Chitose Seaplane Tender

Chitose originally entered Japanese naval service as a seaplane tender, carrying floatplanes launched by catapult and recovered from the water. This configuration supported reconnaissance and other maritime aviation tasks without a conventional carrier flight deck. During the Second World War she was converted into a light aircraft carrier, fundamentally changing her appearance and air operations. The earlier tender’s floatplanes operated from the water, while the converted carrier later supported wheeled naval aircraft before her loss during the Philippines campaign in 1944. Seaplane handling depended on catapults, cranes, and suitable sea conditions. Those requirements differed from the takeoff and landing procedures introduced after Chitose received a conventional carrier deck.

Finish and color

Supplied unpainted and printed in the selected color. Choose from the available product color options.

Tabletop use

Suitable for period-appropriate custom scenarios in the Global War series of games by Historical Board Gaming and compatible Axis & Allies games. Use suitable scenario or house rules for unit statistics and any technology upgrades. This piece does not supply additional game rules.

Global War is a trademark of Historical Board Gaming.