The Belknaps closely resemble the Leahy class, but the return of a five-inch gun changes their balance of weapons. Their Terrier-era launchers later accepted Standard missiles, a practical example of how the US Navy upgraded older missile ships. The opening also follows the Standard name through later weapons such as SM-2, SM-3, and SM-6. Together, the gun and missile histories set up the video's larger questions about cruiser classification and growth within an existing hull.
Chapter · 0:00-4:42
Belknap starts with guns, missiles, and cruiser labels
The opening compares the Belknaps with the Leahy class, then uses their five-inch gun and Standard missile upgrade path to explain the class's distinctive balance.