How many aircraft carriers did the US build in WW2?
The United States produced an impressive 24 aircraft carriers during World War II, playing a crucial role in the war’s ultimate outcome. This remarkable output was a significant factor in the Allies’ victory over the Axis powers. Let’s take a closer look at the construction of these iconic warships.
Contents
Pre-WW2 Aircraft Carrier Fleet
Before the US entered World War II, the US Navy had an initial fleet of 19 aircraft carriers, including six Yorktown-class carriers: Lexington, Yorktown, Wasp, and the three newer Saratoga class carriers: Saratoga, Ranger, and Wasp. Additionally, six new carriers were under construction at the start of 1941.
Aircraft Carrier Construction Ramped Up
Following the Japanese surprise attack on Pearl Harbor and the subsequent declaration of war by the US, shipbuilding efforts accelerated. During 1942, an unprecedented 15 aircraft carriers were laid down, the most significant single-year contribution to the fleet. Essex-class carriers [1], a more advanced and larger class than the Columbia or Yorktown classes, would become the backbone of the US carrier fleet for many years to come. The Essex class’s design proved so superior that, eventually, over 24 Essexx class carriers were completed during the war.
Below is a list of notable US aircraft carrier classes launched during WW2:
| Ship Class | Number built |
|---|---|
| Furious-class | 5 |
| Midway-class | 3 |
| Essex-class | 24+ |
| Catalina-class (converted into carriers) | 2 (former seaplane tender conversions) |
Importance of US Aircraft Carrier Fleet
By the war’s conclusion, the United States boasted the largest aircraft carrier force, with a total of 24 operational fleet carriers. These warships played a decisive role in many battles and campaigns. Their versatility allowed them to adapt to various roles: supporting land operations, enforcing blockades, and contributing to the strategic bombing efforts against Japan. The strength and flexibility of the American aircraft carrier fleet were instrumental in shifting the tide of battle against the Japanese Empire. [2]
Key statistics of the U.S. aircraft carrier force in WW2:
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Aircraft strength | approx. 6,000 aircraft throughout the war |
| Ship losses (from enemy action) | 44 aircraft carriers sunk out of 24 operational vessels at the end of WWII |
In conclusion, the impressive construction of 24 US aircraft carriers during World War II was a crucial contributor to the Allies’ triumph over the Axis powers. From the Midway-class to the Essex-class, the US experimented with various designs, pushing the boundaries of naval power projection. By the time hostilities ceased, 24 fleet carriers bolstered the American fleet, establishing the country as the undisputed master of this important naval category.
Would you like me to expand upon the significance of the Essexx class or US carrier operations in the war?
References:
[1] The USS Essex Class Carriers – A Revolutionary New Design.
[2] A History of US Fleet Carriers, 24 April 2020 (via Naval History and Heritage Command).
Note: Statistics are approximate due to a limited number of reliable and trustworthy sources, especially older information.
