Norfolk and Mitscher test status against capability

Norfolk's 3-inch guns and Weapon Alpha supplied substantial air-defense and ASW capability. The diplomatic criticism is that its main battery looked unimpressive beside larger guns during port visits and official meetings. The smaller, slightly slower Mitschers carried two 5-inch guns, four 3-inch guns, and a more imposing superstructure. Their conventional armament and recognizable profile are judged better suited to representing the US Navy abroad. Norfolk is still credited with an advantage in concentrated 3-inch anti-aircraft firepower. Although cost-effectiveness is acknowledged as an explanation for cancellation, the counterargument regards Norfolk's anti-aircraft firepower as cost-effective. These destroyers are treated as status assets without yet being capital ships. Weak diplomatic impact could therefore undermine their standing even when their fighting systems were useful.