Intro
Discover the 5 most iconic WW2 US aircraft carriers that played a pivotal role in the Allied victory. From the USS Enterprise to the USS Yorktown, learn about the heroics, innovations, and sacrifices of these legendary ships that dominated the seas and skies during World War 2, shaping the course of naval aviation history.
The United States Navy played a crucial role in the Allied victory during World War II, and its aircraft carriers were at the forefront of the fight against the Japanese Empire. These iconic ships were the backbone of the Navy's air power, providing the necessary mobility and flexibility to project air power across the vast distances of the Pacific. Here, we'll take a closer look at five of the most iconic WW2 US aircraft carriers that made a significant impact on the war.
1. USS Enterprise (CV-6)
The USS Enterprise (CV-6) was one of the most decorated ships in US naval history, earning 20 battle stars for its service during WW2. Commissioned in 1938, the Enterprise was the seventh aircraft carrier to join the US Navy and was the only carrier to survive the entire war without being heavily damaged or sunk. It played a significant role in several key battles, including the Battle of Midway, the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands, and the Battle of the Philippine Sea.
Key Statistics:
- Length: 827 feet (252 meters)
- Beam: 95 feet (29 meters)
- Displacement: 24,500 tons
- Aircraft capacity: 96 planes
- Speed: 32 knots (59 km/h)
2. USS Yorktown (CV-5)
The USS Yorktown (CV-5) was another iconic US aircraft carrier that played a significant role in the early years of the war. Commissioned in 1937, the Yorktown was one of the largest carriers in the world at the time, with a length of over 800 feet. It participated in several key battles, including the Battle of the Coral Sea and the Battle of Midway, where it was heavily damaged and eventually sunk by Japanese forces.
Key Statistics:
- Length: 810 feet (247 meters)
- Beam: 83 feet (25 meters)
- Displacement: 20,100 tons
- Aircraft capacity: 76 planes
- Speed: 30 knots (56 km/h)
3. USS Essex (CV-9)
The USS Essex (CV-9) was the lead ship of the Essex-class aircraft carriers, which would become the standard design for US carriers for the next several decades. Commissioned in 1942, the Essex played a significant role in several key battles, including the Battle of the Philippine Sea and the Battle of Leyte Gulf. It earned 13 battle stars for its service during the war.
Key Statistics:
- Length: 872 feet (266 meters)
- Beam: 93 feet (28 meters)
- Displacement: 27,100 tons
- Aircraft capacity: 100 planes
- Speed: 33 knots (61 km/h)
4. USS Intrepid (CV-11)
The USS Intrepid (CV-11) was another iconic Essex-class carrier that played a significant role in the war. Commissioned in 1943, the Intrepid earned 16 battle stars for its service, including participation in the Battle of the Philippine Sea and the Battle of Leyte Gulf. It was also involved in several notable incidents, including a kamikaze attack that damaged the ship's flight deck.
Key Statistics:
- Length: 872 feet (266 meters)
- Beam: 93 feet (28 meters)
- Displacement: 27,100 tons
- Aircraft capacity: 100 planes
- Speed: 33 knots (61 km/h)
5. USS Hornet (CV-12)
The USS Hornet (CV-12) was the eighth Essex-class carrier to join the US Navy, commissioned in 1943. It played a significant role in several key battles, including the Battle of the Philippine Sea and the Battle of Leyte Gulf. The Hornet was also involved in the Doolittle Raid, a daring attack on Tokyo led by Lt. Col. James H. Doolittle.
Key Statistics:
- Length: 872 feet (266 meters)
- Beam: 93 feet (28 meters)
- Displacement: 27,100 tons
- Aircraft capacity: 100 planes
- Speed: 33 knots (61 km/h)
These five iconic US aircraft carriers played a significant role in the Allied victory during World War II. Their bravery, resilience, and sacrifice will always be remembered as a testament to the strength and determination of the US Navy.
WW2 US Aircraft Carriers Image Gallery
What was the main role of US aircraft carriers during WW2?
+The main role of US aircraft carriers during WW2 was to provide air power and mobility to support naval and land operations against the Japanese Empire.
Which US aircraft carrier earned the most battle stars during WW2?
+The USS Enterprise (CV-6) earned 20 battle stars for its service during WW2, making it the most decorated ship in US naval history.
What was the significance of the USS Hornet (CV-12) in WW2?
+The USS Hornet (CV-12) played a significant role in the Doolittle Raid, a daring attack on Tokyo led by Lt. Col. James H. Doolittle.