Type 4 Ka-Tsu

Historical information

The special Type 4 Launch Ka-Tsu was a Japanese amphibious landing craft of World War II.

Japan's combat experience in the Solomon Islands in 1942 which revealed the difficulty of resupplying Japanese forces in such situations prompted the IJN to commence an amphibious tractor program in 1943, as the Ka-Tsu, which was designed by Commander Hori Motoyoshi of the Kure Naval Yard.

The Ka-Tsu's primary purpose was to transport cargo ashore and it was unarmored apart from some light shielding for the crew. Its engine compartment and electric final drives were hermetically sealed, as it was intended to be launched from a submarine.