United States Battleships: From Dreadnoughts to the Last Battlewagons

By Richard Johnson

Posted in
#History

The thunder of American battleships shaped sea power and world history in the 20th century. From the first U.S. dreadnoughts through the fast Iowas and the never-built Montanas, the United States Navy moved from a nascent power to the most dominant force ever seen on the seas. In this article, I intend to provide a concise, class-by-class look at these battlewagons.

The USS Wisconsin, one of the final American battleships ever made, fires a broadside during training in the 1980s. Image: U.S. Navy

There are four general battleship types seen in the Navy’s history: pre-dreadnoughts, dreadnoughts, standard-type battleships, and fast battleships. Not every design is a perfect fit into one of the four categories, but categories help organize the design philosophies.

Prior to 1906, U.S. battleships were substantially different animals. They were officially classified as battleships, yet they lacked the significant firepower that more-modern ships packed. The pre-dreadnought ships were mixed caliber systems that used just a few large guns, relying on many smaller guns and torpedoes to engage the enemy.

USS New Jersey BB-62 American fast battleship fires a full nine 16-inch gun salvo during bombardment operations against enemy targets in Korea, demonstrating the overwhelming devastating firepower that made Iowa-class battleships invaluable for shore bombardment missions across multiple conflicts spanning five decades. USS New Jersey BB-62 holds the unique and distinctive honor of being the only Iowa-class battleship to serve in three separate wars: World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War, before receiving 1980s modernization and serving again during Gulf War operations in 1991. The dramatic photograph shows USS New Jersey firing all nine 16-inch guns simultaneously in a full broadside salvo, illustrating the concentrated firepower that could devastate enemy positions, infrastructure, and communications targets from safe standoff ranges exceeding 20 miles offshore. The Iowa-class United States fast battleships including USS New Jersey BB-62, USS Iowa BB-61, USS Missouri BB-63, and USS Wisconsin BB-64 all featured nine 16-inch guns mounted in three triple turrets capable of firing 2,700-pound armor-piercing shells or devastating high-explosive shells against shore targets. All four Iowa-class fast battleships served during the Korean War from 1950-1953 providing critical shore bombardment supporting United Nations ground forces, with their accurate long-range fire proving invaluable for destroying enemy fortifications, supply lines, and command centers. USS New Jersey BB-62 was later reactivated for Vietnam War service during the 1960s, becoming the only battleship to serve in that conflict and providing devastating accurate gunfire support for ground operations before decommissioning again. In the 1980s, all four Iowa-class fast battleships including USS New Jersey were comprehensively modernized under President Reagan's program, receiving Harpoon anti-ship missiles, Tomahawk cruise missiles, Phalanx close-in weapon systems, and updated electronics alongside refurbished 16-inch guns. These modernized Iowa-class battleships formed Surface Action Groups and served during the 1980s and early 1990s, with USS New Jersey participating in Lebanon peacekeeping operations before all four were finally decommissioned in the 1990s and converted to museum ships preserving naval history. — USS *New Jersey* (BB-62) fires a nine 16-inch gun salvo against enemy targets in the Korea War, November 1951. Image: U.S. Navy

The U.S. Navy moved from pre-dreadnoughts to “all big gun” dreadnoughts starting with South Carolina-class. From the Nevada-class through the Colorado-class, the Navy embraced a “standard-type” philosophy: common tactical speed (of about 21 knots) with a tight turning circle for maneuvering. Treaty limits during the Interwar years, agreements like the Washington Naval Treaty in 1922 limited the U.S. Navy’s ability to design and build battleships. Ship displacement and gun size were capped for years.

USS Missouri BB-63 American fast battleship hoisting OS2U Kingfisher floatplane aboard the ship, demonstrating how Iowa-class battleships carried scout aircraft for reconnaissance, observation, and spotting gunfire during combat operations to extend their effectiveness and maintain relevance in the carrier-dominated era. The Iowa-class United States fast battleships including USS Missouri BB-63, USS Iowa BB-61, USS New Jersey BB-62, and USS Wisconsin BB-64 all utilized aircraft like the OS2U Kingfisher for fire control observation, helping direct the accurate fire from their nine 16-inch guns during shore bombardment missions. Scout floatplanes provided Iowa-class battleships with extended reconnaissance capabilities and critical fire spotting services, allowing battleship gunnery officers to accurately engage targets beyond visual range during World War II, Korean War, and later Gulf War operations. The photograph shows USS Missouri recovering her OS2U Kingfisher floatplane after operations, illustrating the combined arms approach that integrated aviation assets with traditional battleship capabilities to maintain combat effectiveness as naval warfare evolved. USS Missouri BB-63 holds special historical significance as the site where Japan formally surrendered on September 2, 1945 ending World War II, and subsequently served during the Korean War and after 1980s modernization during the Gulf War before becoming a museum ship. The Iowa-class battleships represented the most advanced American battleships ever built, serving from World War II through the Cold War with multiple modernizations adding capabilities like Harpoon missiles, Tomahawk cruise missiles, and Phalanx systems alongside the traditional 16-inch guns. Aircraft like the OS2U Kingfisher extended battleship combat effectiveness by providing over-the-horizon reconnaissance, damage assessment, and fire correction services that helped Iowa-class vessels deliver accurate devastating shore bombardment supporting ground forces. All four Iowa-class fast battleships were decommissioned in the 1990s and now serve as museum ships preserving naval history: USS Iowa in Los Angeles, USS New Jersey in Camden, USS Wisconsin in Norfolk, and USS Missouri in Pearl Harbor alongside the USS Arizona memorial. — Battleships utilized aircraft for fire control and observation. The OS2U Kingfisher floatplane shown here provided critical spotting capabilities for the USS *Missouri* during shore bombardment missions. Image: U.S. Navy

Once war became inevitable, the prior treaties fell away and America began planning modern battleships for the coming storm. These were the “fast battleships” that saw a great deal of action in World War II and served through the end of the Cold War. They were the greatest, and last, battleships to prowl the oceans.

Pre-Dreadnought Battleships

The USS Texas is considered to be the first battleship of the U.S. Navy. Some naval historians consider the Texas and its sister ship, the USS Maine, to be armored cruisers instead of true battleships. Others refer them as second-class battleships.

Historic photograph of USS Maine circa 1898, showing the American warship that would become one of the most famous vessels in United States naval history due to her mysterious destruction in Havana Harbor. This pre-dreadnought era warship represented early American naval construction and the United States Navy's growing capabilities before the all-big-gun battleship revolution transformed naval warfare. The USS Maine, sometimes classified as a second-class battleship or armored cruiser rather than a true first-line battleship, served alongside contemporary vessels like USS Texas and the Indiana-class battleships during America's naval expansion in the 1890s. Her mixed-caliber armament and modest displacement were typical of pre-dreadnought warships built before the HMS Dreadnought revolutionized battleship design in 1906. The vessel's presence in Cuban waters during the Spanish-American War era demonstrates how United States battleships and cruisers projected American power in the Caribbean and Latin America. When the Maine exploded and sank in Havana Harbor, her loss became the rallying cry that propelled America into war with Spain, where U.S. Navy battleships including the Indiana-class vessels would prove their worth in combat. This image captures the USS Maine during her operational service, showing the design characteristics of late 19th century American naval architecture before dreadnought-type battleships dominated the seas. The photograph represents a crucial moment in American battleship history when the United States Navy was transitioning from a coastal defense force to a fleet capable of projecting power across oceans and protecting American interests worldwide. — Before the dreadnought era transformed naval warfare, ships like the USS *Maine* represented early American naval power. Her loss in 1898 propelled the United States into war with Spain. Image: U.S. Navy

Starting with the USS Indiana (BB-1), the ships were officially designated as battleships.

Indiana-Class

These pre-dreadnought ships were all built and launched in the 1890s. Considered more as coastal defense ships rather than a projection of power, they were largely built as a counter to battleships being built in South America.

The Indiana-class represented America’s first official battleships in the 1890s. These pre-dreadnought vessels were primarily coastal defense ships built to counter South American naval threats. Image: U.S. Navy

Indiana-class ships suffered from a variety of problems including improperly designed belt armor and difficulties in operating in open waters. Nevertheless, the three ships in this class — the USS Indiana, the USS Massachusetts (BB-2) and the USS Oregon (BB-3) — all served during the Spanish-American War. Additionally, the Oregon deployed to China during the Boxer Rebellion.

USS Iowa (BB-4)

The USS Iowa was a unique ship rather than being the lead ship of a class. Commissioned in 1897, the Iowa was built with the Indiana-class faults in mind. Unlike the prior class, the Iowa was designed to operate in the oceans.

Kearsarge-Class

The Kearsarge-class of battleships consisted of just two examples: the USS Kearsarge (BB-5) and the USS Kentucky (BB-6). These ships were a blend of the Iowa and Indiana-class ships, with a variety of new features. Some worked while others did not.

USS Kearsarge BB-5 United States battleship docked in port with civilian visitors touring the vessel, clearly showing the innovative but problematic double turret design that characterized the Kearsarge-class pre-dreadnought battleships. This American battleship featured a unique two-story turret arrangement with a pair of 13-inch guns in the lower turret and a pair of 8-inch guns mounted in the upper turret, representing experimental mixed-caliber design philosophy of pre-dreadnought era warships. The Kearsarge-class consisted of only two vessels, USS Kearsarge BB-5 and USS Kentucky BB-6, which blended design elements from the USS Iowa BB-4 and the Indiana-class battleships while incorporating new features that naval architects hoped would improve American battleship capabilities. USS Kearsarge BB-5 holds the unique distinction of being the only United States Navy battleship not named after a state, instead honoring a Civil War-era sloop-of-war that had distinguished service. The photograph shows civilians boarding or touring the pre-dreadnought battleship, demonstrating public interest in the growing United States battleship fleet during the late 1890s and early 1900s. This image clearly displays the characteristic stacked turret configuration that made the Kearsarge-class distinctive among American battleships, though the design ultimately proved less practical than conventional single-level turret arrangements. The vessel represents the experimental period in U.S. Navy battleship development when designers tested various configurations before the dreadnought revolution would standardize all-big-gun layouts with uniform heavy caliber batteries. As a pre-dreadnought battleship built before HMS Dreadnought revolutionized naval warfare in 1906, USS Kearsarge BB-5 embodies the transitional nature of American battleship construction during the era when the United States Navy evolved from a minor naval force into a credible sea power. — The *Kearsarge*-class featured an experimental double turret design with 13-inch guns below and 8-inch guns stacked above. Image: U.S. Navy

One of the interesting aspects of these ships was the use of a double turret. The ships used a two-story turret with a pair of 13″ guns in the lower turret and a pair of 8″ guns in the upper turret.

The USS Kearsarge is the only U.S. battleship not named after a state. Instead, it was named after a Civil War-era sloop-of-war of the same name.

Illinois-Class

Consisting of three ships, the Illinois-class battleships were a bridge in designs and technology. The ships incorporated rapid-fire secondary guns and new turrets. However, the armor and powerplants were older, outdated designs.

USS Illinois and her sister ships represented transitional designs that quickly became obsolete. Advancing technology left these pre-dreadnought battleships behind before they could contribute meaningfully to combat operations. Image: U.S. Navy

The three ships were the USS Illinois (BB-7), USS Alabama (BB-8) and USS Wisconsin (BB-9). All of them were commissioned between 1900 and 1901. Advancing technology quickly left these ships behind. By the time World War I started, the ships had already been transitioned to training ships.

Maine-Class

Not to be confused with the USS Maine that sank in Havana harbor, the Maine-class battleships were all commissioned between 1902–1904. They were the USS Maine (BB-10), USS Missouri (BB-11) and USS Ohio (BB-12).

The Maine-class battleships were modern designs when commissioned between 1902 and 1904, featuring smokeless powder guns and superior armor. Image: U.S. Navy

These ships were very modern when they were designed, and they incorporated advancements like smokeless powder for higher-velocity guns. Also, the ships used a new, stronger armor that outclassed all of the American battleships that came before. Even so, they were used only as training ships in World War II and were all scrapped shortly thereafter.

Virginia-Class

The Virginia-class battleships were the most prolific series made to date by the United States. They were:

USS Virginia (BB-13)
USS Nebraska (BB-14)
USS Georgia (BB-15)
USS New Jersey (BB-16)
USS Rhode Island (BB-17)

Unfortunately, they were a flawed design that helped make them obsolete at their commissionings. One of its biggest flaws was the turret design. Like the Kearsarge-class ships, these used a stacked turret design. However, these turrets were unable to work together. The upper 8″ guns were unable to be fired independently of the main 12″ guns.

USS Virginia BB-13 United States battleship underway with the distinctive flawed stacked turret design clearly visible, representing the Virginia-class pre-dreadnought battleships that became the most prolific American battleship series built to that point. The Virginia-class consisted of five vessels: USS Virginia BB-13, USS Nebraska BB-14, USS Georgia BB-15, USS New Jersey BB-16, and USS Rhode Island BB-17, all featuring problematic two-story turret arrangements similar to the earlier Kearsarge-class battleships. These American battleships incorporated stacked turrets with 12-inch main guns in the lower turret and 8-inch guns mounted above, but unlike earlier designs, the upper 8-inch guns were unable to fire independently from the main 12-inch guns, creating severe tactical limitations. The photograph clearly shows USS Virginia BB-13's unique turret configuration that made these pre-dreadnought battleships obsolete at their commissioning despite being the newest vessels in the United States Navy fleet. Prior to World War I, the Virginia-class battleships saw duty in Central and South America during police actions where American naval power supported diplomatic objectives, but their use was extremely limited during the Great War due to their outdated design. All five Virginia-class vessels were disposed of in 1923, with two ships sunk and three scrapped, victims of both their flawed design and the Washington Naval Treaty that limited United States battleship strength. The image captures the distinctive stacked turret arrangement that defined the Virginia-class and demonstrates how experimental pre-dreadnought battleship designs sometimes incorporated features that reduced rather than enhanced combat effectiveness. As the most numerous pre-dreadnought battleship class built by America, the Virginia-class represents both the United States Navy's expanding industrial capacity and the design missteps that occurred before the dreadnought revolution standardized battleship architecture with uniform all-big-gun batteries and conventional turret layouts. — American battleships like USS *Virginia* featured experimental turret arrangements that ultimately failed. Image: U.S. Navy

Prior to WWI, the ships saw duties in Central and South America during so-called police actions. Their use was limited in The Great War, and all ships were disposed of in 1923: two sunk, and three were scrapped.

Connecticut-Class

As the world entered the dreadnought-era, the United States continued to build older, mixed-caliber battleships. The Connecticut-class was a series of six ships that commissioned between 1906 and 1908.

USS Connecticut and her five sister ships entered service just as the dreadnought era began, making them outdated on arrival. All six American battleships were scrapped by 1924 after limited service. Image: U.S. Navy

As the HMS Dreadnought was completed before most of these ships commissioned, they were obsolete immediately. They were:

USS Connecticut (BB-18)
USS Louisiana (BB-19)
USS Vermont (BB-20)
USS Kansas (BB-21)
USS Minnesota (BB-22)
USS New Hampshire (BB-25)

These ships were used in much the same way as the Virginia-class battleships had been. All were scrapped by 1924.

Mississippi-Class

The Mississippi-class battleships were the last pre-dreadnought ships commissioned by the United States. However, the USS New Hampshire, a Connecticut-class ship, was the last old-style battleship to be laid down.

There were only two ships in this series: the USS Mississippi (BB-23) and the USS Idaho (BB-24). Many consider these battleships the finest to be built by the United States to that point. Yet, they were completely obsolete when they commissioned in 1908. After just six year of service, both were sold to Greece.

As Greek-flaged battleships, the Kilkis and Lemnos served in the Allied intervention in the Russian Civil War and in the Greco-Turkish War. The ships again saw action in 1940 when Italy invaded Greece. Greece was successful in pushing Italy out of their lands, but in 1941, the German Wehrmact invaded. Both battleships were attacked in the waters of Salamis Naval Base by Junkers Ju 87 dive bombers. The Greek battleship Kilkis was sunk while the Lemnos was intentionally beached to prevent her sinking.

American Dreadnoughts

The dreadnought era of battleships began in 1906 with the Royal Navy launched the HMS Dreadnought. The Dreadnought was a powerful new warship with a previously unseen compliment of large caliber main guns. This began a new arms race on the high seas with each new design outperforming the last. By the end of World War I, the HMS Dreadnought itself was no longer viable warfighter.

In the United States, the dreadnought era began with the South Carolina-class.

South Carolina-Class

This was a two-ship series and the first dreadnoughts built by the United States. Consisting of the USS South Carolina (BB-26) and the USS Michigan (BB-27), the ships were fitted with eight 12-inch guns: double the heavy firepower of prior U.S. Navy ships. The design was clearly a new direction and it visually would be very similar to the most modern battleships that the U.S. Navy would eventually field.

USS South Carolina (shown here) and USS Michigan were the first dreadnoughts built by the United States, doubling the heavy firepower of prior Navy ships. Image: U.S. Navy

Even though these dreadnoughts were shorter and lighter than foreign dreadnoughts, the ships were relatively slow with a maximum speed less than 19 knots. Commissioned in 1910, both battleships were broken in up in 1924 due to the notorious Washington Naval Treaty.

Delaware-Class

The next generation of American dreadnoughts was the two ship Delaware-class. They were bigger, faster and better armed. Consisting of the USS Delaware (BB-28) and the USS North Dakota (BB-29), the ships had a maximum speed of 21 knots and were armed with ten 12-inch guns.

Both ships served during World War I and were broken up during the Interwar period.

Florida-Class

The Florida-class of battleships consisted of just two ships: the USS Florida (BB-30) and the USS Utah (BB-31). The ships were slightly larger than their predecessors and were both built with steam turbine engines. As with the Delaware-class, these ships were equipped with five turrets — each with a pair of 12″ guns.

The USS Florida and USS Utah served during World War I with distinction. While Florida was decommissioned in 1931, Utah was sunk at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Image: U.S. Navy

Both served in World War I. The Florida would eventually be decommissioned in 1931. The Utah, on the other hand, holds the unfortunate distinction of being the oldest battleship in the U.S. Navy during World War II. On December 7, 1941, the USS Utah was tied up on battleship row at Pearl Harbor. In the Japanese attack, the Utah was hit by torpedoes, rolled over and sank. While many of the crew were able to escape, 58 men died aboard the Utah.

Wyoming-Class

Battleships continued to evolve and the Wyoming-class was an example. The USS Wyoming (BB-32) and the USS Arkansas (BB-33) were the sole ships in this class. The Florida-class had five turrets, each with a pair of 12″ guns. These added a sixth turret bringing the main armament up to twelve 12″ guns. Additionally, the guns were the newer Mark 7 guns that were more powerful than the older models.

USS Wyoming BB-32 United States dreadnought battleship underway with her twelve 12-inch guns trained to starboard, representing one of two Wyoming-class vessels that featured the most heavy guns of any American dreadnought battleships to that point. The Wyoming-class American dreadnoughts consisted of USS Wyoming BB-32 and USS Arkansas BB-33, both equipped with six turrets mounting twelve 12-inch Mark 7 guns that were more powerful than the older model guns on earlier United States battleships. These dreadnought battleships added a sixth turret compared to the five-turret Florida-class and Delaware-class vessels, increasing heavy firepower by twenty percent over previous American dreadnought designs. Both Wyoming-class battleships served during World War I and evaded early destruction due to the Washington Naval Treaty, though USS Wyoming was eventually defanged by the 1930 London Naval Treaty that forced removal of her main guns. The USS Wyoming had all twelve main guns eventually replaced by 5-inch guns and served as a training ship stationed on the East Coast, becoming instrumental in developing tactics for countering Japanese kamikaze attacks and training countless sailors entering service after Pearl Harbor. USS Arkansas BB-33 was employed in Neutrality Patrols and convoy duties in the Atlantic during World War II, provided gun support during Operation Neptune at Normandy and Operation Dragoon in southern France, then steamed to the Pacific providing gun support at Iwo Jima and Okinawa. The photograph shows USS Wyoming underway with her impressive broadside battery trained to starboard, demonstrating the firepower concentration that made dreadnought battleships the dominant capital ships of the early 20th century. USS Arkansas earned four battle stars during World War II, becoming the oldest battleship to earn battle stars in the conflict, while USS Wyoming served vital training duties preparing American sailors for modern naval warfare. — The *Wyoming*-class featured six turrets mounting twelve 12-inch Mark 7 guns, more powerful than earlier models. Image: U.S. Navy

Both battleships served in World War I and evaded early destruction due to the Washington Naval Treaty. However, the Wyoming was somewhat defanged by the 1930 London Naval Treaty. All of her main guns would eventually be replaced by 5″ guns and she would be used as a training ship — vital for all of the sailors entering the service after Pearl Harbor. Stationed on the East Coast, the Wyoming would be instrumental in developing tactics for countering Japanese kamikaze attacks.

When World War II came around, the Arkansas was employed in Neutrality Patrols and in convoy duties in the Atlantic. It also provided gun support in Normandy for Operation Neptune and later in southern France for Operation Dragoon. After a refit, she steamed to the Pacific Ocean and provided gun support at Iwo Jima and Okinawa. She earned four battle stars — the oldest battleship to do so.

New York-Class

The New York-class battleships were the last of the American dreadnoughts, and were considered super-dreadnoughts. Both ships — the USS New York (BB-34) and the USS Texas (BB-35) — served in both World Wars, though WWII was the real test for both of them. Each saw combat in both the European and Pacific theaters.

Today, the USS Texas is a museum ship located at Pier 15 in Galveston, TX. At the time of this writing, the ship has undergone extensive repairs and preservation work to the superstructure and interior compartments is ongoing. Limited tours are available now, and the ship is expected to have a grand reopening in 2026. It is the sole dreadnought remaining anywhere in the world.

Standard-Type Battleships

Not including canceled builds, standard-type battleships were a collection of 13 ships that entered service between 1916 and 1923. Many were upgraded during the Interwar Period and served during World War II. With the exception of the USS Mississippi (BB-41), all were out of service before 1950. They provided the bulk of battlewagons in the U.S. Navy fleet during the Second World War.

Nevada-Class

Another two ship classification, the Nevada-class battleships was comprised of the USS Nevada (BB-36) and USS Oklahoma (BB-37). Both ships displaced more than 27,000 tons, boasted a 13.5″ armor belt and was equipped with four turrets that accounted for a total of ten 14″ guns. Lower turrets had three guns while the two upper turrets were equipped with two.

USS Nevada BB-36 American standard-type battleship photographed in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, circa January 1920, representing one of two Nevada-class vessels that introduced the standard-type battleship philosophy to the United States Navy. The Nevada-class United States battleships consisted of USS Nevada BB-36 and USS Oklahoma BB-37, both displacing more than 27,000 tons with 13.5-inch armor belts and equipped with four turrets mounting ten 14-inch guns total. These standard-type battleships featured common tactical speeds around 21 knots with tight turning circles for coordinated fleet maneuvering, establishing design principles that would guide American battleship construction through multiple classes. USS Nevada BB-36 was heavily damaged at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, being struck by an estimated six to ten bombs and at least one torpedo during the Japanese surprise attack on the United States Pacific Fleet. Through heroic efforts of officers and crew, USS Nevada was able to get underway during the attack and made for shallower water when her sinking seemed imminent, beaching at Hospital Point and preventing total loss. Because of these efforts, the Nevada-class battleship was refloated, repaired, and upgraded, returning to provide support during the Aleutian Islands campaign, at Normandy during Operation Neptune, in Operation Dragoon, at Iwo Jima, and at Okinawa. Her sister ship USS Oklahoma BB-37 did not survive Pearl Harbor, being struck by three Japanese torpedoes in the opening minutes with between two and five additional torpedoes hitting as she capsized, killing more than 400 men including the three Barber brothers and the first United States chaplain to die in World War II, Father Aloysius Schmitt. By June 1943, USS Oklahoma was righted but was too extensively damaged for repair, stripped of all working guns and machinery, decommissioned in 1944, and sold for scrap after the war ended. — The USS *Nevada* was the first standard-type battleship featuring ten 14-inch guns and thick armor belts. While *Nevada* earned multiple battle stars, *Oklahoma* was lost during the Pearl Harbor attack. Image: U.S. Navy

The Nevada was heavily damaged at Pearl Harbor — being struck by an estimated 6-10 bombs and at least one torpedo during the attack. Nevertheless, through the heroic efforts of the officers and crew, the Nevada was able to get underway and made for shallower water when its sinking seemed imminent. It beached at Hospital Point. Because of these efforts, the ship was able to be refloated, repaired and upgraded. It provided support during the Alleutian Islands campaign, at Normandy, in Operation Dragoon, at Iwo Jima, and at Okinawa.

Her sister ship did not survive Pearl Harbor. In the opening minutes of the battle, the Oklahoma was struck by three Japanese torpedoes. As she began to capsize, between two and five additional torpedoes struck her. More than 400 men were killed aboard the Oklahoma including the three Barber brothers and the first U.S. chaplain to die in World War II — Father Aloysius Schmitt.

By June 1943, the ship was righted. Too extensively damaged for repair, the ship was stripped of all working guns and machinery. She was decommissioned in 1944 and sold for scrap after the end of the war.

Pennsylvania-Class

An evolutionary step forward from the Nevada-class, the Pennsylvania-class battleships featured twelve 14″ guns, improved deck armor and displaced more than 31,000 tons. There were two ships in this class: the USS Pennsylvania (BB-38) and USS Arizona (BB-39). These ships were the pride of the U.S. Navy during World War I.

On December 7, 1941, both the Pennsylvania and the Arizona were in Pearl Harbor. In drydock, the Pennsylvania was immune to the highly effective Japanese torpedo bombers. However, it was hit by both high altitude bombers and strafing. In comparison to many of this ships at Pearl, the Pennsylvania was only lightly damaged and suffered relatively few casualties with fewer than 70 killed, wounded and missing. Within days, she was at sea. The USS Pennsylvania served with distinction throughout the Pacific Theater.

Most Americans know of the Arizona‘s fate. In the opening minutes of the attack, she was hit by multiple bombs. The fatal one struck at about 8:06, penetrating the armored deck and hitting somewhere near the forward magazines. Seconds later, the forward magazines exploded causing unspeakable damage. Nearly 1,200 crewmen were killed, accounting for roughly half of the Americans killed in action that day.

New Mexico-Class

Three ships were in the New Mexico-class of battleships: the USS New Mexico (BB-40), the USS Mississippi (BB-41) and the USS Idaho (BB-42). When it commissioned in 1918, the USS New Mexico was the first warship with a turbo-electric transmission. It had a distinguished career and earned six battle stars in World War II.

USS Idaho BB-42 American standard-type battleship bombarding Okinawa with her 14-inch 50-caliber main battery guns on April 1, 1945, representing one of three New Mexico-class vessels that provided crucial shore bombardment support throughout the Pacific Theater during World War II. The New Mexico-class United States battleships consisted of USS New Mexico BB-40, USS Mississippi BB-41, and USS Idaho BB-42, all featuring incremental improvements over earlier standard-type battleships like the Pennsylvania-class and Nevada-class vessels. USS New Mexico BB-40 was the first warship commissioned with turbo-electric transmission in 1918, representing advancing propulsion technology that would influence subsequent American battleship designs. The dramatic photograph shows USS Idaho BB-42 firing her main battery during the Battle of Okinawa, demonstrating how standard-type battleships provided devastating naval gunfire support for amphibious operations and ground forces throughout the Pacific campaign. USS Idaho BB-42 earned seven battle stars during World War II while USS Mississippi BB-41 earned eight battle stars and USS New Mexico BB-40 earned six battle stars, with all three New Mexico-class battleships serving distinguished combat records. Despite being standard-type battleships designed and built during World War I, the New Mexico-class vessels proved their continued combat effectiveness through extensive Pacific Theater operations including shore bombardment, fleet actions, and amphibious support missions. Sadly, all three New Mexico-class battleships were scrapped after World War II ended, victims of post-war naval reductions as the United States Navy transitioned to a smaller peacetime fleet focused on aircraft carriers and newer fast battleships. This image captures USS Idaho delivering fire support at Okinawa, one of the bloodiest battles in the Pacific, where American standard-type battleships like the New Mexico-class, Tennessee-class, and Colorado-class provided critical gunfire support alongside the newer North Carolina-class, South Dakota-class, and Iowa-class fast battleships. — USS *Idaho* (BB-42) Bombarding Okinawa with her 14/50 main battery guns, 1 April 1945. Image: U.S. Navy

The Idaho and Mississippi were no slouches either. The Idaho earned seven battle stars in WWII while the Mississippi earned eight. Sadly, all three battleships were scrapped after the war.

Tennessee-Class

Another two-ship class, the Tennessee-class battleships were in incremental improvement over the New Mexico ships. The main battery was elevated for improved range, and the ships had improved their underwater protection.

The two ships in this class were the USS Tennessee (BB-43) and the USS California (BB-44). Both ships, products of the Great War, were in Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Both ships engaged enemy aircraft and both were hit multiple times in return. However, both ships survived the sneak attack and went on to repay the Japanese forces multiple times over. Both ships earned 10 battle stars during World War II.

Sadly, both ships were sold for scrap in 1959.

Colorado-Class

The Colorado-class battleships were the last of the Standard Class or Super Dreadnoughts built for the U.S. Navy. Four ships made up this class:

USS Colorado (BB-45)
USS Maryland (BB-46)
USS Washington (BB-47)
USS West Virginia (BB-48)

All four ships were built in the early 1920s. Three of the ships were in active service on December 7, 1941. One, the Washington, had been sunk as a target in 1924 after it was deemed superfluous due to the Washington Naval Treaty.

USS Colorado BB-45 American standard-type battleship firing her after 16-inch 45-caliber guns during the pre-invasion bombardment of Okinawa on March 29, 1945, representing one of four Colorado-class vessels that were the last standard-type or super-dreadnought battleships built for the United States Navy. The Colorado-class United States battleships consisted of USS Colorado BB-45, USS Maryland BB-46, USS Washington BB-47, and USS West Virginia BB-48, all built in the early 1920s with upgraded 16-inch guns but otherwise near-duplicate designs of the Tennessee-class battleships. USS Washington BB-47 was sunk as a target in 1924 after being deemed superfluous due to Washington Naval Treaty restrictions, leaving only three Colorado-class battleships in active service on December 7, 1941. The Colorado-class were the last United States battleships designed with four turrets, as subsequent American battleship classes would adopt three-turret arrangements to improve armor protection and reduce weight. When Pearl Harbor was attacked, USS Colorado BB-45 was on the West Coast of the United States and avoided the devastation, while USS Maryland BB-46 was on Battleship Row but avoided major damage and provided anti-aircraft defenses and assistance to the capsized USS Oklahoma. USS West Virginia BB-48 was hit many times at Pearl Harbor with at least seven torpedoes and two 16-inch battleship shells converted to bombs striking the ship, causing extensive damage and severe crew losses, but the battleship was saved and returned to the fleet in 1944. Although USS West Virginia arrived late to the Pacific campaign, she made her presence known and secured five battle stars, while USS Colorado and USS Maryland secured two battle stars apiece through their World War II service. The dramatic photograph shows USS Colorado delivering devastating shore bombardment at Okinawa, demonstrating how standard-type battleships provided crucial fire support alongside the North Carolina-class, South Dakota-class, and Iowa-class fast battleships during Pacific amphibious operations. All three surviving Colorado-class battleships were scrapped in 1959, victims of post-war naval reductions as the United States Navy transitioned away from older standard-type battleships toward modern fast battleships and aircraft carrier-centric operations. — USS *Colorado* (BB-45) firing her after 16/45 guns during the pre-invasion bombardment of Okinawa on March 29, 1945. Image: U.S. Navy

Although these had upgraded guns, they were near duplicates of the Tennessee-class battleships. They were the last U.S. battleships with four turrets.

When Pearl Harbor was attacked, the Colorado was on the West Coast of the United States. The Maryland was on Battleship Row and avoided major damage. As such it was able to provide anti-air defenses and assistance to the Oklahoma.

The West Virginia was hit many times; at least seven torpedoes and two 16″ battleship shells converted to bombs hit the ship. Although the damage was extensive and the crew losses severe, the ship was saved and returned to the fleet in 1944. Although she arrived late to the Pacific campaign, she made her presence known and secured five battle stars. The Colorado and Maryland secured two more apiece.

The three ships were scrapped in 1959.

South Dakota-Class

This class of battleship was intended to be bigger and more powerful than any of the ships that came before it. However, the Washington Naval Treaty put these ships on the chopping block and none were completed.

Although all ships were laid down, none were completed beyond about 39%. Each was scrapped in 1923. The ships were to have been:

USS South Dakota (BB-49)
USS Indiana (BB-50)
USS Montana (BB-51)
USS North Carolina (BB-52)
USS Iowa (BB-53)
USS Massachusetts (BB-54)

Treaty Breakouts and Fast Battleships

As the world once again moved toward global conflict, the U.S. Navy called for newer, faster battleships. The new battle wagons were constrained by the Second London Naval Treaty of 1936. However, with Japan’s refusal to sign the agreement, the Navy was able to arm the ships with 16″ guns.

North Carolina-Class

First of the fast ships, the North Carolina-class battleships were fitted with three turrets, each holding three 16″ guns. Additionally, the ships could achieve at least 28 knots. Unlike the older battleships, these could keep up with aircraft carriers — something that would prove important in World War II.

USS North Carolina (BB-55) firing her main battery during gunnery practice in 1941. Image: U.S. Navy

Two ships were part of this class: the USS North Carolina (BB-55) and the USS Washington (BB-56). Both ships were brand new and still working up on the East Coast of the U.S. during the Pearl Harbor attack.

Both ships were very busy during the war. The North Carolina was awarded 15 battle stars while the Washington earned 13. Unfortunately, the Washington was sold for scrap in 1961. However, the USS North Carolina is a museum ship today and can be visited year-round in Wilmington, NC.

South Dakota-Class

Similar to the North Carolina-class, these ships entered service after Pearl Harbor. Four ships were part of this class:

While very similar to the North Carolina-class, the turrets were more compact and armor on both the decks and belt was thickened. Visually, it is easy to distinguish the two classes as the South Dakota-class ships had a single stack while the prior class had two.

USS Alabama BB-60 American fast battleship in Casco Bay, Maine during her shakedown period circa December 1942, displaying Measure 12 modified camouflage scheme and representing one of four South Dakota-class vessels that were similar to but improved over the North Carolina-class fast battleships. The South Dakota-class United States fast battleships consisted of USS South Dakota BB-57, USS Indiana BB-58, USS Massachusetts BB-59, and USS Alabama BB-60, all entering service after the Pearl Harbor attack and featuring more compact turrets with thickened armor on both decks and belt compared to the North Carolina-class. While very similar to the North Carolina-class fast battleships in armament with nine 16-inch guns in three turrets and capable of similar speeds around 27-28 knots, the South Dakota-class vessels were visually distinguishable as they had a single stack while the prior North Carolina-class had two funnels. All four South Dakota-class fast battleships were critical to United States Navy combat operations during World War II, with these vessels earning between 9 and 13 battle stars apiece through extensive Pacific Theater operations including fleet actions, amphibious support, and carrier escort duties. USS South Dakota BB-57 and USS Indiana BB-58 were sold for scrap in the 1960s during post-war naval reductions, but both USS Massachusetts BB-59 and USS Alabama BB-60 serve as museum ships today preserving these historic fast battleships. The photograph shows USS Alabama in her wartime camouflage scheme during shakedown training, demonstrating the preparations fast battleships underwent before deploying to combat operations in the Pacific and Atlantic theaters. The South Dakota-class represented continued evolution of American fast battleship design, incorporating lessons from the North Carolina-class while maintaining the high speeds necessary to operate with fast carrier task forces that dominated naval warfare. As treaty breakout designs no longer constrained by pre-war international agreements, the South Dakota-class fast battleships demonstrated improved protection schemes while maintaining the firepower and speed that made American fast battleships the most capable capital ships of World War II. — USS *Alabama* in Casco Bay, Maine, during her shakedown period, circa December 1942. Note her Measure 12 (modified) camouflage scheme. Official U.S. Navy

All four of the ships were critical in the U.S. Navy’s combat operations during World War II. The battleships all earned 9-13 battle stars apiece. The South Dakota and Indiana were sold for scrap in the 1960s. However, both the Massachusetts and Alabama serve as museum ships today.

Iowa-Class

Without a doubt, the Iowa-class battleships were the most advanced and best known battleships to ever serve in the United States Navy. These ships were laid down after the beginning of World War II and did not have the restraints of pre-war treaties hindering their design. Additionally, early naval battles influenced the construction of these ships making them elite warriors on the oceans.

When commissioned, these ships were fitted with nine 16″ guns across three main turrets. Secondary weaponry included dozens of 5″, 40mm and 20mm guns.

Six ships were laid down, but only four saw wartime service:

USS Iowa (BB-61)
USS New Jersey (BB-62)
USS Missouri (BB-63)
USS Wisconsin (BB-64)
USS Illinois (BB-65) — canceled in August 1945
USS Kentucky (BB-66) — never completed; sold for scrap in 1950s

Interestingly, neither the Illinois nor the Kentucky were intended to be Iowa-class ships. Both had been slated to be heavier battleships. Naval planners decided that faster battleships would be more important and shifted both to the Iowa-class. However, their construction was never given priority and neither was completed.

USS Missouri BB-63 American fast battleship fires a salvo of 16-inch shells from turret number 2 while bombarding Chongjin, North Korea in October 1950, demonstrating the devastating shore bombardment capability that kept Iowa-class battleships combat-relevant through multiple conflicts. USS Missouri BB-63 was one of four Iowa-class United States fast battleships including USS Iowa BB-61, USS New Jersey BB-62, and USS Wisconsin BB-64, all serving with distinction in World War II and continuing to prove their combat value during the Korean War. The dramatic photograph shows USS Missouri delivering accurate naval gunfire support against enemy communications targets in North Korea, illustrating why battleship shore bombardment remained critically important even as naval warfare increasingly emphasized aircraft carriers and submarines. USS Missouri BB-63 holds special historical significance as the site where Japan formally surrendered on September 2, 1945 in Tokyo Bay, ending World War II, making this battleship one of the most historically important vessels in United States Navy history. All four Iowa-class fast battleships served during the Korean War providing devastating shore bombardment, with their 16-inch guns capable of delivering accurate fire support from ranges exceeding 20 miles, supporting United Nations ground forces throughout the conflict. The Iowa-class battleships were fitted with nine 16-inch guns across three main turrets plus extensive secondary armament including 5-inch dual-purpose guns, demonstrating the concentrated firepower that made these fast battleships the most powerful capital ships ever built. USS New Jersey BB-62 would later serve during the Vietnam War, and in the 1980s all four Iowa-class fast battleships were modernized and returned to service with President Reagan adding Harpoon missiles, Tomahawk cruise missiles, and Phalanx systems alongside the refurbished 16-inch guns. These modernized Iowa-class battleships supported peacekeeping in Lebanon and provided shore bombardment during the Gulf War before final decommissioning in the 1990s, with USS Missouri now serving as a museum ship in Pearl Harbor alongside the USS Arizona memorial. — USS *Missouri* fires a salvo of 16-inch shells from turret # 2 while bombarding Chongjin, North Korea, in an effort to cut enemy communications, October 1950. Image: U.S. Navy

All four of the completed Iowa-class ships served with distinction in World War II. What makes them even more interesting is the post-WWII service of these ships. All four ships served during the Korean War. The New Jersey also served during the Vietnam War.

Nuclear munitions were developed for the 16″ guns. Never used, thankfully, the battleships could have served as a larger part of the sea-based leg of the nuclear triad.

In the 1980s, all four ships were modernized and returned to service. In a successful effort to counter the Soviet military build up during the Cold War, President Reagan commanded the ships pulled from the mothball fleet and receive a complete overhaul.

President Ronald Reagan aboard USS Iowa after 1980s modernization, representing one of four Iowa-class fast battleships that were without doubt the most advanced and best known battleships ever to serve in the United States Navy. The Iowa-class United States fast battleships consisted of USS Iowa BB-61, USS New Jersey BB-62, USS Missouri BB-63, and USS Wisconsin BB-64, with two additional ships USS Illinois BB-65 and USS Kentucky BB-66 laid down but never completed due to shifting wartime priorities. These revolutionary battleships were laid down after the beginning of World War II and did not have the restraints of pre-war treaties hindering their design, with early naval battles influencing construction to make them elite warriors on the oceans. When commissioned, these Iowa-class fast battleships were fitted with nine 16-inch guns across three main turrets with secondary weaponry including dozens of 5-inch, 40mm, and 20mm guns providing comprehensive anti-aircraft and anti-surface capabilities. All four completed Iowa-class ships served with distinction in World War II, and what makes them even more interesting is their extensive post-WWII service spanning the Korean War, Vietnam War, and Gulf War operations. In the 1980s, all four Iowa-class fast battleships were modernized and returned to service in a successful effort to counter Soviet military buildup during the Cold War, with President Reagan commanding the ships pulled from the mothball fleet and receiving complete overhauls. The modernized battleships were fitted with updated propulsion systems, new electronic warfare equipment, and armament unheard of during their prior service including Harpoon anti-ship missile launchers, Phalanx close-in weapons systems, and nuclear-capable Tomahawk cruise missiles, all in addition to the refurbished 16-inch guns. These Iowa-class fast battleships were so advanced that the United States Navy formed Surface Action Groups or Battleship Battle Groups around them, with Iowa-class ships supporting the peacekeeping mission in Lebanon and providing devastating shore bombardment during the Gulf War. All four Iowa-class fast battleships were decommissioned in the 1990s and have since become museum ships around the country: USS Iowa in Los Angeles, USS New Jersey in Camden, USS Wisconsin in Norfolk, and USS Missouri serving alongside the USS Arizona memorial in Pearl Harbor. — The *Iowa*-class were the most advanced battleships ever to serve in the United States Navy. President Reagan’s 1980s modernization returned all four ships to service with Harpoon missiles, Tomahawks, and Phalanx systems alongside refurbished 16-inch guns. Image: U.S. Navy

Ships were fitted with an updated propulsion system, new electronic warfare equipment and armament unheard of during their prior service. Weapons included Harpoon anti-ship missile launchers, Phalanx close-in weapons, and nuclear-capable Tomahawk missiles. That’s all in addition to the refurbished 16″ guns.

These ships were so advanced that the Navy formed Surface Action Groups (or Battleship Battle Groups) around them. Iowa-class ships supported the peacekeeping mission in Lebanon and during the Gulf War. All ships were decommissioned in the 1990s and have since become museum ships around the country. The Iowa is in Los Angeles, the New Jersey is in Camden, NJ, the Wisconsin is in Norfolk, and the Missouri serves alongside the USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor.

Montana-Class

Montana-class ships were designed to be extremely powerful battleships that would have four turrets of thee 16″ guns each (total of 12 16″ guns). Armor and displacement was significantly more than that of the Iowa-class ships, though at the cost of speed. Top speed would have been about 28 knots.

Ultimately, none of the ships were laid down as war priorities shifted. Authorized in 1940, the project was canceled in 1943. That was how fast naval warfare was changing. If completed, the ships would have been:

USS Montana (BB-67)
USS Ohio (BB-68)
USS Maine (BB-69)
USS New Hampshire (BB-70)
USS Louisiana (BB-71)

Why the Battle Line Changed

Treaty ceilings held displacement and gun size in check for nearly two decades, forcing designers to trade among speed, armor, and armament. As global war loomed, the Navy stepped beyond 21 knots: North Carolina and South Dakota brought 27-knot “balanced” designs, and the Iowas stretched to 33 knots to screen fast carriers and deliver long-range shore bombardment.

Ultimately, air power and submarines eclipsed battleships, but the last four American battlewagons remained relevant — although briefly — through modernization: radar fire-control, heavy dual-purpose 5-inch batteries, Tomahawk and Harpoon missiles, and Phalanx CIWS.

Even that was not to last. Battleships ultimately were obsolete in modern navies. Some have said they were just large, floating targets.

Today, most of America’s battleships have been scrapped. Yet a few remain as museum ships. If you have the opportunity, it is worth visiting these floating museums. They are awe inspiring and highly educational.

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