The design of the Agano-class cruisers began in the second half of the 1930s. Their main purpose was reconnaissance, so the cruisers primarily required high speed, which necessitated weakening their armor. Their armament consisted of six 152 mm guns in three turrets. During World War II, cruiser Agano participated in escort and patrol operations and also took part in the Battle of Empress Augusta Bay. On February 17, 1944, the cruiser was sunk by submarine USS Skate while en route for repairs.