The modified Taiho was a separate fleet-carrier project from the Unryu class, with five projected ships numbered 5021 through 5025. At roughly 38,500 tons full load and 33 knots, it belonged to the new generation of 35,000- to 45,000-ton ships expected to combine air power with substantial protection. The planned air group included 18 fighters and 27 strike aircraft, with additional aircraft also envisaged. Improved armament formed part of the design. In this comparison, a carrier of roughly 20,000 tons had shifted from the fleet standard of the 1920s and 1930s toward the upper end of the light-fleet category as designers moved beyond treaty ceilings.
Chapter · 1:44-4:20
The modified Taiho as Japan's next fleet carrier
Japan's modified Taiho project combined a 38,500-ton hull with greater protection, illustrating the growth of fleet carriers beyond treaty-era sizes.