What Weapons Were Used in Pearl Harbor?
Contents
Introduction
The attack on Pearl Harbor, a military base in Hawaii, by the Imperial Japanese Navy on December 7, 1941, was a turning point in World War II. The surprise attack resulted in the loss of 2,403 American lives, and the destruction of thousands of acres of naval facilities, aircraft, and installations. The attack was preceded by a series of economic and diplomatic tensions between Japan and the United States, which ultimately led to a declaration of war.
Types of Weapons Used by the Japanese
The Imperial Japanese Navy used a combination of aircraft, torpedoes, and bombs to attack Pearl Harbor.
Aircraft
- Mitsubishi A6M Zero fighter planes: These highly maneuverable planes were used for defensive purposes and to strafe airfields and buildings.
- Nakajima B5N "Kate" torpedo planes: These planes dropped armor-piercing bombs on ships and naval facilities, causing significant damage and flooding.
- Mitsubishi G3M2 "Nell" bombers: These planes released incendiary bombs to set fires on naval air stations and hangars.
Torpedoes
The Japanese used Type 91 and Type 93 torpedoes, which were capable of sinking large warships at anchor. The torpedoes were launched from Japanese aircraft and submarines, inflicting significant damage on U.S. ships.
Type 91 Torpedoes:
| Torpedo Characteristics | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Length | 27.5 feet (8.4 meters) |
| Diameter | 2.5 feet (76 cm) |
| Explosive Weight | 390 pounds (177 kg) |
| Speed | up to 35 knots (65 km/h) |
| Range | 18,000 yards (16,460 meters) |
Type 93 Torpedoes:
| Torpedo Characteristics | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Length | 35 feet (10.7 meters) |
| Diameter | 2.5 feet (76 cm) |
| Explosive Weight | 400 pounds (182 kg) |
| Speed | up to 40 knots (74 km/h) |
| Range | 23,000 yards (21,040 meters) |
Bombs
The Japanese used armor-piercing bombs, fragmentation bombs, and high-explosive bombs to attack Pearl Harbor. These bombs were designed to penetrate ship armor, explode in the air, and cause widespread destruction on ground targets.
High-Explosive Bombs:
| Bomb Specifications | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Size | 500-pound (227 kg) |
| TNT equivalent | 700-800 pounds (318-363 kg) |
Other Weapons
The Imperial Japanese Navy also used other weapons, including:
- Depth charges: anti-submarine weapons designed to sink enemy submarines.
- Rockets: unmanned rockets used to attack American ships and installations.
- Machine guns: infantry weapons used to attack military personnel and installations.
Conclusion
The weapons used in the attack on Pearl Harbor were a combination of aircraft, torpedoes, and bombs designed to inflict maximum damage on U.S. naval facilities, ships, and personnel. The surprise attack resulted in significant losses and changed the course of World War II, ultimately leading to the defeat of Japan and the re-establishment of the country’s sovereignty.
