1. Size and strategic importance: The USS Arizona was a large and important battleship, considered one of the most powerful ships in the U.S. Navy at the time. By targeting and destroying the Arizona, the Japanese aimed to cripple the U.S. Pacific Fleet and weaken its naval power.
2. Location and vulnerability: The USS Arizona was berthed in "Battleship Row," a tight formation of ships along the southeastern shore of Ford Island. This made the Arizona an easy target and concentrated the damage it sustained during the attack. The ship's fuel tanks and ammunition magazines were also vulnerable, making it more susceptible to significant damage.
3. Psychological impact: The USS Arizona was also chosen for its symbolic significance. Sinking such a prominent and well-known ship would have a significant psychological impact on the U.S. public and the military, further demoralizing them.
4. Limited time and resources: The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor was a surprise strike, and the Japanese forces had a limited timeframe to carry out their objectives. They concentrated their efforts on key targets, including the battleships, to maximize the damage they could cause within the available time.
It's important to note that while the USS Arizona was a primary target, the Japanese also attacked multiple other ships and facilities in Pearl Harbor. The attack was a broader operation designed to cripple the U.S. naval base and its military presence in the Pacific.