Instead of increasing the number of torpedo launchers for the new cruisers, the number of main battery turrets was increased to five, and the anti-torpedo protection was enhanced by the introduction of longitudinal bulkheads. The thickness of the armor belt was also increased, and the anti-aircraft weaponry was reinforced. During the Sino-Japanese War, Myōkō participated in the landing on Hainan Island. During World War II, the ship fought in the Java, Coral, and Philippine Seas, and she participated in the Battles of Midway, Solomon Islands, and Leyte Gulf.