Q&A ยท 11:14:24-11:15:29

Taiho surviving its historical explosion

Remaining in service after the explosion is avoided would still leave Taiho exposed to later wartime losses.

Question

If Taiho had not exploded, would it have served until the end of the war?

Short answer

Japan would keep using it, but a later suicide mission or another loss could still end its service before the war ended.

Notes

If Taiho avoids its explosion, Japan is expected to retain a carrier already afloat. That does not guarantee survival to the surrender: a later suicide mission is suggested. Other possible endings include survival into postwar disposal or transfer. The participants offer alternatives without settling on one outcome.