After extensive modification, the class became satisfactory sea-boats and saw service in the Battle of the Philippines and the Dutch East Indies campaign as escorts and continued in that role for the rest of the war.

Per the terms of the 1930 London Naval Treaty, the Imperial Japanese Navy was constricted on the total tonnage of destroyers it was allowed to construct.

They were powered by two Kampon water-tube boilers and produced a total of 11,000 shaft horsepower (8,200 kW).

Two sets of twin 533 mm (21.0 in) torpedo launchers were mounted abaft the single funnel.

An additional 100 tons of ballast also helped lower the center-of-gravity, but also meant the top speed was reduced to 28 knots.

[5] On 12 March 1934, shortly after completion, Tomozuru (友鶴) sailed in company with her sister Chidori (千鳥) and the light cruiser Tatsuta for night torpedo training.

[6] This disaster forced the Imperial Japanese Navy to review the stability of every ship recently completed, under construction or still being designed.

The Chidori'-class was forced to reduce its armament load and the bridge structure was cut down by one level.

Chidori and Manazuru returned to home waters after Torpedo Flotilla 21 was disbanded in the spring of 1942 and were on escort duties for the rest of the war.