The Yamato-class was a class of battleships built for the Imperial Japanese Navy during World War II. The most famous ship in this class, the Yamato, was launched in 1940 and was one of the largest battleships ever constructed. These ships were designed to engage enemy fleets with their powerful armament and heavy armor. The Yamato-class consisted of two ships: the Yamato and its sister ship, the Musashi. Both vessels were equipped with nine 46 cm (18.1 in) guns, making them formidable opponents. However, they were ultimately rendered less effective by the rise of air power and aircraft carriers, leading to their decline in naval warfare strategy.