Vittorio Veneto-class

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Summary

Origin country 🇮🇹 Italy
Category Cruiser
SubtypeMissile cruiser
ManufacturerCastellammare
Year commissioned1969
Units550 VITTORIO VENETO

Description

The Cruiser Vittorio Veneto class refers to a series of heavy cruisers built for the Italian navy during World War II. Named after the lead ship of the class, the Vittorio Veneto class consisted of four vessels, namely the Vittorio Veneto, Littorio, Roma, and Impero.

These cruisers were designed to replace the aging Trento and Zara class cruisers. With a displacement of around 26,000 tons, they were considered some of the largest cruisers of their time. Equipped with a powerful armament, including nine 203 mm guns in triple turrets, they had a formidable striking capability and could engage enemy surface targets effectively.

The Vittorio Veneto class was known for their advanced armor protection, which contributed to their high survivability in naval battles. Additionally, they had a top speed of 30 knots, allowing them to effectively maneuver during combat engagements.

During World War II, the Vittorio Veneto class cruisers played a significant role in various naval operations, particularly in the Mediterranean region. They were involved in several important battles, such as the Battle of Cape Matapan and the Battle of Sirte, showcasing their combat capabilities and contributing to the Italian naval strategy.

After the war, the Vittorio Veneto class cruisers were decommissioned from service. While their active naval career was relatively short-lived, their impact on naval development and Italian naval strategy should not be overlooked. The Cruiser Vittorio Veneto class remains an important part of naval history, representing an era of technological advancements and naval warfare tactics.

Technical specifications

Vittorio Veneto
Displacement9500 tons
Range 9000 km at 20 knots
Crew557 members
Width19.4 m (63.6 ft)
Length179.6 m (589.2 ft)
Propulsion

2 Tosi turbo-electric motors with a power of 73,000 hp - 2 propellers

Thrust6800 hp
Armament

4 Otomat (I 4) + 1 Aster Mk.20 (60 SM-1 / ASROC) + 8 OTO-Melara Compact 76 mm + 6 Breda 40 mm + 2 Breda 20 mm + 6 Mk.32 T/ASMs + 6 AB-212 / Sea King

Maximum speed31 knots