Explore the mighty U.S. battleships that shaped history. From the USS Iowa to the USS Missouri, discover 7 powerful vessels that played crucial roles in World War II, the Korean War, and beyond. Learn about their impressive firepower, advanced technology, and heroic crews in this fascinating look at Americas naval might.
The United States has a rich naval history, with numerous battleships that have played a significant role in shaping the country's military prowess. From the early 20th century to the present day, these mighty warships have been instrumental in protecting American interests and defending the nation against threats from around the world. In this article, we will explore seven of the most powerful U.S. battleships that have made a lasting impact on the country's naval heritage.
USS Arizona (BB-39)
The USS Arizona (BB-39) is one of the most iconic battleships in U.S. history. Commissioned in 1915, the Arizona was a Pennsylvania-class battleship that served in World War I and World War II. During the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, the Arizona was sunk, resulting in the loss of 1,177 lives. The ship's wreckage has since been designated as a memorial and a tomb for the crew members who lost their lives.
Key Specifications:
- Length: 608 feet (185 meters)
- Beam: 97 feet (30 meters)
- Displacement: 31,400 tons
- Speed: 21 knots (39 km/h)
- Armament: 12 x 14-inch (356 mm) guns
USS Missouri (BB-63)
The USS Missouri (BB-63) is one of the most famous battleships in U.S. history. Nicknamed the "Mighty Mo," the Missouri was commissioned in 1944 and served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Gulf War. The ship is most famous for being the site of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, which marked the end of World War II. Today, the Missouri is a museum ship and memorial in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
Key Specifications:
- Length: 887 feet (271 meters)
- Beam: 108 feet (33 meters)
- Displacement: 45,000 tons
- Speed: 33 knots (61 km/h)
- Armament: 9 x 16-inch (406 mm) guns
USS Iowa (BB-61)
The USS Iowa (BB-61) is a fast battleship that served in World War II and the Korean War. Commissioned in 1943, the Iowa was designed to be a fast and agile battleship, capable of keeping up with the fleet's aircraft carriers. The ship played a significant role in several naval battles, including the Battle of the Philippine Sea and the Battle of Okinawa.
Key Specifications:
- Length: 887 feet (271 meters)
- Beam: 108 feet (33 meters)
- Displacement: 45,000 tons
- Speed: 33 knots (61 km/h)
- Armament: 9 x 16-inch (406 mm) guns
USS New Jersey (BB-62)
The USS New Jersey (BB-62) is a battleship that served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Commissioned in 1943, the New Jersey was a fast battleship that played a significant role in several naval battles, including the Battle of Leyte Gulf and the Battle of the Tonkin Gulf.
Key Specifications:
- Length: 887 feet (271 meters)
- Beam: 108 feet (33 meters)
- Displacement: 45,000 tons
- Speed: 33 knots (61 km/h)
- Armament: 9 x 16-inch (406 mm) guns
USS Texas (BB-35)
The USS Texas (BB-35) is a battleship that served in World War I and World War II. Commissioned in 1914, the Texas was a New York-class battleship that played a significant role in several naval battles, including the Battle of the Atlantic and the Battle of Iwo Jima.
Key Specifications:
- Length: 573 feet (175 meters)
- Beam: 95 feet (29 meters)
- Displacement: 27,000 tons
- Speed: 21 knots (39 km/h)
- Armament: 10 x 14-inch (356 mm) guns
USS North Carolina (BB-55)
The USS North Carolina (BB-55) is a battleship that served in World War II. Commissioned in 1941, the North Carolina was a North Carolina-class battleship that played a significant role in several naval battles, including the Battle of Midway and the Battle of Guadalcanal.
Key Specifications:
- Length: 728 feet (222 meters)
- Beam: 108 feet (33 meters)
- Displacement: 37,000 tons
- Speed: 28 knots (52 km/h)
- Armament: 9 x 14-inch (356 mm) guns
USS Wisconsin (BB-64)
The USS Wisconsin (BB-64) is a battleship that served in World War II and the Gulf War. Commissioned in 1944, the Wisconsin was an Iowa-class battleship that played a significant role in several naval battles, including the Battle of Okinawa and the Battle of the Persian Gulf.
Key Specifications:
- Length: 887 feet (271 meters)
- Beam: 108 feet (33 meters)
- Displacement: 45,000 tons
- Speed: 33 knots (61 km/h)
- Armament: 9 x 16-inch (406 mm) guns
U.S. Battleships Image Gallery
We hope you enjoyed this article on the most powerful U.S. battleships in history. These warships have played a significant role in shaping the country's naval heritage, and their legacy continues to inspire and educate us today. Whether you're a history buff, a naval enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the importance of these iconic ships, we encourage you to share this article with others and continue the conversation.