Per the navy replenishment program, plans were made to build cruisers to lead the Shimakaze-class destroyer flotillas. The Agano-class cruisers became the basis for a project that differed from its predecessor in the increased number of main battery turrets, as well as in the strengthened propulsion unit and AA defenses. After the Battle of Midway, the program was adjusted, and in June 1943, the construction order was canceled.