5 Facts Lexington Class

Introduction to the Lexington Class

The Lexington class was a class of two aircraft carriers built by the United States during the 1920s. The lead ship, USS Lexington (CV-2), was commissioned in 1927, and her sister ship, USS Saratoga (CV-3), was commissioned in 1925, but both were converted from battlecruiser hulls that were under construction at the time. These ships played significant roles in the development of naval aviation and were involved in various notable events throughout their careers.

Design and Construction

The Lexington-class aircraft carriers were originally designed as battlecruisers but were converted into aircraft carriers as a result of the Washington Naval Treaty of 1922, which limited the construction of new battleships and battlecruisers. The conversion allowed the U.S. Navy to develop its aviation capabilities while adhering to the treaty’s limitations. Key features of these ships included their large size, with the USS Lexington being over 880 feet long and displacing more than 33,000 tons, and their innovative aircraft handling systems, which included hydraulically powered arresting gear and catapults to launch planes more efficiently.

Operational History

Both ships of the Lexington class had notable operational histories. The USS Lexington was used extensively for testing and developing naval aviation tactics and technologies. It played a significant role in the pre-World War II period, participating in various fleet exercises and providing aviation support. The USS Saratoga also contributed to the advancement of naval aviation and was involved in several historic events, including the Marianas Turkey Shoot during World War II, where it provided crucial air support. However, the USS Lexington was sunk during the Battle of the Coral Sea in May 1942, marking a significant loss for the U.S. Navy in the early stages of World War II.

Specifications and Capabilities

The Lexington-class carriers had the capability to carry a large air group, with the USS Lexington capable of carrying up to 91 aircraft at the time of its construction. This included a mix of bombers, fighters, and torpedo planes, offering a versatile air power capability. The ships were powered by electric propulsion systems, which were innovative for their time, allowing them to achieve speeds of over 33 knots. Their armament included 8-inch guns for defense against surface targets, as well as anti-aircraft guns for protection against air attacks.

Legacy and Impact

The Lexington class carriers had a significant impact on the development of naval aviation. They were among the first purpose-built aircraft carriers in the world and played a crucial role in establishing the importance of air power at sea. The experiences and lessons learned from operating these carriers influenced the design and construction of subsequent aircraft carrier classes. Furthermore, the operational histories of the USS Lexington and USS Saratoga provide valuable insights into the evolution of naval warfare tactics and strategies during the first half of the 20th century.

💡 Note: The development and operation of the Lexington-class carriers underscore the rapid advancement of naval aviation technology and doctrine during the interwar period, setting the stage for the critical role aircraft carriers would play in World War II and beyond.

In summary, the Lexington class aircraft carriers were pivotal in the history of naval aviation, serving as testbeds for new technologies and tactics, and participating in significant naval battles. Their legacy can be seen in the modern aircraft carriers that followed, which continue to play a central role in naval power projection around the world.