The Japanese pre-war torpedo-boat concept sought a compact force multiplier that could help cover destroyer tasks. The Chidori class was dangerously top-heavy and lightly framed, while the Ōtori class also required rework. These failures contributed to Japan's later shortage of suitable escorts and encouraged a preference for larger craft instead of a more robust small-boat force. Pacific conditions made the problem especially unforgiving because a small vessel had to survive an ocean as well as carry its weapons.
Chapter · 59:17-1:02:38
Japan's torpedo-boat line met the Pacific badly
Japan's Chidori and Ōtori experience shows the danger of trying to make a small torpedo craft perform destroyer-level duties in ocean conditions.