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Originally Posted by CCIP
Actually, the Ha 201 seems strangely similar to the Type XXIII more than anything else. Very similar performance figures and role  |
Ack! Actually you are correct CCIP! Got my Japanese super subs mixed up. The ocean-going version of the Ha 201 was the 1 202 class (Type ST)
Probably the closest Japanese equivalent to the Type XXI. In some respects, superior.
The Sen Taka (submarine, high speed), could run a sprint speed of 19 knots for 55 minutes while submerged! The I-201 class had streamlined all-welded hulls, high capacity cell batteries and electric motors that provided almost twice the horsepower of their German-designed MAN diesel engines. The I-201 class were fitted with snorkels to allow cruising submerged on their diesels and recharging of their batteries while underwater. They carried 25-mm guns in retractable mounts to maintain streamlining. They could dive to 335 feet, deeper than any previous Japanese sub. Eight boats were laid down, but only three were completed before the end of the war. Again, none saw operational use.
