
The Fletcher class destroyer USS Shields.
Technical information
| Type | Destroyer |
| Displacement | 2050 BRT |
| Length | 376 feet |
| Complement | 350 men |
| Armament | 5 5" guns various smaller guns 5 21" torpedo tubes 2 Hedge hogs |
| Max speed | 35 knots |
| Engines | Geared-turbines |
| Power | 60000 |
| Notes on class | This was the second class of destroyers, after Benson / Gleaves, built during the war. 175 of these were delivered in 2 years. They were slighly heavier than previous class and had increased anti-aircraft armament. These ships were popular with their crews and were successful, some being in service into the Vietnam war. US Navy destroyer classes during WWII: |
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19 destroyers of the Fletcher class lost. See all Destroyer classes. |
![]() DD 522 : Diary of a destroyer Surels, Ron |
Books dealing with this subject include:
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US Navy (more on 