The only “double-ended” DLG class—fitted with missile launchers fore-and-aft—was the Leahy class, the first and only frigate class designed without a main gun battery with which to engage in ship-vs-ship or shore bombardment. Close-in anti-aircraft defense consisted of a pair of 3-inch/50 cal. guns firing VT-fuzed ammunition; anti-submarine armament consisted of ASROC and two triple Mk 32 torpedo mounts. The Leahys carried over the machinery of the Farragut class, fitted into a longer hull designed with a knuckled “hurricane” bow that reduced plunging in a seaway, thus keeping its foredeck dry as needed to operate its forward missile launcher. Three ships were authorized in FY 58 and six in FY 59.Length: 533' overall; 510' waterline. Beam: 53' 4". Displacement: 5,146 long tons light; 7,590 long tons full load. Designed Speed: 32 knots. Range: 8,000nm @ 20 knots. |