Etorofu retained two diesel engines driving two shafts. Simplified bows, sterns and bridge structures made the ships easier to mass-produce. Additional fuel increased the stated range to slightly more than 8,000 nautical miles at 16 knots. Sonar and Type 93 hydrophones supported anti-submarine work. Six depth-charge throwers were specified, with a single weapon called a Model 94 mortar in this description. Limited mortar supply provides the explanation for that fit: equipment availability constrained the escort that could be built.
Chapter · 14:34-16:38
Etorofu's simpler structure and longer range
Simpler structures, additional fuel and underwater sensors strengthen the case for Etorofu as a practical convoy escort.