Intro
Discover the fascinating history and service of the I-58 submarine, a Japanese Navy vessel that played a crucial role in World War II. Learn about its construction, missions, and sinking, as well as its notable encounters and the sailors who served on board this iconic Imperial Japanese Navy submarine.
The I-58 submarine, a Japanese long-range oceanic submarine, holds a significant place in the history of naval warfare. Commissioned in 1944, the I-58 played a crucial role in the final stages of World War II, and its story is a testament to the technological advancements and strategic decisions of the time.
The I-58 was one of the four Japanese submarines of the Type B3 class, designed to carry a crew of 100 personnel and armed with six 533mm torpedo tubes. Its dimensions were impressive, measuring 108.7 meters in length and 9.3 meters in beam, with a displacement of over 2,500 tons. The submarine's speed was also notable, reaching up to 17.75 knots on the surface and 6.5 knots submerged.
Design and Construction
The I-58 was built at the Kure Naval Arsenal in Hiroshima, Japan, and took approximately two years to complete. Its design was influenced by the German Type IX U-boat, reflecting the close technological exchange between Japan and Germany during the war. The submarine's hull was divided into seven compartments, with a strengthened bow and stern to withstand the stresses of diving and torpedo attacks.
Armament and Sensors
The I-58 was equipped with an array of armaments, including six 533mm torpedo tubes, a 140mm deck gun, and two 25mm anti-aircraft guns. Its sensor suite included a Type 3 sonar, a Type 96 Mark 2 model 1 radar, and a Type 93 hydrophone. The submarine's torpedo tubes were capable of firing the 95-Shiki, a Japanese torpedo renowned for its accuracy and speed.
Service History
Commissioned on September 7, 1944, the I-58 began its service under the command of Lieutenant Commander Mochitsura Hashimoto. Initially, the submarine was assigned to the 11th Submarine Flotilla, conducting training exercises in the Japanese Inland Sea. In November 1944, the I-58 was reassigned to the 1st Submarine Flotilla, tasked with conducting reconnaissance and attack missions in the Pacific.
Operations against Allied Shipping
The I-58's first operational mission began on April 16, 1945, when it departed from the Japanese port of Kure, bound for the waters off the Philippines. The submarine's primary objective was to attack Allied shipping, particularly the US Navy's task forces supporting the Okinawa campaign. Over the next several weeks, the I-58 successfully evaded detection by Allied aircraft and warships, sinking several supply ships and tankers.
Final Missions and Surrender
In the final stages of the war, the I-58 conducted several more missions, targeting Allied convoys and patrols in the Pacific. However, as the Japanese military situation deteriorated, the submarine was eventually recalled to Japan. On August 16, 1945, the I-58 surrendered to the United States at the port of Yokosuka, marking the end of its operational career.
Post-War Fate
After surrendering, the I-58 was taken into US custody and used for various purposes, including testing and evaluation. In 1946, the submarine was transferred to the United States as a prize of war, and in 1948, it was used as a target ship for US Navy aircraft. On April 1, 1948, the I-58 was sunk off the coast of Hawaii, its legacy serving as a testament to the complexities and challenges of naval warfare during World War II.
I-58 Submarine Image Gallery
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