Turtle ship

The Turtle Ship, which is also known as Kobukson or Geobukseon (거북선), is a galley that was invented in the 16th century (the name was already used for warships since the 15th century). The Korean Admiral Yi Sun-sin and Lt Na Dae Yong is credited for inventing the turtle ship, which gained fame by successfully repelling the Japanese invading armada, against extreme odds, in the Seven-Year War (1592-98).

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Considered one of the first (if not the first) ironclad warships in the world, it had armour covering the top of the ship that protected rowers and its naval crew and looked like a turtle with a dragon's head, hence the name. Not just ornamental, the dragon's head could be used to emit fumes as a smokescreen. They had guns on each broadside (usually six) and larger guns in the bow and stern. These primary armaments were supplemented by archers inside the ship who could shoot flaming arrows out of portholes. Sharp retractable iron spikes protruded from the top panels, making the primary Japanese tactic of grappling and boarding an opposing ship less effective in battle. The ships also had retractable sails in addition to oars, making their profile in battle much smaller than comparable ships.

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Several available (3-6) turtle ships proved a pivotal instrument for victory in several sea battles under Admiral Yi Sun-sin, most notably at Noryang and the Battle of Myeongnyang, where the invading Japanese navy suffered critical losses that would later lead to its withdrawal. By utilizing the turtle ship and brilliant naval strategy, Admiral Yi Sun-sin was able to preserve an undefeated naval battle record of 26 consecutive victories.

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Galley: The term galley can refer to any ship propelled primarily by man-power, using oars. Most galleys also use masts and sails as a secondary means of propulsion....

16th century: As a means of recording the passage of time, the 16th century was that century which lasted from 1501 to 1600....

Korea: — For other places called Korea, see: Korea (disambiguation)...

Turtle ship related Images and Photos (experimental)

Bushnell's "Turtle" the First Submersible Craft to be Used in Action Attacking a British Ship	Bushnell's "Turtle" the First Submersible Craft to be Used in Action Attacking a British Ship	Turtle Wax	Turtle Beach
Ship c.1983	Ship c.1983	Ship c.1983	Ship Ahoy
Turtle Crossing	Ship Painting	Sea Turtle	Ghost Ship (DVD) (WS)