Q&A · 2:12:00-2:13:31

A proposed anti-aircraft conversion of USS Hawaii

The Hawaii conversion proposal is recalled with twelve 5-inch/54 guns and six twin 3-inch/70 mounts, with its exact project identification uncertain.

Question

What weapons were proposed for an Alaska-class anti-aircraft cruiser conversion?

Short answer

The recalled Hawaii proposal has twelve 5-inch/54 guns in Mark 18 turrets and six twin 3-inch/70 mounts; its exact project reference remains uncertain.

Notes

An initial suggestion of 5-inch/38 guns is replaced by a recalled proposal for twelve 5-inch/54 guns in Mark 18 turrets. Hawaii is identified as the intended conversion, although the exact project reference is not found during the exchange. The lighter battery is given as six twin 76 mm/70 mounts, also described as 3-inch/70 weapons. Combining those batteries would provide substantial anti-aircraft firepower. These figures describe the recalled proposal, with no claim that Hawaii actually received the armament.