Torpedo cruiser

A torpedo cruiser (重雷装巡洋艦) is a type of ship used by the Imperial Japanese Navy during World War II, which represent former light cruisers which have been renovated to accommodate long range stealth torpedoes. Such ships may also be referred to as heavy torpedo fitted vessels (重雷装艦).

History
Prior to the Pacific War, the Imperial Japanese Navy formulated the strategy of attacking American fleets through ambush tactics, with heavy reliance on submarines. With the development of the type 93 torpedo, there was a need for surface vessels that could accommodate such weapons. Three vessels of the Kuma-class of light carriers were appointed for renovation, namely Kitakami, Ōi and Kiso.

Renovation of Ōi and Kitakami began in 1937, with large-scale expansion of the hull, enlargement of the bridge, and removal of main and secondary artillery armaments. 61 cm quad torpedo tubes were mounted on the vessel, with 5 mounts and 20 bays on each side, adding to a total of 10 mounts and 40 bays. Kiso was planned for modification, however the renovations never took place.

List of vessels

 * Japanese cruiser Kitakami
 * Japanese cruiser Ōi
 * Japanese cruiser Kiso (planned)