The Kantai-class battleship refers to a class of warships built for the Imperial Japanese Navy during the early 20th century. These battleships were designed to engage enemy fleets and protect maritime interests, featuring heavy armor and powerful artillery. The class included notable ships like the Yamato and Musashi, which were among the largest and most heavily armed battleships ever constructed. Kantai-class battleships played a significant role in naval battles during World War II, particularly in the Pacific Theater. Their design emphasized speed and firepower, allowing them to dominate naval engagements. However, advancements in aircraft and submarines eventually rendered battleships less effective in modern warfare.