Notable Point · 1:31:42-1:34:02

North Carolina class as all-round World War II warships

North Carolina and Washington are praised for their range, 16-inch guns, protection and constant presence in major Pacific operations.

Notes

The North Carolinas were balanced ships whose contribution is easy to understate beside the more famous Iowa class. Their 28-knot speed, long range, nine 16-inch guns and useful protection supported near-continuous wartime employment. Their value lies in being dependable, capable warships available across the campaign rather than in one celebrated episode.