About the Abukuma
Completed in 1925, the Abukuma was the last ship in the Nagara-class of light cruisers/destroyer flotilla leaders and took part in many major naval engagements in the Pacific War. Due to a collision with the cruiser Kitakami during an exercise in 1930, the Abukuma featured a different bow shape than her sister ships and was thus easily distinguishable.

About the Japanese Light Cruiser Kumano
A main characteristic of the heavily armored Mogami class cruisers was the use of weight saving techniques. This, however, resulted in concerns for the ships overall strength and stability.