Lewin of Greenwich Naval History & Forum

Lead Ship,Heavy Cruiser IJNS Takao pictured on March 20th 1932.These were the largest and most modern Cruisers in the Japanese fleet, and were intended to form the backbone of a multipurpose long-range strike force. Her sister ships were Atago, Maya and Chōkai.

More pictures of units of this class of IJN heavy cruiser. Powerful ships in the early-mid 30s, but then they were well over 10,000 tons! DFO

A tasty lil morsal, to bad it isn't clearer: note WHO is in background! Plus another view of her with TAIHO in back...... DFO

Lead Ship, Heavy Cruiser Takao pictured over 96% complete, under construction at Yokosuka Naval Arsenal, February 20th, 1932.

Takao Class Heavy Cruiser Atago pictured on speed trials in Sukumo Bay on February 12th 1932.

Two views of bomb damage to MAYA. Her #3 8" turret was also damaged in this attack; therefore pulled and 2 twin 5" AA put in the C position. The 2 view drawing shows her after the repairs and modifications. DFO

Lead Ship,Heavy Cruiser Takao pictured fitting out at Yokosuka on March 20th 1932.

Lead Ship, Heavy Cruiser Takao pictured moored at Yokosuka Naval Arsenal on December 21st 1939.

Lead Ship,Heavy Cruiser Takao pictured at Yokosuka Naval Arsenal undergoing a major refit on May 1st 1938 in an attempt to overcome her stability issues...stability and seaworthiness due to the top-heavy design became evident so Takao and her sister Atago were rebuilt at the Yokosuka Naval Arsenal between 1938 and 1939, resulting in an improved design: the size of the bridge was reduced, the main mast was relocated aft, and hull bulges were added to improve stability. Sisters Maya and Chōkai were not modified as extensively...After rebuilding was completed, Takao and Atago patrolled off the coast of China in 1940 and early 1941.

Launch day for Lead Ship, Heavy Cruiser Takao pictured on the ways at Yokosuka Naval Arsenal Slipway No2 on May 12th 1930.