5. USS Long Beach (CGN-9)
In naval technology, the first nuclear-powered surface combatant marked a paradigm change. This unusual ship carried the most advanced radar systems of the day as well as all-missile armaments. Although its advanced combat systems made the Long Beach an efficient platform for fleet air defense and anti-submarine warfare, its nuclear power plant gave it unheard-of longevity. Its unique look, with a large superstructure containing several radar arrays, reflected its function as a test bed for new technologies that would impact next warship design.
6. Admiral Hipper-class Cruiser
Combining great firepower with cutting-edge technology, the Admiral Hipper-class heavy cruiser is among the most powerful ships built thus. With their eight 203mm guns in four twin turrets, these ships had an amazing range for devastating broadsides against any surface target. The advanced fire control systems of the ships, which included optical and radar rangefinders, allowed amazing accuracy even in bad weather. High-pressure steam turbines made up their sophisticated propulsion system, which let them keep great speeds while chasing opponent vessels or evading threats. Particularly creative was the class’s armor protection, which used a distinctive turtleback armor system to offer remarkable defense against both direct strikes and plunging fire. Most remarkably, these cruisers had a large anti-aircraft battery that could form an almost perfect barrier of fire against adversary aircraft. In many battles, they regularly exceeded their contemporaries in terms of accuracy, survivability, and tactical flexibility, so proving their combat effectiveness.
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