The Gearing was an improved Sumner and the second-largest class by number built in this group. A fourteen-foot increase in hull length provided more room for fuel and greater endurance. Its range is stated as 4,500 nautical miles at 20 knots, a different cruising speed from the earlier class comparisons. These ships were ordered while the Navy faced the prospect of invading Japan. Their 5-inch/38 guns, 40 mm armament, and improved radar supported the demand for stronger air defense and sustained fleet service.
Chapter · 39:15-40:28
Gearing endurance for operations against Japan
A hull fourteen feet longer than the Sumner's provided more fuel capacity as the US Navy prepared for operations that could include invading Japan.