What Was the Most Ridiculous Aircraft Carrier of World War II? Japan’s Ill-Fated Shinano

Japan’s Shinano, the Epitome of Cutting Corners

Due to its geographical location, Japan has always placed a high emphasis on battleships and naval forces, particularly during World War II. While the Japanese Army was less effective — even struggling against China’s then-backward military equipment — the Japanese Navy was genuinely formidable.

Yet for all its merits, there were a few unlucky “cursed” ships in the Japanese Navy at that time, among which the Shinano, an armored aircraft carrier, deserves special mention.

1. The Much-Anticipated Shinano

At its inception, the Shinano aircraft carrier was crowned with several “firsts,” such as being the largest aircraft carrier in Japan and the world in terms of displacement.

In 1944, as the old Japanese Empire was nearing its end, the Shinano was heralded as the “savior of the empire.” The ship was exceptionally well-equipped and boasted formidable combat capabilities.

However, this seemingly invincible behemoth set a comedic record by sinking into the ocean to meet the Dragon King just 17 hours after its maiden combat voyage. It was arguably the biggest jinx in the old Japanese Navy.