The Cost of Musashi World Warships in Dollars

In November 1940, the Japanese warship Musashi made a grand entrance at her launch, leaving a lasting impression on the harbor and nearby homes due to its massive size. Little did anyone know that this behemoth would go on to play a significant role in World War II, albeit with a tumultuous journey.

After the Battle of Peleliu, Japan regrouped its fleet, with aircraft carriers taking center stage as the new flagship. Musashi, once considered a symbol of strength and power, was relegated to an escortship, earning mocking remarks from fellow officers who dubbed her 'Inn Musashi.' This marked a significant shift in the Japanese Navy's strategy, signaling a departure from the battleship era.

The Yamato-class battleship, which included Musashi as its second vessel, was laid down in September 1938 at Mitsubishi's shipyard in Nagasaki. With a displacement of 65,000 tons, 46 cm main guns, and a top speed of 27.46 knots, it would become the largest battleship in the world.

Musashi's construction began after Japan renounced the Washington Naval Treaty in 1934, allowing for the development of these massive warships. The treaty had previously restricted Japan from building new naval vessels, but with its withdrawal, Japan was free to pursue its naval ambitions.

In 1943, Musashi headed to Truk, and while it may not have achieved the same level of success as some of its contemporaries, it remains an important chapter in the history of World War II. As an injection-plastic ship model kit, enthusiasts can relive this momentous era by building their own replica of the Musashi.

The cost of building such a massive warship was staggering, with estimates ranging from millions to billions of dollars in today's currency. Despite its eventual fate, the Musashi remains a testament to Japan's naval ambitions during World War II and serves as a reminder of the significant role it played in shaping the course of the conflict.

Cost of musashi world warships dollars