The ships' immediate value in this argument is political as much as tactical. With Yamato and Musashi approaching operational status, the proposal abandons secrecy and displays them as proof of Japanese capability. Revealing that Japan had built such large battleships without detection could provoke congressional alarm and prolonged investigations into the intelligence failure. The Yamato class becomes a form of strategic messaging intended to create uncertainty in Washington before the Pacific War begins.
Notable Point · 4:16-5:29
Turn the Yamato class into public deterrence
Rather than conceal Yamato and Musashi, the proposal publicizes them to shock American policymakers and complicate US naval planning.