Jingei (迅鯨, Swift Whale),[1] was the lead vessel of the Jingei-class submarine tenders operated by the Imperial Japanese Navy, from the 1920s through World War II.

In order to keep costs to a minimum, the basic design of her hull was adapted from that of a standard civilian merchant vessel, of which Mitsubishi had considerable experience in building.

After the Marco Polo Bridge Incident of 7 July 1937, Jingei was part of the escort for the convoys transporting the IJA 10th Division to northern China, but took no further combat role in the Second Sino-Japanese War.

[3] On 15 November 1940, in preparation for the coming conflict with the United States, both Jingei-class ships were returned to active combat status, replacing Takasaki and Tsuruguzaki, which were then converted to aircraft carriers.

She was relieved by her sister ship, Chōgei on 7 November 1943, and was withdrawn back to Japan, arriving at Kure Naval District by the end of the month.

On 10 October 1944, the immobile Jingei was attacked by Allied aircraft of Task Force 38 launched from USS Hancock and sank in shallow waters at 26°39′N 127°52′E / 26.650°N 127.867°E / 26.650; 127.867, with the loss of 100 crewmen.