Q&A · 3:00:16-3:01:05

Why Ise and Hyuga did not solve cruiser-aviation problems

The Ise-class hybrid conversions expanded the concept but represented an emergency expedient rather than a sound evolution of cruiser aviation.

Question

How did cruiser-borne aviation change with the Ise and Hyuga conversions?

Short answer

The hybrids enlarged the aviation concept and added fighter ambitions, but they were an emergency response rather than a good doctrinal solution.

Notes

The conversions transferred aspects of shipborne reconnaissance into a larger hybrid arrangement and added fighter ambitions. They enlarged the aviation-cruiser idea without providing the efficient flight operations of a true carrier. The ships reflected Japan's desperate circumstances rather than a successful doctrinal evolution. If Ise and Hyuga appear to be the answer, the navy has already reached a point where it is asking the wrong operational question.