How quickly did the US Navy replace lattice masts, and why had it used them?
Short answerReplacement occurred gradually during modernization; lattice masts were structurally strong, while British tripod masts reflected a preference for presenting a harder target.
NotesUS ships lost their lattice masts over several years as refits changed their upperworks and corrected weight. The robust American structure contrasts with the Royal Navy's tripod, whose fewer members were harder to hit but more vulnerable if a principal leg failed.