the reader food for thought. Talk about the most dangerous opponents for this vehicle and provide recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of playing with this vehicle in various modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
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The decent turret firing angles allow the Aoba to sail bow front, maximizing protection from the relatively thin armour. The AP shells have decent HE filler and deal good damage against all but the most heavily armoured ships. The Type 93 torpedoes can be launched from the spawn and can hit targets from extreme ranges. Although the probability of a succesful torpedo hit at these ranges is low due to many factors such as the low speed making them easier to dodge. Alternatively the torpedoes can be used at closer ranges as the speed means they are much more difficult to dodge.
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The decent turret firing angles allow the Aoba to sail bow front, maximizing the protective capabilities of the relatively thin armour while keeping all 6 guns pointed at the enemy. The AP shells have decent HE filler and deal good damage against all but the most heavily armoured ships. Target light and heavy cruisers, aiming for turrets can help you get satisfying ammunition detonations.
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The Type 93 torpedoes can be launched from the spawn and can hit targets from extreme ranges, although the probability of a successful torpedo hit at these ranges is low due to many factors such as the low speed making them easier to dodge. Alternatively the torpedoes can be used at closer ranges where they will be much more difficult to dodge due to their speed.
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If downtiered, Aoba can be played more aggressively as she will be able to shrug off destroyer gunfire despite her thin armour. Be mindful though as other heavy cruisers such as Admiral Hipper class and HMS Kent can also be in the same situation: both of these will be able to outgun you.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
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<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->'''Pros:'''
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<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
  
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'''Pros:'''
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* Access to search radar antenna for detecting aircraft
 
* The main guns have decent firing angles
 
* The main guns have decent firing angles
 
* AP shells have great explosive filler
 
* AP shells have great explosive filler
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* Torpedo launchers have limited firing angles
 
* Torpedo launchers have limited firing angles
 
* Thin armour compared to other heavy cruisers
 
* Thin armour compared to other heavy cruisers
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* Only 3 main gun turrets
 
* Main gun turrets are fragile
 
* Main gun turrets are fragile
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the ship in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the ship and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Ship-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the ship's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the ship in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the ship and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Ship-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the ship's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
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'''Construction'''
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'''Design and construction'''
  
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In 1922, the Furutaka class cruisers (Known as A class in the Japanese navy) were first laid down. Designed to outcompete the American Omaha class and British Hawkins class cruisers, the Furutaka class were just as fast, had a heavier broadside and had more powerful torpedoes. In 1924, it was decided to use the newly developed 2x20cm gun turrets on the ships. However, it was too late to retrofit Furutaka and Kako therefore the remaining two ships, Aoba and Kinugasa, would be retrofitted with the new armament and placed in a seperate class, the machinery and armour remained the same. Aoba recieved a gunpowder powered aircraft catapult in 1929. In 1930, the Japanes navy won approval for the modernization of the A class cruisers to counter the numerical advantage enjoyed by the US Navy. However, the political situation limited the modernization given. Modifications started in 1938 and include new 20.3cm/50 main guns, 4x2 25mm AA guns around the funnel and mounting of new torpedo launchers with the Type 93 torpedoes. The total increase in weight meant Aoba had needed bulges added to the hull to restore stability.
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In 1922, after revisions made to the navy following the signing of the Washington Naval Treaty, the proposed 7,500-ton scout cruisers before the treaty were now to become the Furutaka-class cruisers. The ships were designed by Constructor Captain Hiraga Yuzuru with assistance from Constructor Lieutenant Commander Fujimoto Kikuo. The Furutaka-class were designed to surpass the Omaha and Hawklins-class cruisers of the US and Royal British Navy, incorporating 6 x 20 cm guns in single turrets and giving the ships a broadside weight of fire nearly double that of the Omahas as well as a top speed of 35 kts achieved using 12 boilers with a combined 110,000 SHP, and armour that could resist 15 cm shells from 12-15 km away.
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In 1922, the Furutaka-class cruisers were first laid down. In 1924, the recently promoted Rear Admiral Hiraga was sent abroad and during his absence Fujimoto was pressured into using the newly developed 2 x 20 cm gun turrets by the Naval General Staff on the new ships. However, Furutaka and Kako were too far into construction to retrofit the new equipment, therefore the remaining two ships, Aoba and Kinugasa, would be retrofitted with the new armament and placed in a separate class. Fujimoto modified the designs of Aoba and Kinugasa to incorporate the new gun turrets and also agreed to add aircraft catapults to the ships while the machinery and armour remained the same. After Kako was completed in 1926, design flaws in the funnel and bridge structure were discovered, corrections to these would also be used before completion of Aoba and her sistership.
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When completed, Aoba was overweight by almost 1,000 tons, sparking fears that this would negatively affect the stability of Aoba and her sistership. Luckily, the ships were designed with a considerable degree of stability, owing to Captain Hiraga designing the ships to be more stable than necessary so that the ships can have the machine spaces on one side be flooded without the threat of capsizing. Thus the stability loss was minor and the seaworthiness of the ships proved to be good. Aoba received her gunpowder-powered aircraft catapult in 1929. In 1930, the navy won approval for the modernization of the A-class cruisers to counter the numerical advantage enjoyed by the US Navy. However, the political situation limited the modernization given. Modifications started in 1938 and included new 20.3 cm/50 main guns, 4 x dual 25 mm AA guns around the funnel, and mounting of new quad torpedo launchers with the Type 90 torpedoes (Replaced with Type 93s in 1940). The total increase in weight meant Aoba had needed bulges added to the hull to restore stability.
  
 
'''Service Career'''
 
'''Service Career'''
  
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Aoba was completed in 1927 and assigned to Cruiser Division (CruDiv) 5, then CruDiv6 in 1933 and then CruDiv7.In the late 1920s to the 1930s, Aoba was frequently used to patrol the China coast. After her 1938-40 modifications were completed, she was returned to CruDiv6. In 1941 -during the attack on Pearl Harbour, Aoba and the other cruisers of CruDiv6 engaged in the invasion of Guam, and she then participated in the second invasion of Wake Island.
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Aoba was completed in 1927 and assigned to Cruiser Division (CruDiv) 5, then CruDiv6 in 1933, and then CruDiv7. In the late 1920s to 1930s, Aoba was frequently used to patrol the China coast. After her 1938-40 modifications were completed, she was returned to CruDiv6. In 1941, during the attack on Pearl Harbour, Aoba and the other cruisers of CruDiv6 engaged in the invasion of Guam, and she then participated in the second invasion of Wake Island.
  
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In the Battle of Coral Sea, 1942, Aoba and CruDiv6 rendezvous at sea with light carrier Shoho. Dive and Torpedo bombers from USS Yorktown and Lexington then sunk Shoho on May 7th at 1100 hours. The next day, Aoba covered the withdrawal of the Port Moresby invasion convoy. On May 22nd, Aoba returned to Kure Naval Arsenal for repairs and then sent to Santa Isabel Island for patrols before being assigned to the recently created Eighth Fleet on July 14th and was assigned to patrols around New Britain, New Ireland and the Solomon Islands
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In the Battle of Coral Sea, 1942, Aoba and CruDiv6 rendezvous at sea with light carrier Shoho. Dive and torpedo bombers from USS Yorktown and Lexington sunk Shoho on May 7th at 1100 hours. The next day, Aoba covered the withdrawal of the Port Moresby invasion convoy. On May 22nd, Aoba returned to Kure Naval Arsenal for repairs and was then sent to Santa Isabel Island for patrols before being assigned to the recently created Eighth Fleet on July 14th and was assigned to patrols around New Britain, New Ireland, and the Solomon Islands.
  
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On August 7th 1942, an E13 spotter plane from Aoba found "one battleship, one auxiliary carrier, four cruisers, seven destroyers and 15 transports" off Teluga Point. In the Battle of Savo Island, Aoba accompanied CruDiv6, Takao class cruiser Chokai, light cruisers Tenryuu and Yubari and destroyer Yunagi and engaged the allied fleet at night, sinking cruisers USS Astoria, Quincy, Vincennes and HMAS Canberra and damaging the cruiser USS Chicago and destroyers Ralph Talbot and Patterson. Aoba was hit once during the battle while her sister ship Kinugasa was hit twice with Chokai being hit 3 times. Aoba then provided cover for the Japanese reinforcements heading for Guadalcanal.
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On August 7th 1942, an E13 spotter plane from Aoba found "one battleship, one auxiliary carrier, four cruisers, seven destroyers and 15 transports" off Teluga Point. In the Battle of Savo Island, Aoba accompanied CruDiv6, Takao-class cruiser Chokai, light cruisers Tenryuu and Yubari, and destroyer Yunagi, and engaged the Allied fleet at night, sinking cruisers USS Astoria, Quincy, Vincennes and HMAS Canberra and damaging the cruiser USS Chicago and destroyers Ralph Talbot and Patterson. Aoba was hit once during the battle while her sister ship Kinugasa was hit twice with Chokai being hit 3 times. Aoba then provided cover for the Japanese reinforcements heading for Guadalcanal.
  
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In the Battle of Cape Esperance on October 11th 1942, CruDiv6 departed with destroyers Fubuki and Hatsuyuki to cover reinforcement troops by shelling Henderson Field. They were spotted by 2 American OS2U Kingfishers and at 2235 the fleet was spotted by radar from USS Helena. Both sides opened fire, however Admiral Goto who was in command of CruDiv6 believed they were under friendly fire and ordered his ships to turn. This exposed the broadsides of the fleet to be exposed. Furutaka was sunk and Aoba suffered severe damage, No. 2 turret was knocked out and No.3 turret was destroyed. 4 of Aoba's boilers were inopperable. Admiral Goto was mortally wounded and 80 crewmen were killed. After temporary repairs at Shorland, Aoba sailed to Truk on October 15th where Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto inspected the damage before sending her back to Japan.
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In the Battle of Cape Esperance on October 11th 1942, CruDiv6 departed with destroyers Fubuki and Hatsuyuki to cover reinforcement troops by shelling Henderson Field. They were spotted by 2 American OS2U Kingfishers and at 2235 the fleet was spotted by radar from USS Helena. Both sides opened fire, however Admiral Goto who was in command of CruDiv6 believed they were under friendly fire and ordered his ships to turn, thus exposing the broadsides of the fleet. Furutaka was sunk and Aoba suffered severe damage, No.2 turret was knocked out and No.3 turret was destroyed. 4 of Aoba<nowiki/>'s boilers were inoperable. Admiral Goto was mortally wounded and 80 crewmen were killed. After temporary repairs at Shortland, Aoba sailed to Truk on October 15th where Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto inspected the damage before sending her back to Japan.
  
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After returning to Kure, Aoba was repaired. The destroyed No. 3 turret was replaced with a triple barrel 25mm AA gun and sent back to Truk on February 24th 1943. On April 3rd, Aoba was bombed by B17 Flying Fortresses while moored at Kavieng. Two of Aoba's Type 93s exploded and started a fire while she was strafed by machine gun fire from the B17s. She was beached to prevent her from sinking. Aoba was then Towed to Truk and then back to Kure where she was repaired and refitted. No. 3 turret was returned, a Type 21 air-search radar was installed and 2 twin mount 25mm AA guns were added. Irrepairable engine damage limited Aoba's top speed to just 46km/h (25 knots).
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After returning to Kure, Aoba was repaired. The destroyed No.3 turret was replaced with a triple mount 25 mm AA gun and sent back to Truk on February 24th 1943. On April 3rd, Aoba was bombed by B-17 Flying Fortresses while moored at Kavieng. Two of Aoba<nowiki/>'s Type 93 torpedoes exploded and started a fire while she was strafed by machine gun fire from the B-17s. She was beached to prevent her from sinking. Aoba was then towed to Truk and then back to Kure where she was repaired and refitted. No.3 turret was returned, a Type 21 air-search radar was installed and 2 twin mount 25 mm AA guns were added. Irreparable engine damage limited Aoba<nowiki/>'s top speed to just 46 km/h (25 knots).
  
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Aoba was then sent to Singapore as part of the First Southern Expeditionary Fleet on December 24th 1943. She was based outside of Singapore and escorted convoys to Burma and the Andaman Islands. On February 25th 1944, Aoba returned to CruDiv6 where she participated in the Indian Ocean raid in March and then resumed escort duties through the Dutch East Indies and New Guinea. In July, Aoba was refitted again in Singapore with the Type 22 air-search radar and gained an additional 4 triple mount 25mm AA guns and 15 single mount 25mm AA guns.
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Aoba was then sent to Singapore as part of the First Southern Expeditionary Fleet on December 24th 1943. She was based outside of Singapore and escorted convoys to Burma and the Andaman Islands. On February 25th 1944, Aoba returned to CruDiv6 where she participated in the Indian Ocean raid in March and then resumed escort duties through the Dutch East Indies and New Guinea. In July, Aoba was refitted again in Singapore with the Type 22 air-search radar and gained an additional 4 triple mount 25 mm AA guns and 15 single mount 25 mm AA guns.
  
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On October 11th, Aoba recieved minor damage with an accidental collision with cruiser Kinu. However, US submarine Bream attacked Aoba on October 23rd. 1 of 6 torpedoes struck Aoba on the No. 2 engine room, she then sailed to Cavite Naval Yard near Manila for emergency repairs. While undergoing repairs, on October 29th Aoba was bombed by planed from Task Force 38. Aoba was then assigned to a convoy and sent back to Japan again despite incomplete repairs. While heading for Japan, the convoy was attacke by US submarines Guittarro, Beam, Raton and Ray off Luzon on November 6th. 23 torpedoes were fired by the submarines, 2 hit cruiser Kumano but Aoba escaped with no further damage. Upon arrival at Kure, Aoba was declared irrepairable and re-rated into a reserve ship.
+
On October 11th, Aoba received minor damage after an accidental collision with cruiser Kinu. However, US submarine Bream attacked Aoba on October 23rd. 1 of 6 torpedoes struck Aoba in the No.2 engine room, she then sailed to Cavite Naval Yard near Manila for emergency repairs. While undergoing repairs, on October 29th Aoba was bombed by planes from Task Force 38. Aoba was then assigned to a convoy and sent back to Japan again despite incomplete repairs. While heading for Japan, the convoy was attacked by US submarines Guitarro, Bream, Raton and Ray off Luzon on November 6th. 23 torpedoes were launched by the submarines, 2 hit cruiser Kumano but Aoba escaped with no further damage. Upon arrival at Kure, Aoba was declared irreparable and re-rated into a reserve ship.
  
−
A US air raid on Kure on April 24th 1945 damaged Aoba further, causing her to sink and settle at the bottom of the shallow harbour. She was not repaired, instead additional 25mm AA guns were fitted and she was turned into a floating AA battery with a total of 50 25mm guns, 5 triple, 10 double and 15 single mounts. On July 14th Kure was attacked again, this time by planes from Task Force 38. Aoba was bombed once again where she settled at the bottom at 2200 hours. 4 days later the wreck of Aoba was bombed again by Task Force 38, 4 bomb hits set her on fire and B24 Liberators hit her again with 4 bombs, breaking off her stern.
+
A US air raid on Kure on April 24th 1945 damaged Aoba further, causing her to sink and settle at the bottom of the shallow harbour. She was not repaired, instead additional 25 mm AA guns were fitted and she was turned into a floating AA battery with a total of 50 x 25 mm guns, 5 triple, 10 double and 15 single mounts. On July 14th, Kure was attacked again, this time by planes from Task Force 38. Aoba was bombed once again where she settled at the bottom at 2200 hours. 4 days later, the wreck of Aoba was bombed again by Task Force 38, 4 bomb hits set her on fire and B-24 Liberators hit her again with 4 bombs, breaking off her stern.
  
−
Aoba was formally removed from the Navy list in November 15th 1945 and her wreckage was scrapped in 1946-47
+
Aoba was formally removed from the Navy list in November 15th 1945 and her wreckage was scrapped in 1946-47.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
−
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
+
 
 +
;Skins
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=jp_cruiser_aoba Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
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* ''reference to the series of the ship;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the ship;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 +
 +
* [[Omaha (Family)]]
 +
* [[USS Helena]]
 +
* [[HMS Hawkins]]
 
* [[IJN Furutaka]]
 
* [[IJN Furutaka]]
−
* [[HMS Hawkins]]
 
 
* [[RN Zara]]
 
* [[RN Zara]]
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* [[Omaha (Family)]]
 
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* [[USS Helena]]
 
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
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* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
−
* https://www.world-war.co.uk/japan/aoba.php
+
* [[wikipedia:Japanese cruiser Aoba|[Wikipedia] Japanese cruiser Aoba]]
−
* http://www.combinedfleet.com/aoba_t.htm
+
* [https://japanese-warship.com/battleship/ise-class/ <nowiki>[大日本帝国軍 主要兵器]</nowiki> 青葉【青葉型重巡洋艦　一番艦】 Aoba【Aoba-class heavy cruiser First】]
 +
* [http://www.combinedfleet.com/aoba_t.htm <nowiki>[Combined Fleet]</nowiki> IJN AOBA]
 +
* [https://naval-encyclopedia.com/ww2/japan/aoba-class-heavy-cruisers.php <nowiki>[Naval Encyclopedia]</nowiki> Aoba class heavy cruisers (1926)]
 +
* [http://pwencycl.kgbudge.com/A/o/Aoba_class.htm <nowiki>[The Pacific War Online Encyclopedia]</nowiki> Aoba Class, Japanese Heavy Cruisers]
 +
* [https://www.world-war.co.uk/japan/aoba.php <nowiki>[WW2 Cruisers]</nowiki> Aoba Class Heavy Cruiser]
 +
* [https://ww2db.com/ship_spec.php?ship_id=48 <nowiki>[World War II Database]</nowiki> Heavy Cruiser Aoba]
 +
* [https://www.navypedia.org/ships/japan/jap_cr_aoba.htm <nowiki>[Navypedia]</nowiki> AOBA heavy cruisers (1927)]
 +
* [https://pacificwrecks.com/ship/ijn/aoba.html <nowiki>[Pacific Wrecks]</nowiki> Aoba 青葉]
 +
 
 +
;Bibliography
 +
 
 +
* [https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/898922.Japanese_Cruisers_of_the_Pacific_War Japanese Cruisers of the Pacific War - Eric Lacroix, Linton Wells II]
  
 +
{{ShipManufacturer Mitsubishi Shipbuilding}}
 
{{Japan heavy cruisers}}
 
{{Japan heavy cruisers}}

Latest revision as of 21:28, 25 October 2024

IJN Aoba
jp_cruiser_aoba.png
GarageImage IJN Aoba.jpg
IJN Aoba
Japan flag.png Japan
IV Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
5.7 5.7 5.7
Class:
Research:89 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:300 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png

Description

The Aoba (青葉, namesake: Mount Aoba) was a Japanese heavy cruiser commissioned in September 1927, designed as a modified version of the Furutaka-class with improved twin 20.3 cm gun turrets and aircraft catapults. Despite being overweight upon completion, she joined the Sixth Squadron alongside her sister ship Kinugasa and the two Furutaka-class vessels, participating in patrols along the China coast during the 1920s and 1930s. During the Second World War, Aoba took part in the invasions of Guam and Wake Island in December 1941, escorted the light carrier Shōhō during the Battle of the Coral Sea in May 1942, and was involved in the Battle of Savo Island in August 1942, where she contributed to the sinking of several Allied cruisers. In October 1942, at the Battle of Cape Esperance, Aoba was severely damaged, losing her second and third turrets and suffering heavy casualties, including the death of Rear Admiral Goto. After repairs, she returned to action but was damaged again by an air raid in April 1943, leading to her being disguised as an island, nicknamed "The Aoba Island", to avoid detection while undergoing emergency repairs. She continued to serve in escort and patrol duties despite engine damage limiting her speed but suffered further torpedo and air attack damages in late 1944, eventually being deemed irreparable and reclassified as a reserve ship. In 1945, Aoba was converted into a floating anti-aircraft battery but was sunk during air raids on Kure in July, settling at the bottom of the harbour with her stern broken off. Her wreck was scrapped between 1946 and 1947.

The Aoba-class, IJN Aoba, 1945 was introduced in Update "Direct Hit". She shares her survivability, mobility, and main armament with Furutaka, with the key difference being her vastly improved anti-aircraft capability, which also includes a simple air-search radar but lacks the hydroplane. In all other ways, the vessel performs exactly the same as its direct predecessor, possessing excellent main guns, outstanding torpedoes, and a decent capability for dealing with coastal vessels. One of the class's biggest advantages are its deeply submerged magazines, making direct explosions of the ammo racks much less likely than among the foreign equivalents. However, her poorly protected turrets are easy to knock out, even by enemy destroyers or frigates.

General info

Survivability and armour

Armourfront / side / back
Citadel76 / 76 / 35 mm
Main fire tower25 / 25 / 25 mm
Hull25 mm (steel)
Superstructure10 mm (steel)
Number of section9
Displacement11 660 t
Crew657 people

Aoba is lightly armoured. The belt armour is only 76.2 mm of rolled homogeneous armour (RHA) and does not extend towards the front and rear turrets to offer additional protection for the magazines; most other heavy cruisers and some light cruisers have thicker armour. Fortunately, the ammunition magazines for the main guns are below the water line and the top is covered by 32 mm of RHA. The fuel tanks in the centre are protected by the belt armour, but the thin steel means these can be easily set on fire which can then spread to the engines. Additional fuel tanks in the bow and stern are completely unprotected and since they are located quite close to the ammunition, the fire can spread to the ammunition. The turrets are large and easy to hit, with only 25mm of RHA. HE from destroyer calibre guns have no issue disabling the turrets.

With only 657 crew, Aoba has the second fewest number of sailors for a heavy cruiser after IJN Kako. This leaves her vulnerable to complete crew loss in a few minutes if concentrated upon by multiple ships.

Although other cruisers can easily put Aoba out of commission, destroyers will have a hard time dealing any significant damage outside of disabling turrets and starting fires.

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB72 / 27 km/h
RB62 / 23 km/h

With 12 boilers producing 102,000 SHP combined, Aoba will accelerate to her top speed of 72 km/h (38.9 knots) in AB and 62 km/h (33.5 knots) in RB in 40 seconds. In Arcade, the rudder takes 7 seconds to traverse completely from either side to the next and Aoba can complete a sustained turn in 102 seconds. Realistic battles drops Aoba's sustained turn time to 180 seconds. Overall, Aoba has good mobility, closely matching a number of lighter vessels such as the Omaha-class and Leipzig-class cruisers.

Mobility Characteristics
Game Mode Upgrade Status Maximum Speed (km/h) Turn Time (s) Turn Radius (m)
Forward Reverse
AB Stock ___ ___
Upgraded 72 27
RB/SB Stock ___ ___
Upgraded 62 23

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB11 305 → 14 662 Sl icon.png
RB10 972 → 14 230 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications81 100 Rp icon.png
140 300 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost1 700 Ge icon.png
Crew training87 000 Sl icon.png
Experts300 000 Sl icon.png
Aces1 100 Ge icon.png
Research Aces520 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
450 / 600 / 100 % Sl icon.png
172 / 172 / 172 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Seakeeping Unsinkability Firepower
Mods new ship hull.png
Dry-Docking
Research:
3 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 300 Sl icon.png
180 Ge icon.png
Mods new ship rudder.png
Rudder Replacement
Research:
3 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 000 Sl icon.png
200 Ge icon.png
Mods new ship screw.png
Propeller Replacement
Research:
3 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 700 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods new ship engine.png
Engine Maintenance
Research:
8 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
500 Ge icon.png
Mods ship damage control crew.png
Damage Control Division
Research:
3 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 300 Sl icon.png
180 Ge icon.png
Mods ship fire control crew.png
Fire Division
Research:
3 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 000 Sl icon.png
200 Ge icon.png
Mods engine smoke screen system.png
Smokescreen
Research:
3 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 000 Sl icon.png
200 Ge icon.png
Mods ship anti fragmentation protection.png
Shrapnel Protection
Research:
3 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 700 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods ship venting.png
Ventilation
Research:
3 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 700 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods new ship pumps.png
New Pumps
Research:
8 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
500 Ge icon.png
Mods ship ammo wetting.png
Ammo Wetting
Research:
8 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
500 Ge icon.png
Mods new aa caliber turrets.png
Anti-Air Armament Targeting
Research:
3 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 300 Sl icon.png
180 Ge icon.png
Mods he frag dist fuse ship.png
200mm_jp_type0_aa_distant_fuse_navy_he_ammo_pack
Research:
3 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 300 Sl icon.png
180 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
200mm_jp_type88_navy_apc_ammo_pack
Research:
3 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 300 Sl icon.png
180 Ge icon.png
Mods he frag dist fuse ship.png
200mm_jp_type0_aa_distant_fuse_navy_he_ammo_pack
Research:
3 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 300 Sl icon.png
180 Ge icon.png
Mods new aux caliber turrets.png
Auxiliary Armament Targeting
Research:
3 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 000 Sl icon.png
200 Ge icon.png
Mods he frag dist fuse ship.png
120mm_jp_type0_distant_fuse_naval_he_ammo_pack
Research:
3 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 000 Sl icon.png
200 Ge icon.png
Mods new main caliber turrets.png
Primary Armament Targeting
Research:
3 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 700 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods ship rangefinder.png
Improved Rangefinder
Research:
3 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 700 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png

Armament

Primary armament

3 х Turret2 x 20 cm/50 3rd year type No.2 cannon
Ammunition240 rounds
Vertical guidance-5° / 40°
Main article: 20 cm/50 3rd year type No.2 (203 mm)

Aoba has 6 x 20.3 cm/50 3rd year type No.2 guns split into 3 turrets with 2 guns each. 2 turrets are forward and a single aft of the superstructure. The forward turrets are superfiring, meaning the one behind can shoot over the one in front. She can use HE, HE-TF, and AP shells. The turrets have a slow rotation speed but great firing angles. The guns have a reload time of 12 seconds with the top crew skills, putting them on par with the German Admiral Hipper-class and British County-class heavy cruisers.

HE-TF should be avoided since the slow turret rotation speed and low rate of fire makes this shell basically useless against air targets, and it is not effective against surface targets unlike HE-VT. However, the AP has the best HE filler of all the 20.3 cm (8 inch) armed cruisers and is shared with the much larger and more powerful heavy cruisers in the Japanese fleet, Mogami and Tone. The great HE filler deals significant damage to cruisers and has an increased chance of detonating the ammunition storages of enemy ships.

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
1,000 m 2,500 m 5,000 m 7,500 m 10,000 m 15,000 m
Type 0 HE HE 61 61 61 61 61 61
Type 91 AP APHEBC 362 321 263 218 182 139
Type 0 HE-TF HE-TF 61 61 61 61 61 61
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(s) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (kg) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
Type 0 HE HE 835 125.4 0 0.1 8.57 79° 80° 81°
Type 91 AP APHEBC 835 125.85 0.05 9 3.26 48° 63° 71°
Type 0 HE-TF HE-TF 835 125.4 0 0.1 8.57 79° 80° 81°

Secondary armament

4 х Turret120 mm/45 10th year type cannon
Ammunition250 rounds
Main article: 120 mm/45 10th year type (120 mm)

Aoba comes equipped with 4 turrets with a single 120 mm gun each. These guns are dual purpose, able to use HE-TF against aircraft. Since there are only 4 guns however, it is unlikely these will deter any oncoming aircraft. With very thin armour, and limited numbers, these guns are not all that useful.

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
1,000 m 2,500 m 5,000 m 7,500 m 10,000 m 15,000 m
120 mm Type 1 HE HE 24 24 24 24 24 24
120 mm Type 0 HE HE-TF 24 24 24 24 24 24
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(s) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (kg) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
120 mm Type 1 HE HE 850 20.33 0 0.1 1.95 79° 80° 81°
120 mm Type 0 HE HE-TF 850 20.33 0 0.1 1.95 79° 80° 81°

Anti-aircraft armament

15 х Turret25 mm/60 Type 96 automatic cannon
Ammunition1500 rounds
Belt capacity15 rounds
Fire rate261 shots/min
10 х Turret2 x 25 mm/60 Type 96 automatic cannon
Ammunition3000 rounds
Belt capacity15 rounds
Fire rate261 shots/min
5 х Turret3 x 25 mm/60 Type 96 automatic cannon
Ammunition4500 rounds
Belt capacity15 rounds
Fire rate261 shots/min
Main article: 25 mm/60 Type 96 (25 mm)

Aoba sees a great improvement over Furutaka in the anti-air department, going from just 4 x dual mount 25 mm auto cannons and 2 x 13.2 mm machine guns, to 15 x single mount, 10 x double mount, and 5 x triple mount 25 mm cannons (a total of 50 cannons overall). The 25 mm auto cannons can shoot down fighters and small attackers with ease, although some heavier aircraft such as bombers can shrug off enough of the fire to get close enough to drop bombs or torpedoes, although the addition of an air search radar allows the player to spot and plan for air attacks.

Additional armament

Setup 116 x 610 mm Type 93 Model 1, Mod 2 torpedo
Main article: Type 93 Model 1, Mod 2 (610 mm)

The Type 93 torpedoes can be found on Aoba. Also nicknamed the "Long Lance", these are arguably the best family of torpedoes in the game. The ones carried by Aoba are the longer range versions. With a top speed of 93 km/h (50 knots), range of 20 km, and explosive TNT equivalent of over 600 kg, these torpedoes have the power to destroy even battleships with a single salvo.

Usage in battles

The decent turret firing angles allow the Aoba to sail bow front, maximizing the protective capabilities of the relatively thin armour while keeping all 6 guns pointed at the enemy. The AP shells have decent HE filler and deal good damage against all but the most heavily armoured ships. Target light and heavy cruisers, aiming for turrets can help you get satisfying ammunition detonations.

The Type 93 torpedoes can be launched from the spawn and can hit targets from extreme ranges, although the probability of a successful torpedo hit at these ranges is low due to many factors such as the low speed making them easier to dodge. Alternatively the torpedoes can be used at closer ranges where they will be much more difficult to dodge due to their speed.

If downtiered, Aoba can be played more aggressively as she will be able to shrug off destroyer gunfire despite her thin armour. Be mindful though as other heavy cruisers such as Admiral Hipper class and HMS Kent can also be in the same situation: both of these will be able to outgun you.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Access to search radar antenna for detecting aircraft
  • The main guns have decent firing angles
  • AP shells have great explosive filler
  • Torpedoes have excellent range, speed and explosive filler
  • Improved AA defence capability over Furutaka

Cons:

  • Torpedo launchers have limited firing angles
  • Thin armour compared to other heavy cruisers
  • Only 3 main gun turrets
  • Main gun turrets are fragile

History

Design and construction

In 1922, after revisions made to the navy following the signing of the Washington Naval Treaty, the proposed 7,500-ton scout cruisers before the treaty were now to become the Furutaka-class cruisers. The ships were designed by Constructor Captain Hiraga Yuzuru with assistance from Constructor Lieutenant Commander Fujimoto Kikuo. The Furutaka-class were designed to surpass the Omaha and Hawklins-class cruisers of the US and Royal British Navy, incorporating 6 x 20 cm guns in single turrets and giving the ships a broadside weight of fire nearly double that of the Omahas as well as a top speed of 35 kts achieved using 12 boilers with a combined 110,000 SHP, and armour that could resist 15 cm shells from 12-15 km away.

In 1922, the Furutaka-class cruisers were first laid down. In 1924, the recently promoted Rear Admiral Hiraga was sent abroad and during his absence Fujimoto was pressured into using the newly developed 2 x 20 cm gun turrets by the Naval General Staff on the new ships. However, Furutaka and Kako were too far into construction to retrofit the new equipment, therefore the remaining two ships, Aoba and Kinugasa, would be retrofitted with the new armament and placed in a separate class. Fujimoto modified the designs of Aoba and Kinugasa to incorporate the new gun turrets and also agreed to add aircraft catapults to the ships while the machinery and armour remained the same. After Kako was completed in 1926, design flaws in the funnel and bridge structure were discovered, corrections to these would also be used before completion of Aoba and her sistership.

When completed, Aoba was overweight by almost 1,000 tons, sparking fears that this would negatively affect the stability of Aoba and her sistership. Luckily, the ships were designed with a considerable degree of stability, owing to Captain Hiraga designing the ships to be more stable than necessary so that the ships can have the machine spaces on one side be flooded without the threat of capsizing. Thus the stability loss was minor and the seaworthiness of the ships proved to be good. Aoba received her gunpowder-powered aircraft catapult in 1929. In 1930, the navy won approval for the modernization of the A-class cruisers to counter the numerical advantage enjoyed by the US Navy. However, the political situation limited the modernization given. Modifications started in 1938 and included new 20.3 cm/50 main guns, 4 x dual 25 mm AA guns around the funnel, and mounting of new quad torpedo launchers with the Type 90 torpedoes (Replaced with Type 93s in 1940). The total increase in weight meant Aoba had needed bulges added to the hull to restore stability.

Service Career

Aoba was completed in 1927 and assigned to Cruiser Division (CruDiv) 5, then CruDiv6 in 1933, and then CruDiv7. In the late 1920s to 1930s, Aoba was frequently used to patrol the China coast. After her 1938-40 modifications were completed, she was returned to CruDiv6. In 1941, during the attack on Pearl Harbour, Aoba and the other cruisers of CruDiv6 engaged in the invasion of Guam, and she then participated in the second invasion of Wake Island.

In the Battle of Coral Sea, 1942, Aoba and CruDiv6 rendezvous at sea with light carrier Shoho. Dive and torpedo bombers from USS Yorktown and Lexington sunk Shoho on May 7th at 1100 hours. The next day, Aoba covered the withdrawal of the Port Moresby invasion convoy. On May 22nd, Aoba returned to Kure Naval Arsenal for repairs and was then sent to Santa Isabel Island for patrols before being assigned to the recently created Eighth Fleet on July 14th and was assigned to patrols around New Britain, New Ireland, and the Solomon Islands.

On August 7th 1942, an E13 spotter plane from Aoba found "one battleship, one auxiliary carrier, four cruisers, seven destroyers and 15 transports" off Teluga Point. In the Battle of Savo Island, Aoba accompanied CruDiv6, Takao-class cruiser Chokai, light cruisers Tenryuu and Yubari, and destroyer Yunagi, and engaged the Allied fleet at night, sinking cruisers USS Astoria, Quincy, Vincennes and HMAS Canberra and damaging the cruiser USS Chicago and destroyers Ralph Talbot and Patterson. Aoba was hit once during the battle while her sister ship Kinugasa was hit twice with Chokai being hit 3 times. Aoba then provided cover for the Japanese reinforcements heading for Guadalcanal.

In the Battle of Cape Esperance on October 11th 1942, CruDiv6 departed with destroyers Fubuki and Hatsuyuki to cover reinforcement troops by shelling Henderson Field. They were spotted by 2 American OS2U Kingfishers and at 2235 the fleet was spotted by radar from USS Helena. Both sides opened fire, however Admiral Goto who was in command of CruDiv6 believed they were under friendly fire and ordered his ships to turn, thus exposing the broadsides of the fleet. Furutaka was sunk and Aoba suffered severe damage, No.2 turret was knocked out and No.3 turret was destroyed. 4 of Aoba's boilers were inoperable. Admiral Goto was mortally wounded and 80 crewmen were killed. After temporary repairs at Shortland, Aoba sailed to Truk on October 15th where Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto inspected the damage before sending her back to Japan.

After returning to Kure, Aoba was repaired. The destroyed No.3 turret was replaced with a triple mount 25 mm AA gun and sent back to Truk on February 24th 1943. On April 3rd, Aoba was bombed by B-17 Flying Fortresses while moored at Kavieng. Two of Aoba's Type 93 torpedoes exploded and started a fire while she was strafed by machine gun fire from the B-17s. She was beached to prevent her from sinking. Aoba was then towed to Truk and then back to Kure where she was repaired and refitted. No.3 turret was returned, a Type 21 air-search radar was installed and 2 twin mount 25 mm AA guns were added. Irreparable engine damage limited Aoba's top speed to just 46 km/h (25 knots).

Aoba was then sent to Singapore as part of the First Southern Expeditionary Fleet on December 24th 1943. She was based outside of Singapore and escorted convoys to Burma and the Andaman Islands. On February 25th 1944, Aoba returned to CruDiv6 where she participated in the Indian Ocean raid in March and then resumed escort duties through the Dutch East Indies and New Guinea. In July, Aoba was refitted again in Singapore with the Type 22 air-search radar and gained an additional 4 triple mount 25 mm AA guns and 15 single mount 25 mm AA guns.

On October 11th, Aoba received minor damage after an accidental collision with cruiser Kinu. However, US submarine Bream attacked Aoba on October 23rd. 1 of 6 torpedoes struck Aoba in the No.2 engine room, she then sailed to Cavite Naval Yard near Manila for emergency repairs. While undergoing repairs, on October 29th Aoba was bombed by planes from Task Force 38. Aoba was then assigned to a convoy and sent back to Japan again despite incomplete repairs. While heading for Japan, the convoy was attacked by US submarines Guitarro, Bream, Raton and Ray off Luzon on November 6th. 23 torpedoes were launched by the submarines, 2 hit cruiser Kumano but Aoba escaped with no further damage. Upon arrival at Kure, Aoba was declared irreparable and re-rated into a reserve ship.

A US air raid on Kure on April 24th 1945 damaged Aoba further, causing her to sink and settle at the bottom of the shallow harbour. She was not repaired, instead additional 25 mm AA guns were fitted and she was turned into a floating AA battery with a total of 50 x 25 mm guns, 5 triple, 10 double and 15 single mounts. On July 14th, Kure was attacked again, this time by planes from Task Force 38. Aoba was bombed once again where she settled at the bottom at 2200 hours. 4 days later, the wreck of Aoba was bombed again by Task Force 38, 4 bomb hits set her on fire and B-24 Liberators hit her again with 4 bombs, breaking off her stern.

Aoba was formally removed from the Navy list in November 15th 1945 and her wreckage was scrapped in 1946-47.

Media

Skins

See also

External links

Bibliography


Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Company Ltd.
Light Cruisers (CL) 
Kuma-class  IJN Tama
Sendai-class  IJN Sendai
Mogami-class  IJN Mikuma
Heavy Cruisers (CA) 
Furutaka-class  IJN Furutaka
Aoba-class  IJN Aoba
Myōkō-class  IJN Haguro
Tone-class  IJN Tone
Battleships (BB) 
Ise-class  IJN Hyuga
See also  Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (Post-War)

Japan heavy cruisers
Furutaka-class  IJN Furutaka · IJN Kako
Aoba-class  IJN Aoba
Myōkō-class  IJN Myoko · IJN Haguro
Mogami-class  IJN Mogami
Tone-class  IJN Tone

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