Independence

Модель бронирования

Обзор

After Japan's attack on the U.S. in December 1941, the U.S. Navy leadership recognized the need for aircraft carriers. Given that Essex-class ships wouldn't be ready before 1944, it was decided to complete the hulls of Cleveland-class cruisers as light aircraft carriers. The ships received a hangar for three dozen aircraft and a flight deck, and bulges were added to compensate for weight. The former cruisers lacked outstanding seakeeping but were advantageous over escort carriers in speed. USS Independence was built in New York and was originally laid down as USS Amsterdam. During World War II, the ship participated in raids on Rabaul and Tarawa, attacks on the Philippines and Japan, and the Battle of Leyte Gulf. After the war, USS Independence transported American soldiers back home.