ASOSAN MARU-Class IJA Transport

(Sister AOBASAN MARU, prewar)

This class consisted of ASOSAN, AOBASAN, ARIMASAN, ASAKASAN and ATSUTASAN MARUs, all completed for Mitsui Bussan K.K. In 1941, all were requisitioned by the Imperial Army. ASOSAN, ARIMASAN and ASAKASAN MARUs served as transports while AOBOSAN and ATSUTASAN MARU served as Air Defense Ships (Boku-Kikansen). ASOSAN MARU was torpedoed and sunk by American submarine in May '44. AOBASAN MARU was bombed and sunk by American aircraft in Dec ‘44 while ASAKASAN MARU was bombed and sunk by American aircraft in Feb ‘43. ATSUTASAN MARU was torpedoed and sunk by American submarine in Dec ‘41. ARIMASAN MARU survived the war and was finally scrapped in 1970.

Builder and Year Completed:	Tama Zosensho K.K. Shipyard 1934-1937
Gross tonnage:	8,663 to 8,812-tons.
Dimensions:	455.1' x 62.0' x 39.4'
Propulsion:	1 Mitsui B & W 2DA type Diesel engine, 1 shaft, 7,600 bhp.
Speed:	16 knots cruising, 19 knots maximum
Armament:	Various depending on use.