Many were converted to training submarines (ATSS) towards the end of their lives.

The Uzushio class was the first Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force submarine design to incorporate the teardrop hull.

The Uzushios had a double hull construction which used NS-63 high-tensile steel to allow for a deeper diving depth of 200 metres (660 ft).

They had a maximum draught of 7.5 m (24 ft 7 in) and had a standard displacement of 1,850 tonnes (1,820 long tons) and a 3,600 t (3,500 long tons) displacement when submerged.

[1][2][a] The submarines were powered by a diesel-electric system composed of two Kawasaki-MAN V8V24/30AMTL diesel engines and two electric motors turning one shaft creating 3,400 brake horsepower (2,500 kW) surfaced and 7,200 shaft horsepower (5,400 kW) submerged.