The Black Ship (TWS2 Unit)

The Black Ship (TWS2 Unit)
Class	Galleon
Recruitment Cost	4500
Upkeep Cost	1200
Requires	-
Marines	100
Seamen	185
Gunners	48
Accuracy	40
Reloading Skill	40
Hull Strength	600
Morale	13

Description

The Black Ship is a heavily armed trader, usually carrying valuable cargo.

This Portuguese trade ship carries goods to China once a year before returning to Europe. As a consequence, it passes the Japanese coast twice, and is a tempting target for the notorious wako pirates. Fortunately, it is heavily armed, strongly built and a good sailer. The Black Ship carries European cannons, powerful enough to destroy any Japanese ship that might threaten it! Obviously, it would be a magnificent prize!

The first trade between Japan and Portugal occurred in 1543, when Tanagashima Tokitaka purchased “firelocks” from Portuguese merchants. These were the first “modern” firearms seen in Japan, and the weapons became much sought after. With one sale, the Portuguese created a market for regular trade between the two countries. The introduction of guns changed Japanese warfare, as the emphasis switched from samurai fighting single combat duels on the battlefield to mass volleys by ashigaru units. The second major outside import appeared swiftly, as with later batches of guns came Christian missionaries. Daimyo and lesser men converted, although without necessarily abandoning the samurai ethos of warfare.

Strengths & Weaknesses

• Powerful European ships armed with many large cannons.
• Vulnerable to being swarmed by many Japanese ships.