Northampton class cruiser
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Northampton class of United States Navy cruisers was a reaction to the weight and cost of the Pensacola class, with 3 triple mounted 8 inch gun turrets and slightly heavier armor. Although armor was increased in comparison with the preceding Pensacola class, the they turned out being even lighter; nearly 1,000 tons below the treaty limitations. Freeboard was increased by adopting a high forecastle, which was extended aft in the last three for use as flagships. These ships were also the first U.S. ships to adopt a hangar for aircraft, and bunks instead of hammocks. Their lighter than expected weight also caused them to roll excessively which necessitated the fitting of deep bilge keels.
The Navy built six cruisers of this class:
- Northampton (CA-26)
- Chester (CA-27)
- Louisville (CA-28)
- Chicago (CA-29)
- Houston (CA-30)
- Augusta (CA-31)
All of these saw much action and took heavy losses in World War II.
The Portland class was essentially a modified Northampton.
| Northampton-class cruiser |
| Northampton | Chester | Louisville | Chicago | Houston | Augusta |
List of cruisers of the United States Navy |
