USS Leyte Gulf Cruiser
- Extended Description
- CRUISER OR DESTROYER?
The cruisers of the Ticonderoga class have the same hull and the same powerplant as the destroyers of the .Spruance class, but they are heavier and possessed of a considerably more effective anti-aircraft defence armament. The construction was divided between Ingalls Shipbuilding and Bath Iron Works. From Bunker Hill (CG52) onwards, all units of the ticonderoga class are supplied with Tomahawk cruise missiles with varying warheads and a range of 1350 miles (2500km). They are also equipped with Harpoon anti- ship missiles with a range of 70 miles (130km).
THE AEGIS SYSTEM
However, the special feature of the cruisers of the Ticonderoga class (as well as the destroyers of the Arleigh Burke class) is the Aegis automated air-defence system, named after the shield of the father of the Greek gods, Zeus. Aegis ships are fitted with an integrated system of computers, radar equipment and anti-aircraft defence missiles that automatically locate, pursue and combat several air targets (aircraft, helicopters and missiles) simultaneously, and in this way lay down a covering screen round a convoy or marine task force.
TECHNICAL DATA
Type: Guided-missile cruiser
Machinery: 2-shaft Gas turbines, del. 80,000shp
Dimensions (overall): Length, 171.6m (563ft); beam, 168m (55ft)
Draught: 9.5m (3lft) standard
