USS Iowa Battleship Quiz

Study Notes

USS Iowa (BB-61) Overview

An Iowa-class battleship, known for its significant role in naval history.
The USS Iowa was the fourth battleship to bear the name in honor of the state of Iowa.

Dimensions and Specifications

Displacement: Weighs 57,500 tons when fully loaded.
Length: Measures 887 feet, making it one of the longest battleships.
Height: Stands at 209 feet and 8 inches above the waterline.
Width: Has a beam of 108 feet.
Top Speed: Capable of reaching 33 knots (38 mph), showcasing impressive maneuverability for a battleship.

Armament and Capabilities

Armament in the 1980s included a formidable array of weapons:
- 9 x 16 inch (410 mm) /50 cal Mark 7 guns.
- 12 x 5 inch (130 mm) /38 cal Mark 12 guns.
- 32 x BGM-109 Tomahawk cruise missiles for long-range strike capability.
- 16 x RGM-84 Harpoon anti-ship missiles designed for surface engagement.
- 4 x 20mm/76 cal Phalanx CIWS for close-in defense against aerial threats.

Historical Significance

Served prominently in World War II and the Korean War, playing crucial roles in naval operations.
Experienced a tragic incident on April 19, 1989, when an explosion in her second gun turret resulted in the loss of 47 crewmen, noted as one of the US Navy's worst peacetime accidents.

Designation and Terminology

Designation: Identified as BB-61, with "BB" standing for Battleship.
Knowledge of naval classification: "DD" refers to Destroyer, indicating a different class of naval ships.

Description

Test your knowledge about the USS Iowa (BB-61), an Iowa-class battleship of the US Navy. This quiz covers various details about the ship including her length, displacement, and historical significance. Challenge yourself to see how well you know this iconic naval vessel!