Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 5:13:24-5:13:45

Britain estimated Yamato's guns from photographs

British analysts used a grainy photograph to estimate Yamato's main battery at roughly 17 inches, allowing about an inch of uncertainty.

Naval IntelligencePhoto InterpretationRoyal NavyYamato Class Battleships
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Question

Why did Britain think Yamato carried 17-inch guns?

Short answer

Analysts extrapolated the caliber from a grainy photograph and arrived at about 17 inches, give or take an inch.

Notes

The British estimate came from photographic analysis rather than confirmed Japanese specifications. Analysts scaled visible features in a grainy image to infer the diameter of the main battery. They concluded that the guns were probably about 17 inches or larger and allowed roughly an inch of uncertainty. The result was close enough to flag an exceptional threat without revealing the exact 18.1-inch calibre.