The Amagi grew from a long Japanese preference for large cruisers with two jobs. Japan repeatedly sought the minimum force needed to answer outside naval pressure. These ships could show the flag and travel widely in peace, then bring enough speed and firepower to assist the battle fleet in war. This answered Japan's need for vessels that could cover long distances and still contribute in a fleet action. The same combination of cruising reach and battle support shaped the armoured-cruiser force that fought in the Russo-Japanese War.
Chapter · 0:29-1:18
Why Japan wanted large cruisers
Japan's large cruisers answered outside naval pressure. They cruised abroad in peace and reinforced the battle fleet that fought at Tsushima in war.