Intro
Discover the 5 most legendary World War Two battleships that dominated the seas during the conflict. From the Bismarcks formidable size to the Yamatos technological advancements, explore the history and characteristics of these iconic warships that played a crucial role in the wars outcome, shaping naval warfare forever.
The world has witnessed numerous legendary battleships throughout history, but some of the most iconic ones emerged during World War II. These vessels played a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the war, and their stories continue to captivate people to this day.
World War II saw the introduction of advanced technologies, innovative designs, and unprecedented levels of firepower, which transformed the face of naval warfare. The battleships of this era were behemoths of steel, crewed by brave sailors who risked everything to protect their countries and secure victory.
In this article, we will explore five legendary World War II battleships that left an indelible mark on history.
1. USS Missouri (BB-63)
The USS Missouri, also known as "Mighty Mo," was a Iowa-class battleship that served as the flagship of the Third Fleet under Admiral William F. Halsey Jr. during the final months of World War II. Commissioned in June 1944, the Missouri played a significant role in the Battle of the Philippine Sea, the Battle of Leyte Gulf, and the Battle of Okinawa.
The USS Missouri is perhaps most famous for being the site of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender on September 2, 1945, which officially ended World War II. The ship's legacy extends beyond its wartime achievements, as it has also been involved in various humanitarian and diplomatic missions throughout the years.
Key Specifications:
- Length: 887 feet 3 inches (270.5 meters)
- Beam: 108 feet 2 inches (33 meters)
- Draft: 29 feet 1 inch (8.9 meters)
- Speed: 33 knots (61 km/h)
- Crew: 1,521 officers and enlisted personnel
2. Yamato (, Yamato)
The Yamato was the largest battleship ever constructed, built by the Imperial Japanese Navy during World War II. Completed in December 1942, the Yamato was an engineering marvel, boasting an impressive size, firepower, and technological advancements. The ship was designed to serve as a symbol of Japanese naval power and a testament to the country's shipbuilding capabilities.
The Yamato's operational career was cut short, as it was sunk by American aircraft on April 7, 1945, while en route to Okinawa. Despite its limited time in service, the Yamato remains an iconic representation of Japanese naval strength and a reminder of the devastating consequences of war.
Key Specifications:
- Length: 863 feet 9 inches (263.3 meters)
- Beam: 127 feet 1 inch (38.7 meters)
- Draft: 35 feet 3 inches (10.7 meters)
- Speed: 27 knots (50 km/h)
- Crew: 3,332 officers and enlisted personnel
3. Bismarck (Bismarck)
The Bismarck was a German battleship that served as the flagship of the Kriegsmarine during World War II. Launched in 1939, the Bismarck was designed to be a powerful and technologically advanced vessel, with a length of over 800 feet (244 meters) and a top speed of 30 knots (56 km/h).
The Bismarck gained notoriety for its involvement in the Battle of the Denmark Strait, where it sank the British battlecruiser HMS Hood. However, the Bismarck's success was short-lived, as it was sunk by British warships and aircraft on May 27, 1941.
Key Specifications:
- Length: 825 feet 6 inches (251.8 meters)
- Beam: 118 feet 1 inch (36 meters)
- Draft: 30 feet 7 inches (9.3 meters)
- Speed: 30 knots (56 km/h)
- Crew: 2,200 officers and enlisted personnel
4. HMS Prince of Wales (53)
The HMS Prince of Wales was a King George V-class battleship that served in the Royal Navy during World War II. Commissioned in January 1941, the Prince of Wales played a significant role in the Battle of the Denmark Strait, where it engaged the German battleship Bismarck.
The HMS Prince of Wales also participated in the Japanese invasion of Malaya, where it was sunk by Japanese aircraft on December 10, 1941. The loss of the Prince of Wales was a significant blow to British naval power in the Pacific.
Key Specifications:
- Length: 745 feet 9 inches (227.1 meters)
- Beam: 103 feet 2 inches (31.4 meters)
- Draft: 28 feet 6 inches (8.7 meters)
- Speed: 29 knots (54 km/h)
- Crew: 1,422 officers and enlisted personnel
5. USS Arizona (BB-39)
The USS Arizona was a Pennsylvania-class battleship that served in the United States Navy during World War II. Commissioned in October 1915, the Arizona played a significant role in the early years of the war, participating in convoy escorts and patrols.
The USS Arizona's most infamous moment came on December 7, 1941, when it was sunk by Japanese aircraft during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The loss of the Arizona resulted in the deaths of 1,177 crew members, and it remains one of the most enduring symbols of the United States' entry into World War II.
Key Specifications:
- Length: 608 feet (185.4 meters)
- Beam: 97 feet 1 inch (29.6 meters)
- Draft: 29 feet 3 inches (8.9 meters)
- Speed: 21 knots (39 km/h)
- Crew: 1,157 officers and enlisted personnel
These five legendary battleships of World War II have left an indelible mark on history, serving as a testament to human ingenuity, bravery, and sacrifice. Their stories continue to captivate us, reminding us of the devastating consequences of war and the importance of peace.
Gallery of World War II Battleships
World War II Battleships Image Gallery
What was the largest battleship ever built?
+The largest battleship ever built was the Japanese battleship Yamato, which was over 863 feet (263 meters) long and had a displacement of over 72,000 tons.
Which battleship was sunk by Japanese aircraft during the attack on Pearl Harbor?
+The USS Arizona was sunk by Japanese aircraft during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.
What was the significance of the USS Missouri in World War II?
+The USS Missouri served as the flagship of the Third Fleet under Admiral William F. Halsey Jr. during the final months of World War II and was the site of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender on September 2, 1945.
We hope this article has provided you with a deeper understanding of the legendary battleships of World War II. These vessels played a significant role in shaping the outcome of the war and continue to fascinate us with their grandeur and historical significance.