German WWII E75 jagdtiger II with 128mm gun
he Ho-Ri II was a Japanese adaptation of the E-50 chassis, modified into a fast and mobile tank destroyer for the Imperial Japanese Army (I.J.A.). Unlike its heavier counterpart based on the E-75 chassis, this version prioritized speed and maneuverability while still retaining high firepower. Equipped with the same 12cm naval-derived gun as the Ho-Ri II (E-75 variant), it provided formidable anti-armor capabilities, albeit with slightly reduced protection.
A total of 380 units were produced, and the Ho-Ri II saw combat during Operation Coronet in March 1947, particularly in the Shonan Coast battles against advancing U.S. Army forces.
Design and Features
The Ho-Ri II (E-50 variant) was engineered to provide high-speed tank destroyer support, featuring:
- Chassis and mobility enhancements:
- Based on the E-50 platform, making it lighter and faster than the E-75-based Ho-Ri II.
- Increased mobility and acceleration, allowing for rapid repositioning and ambush tactics.
- Primary Armament: 12cm naval gun, the same as the Ho-Ri II (E-75 variant).
- Effective at long-range anti-armor engagements.
- Capable of engaging heavily armored U.S. tanks with devastating firepower.
- Armor Protection:
- 100-150mm of frontal armor, offering balanced protection while maintaining speed.
- Sloped armor design, improving resistance against incoming shells while enhancing mobility.
Combat Performance
The Ho-Ri II (E-50 variant) was used extensively in defensive and counterattack operations, excelling in:
- Fast-moving tank battles, engaging enemy forces before retreating to new positions.
- Ambush tactics, leveraging its superior mobility to outflank enemy armored formations.
- Coastal defense and urban engagements, using hit-and-run tactics to wear down enemy advances.
Operation Coronet (March 1947) – Shonan Coast Battles
During the U.S. Army’s landing operations, Ho-Ri II units were deployed to intercept and disrupt advancing enemy forces. Engaging in fast-moving skirmishes along the Shonan Coast, they used their high speed to counter U.S. tank formations, proving to be one of the most effective tank destroyers in Japan’s arsenal.
Despite their effectiveness, attrition and supply shortages limited their impact as the battle progressed, though their firepower and mobility ensured heavy U.S. losses in the early stages of the engagement.
Specifications
- Weight: 50-55 tons
- Armor:
- Frontal: 100-150mm
- Side: 80mm
- Rear: 50mm
- Primary Armament: 12cm naval-derived gun
- Secondary Armament: Hull-mounted Type 97 machine gun
- Mobility:
- Engine: Modified E-50 engine for increased speed
- Top Speed: 55-60 km/h
- Operational Range: 200 km
- Crew: 5 (Commander, Gunner, Loader, Driver, Radio Operator)
- Production Quantity: 380 units
- Role: Fast tank destroyer, anti-armor ambush vehicle, defensive fire support
Legacy
The Ho-Ri II (E-50 variant) became one of Japan’s most effective late-war tank destroyers, combining speed and firepower to counter enemy armor. While its lighter armor made it vulnerable in prolonged engagements, its superior mobility and high-velocity gun allowed it to inflict heavy damage during Operation Coronet.
Note: This introduction is based on the Fist of War (FoW) alternate history background and is not a depiction of real-world historical events.
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