Intro
Explore the 5 most iconic US World War 2 battleships, from the USS Arizona to the USS Missouri. Discover their pivotal roles in Pacific Theater battles like Midway, Guadalcanal, and Leyte Gulf. Learn about their design, armament, and heroism, showcasing American naval power and its impact on the Allied victory in World War 2.
The United States Navy played a crucial role in the Allied victory in World War II, and its battleships were a key component of the fleet. These iconic warships were the embodiment of American military power and technological prowess. Here, we will explore five of the most iconic US World War 2 battleships, their histories, and their contributions to the war effort.
1. USS Arizona (BB-39)
The USS Arizona was a Pennsylvania-class battleship commissioned in 1915. She was one of the largest and most advanced warships in the world at the time. Tragically, the USS Arizona was sunk during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, resulting in the loss of 1,177 lives. The USS Arizona remains one of the most iconic US battleships, symbolizing the sacrifices made during World War II.
Specifications and Armament
- Displacement: 31,400 tons
- Length: 608 feet
- Beam: 97 feet
- Draft: 29 feet
- Speed: 21 knots
- Armament: 12 x 14-inch guns, 22 x 5-inch guns, 4 x 3-inch guns, 2 x 21-inch torpedo tubes
2. USS Missouri (BB-63)
The USS Missouri was an Iowa-class battleship commissioned in 1944. She was one of the largest and most advanced battleships in the world, earning the nickname "Mighty Mo." The USS Missouri played a significant role in the Pacific Theater, participating in the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. She also served as the site of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, marking the end of World War II.
Specifications and Armament
- Displacement: 45,000 tons
- Length: 887 feet
- Beam: 108 feet
- Draft: 29 feet
- Speed: 33 knots
- Armament: 9 x 16-inch guns, 20 x 5-inch guns, 80 x 40mm guns, 49 x 20mm guns
3. USS Iowa (BB-61)
The USS Iowa was also an Iowa-class battleship, commissioned in 1943. She was one of the fastest battleships in the world, earning the nickname "The Big Stick." The USS Iowa played a significant role in the Pacific Theater, participating in the battles of the Philippine Sea and Okinawa. She also served as a flagship for several notable admirals, including Admiral William F. Halsey Jr.
Specifications and Armament
- Displacement: 45,000 tons
- Length: 887 feet
- Beam: 108 feet
- Draft: 29 feet
- Speed: 33 knots
- Armament: 9 x 16-inch guns, 20 x 5-inch guns, 80 x 40mm guns, 49 x 20mm guns
4. USS North Carolina (BB-55)
The USS North Carolina was a North Carolina-class battleship commissioned in 1941. She was one of the most advanced battleships in the world at the time, featuring a unique arrangement of guns and armor. The USS North Carolina played a significant role in the Pacific Theater, participating in the battles of Midway and Guadalcanal.
Specifications and Armament
- Displacement: 35,000 tons
- Length: 728 feet
- Beam: 108 feet
- Draft: 28 feet
- Speed: 28 knots
- Armament: 9 x 14-inch guns, 20 x 5-inch guns, 16 x 1.1-inch guns, 18 x 20mm guns
5. USS South Dakota (BB-57)
The USS South Dakota was a South Dakota-class battleship commissioned in 1942. She was one of the most advanced battleships in the world, featuring a unique arrangement of guns and armor. The USS South Dakota played a significant role in the Pacific Theater, participating in the battles of the Santa Cruz Islands and Guadalcanal.
Specifications and Armament
- Displacement: 35,000 tons
- Length: 680 feet
- Beam: 108 feet
- Draft: 28 feet
- Speed: 27 knots
- Armament: 9 x 16-inch guns, 20 x 5-inch guns, 16 x 1.1-inch guns, 18 x 20mm guns
US World War 2 Battleships Image Gallery
These five iconic US World War 2 battleships played a significant role in the Allied victory, demonstrating American military power and technological prowess. Their legacies continue to inspire and educate people around the world.
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