Shōkaku was a Japanese aircraft carrier that served during World War II. Launched in 1939, it was one of the first carriers designed specifically for naval aviation. The ship played a significant role in several key battles, including the attack on Pearl Harbor and the Battle of Midway. The carrier was equipped with advanced technology for its time, including a flight deck that allowed for the launch and recovery of aircraft. Shōkaku was ultimately sunk in 1944 during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, marking a significant loss for the Imperial Japanese Navy.