Leahy-class (CG-16)

Summary

Description

The Leahy-class cruisers were conceived as a class of guided-missile cruisers intended predominantly for the United States Navy. Originally, they were designated as Destroyer Leaders (DLG) but underwent a reclassification to guided-missile cruisers (CG) in the 1975 cruiser realignment. Their mission primarily involved forming an anti-air and antisubmarine screen for carrier task forces and directing carrier-based aircrafts to their targets, a similar role to that of their predecessors, the Farragut class.

The origins of the Leahy-class cruisers date back to their design under project SCB 172. They were the first and only class designed explicitly without a main gun battery, focusing instead on carrying a larger missile payload. This resulted in a novel "double-ender" configuration bearing Terrier (later Standard ER) missile launchers both at the front and the rear of the vessel.

In terms of design, they inherited the propulsion plant from the Farragut class, but this was housed within a longer and sturdier hull featuring a knuckled “hurricane” bow that significantly reduced plunging in rough seas. This allowed for operation of the forward missile launcher in varied sea conditions. Additionally, the Leahy-class cruisers were notable for their use of innovative "macks"—structures combining masts and stacks—enabling radar equipment to be mounted away from smoke interference.

The cruisers included extensive armament and combat systems advancements throughout their operational history. Beginning with upgrades between 1967 and 1972, the ships saw improvements in air warfare capabilities, and in the late 1980s, they underwent the New Threat Upgrade (NTU) program. This NTU program involved the addition of advanced air search and track radars, targeting radars, and combat direction systems, encompassing a complete overhaul of the ships' capabilities and structure.

Built at various shipyards including Bath Iron Works and New York Shipbuilding Corp, the Leahy-class cruisers were decommissioned in the early 1990s due to a reduction in the defense budget during the Clinton Administration, influenced by the diminishing tensions with Russia. Their decommissioning occurred between 1993 and 1995, followed by a transfer to the Maritime Administration (MARAD) for disposal.

The USS Bainbridge (CGN-25) was a unique derivative of the Leahy-class—powered by nuclear reactors instead of steam boilers, it led to lessons that influenced subsequent nuclear-powered cruisers in the United States Navy. However, the USS Bainbridge operated within its own distinct class and was not one of the conventional Leahy-class cruisers.

Technical specifications