Intro
Discover the intriguing history of USS Princeton CG-59, a Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser. Learn 5 fascinating facts about this naval vessel, including its commissioning, notable operations, and impressive combat capabilities. From its Cold War-era service to its role in modern conflicts, explore the CG-59 Princetons significance in American naval history.
The USS Princeton (CG-59) is a Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser that has served in the United States Navy since 1989. Here are five facts about the CG-59 Princeton:
Fact #1: Design and Construction
The USS Princeton (CG-59) was built by Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Mississippi. The ship was commissioned on February 11, 1989. The Ticonderoga-class cruisers, including the Princeton, were designed to provide air defense and anti-submarine warfare capabilities. They are equipped with the Aegis Combat System, which enables them to track and engage multiple targets simultaneously.
Dimensions and Propulsion
The USS Princeton (CG-59) is 567 feet (173 meters) long and 55 feet (16.8 meters) wide. It has a draft of 34 feet (10.4 meters) and displaces approximately 9,600 tons of water. The ship is powered by four General Electric LM2500 gas turbines, which produce 80,000 horsepower. This allows the Princeton to reach speeds of over 30 knots (56 km/h).
Fact #2: Armament and Electronics
The USS Princeton (CG-59) is equipped with a range of armament and electronics, including:
- Two Mk 45 5-inch (127mm) guns
- Two Mk 38 25mm chain guns
- Two Mk 41 Vertical Launching Systems (VLS) for Tomahawk and Harpoon missiles
- Two Mk 15 Phalanx Close-In Weapon Systems (CIWS)
- AN/SPY-1A radar system
- AN/SQQ-89(V)1 sonar system
These systems enable the Princeton to engage targets in the air, on the surface, and underwater.
Combat Systems
The USS Princeton (CG-59) is equipped with the Aegis Combat System, which integrates the ship's radar, sonar, and missile systems. This allows the ship to detect, track, and engage multiple targets simultaneously. The Aegis system also provides advanced air defense capabilities, enabling the ship to engage enemy aircraft and missiles.
Fact #3: Service History
The USS Princeton (CG-59) has served in several conflicts and operations throughout its career. Some notable deployments include:
- Operation Desert Storm (1991)
- Operation Southern Watch (1992-1993)
- Operation Allied Force (1999)
- Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003)
- Operation Enduring Freedom (2010-2011)
The ship has also participated in various exercises and training operations, including Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) and the International Mine Countermeasures Exercise (IMCMEX).
Homeport and Command
The USS Princeton (CG-59) is homeported in San Diego, California, and is part of the U.S. Pacific Fleet. The ship is commanded by a captain in the U.S. Navy and has a crew of approximately 400 officers and enlisted personnel.
Fact #4: Upgrades and Modernization
The USS Princeton (CG-59) has undergone several upgrades and modernization efforts throughout its career. Some notable upgrades include:
- Installation of the Aegis Combat System Baseline 6 (B6) in 2003
- Installation of the Mk 41 VLS in 2006
- Upgrade to the AN/SPY-1A(V) radar system in 2010
- Installation of the AN/SQQ-89(V)1 sonar system in 2012
These upgrades have enabled the ship to remain effective and relevant in the modern naval environment.
Planned Upgrades
The USS Princeton (CG-59) is scheduled to undergo further upgrades and modernization efforts in the coming years. These upgrades are expected to include the installation of advanced missile defense systems and improved command and control capabilities.
Fact #5: Decommissioning and Replacement
The USS Princeton (CG-59) is scheduled to be decommissioned in the mid-2020s, after serving in the U.S. Navy for over 30 years. The ship will be replaced by a new cruiser, currently under construction.
Replacement Ship
The new cruiser, designated as the USS Daniel Inouye (DDG-118), is currently under construction at Bath Iron Works in Maine. The ship is expected to be commissioned in the mid-2020s and will feature advanced air and missile defense capabilities.
Gallery of USS Princeton (CG-59):
USS Princeton (CG-59) Image Gallery
FAQs:
What is the USS Princeton (CG-59) primarily used for?
+The USS Princeton (CG-59) is primarily used for air defense and anti-submarine warfare.
What is the Aegis Combat System?
+The Aegis Combat System is an advanced naval combat system that integrates radar, sonar, and missile systems to detect, track, and engage multiple targets simultaneously.
What is the planned replacement for the USS Princeton (CG-59)?
+The USS Daniel Inouye (DDG-118) is currently under construction and is planned to replace the USS Princeton (CG-59) in the mid-2020s.