Introduction to the Japanese Cruiser Zao

The Japanese Cruiser Zao represents a conceptual step in Japanese naval engineering, an embodiment of what might have been had historical circumstances not led to its cancellation. Conceived under a significant naval building program, the Zao was meant to further develop the capabilities demonstrated by previous heavy cruisers such as the Takao, Tone, and Mogami classes.

Design and Armament

In the planning phase, Zao was inten...