Intro
Explore the storied history of the USS Philippine Sea, a US warship that played a pivotal role in World War II and the Cold War. Discover its World War II service, aircraft carrier operations, and Cold War-era deployments. Learn about its notable battles, crew achievements, and eventual decommissioning in this comprehensive guide to the USS Philippine Seas naval legacy.
The USS Philippine Sea (CG-58) is a Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser that has been in service with the United States Navy since 1989. The ship has a rich history, having played a significant role in several military operations and humanitarian missions around the world.
The USS Philippine Sea was built by the Bath Iron Works in Maine and was commissioned on March 18, 1989. The ship is named after the Battle of the Philippine Sea, a decisive naval battle fought during World War II. The USS Philippine Sea is the fourth ship to bear this name, and it is the first ship in the Ticonderoga class to be named after a battle.
Design and Capabilities
The USS Philippine Sea is a multi-mission ship, capable of performing a wide range of tasks, including air defense, anti-submarine warfare, and surface warfare. The ship is equipped with the Aegis Combat System, which provides advanced radar and missile guidance capabilities. The USS Philippine Sea is also equipped with two SH-60 Seahawk helicopters, which provide additional capabilities for anti-submarine warfare and search and rescue operations.
The USS Philippine Sea is powered by four General Electric LM2500 gas turbines, which provide a total of 80,000 horsepower. The ship has a top speed of over 30 knots and a range of over 6,000 nautical miles.
Operational History
The USS Philippine Sea has a long and distinguished operational history, having participated in several military operations and humanitarian missions around the world. Some of the notable operations and missions that the ship has been involved in include:
- Operation Desert Storm (1990-1991): The USS Philippine Sea played a key role in the liberation of Kuwait, providing air defense and anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
- Operation Enduring Freedom (2001-2002): The USS Philippine Sea participated in the war in Afghanistan, providing support for coalition forces.
- Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003-2004): The USS Philippine Sea played a key role in the invasion of Iraq, providing air defense and anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
- Humanitarian assistance/disaster response (2010): The USS Philippine Sea provided humanitarian assistance and disaster response following the earthquake in Haiti.
Awards and Decorations
The USS Philippine Sea has received several awards and decorations for its service, including:
- Navy Unit Commendation
- Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation
- National Defense Service Medal
- Southwest Asia Service Medal
- Kosovo Campaign Medal
- Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
- Humanitarian Service Medal
Crew
The USS Philippine Sea has a crew of over 300 sailors and officers, who are responsible for the operation and maintenance of the ship. The crew is divided into several departments, including the combat systems department, the engineering department, and the deck department.
Modernization and Upgrades
The USS Philippine Sea has undergone several modernization and upgrade programs over the years, including the Aegis Combat System upgrade and the Ship Self-Defense System (SSDS) upgrade. These upgrades have improved the ship's capabilities and extended its service life.
Gallery of USS Philippine Sea
USS Philippine Sea Image Gallery
FAQs
What is the USS Philippine Sea?
+The USS Philippine Sea is a Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser that has been in service with the United States Navy since 1989.
What is the USS Philippine Sea used for?
+The USS Philippine Sea is a multi-mission ship, capable of performing a wide range of tasks, including air defense, anti-submarine warfare, and surface warfare.
How long has the USS Philippine Sea been in service?
+The USS Philippine Sea has been in service with the United States Navy since 1989.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the USS Philippine Sea, its history, capabilities, and service. If you have any further questions or would like to learn more about the USS Philippine Sea, please don't hesitate to ask.