ZATSUYOSEN!

KIBI MARU - Class Auxiliary Transport


(MEISHO MARU sistership of KIBI MARU as prewar)

This class consists of KIBI, INARI and MEISHO MARUs, all completed between Jun and Nov ‘41 for various shipping companies. KIBI MARU was requisitioned by the IJA and served as Army transport No. 743. INARI and MEISHO MARUs were requisitioned by the IJN, the latter being converted in Jan ‘44 to an auxiliary transport. All were bombed and sunk by American aircraft between Jan ’44 and Jul ‘45.

Builder and Year Completed: Various shipyards.
1941
Gross tonnage: Between 2,737-tons and 2,759-tons.
Dimensions: 309.4' (Lpp) x 44.9' x 24.9'
Propulsion: One steam turbine engine, one shaft, power unknown.
Speed: Cruising: 11 knots – Max: unknown.
Armament: Unknown.