27th December 1922: Hōshō, the first purpose-built aircraft carrier, commissioned by Japan

On 27 December 1922 the world’s first purpose-built aircraft carrier was commissioned into the Imperial Japanese Navy. Welcome to HistoryPod. While other nations had converted ships into carriers the Japanese ship, named Hōshō, was the first to be designed and constructed as an aircraft carrier from the outset. This decision emerged from Japan’s growing recognition of the importance of air power in naval warfare during the early 20th century. The design process began in 1919, and construction commenced in 1920 at the Yokosuka Naval Arsenal. Measuring 168 meters in length and capable of carrying up to 15 aircraft, it featured a flat, unobstructed flight deck and an enclosed hangar below that allowed for the launch and recovery of planes. These features became standard for future aircraft carriers. Hōshō was initially equipped with reconnaissance aircraft and torpedo bombers, which were relatively new technologies at the time. Consequently the ship played a role in the development of Japanese naval aviation tactics. It was used extensively for training pilots and testing carrier-based operations. Nevertheless, the carrier underwent modifications in the years following its commissioning, including changes to its flight deck and superstructure, to improve operational efficiency and adapt to advancements in aviation technology. Hōshō participated in combat operations during the Pacific War, including the Battle of Midway in June 1942. However, by this time, the ship was considered outdated due to its small size and limited capacity. It was soon relegated to a support and training role, contributing to pilot instruction and testing new aircraft models. Hōshō was decommissioned in 1946 and scrapped the following year.