Japanese minesweeper No. 7 (1938)

Japanese minesweeper No. 7 was a Type 7 minesweeper of the Imperial Japanese Navy. Built in 1938, she served primarily in coastal defense and minesweeping duties before and during World War II. Specific details regarding her pre-war activities are limited.

During the Pacific War, she participated in various operations related to securing and maintaining sea lanes in Japanese-controlled waters. Her primary role involved clearing mines laid by Allied forces to ensure the safe passage of Japanese shipping and warships. As a Type 7 minesweeper, she was equipped with standard minesweeping equipment of the time, including paravanes and other devices designed to cut or detonate moored mines.

Detailed records of her specific deployments and engagements are incomplete, but she likely operated in the waters around Japan, as well as potentially in occupied territories in the East China Sea, South China Sea, and the surrounding areas.

The ultimate fate of Japanese minesweeper No. 7 is currently unknown. Many Japanese minesweepers were lost during the war due to enemy action (air attacks, submarine attacks, or surface engagements) or were scuttled towards the end of the war to prevent capture. Further research is required to determine her exact fate and operational history.