Talk:Taihou/@comment-24396562-20140507122209/@comment-23.28.25.108-20140510122536

^ Torpedo Defense Systems aren't as much about armor preventing damage as it is about containing the damage. Capital ships generally had several layers of voids and bulkheads to keep the explosive force from penetrating the inner hull. Sure, the ship took on water, but it was compartmentalized and could be pumped out later. It's a facinating subject if you're into such things. (cf North Carolina's hit from I-19)

You are correct that Taiho (like the British carriers) did have an armored flight deck, she also had somewhat of an armored belt on the sides. The first generation of carriers from the US, Britain and Japan were converted BC (or BB in the case of Kaga) and did have more extensive armor protection, but the bulk of the carriers built during the war were less well armored, as it was found to be unneccessary weight.

queek.