The Aoba-class cruiser is a type of light cruiser used by the Imperial Japanese Navy during World War II. Designed in the 1920s, these ships were known for their speed and versatility, featuring a displacement of around 10,000 tons. The class includes several ships, with the lead ship, Aoba, being commissioned in 1929. Aoba-class cruisers were equipped with a mix of artillery, including 8-inch guns, and were used for various roles, such as scouting and fleet support. They played significant roles in several naval battles, contributing to the naval strategies of the Japanese Navy during the conflict.