14 cm/14 cm: Japanese Naval Gun
The 14 cm/14 cm was a naval gun used by the Imperial Japanese Navy during World War II.
History
The 14 cm/14 cm naval gun was developed in the 1930s as a secondary armament for Japanese cruisers and battleships. The gun was designed to fire a 14 cm (5.5 inch) shell, with a calibre length of 14 metres (46 feet).
Design
The 14 cm/14 cm gun had a crew of 15-20 personnel, and was typically mounted in twin or triple turrets. The gun had a rate of fire of 5-6 rounds per minute, with a muzzle velocity of 840-870 metres per second (2,756-2,853 feet per second).
Performance
The 14 cm/14 cm gun had a maximum elevation of 35 degrees, and a maximum depression of -5 degrees. The gun had a range of 18,000-20,000 metres (19,685-21,875 yards), making it effective against surface targets at medium to long ranges.
Ships Equipped
The 14 cm/14 cm naval gun was equipped on several Japanese warships during World War II, including:
Cruisers
- Mogami-class cruisers: The Mogami-class cruisers were equipped with five twin 14 cm/14 cm turrets, with a total of 10 guns.
- Tone-class cruisers: The Tone-class cruisers were equipped with four twin 14 cm/14 cm turrets, with a total of 8 guns.
Battleships
- Yamato-class battleships: The Yamato-class battleships were equipped with six twin 14 cm/14 cm turrets, with a total of 12 guns.
Conclusion
The 14 cm/14 cm naval gun was an important secondary armament for Japanese warships during World War II. Its medium to long range capabilities made it effective against surface targets, and its widespread deployment on Japanese cruisers and battleships made it a common sight in naval battles during the war.
