Fubuki leads the Fubuki-class destroyers, beginning her service as an inexperienced yet earnest newcomer assigned to Torpedo Squadron Three at the Chinjufu base. Her design originates from the real Imperial Japanese Navy destroyer Fubuki, which saw action in major World War II engagements until sunk at the Battle of Cape Esperance in 1942.
Physically, Fubuki possesses black hair styled in a small ponytail with a distinctive payot (side lock) framing her face and dark eyes. She typically wears a navy-themed serafuku (sailor uniform) in white and dark blue. Her combat rigging features a backpack-like apparatus, torpedo mounts affixed to her thighs, and a wrist-mounted double-barreled cannon turret. Following her second remodel (Kai Ni), her uniform shifts to a black base with red accents, and she gains upgraded equipment including a long 10 cm high-angle gun mount and a Type 94 anti-aircraft fire director—a fictional enhancement beyond the historical vessel's fate.
Fubuki's core personality is defined by diligence, humility, and unwavering determination. Early portrayals show her as a novice striving to prove her worth, expressing deep admiration for veteran ships like Akagi, whom she idolizes and seeks to mentor her. This fuels her personal goal to become Akagi's dedicated escort. Her resolve faces numerous challenges, including grief over the loss of comrades like Kisaragi, navigating complex fleet dynamics, and confronting envy or self-doubt when peers such as Yuudachi remodel ahead of her. Despite these trials, she consistently demonstrates resilience and a commitment to self-improvement, gradually earning her squadron's respect.
Significant character development unfolds for Fubuki across the anime series and film. Initially struggling with inadequacy, she evolves into a symbol of hope within the fleet. A pivotal moment occurs when she inspires Torpedo Squadron Three with her proclaimed "soul of a torpedo girl," revitalizing their morale through sheer tenacity. During the movie, she confronts Lycoris—an Abyssal manifestation of her own suppressed regrets and nihilism, resembling Fubuki but with white hair, a monstrous left arm, and horns, emerging from the crimson sea threatening the fleet. In a climactic psychological battle within a ship graveyard, Fubuki rejects Lycoris's despairing worldview, assuring her that "everything will be fine" and embracing her in a cooldown hug. This act neutralizes the crimson sea's corruption and breaks a cyclical pattern of resurrection and despair affecting fleet girls and Abyssals.
Fubuki's influence extends to altering predetermined narrative fates. Her intervention during a reenactment of the Battle of Midway prevents Akagi's historical sinking, demonstrating her ability to defy destiny through willpower. Her leadership culminates in commanding a critical mission to halt the Abyssal threat at Rabaul, solidifying her role as a unifying force.
Key relationships define her journey: her bond with destroyer Mutsuki involves shared grief and mutual support, particularly after Kisaragi's loss; her dynamic with Akagi evolves from one-sided reverence to a profound, reciprocal mentorship; and her interactions with Yuudachi reflect camaraderie despite occasional rivalry. Her earnest demeanor is encapsulated in recurring phrases like "Nice to meet you! I’m Fubuki!" and "Yes, I’ll do my best!" highlighting her dedication and optimism.