Shokaku Aircraft Carrier

Shōkaku and Zuikaku formed a modern Japanese fleet-carrier class whose ships entered service before the Pacific War. They fought in major carrier operations, including the early-war campaigns and the Coral Sea battle. Their careers diverged during later fighting, but both were lost in 1944 as Japan’s carrier airpower and fleet circumstances deteriorated.

Their size and balanced air groups made them important additions to Japan’s carrier force in 1941. Damage to Shokaku and aircraft losses affecting Zuikaku after Coral Sea kept both from participating at Midway. They later fought in the Solomon Islands campaigns, where attrition steadily eroded trained aircrews. Shokaku was sunk by the submarine USS Cavalla during the Battle of the Philippine Sea. Zuikaku survived until the Leyte Gulf operation, where it served in the decoy carrier force and was sunk by American air attack.

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 Global War 1936, Global Empires, 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.