What should change in a successor to the Yugumo-class destroyers?
Short answerKeep the basic design, move two turrets forward, and strengthen its anti-submarine weapons and sensors.
NotesThe Yugumo design is judged fundamentally sound, with a speed of 35.5 knots, six 5-inch guns in three twin turrets, and two torpedo mounts with reloads. The suggested successor would put two gun turrets forward and one aft, reversing the existing arrangement. A larger depth-charge outfit and proper throwers would strengthen its anti-submarine armament. The sensor discussion is less definite: hydrophones and early Japanese echo-ranging work are mentioned, but the fitted equipment is recalled tentatively. Better underwater detection would be a useful improvement without requiring wholesale replacement of the ship's gun and torpedo layout.