Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:56:15-1:56:48

A purpose-built American destroyer leader for 1939

A practical US destroyer leader could use an Atlanta-like hull with fewer guns and more space for command staff.

Atlanta Class CruisersDestroyer LeadersFlotilla CommandUS NavyWarship Design
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Question

What would a purpose-built US Navy destroyer leader entering service in the Second World War look like?

Short answer

An Atlanta-like hull with fewer guns and more accommodation and working space for a flag officer and staff.

Notes

The Atlanta class approached the destroyer-leader mission but carried too much gun armament for the proposed role. A purpose-built leader could retain a broadly Atlanta-like hull while reducing the battery. The recovered volume would support a commander, flag facilities, and staff teams. Flotilla leadership requires communications and command space as well as a larger destroyer's weapon load.