KM Z-25 (DD-1940)
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After the previous two classes of extremely large destroyers the next class was of a moderate size but with two distinct advantages. The first was the replacement of the dual-purpose 5.1" guns with the tri-axial mounted 4.1", this move was taken as the 5.1" was found to be inaccurate in moderate to heavy weather whereas the 4.1" on the stabilized mounting only had problems of inaccuracy in very rough weather. The 4.1" although being a more anti-aircraft than surface weapon proved itself in many surface to surface actions as a very good destroyer weapon. The other major improvement was the fitting of the high speed diesel engines developed for destroyers and larger craft.
This class was 2-4 knots slower than the other 'Z' type destroyers but had a much extended range compared to the earlier ships. Light AA was fairly substantial and was increased during the war with single 37-40mm and 20mm guns being added and replaced as they became available.
| Displacement | 1,950 tons std, 2,650 tons full load |
| Length | 374 ft |
| Breadth | 37 ft |
| Draught | 12 ft |
| Machinery | 2 shaft Diesel Engines 45,000bhp |
| Speed | 34 knots |
| Range | 8400 miles at 18 knots |
| Armour | nil |
| Armament | 6 x 4.1" (3x2) 4 x 37mm (2x2) 10 x 20mm (1x4 1x2 4x1) |
| Torpedoes | 8 x 21" (2x4) |
| Complement | 225 |
| Notes | Z25 Z26 |
