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  • USS Cheyenne

    USS Cheyenne

    Introduction

    The USS Cheyenne has been a name borne by six ships in the United States Navy, each honoring the city of Cheyenne, Wyoming. This naming tradition reflects the Navy’s practice of commemorating significant American cities through its vessels. The history of the USS Cheyenne is marked by a variety of ship classes, from tugboats to advanced nuclear attack submarines, showcasing the evolution of naval technology and the diverse roles that ships have played throughout American maritime history.

    USS Cheyenne (1898)

    The first ship to carry the name USS Cheyenne was a tugboat active during the summer months of July and August in 1898. Tugboats are vital assets in naval operations, serving primarily to assist larger vessels in docking and undocking, as well as providing support during various maritime activities. While specific details about the operational history of this particular tugboat are limited, its service during this period coincided with the Spanish-American War, a time when naval forces were particularly active. The tugboat’s contributions would have played a role in supporting larger naval operations during this critical conflict.

    USS Cheyenne (BM-10)

    The second USS Cheyenne was originally designated as the Arkansas-class monitor Wyoming before being renamed in 1909 to free up the name for the battleship USS Wyoming (BB-32). Monitors were a type of warship characterized by their low profile and heavy armor, designed primarily for coastal defense and riverine operations. The renaming reflects a common practice within the Navy to maintain distinct identities for different classes of ships, particularly as new vessels were commissioned. This USS Cheyenne served as an important example of early 20th-century naval engineering, emphasizing armored combat capabilities rather than speed or agility.

    USS Cheyenne (CL-86)

    The third vessel named USS Cheyenne was a Cleveland-class light cruiser, designated CL-86. This ship was launched during World War II but was renamed USS Vicksburg just before its launch in 1942. Cleveland-class cruisers were known for their versatility and were designed to provide support in various naval operations, including anti-aircraft defense and surface engagements. Although USS Cheyenne did not see active service under its original name, Cleveland-class cruisers played crucial roles in numerous battles across the Pacific Theater during the war. The class was notable for its speed and firepower, contributing significantly to U.S. naval strategy during this tumultuous period.

    USS Cheyenne (CL-117)

    The fourth ship with the name USS Cheyenne was designated CL-117 as part of the planned Fargo-class light cruisers. Unfortunately, construction for this vessel was canceled on August 12, 1945, shortly after World War II had ended in Europe but before it concluded in Asia. The Fargo-class cruisers were intended to be fast and heavily armed ships that would enhance the Navy’s ability to project power and defend U.S. interests at sea. The cancellation of CL-117 reflects the shifts in military priorities following the conclusion of major global conflicts, as resources were redirected toward post-war recovery and rebuilding efforts rather than expanding naval fleets.

    USNS Cheyenne (T-AG-174)

    The fifth vessel named Cheyenne was USNS Cheyenne (T-AG-174), a Phoenix-class miscellaneous auxiliary ship that was launched on June 26, 1945. This ship served various support roles within the Navy until it was officially struck from service on June 15, 1973. Auxiliary ships like USNS Cheyenne play crucial roles in logistical support, research missions, and other non-combat operations that are essential for maintaining naval readiness. Their contributions often go unnoticed yet are fundamental for sustaining fleet operations over extended periods.

    USS Cheyenne (SSN-773)

    The most recent vessel to carry the name is USS Cheyenne (SSN-773), a Los Angeles-class nuclear attack submarine commissioned in 1996. This modern submarine represents cutting-edge technology in naval warfare, featuring advanced sonar systems and weaponry designed for anti-submarine warfare and land-attack missions. As an active service vessel, USS Cheyenne continues to embody the legacy of its predecessors while adapting to contemporary challenges faced by modern navies. Nuclear submarines like SSN-773 are pivotal for strategic deterrence and power projection across global waters.

    Conclusion

    The legacy of USS Cheyenne encompasses a wide spectrum of naval history within the United States Navy. From its humble beginnings as a tugboat during a time of conflict to its current status as an advanced nuclear submarine, each iteration has fulfilled vital roles that reflect both technological advancements and changing

    Artykuł sporządzony na podstawie: Wikipedia (EN).

  • CRDA 60 t motor torpedo boat

    CRDA 60 t Motor Torpedo Boat: A Historical Overview

    The Motosilurante CRDA 60 t, commonly referred to as the MS boat, represents a significant class of motor torpedo boats that were constructed for the Regia Marina during World War II. Developed in response to operational challenges faced by earlier Italian fast attack craft, the CRDA 60 t was inspired by the German S-boot designs, which had proven effective in various maritime operations. This unique class of vessels played a notable role during the war and continued to serve in the Italian Navy long after the conflict concluded.

    Historical Context and Development

    At the onset of World War II, Italy’s Regia Marina relied heavily on a fleet of MAS (Motor Anti-Submarine) boats. These vessels were known for their exceptional speed but often compromised seaworthiness due to their design, which prioritized agility over stability. For instance, the MAS 500-class boats could achieve speeds of up to 45 knots (approximately 52 mph), making them formidable in calm waters. However, as the war progressed, it became evident that their performance was significantly hampered by rough sea conditions.

    To address these shortcomings, the Italian Navy sought a more robust alternative that could operate effectively in adverse weather. The solution emerged through the acquisition of several captured Yugoslavian Orjen-class motor torpedo boats, which were built based on early German Schnellboot designs. These vessels, while slower than the MAS boats, featured rounded hulls that provided greater stability in turbulent waters. This strategic acquisition laid the groundwork for Italy’s development of a new class of motor torpedo boats.

    Design Features and Specifications

    The Cantieri Riuniti dell’Adriatico shipyard in Monfalcone was commissioned to produce a new type of torpedo boat that would not only enhance performance but also improve survivability in challenging maritime environments. The resulting design was designated as CRDA 60 t, reflecting both its builder and its displacement characteristics. These motosiluranti were constructed primarily from wood with steel reinforcements for added durability.

    Unlike their German counterparts powered by diesel engines, the CRDA 60 t boats utilized triple Isotta Fraschini Asso 1000 W18 petrol engines derived from the MAS 500 series. Each engine produced approximately 1,150 brake horsepower, enabling these vessels to reach speeds between 34 and 35 knots (about 39-40 mph). The boats typically displaced between 62 and 66 tons and were armed with two 533 mm torpedo tubes and various anti-aircraft guns.

    A total of thirty-six CRDA 60 t boats were built between late 1941 and autumn 1943 across two series, with each series featuring minor design modifications. Notable enhancements included a raised bow and redesigned torpedo tubes with hatches for improved functionality.

    Operational History During World War II

    The CRDA 60 t motor torpedo boats quickly demonstrated their capabilities during wartime operations. One of their most significant achievements occurred during Operation Pedestal in August 1942 when MS boats MS 16 and MS 22 successfully sank the British light cruiser HMS Manchester off Cap Bon. This event marked a pivotal moment as it represented the largest warship sunk by fast torpedo craft throughout the entirety of World War II.

    Following this success, two additional CRDA boats were employed in a daring operation where they infiltrated Allied lines in Egypt to conduct sabotage missions against critical infrastructure such as railways and aqueducts. Throughout the Sicilian campaign, night engagements involving MS boats became increasingly frequent as they attempted to disrupt Allied operations.

    A notable encounter occurred on July 13, 1943, when MS 71 and MS 63 engaged British destroyers escorting landing forces near Augusta. Although this clash was inconclusive, it underscored the tenacity of Italian naval forces despite overwhelming odds. However, subsequent engagements proved more detrimental; on August 3, American destroyers inflicted significant losses on the Italian fleet with MS 66 being sunk and MS 63 being disabled during naval sweeps off Sicily.

    Post-War Service and Legacy

    After World War II ended, fourteen of the original thirty-six CRDA motor torpedo boats survived the conflict. However, only nine were incorporated into the newly established Marina Militare due to post-war treaties that mandated restrictions on Italy’s naval capabilities. Six boats were surrendered to Allied nations: four went to the Soviet Union while two were transferred to France.

    Under these treaty conditions, Italy’s remaining motor torpedo boats were reclassified as motovedette (patrol boats), losing their torpedoes and receiving new hull numbers. It wasn’t

    Artykuł sporządzony na podstawie: Wikipedia (EN).