KAMOI Class


(NOTORO by Takeshi Yuki scanned from "Color Paintings of Japanese Warships")

KAMOI was the sole unit of her class. Completed in 1922 at New York Shipbuilding's Camden shipyard as a fleet oiler, she was converted to a seaplane carrier in 1933 at the Uraga Dock Co. in Tokyo and later saw service in that role in China. In 1940, she was reconverted to a flying boat tender. KAMOI was rerated a fleet oiler in 1943. KAMOI was sunk by 14th Air Force bombers at Hong Kong in 1945.

Year Completed: 1922
Displacement: 17,000-tons.
Dimensions: Length 496', beam 67', draft 28'.
Propulsion and Speed: 2 Curtiss electric drive turbines, 2 shafts, 9, 000 shp; 15 knots.
Oil Cargo Capacity: 10,000-tons.
Armament: 2 x 5.5-inch/50-cal, 2 x 3-inch/40-cal AA
Conversion: The space between her well decks is fitted with a platform that provides space and cover for 12 floatplanes that are better protected from foul weather by light platforms above the upper deck. In 1934, her stern is modified and a German crane and recovery gear are fitted to lower and recover her floatplanes. No catapult.
Aircraft: 12 Type 90 No. 3 Kawanishi E5K1 three-seat reconnaissance float biplanes. Later, carries Type 95 Kawanishi E8N2 two-seat float biplanes. Capable of transporting a maximum of 22 aircraft.