What was the primary purpose of the destroyer escort (DE) classification in the United States Navy during the mid-20th century?

The destroyer escort (DE) was a United States Navy classification for a warship developed in the mid-20th century. Its main design purpose was to possess the endurance required to escort convoys of merchant ships across the open ocean, typically operating at speeds up to 20 knots (37 km/h).

What historical need led to the development of the destroyer escort?

The development of the destroyer escort was significantly driven by the needs of Great Britain during World War II. They required ships capable of anti-submarine warfare that could operate effectively in the open ocean at speeds of up to 20 knots.

How did the destroyer escort classification relate to frigates in other navies during World War II?

During World War II, warships fulfilling the role of destroyer escorts were often classified as frigates by the Royal Navy and other Commonwealth forces. This classification was later adopted by the United States Navy in 1975 when they redesignated their destroyer escorts as frigates (FF).

What was the designation for new-build US Navy ships classified as destroyer escorts between approximately 1954 and 1975?

From around 1954 until 1975, new destroyer escorts built for the US Navy were designated as 'ocean escorts,' although they retained the DE hull classification symbol.

What were some similar types of warships in other navies during the mid-20th century that shared characteristics with destroyer escorts?

Other navies also operated warships similar to destroyer escorts. These included the 46 diesel-powered Kaibōkan in the Imperial Japanese Navy, ten F-class escort ships in the Kriegsmarine (German Navy), and the two Amiral Murgescu-class vessels in the Romanian Navy.

How did the size and capabilities of postwar destroyer escorts and frigates compare to their wartime counterparts?

Destroyer escorts and frigates built after World War II were generally larger and possessed enhanced anti-aircraft capabilities compared to those built during the war. However, they were still smaller and slower than the destroyers of the postwar era.

What measure did the US Navy take during the Cold War to adapt existing destroyers for escort duties?

During the Cold War, as destroyer escorts grew in size to match wartime destroyers, the US Navy converted some of its World War II destroyers into a specialized type known as escort destroyers (DDE).

What is the fundamental speed requirement for full-sized destroyers, and why does it differ from that of a destroyer escort?

Full-sized destroyers are designed to match or exceed the speed of cruisers and fleet carriers, typically requiring speeds of 25-35 knots. In contrast, destroyer escorts were designed to keep pace with slower merchant convoys, which moved at around 10-12 knots during World War II, meaning they did not need the same high top speed.

Beyond speed, what other capabilities were essential for a destroyer escort's role?

In addition to their speed relative to convoys, destroyer escorts needed to be capable of defending against aircraft attacks and possess the equipment and weaponry necessary to detect, pursue, and attack submarines.

Why were destroyer escorts optimized for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and how did their design reflect this?

Destroyer escorts were specifically designed and equipped for anti-submarine warfare (ASW). This optimization included features like a tighter turning radius for better maneuverability in pursuit of submarines and specialized weaponry, such as the forward-firing Hedgehog mortar, which was more suited for ASW than the armament typically found on fleet destroyers.

What propulsion systems were commonly used in US destroyer escorts during World War II, and why were they chosen?

Many US destroyer escorts built during World War II utilized diesel-electric or turboelectric drive systems. These systems were chosen because they eliminated the need for complex gearboxes, which were in high demand for faster fleet destroyers and were difficult to produce in large quantities.

What innovative post-war use was found for some diesel-electric or turboelectric drive destroyer escorts?

Following World War II, some destroyer escorts equipped with diesel-electric or turboelectric drive systems were repurposed as floating power stations. These vessels provided electricity to coastal cities, particularly in Latin America, often as part of programs supported by the World Bank.

How were some destroyer escorts modified to serve as radar picket ships?

During World War II, seven destroyer escorts (DEs) were converted into radar picket destroyer escorts (DERs). This practice continued post-war, with an additional 36 DEs converted to DERs in the mid-1950s, serving until the mid-1960s to extend radar coverage along the coasts.

What was the purpose of converting destroyer escorts into radar picket ships (DERs)?

The primary mission of the radar picket destroyer escorts (DERs) was to extend the reach of the Distant Early Warning Line along the United States' coasts. They worked in conjunction with other specialized radar picket ships, such as converted Liberty ships.

What conversion allowed some destroyer escorts to function as high-speed transports (APDs)?

During World War II, approximately 95 destroyer escorts were converted into high-speed transports (APDs). These conversions involved adding an extra deck to accommodate about 10 officers and 150 men, and installing large davits on each side to launch landing craft (LCVPs).

What was the significance of the Lend-Lease Act in the development of destroyer escorts?

The Lend-Lease Act, enacted in March 1941, was crucial for the development of destroyer escorts. It allowed the United Kingdom to procure warships from the United States, specifically commissioning the US to design and build escort vessels suitable for open-ocean anti-submarine warfare.

Who was Captain E.L. Cochrane, and what was his contribution to the destroyer escort design?

Captain E.L. Cochrane, associated with the American Bureau of Shipping, played a key role in designing the initial escort vessel that became known as the British Destroyer Escort (BDE).

What was the 'British Destroyer Escort' (BDE) designation, and how did it relate to early US Navy DEs?

The 'British Destroyer Escort' (BDE) designation was used for the initial design of escort vessels intended for the UK under Lend-Lease. The first six ships built under this designation were transferred to the Royal Navy, while the remaining ships from the initial order were reclassified as US Navy destroyer escorts in January 1943.

What was the allocation system for destroyer escorts between the US Navy and the Royal Navy after the US entered World War II?

After the United States entered World War II and recognized the value of the destroyer escort for their own needs, a rationing system was implemented. Under this system, for every five destroyer escorts completed, four were assigned to the U.S. Navy, and one was allocated to the Royal Navy.

What alternative class of ships did the United States Maritime Commission develop for a similar role as destroyer escorts?

The United States Maritime Commission developed the S2-S2-AQ1 design, which was based on the British River class, to fulfill a similar role as destroyer escorts but using civilian construction standards. These ships were classified by the Navy as the *Tacoma*-class frigates (PF).

How did the *Tacoma*-class frigates compare unfavorably to destroyer escorts in terms of design and performance?

While *Tacoma*-class frigates offered greater range than destroyer escorts, the US Navy considered them inferior in other aspects. They had a larger turning circle, inadequate ventilation for warm climates (leading to very hot conditions below deck), and their mercantile hull design offered less resistance to underwater explosions compared to naval-standard destroyer escorts.

What was the hull classification symbol for new-build US Navy destroyer escorts after World War II, and what was the new designation?

Following World War II, new destroyer escorts built for the United States Navy were referred to as 'ocean escorts,' but they continued to use the hull classification symbol DE.

Why did the US Navy undertake a ship reclassification in 1975 regarding destroyer escorts?

In 1975, the US Navy reclassified ocean escorts and destroyer escorts as frigates (FF). This change aimed to standardize nomenclature with NATO allies and simplify comparisons with Soviet naval ship types.

What were the primary ship types planned by the US Navy in the area of surface combatants around 2006, and how did this change later?

Around 2006, the US Navy's plans for future surface combatants focused on the USS *Zumwalt*-class destroyers and Littoral Combat Ships (LCS), with no plans for new frigates. However, by 2017, the Navy reversed this decision and initiated a request for proposals for a new frigate class, temporarily designated FFG(X).

What is one example of ambiguity in naval ship classification mentioned in the text?

An example of ambiguity in ship classification is the *Ticonderoga*-class air-defense ship, which is classified as a cruiser despite using the same hull design as the *Spruance*-class destroyers. This highlights the debate between classifying ships by their role versus their physical size.

How many *Edsall*-class destroyer escorts were provided to the Republic of Vietnam Navy during the Vietnam War?

During the Vietnam War, the Republic of Vietnam Navy was supplied with two *Edsall*-class destroyer escorts by the United States.

What were the primary propulsion types for the *Evarts*-class and *Buckley*-class destroyer escorts?

The *Evarts*-class destroyer escorts primarily used diesel-electric propulsion, while the *Buckley*-class employed turbo-electric drive.

Which US Navy destroyer escort classes were equipped with 5-inch guns?

The *Rudderow*, *John C. Butler*, and *Garcia*-class destroyer escorts were equipped with 5-inch/38 caliber guns. The *Brooke*-class had one 5-inch/38 caliber gun, and the *Knox*-class featured a 5-inch/54 caliber gun.

What was the armament of the *Claud Jones*-class destroyer escorts?

The *Claud Jones*-class destroyer escorts were armed with two 3-inch/50 caliber guns and six 13-inch torpedoes.

How many ships were built for the *Cannon*-class and *Edsall*-class destroyer escort programs?

A total of 72 ships were built for the *Cannon*-class, and 85 ships were constructed for the *Edsall*-class of destroyer escorts.

What was the total number of destroyer escorts (DEs) and high-speed transports (APDs) mentioned in the World War II shipbuilding programs table?

The World War II shipbuilding programs table indicates a total of 507 destroyer escorts (DEs) and 56 high-speed transports (APDs) were accounted for.

Which shipbuilder was responsible for the largest number of destroyer escorts and APDs combined according to the World War II shipbuilding programs table?

According to the World War II shipbuilding programs table, Bethlehem's Hingham facility built the largest number of ships, with 27 *Buckley*-class and 46 *Captain*-class frigates, plus 14 *Rudderow*-class and 23 *Crosley*-class APDs, totaling 110 vessels.

What was the total number of *Buckley*-class destroyer escorts and related APDs built by Bethlehem's Hingham shipyard?

Bethlehem's Hingham shipyard built 27 *Buckley*-class destroyer escorts and 46 related vessels designated as APDs.

How many *Captain*-class frigates were constructed in the United States and delivered to the United Kingdom under Lend-Lease?

A total of 78 frigates, designated as the *Captain* class, were constructed in the United States and delivered to the United Kingdom under the Lend-Lease provisions during World War II.

What modifications did the Royal Navy make to the *Captain*-class frigates upon their arrival in the UK?

Upon arrival in the United Kingdom, the *Captain*-class frigates underwent substantial modifications by the Royal Navy, most notably the removal of their torpedo tubes, which differentiated them from their US Navy counterparts.

What was the success rate of the *Captain*-class frigates in sinking German submarines during World War II?

The *Captain*-class frigates achieved significant success during World War II, participating in the sinking of at least 34 German submarines.

How many *Captain*-class frigates were lost during World War II?

Fifteen out of the 78 *Captain*-class frigates were lost during World War II, either by being sunk or written off as a constructive total loss.

What happened to the surviving *Captain*-class frigates after World War II?

After World War II, nearly all surviving *Captain*-class frigates, with the exception of HMS *Hotham*, were returned to the US Navy by the end of 1947. This return was part of the process to settle payments under the Lend-Lease agreement, with the final ship returned in March 1956.

How many *Cannon*-class destroyer escorts were built for the Free French Navy?

Six *Cannon*-class destroyer escorts were constructed specifically for the Free French Navy.

Under what program were the *Cannon*-class destroyer escorts permanently transferred to the French Navy?

While initially transferred under the Lend-Lease Act, the six *Cannon*-class destroyer escorts provided to the Free French Navy were permanently transferred through the Mutual Defense Assistance Program (MDAP).

Which navies, besides the French Navy, acquired destroyer escorts under the Mutual Defense Assistance Program (MDAP) after World War II?

Following World War II, several navies acquired destroyer escorts through the Mutual Defense Assistance Program (MDAP), including the Republic of China Navy (Taiwan), French Navy, Hellenic Navy, Italian Navy, Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force, Philippine Navy, Portuguese Navy, Republic of Korea Navy, Royal Navy, Royal Netherlands Navy, Royal Thai Navy, and the National Navy of Uruguay.

What was the displacement and speed of the Japanese *Etorofu*-class Type A Kai *kaibōkan*?

The Japanese *Etorofu*-class Type A Kai *kaibōkan*, built around 1943, had a displacement of 870 tons and a top speed of 19 knots.

How did the displacement and speed of the US *Buckley*-class destroyer escort compare to the British *River*-class frigate?

The US *Buckley*-class destroyer escort, displacing 1,400 tons and capable of 23 knots, was slightly larger and faster than the British *River*-class frigate, which displaced 1,370 tons and had a speed of 20 knots.

What was the primary role of the British Loch-class frigate, and how did it compare in displacement to the US *Buckley*-class DE?

The British Loch-class frigate, designed primarily for anti-submarine warfare, displaced 1,435 tons and had a speed of 20 knots. This made it slightly heavier but slower than the US *Buckley*-class destroyer escort.

What was the purpose of the British Bay-class frigate, and how did its displacement compare to the Loch-class?

The British Bay-class frigate, built on Loch-class hulls, was designed for anti-aircraft roles and displaced 1,580 tons with a speed of 20 knots, making it heavier than the Loch-class frigate.

What distinguished the US *Dealey*-class destroyer escort from earlier US classes like the *Evarts* or *Buckley* classes in terms of propulsion and speed?

The US *Dealey*-class destroyer escort, introduced in 1954, utilized geared turbine propulsion and achieved a higher speed of 25 knots, compared to the earlier *Evarts*-class (diesel-electric, 21 knots) and *Buckley*-class (turbo-electric, 23 knots).

What was the role of the UK's Type 14 frigate, and how did its displacement compare to the US *Dealey*-class DE?

The UK's Type 14 frigate, also known as the *Blackwood*-class, was described as a 'second-rate' anti-submarine warfare vessel. It displaced 1,180 tons and had a speed of 24 knots, making it lighter and slightly slower than the US *Dealey*-class destroyer escort.

What was the primary mission of the UK's Type 12 frigate (also known as the *Whitby* class)?

The UK's Type 12 frigates, also known as the *Whitby* class, were designed as anti-submarine vessels specifically intended for combating fast submarines, achieving a speed of 31 knots.

How did the displacement and speed of the US *Knox*-class destroyer escort compare to the earlier *Dealey*-class?

The US *Knox*-class destroyer escort, commissioned starting in 1969, was significantly larger, displacing 3,011 tons and capable of 27 knots, compared to the earlier *Dealey*-class which displaced 1,450 tons and had a speed of 25 knots.

Which destroyer escort classes preserved as museum ships are located in the United States?

Two destroyer escorts are preserved as museum ships in the United States: the *Edsall*-class USS *Stewart* (DE-238) in Galveston, Texas, and the *Cannon*-class USS *Slater* (DE-766) in Albany, New York.

Which destroyer escort is noted as the last operational World War II destroyer escort in any navy?

The *Cannon*-class destroyer escort HTMS *Pin Klao* (DE-1), formerly USS *Hemminger* (DE-746), currently serving as a training ship in the Royal Thai Navy, is recognized as the last operational World War II destroyer escort still in service in any navy.

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Definition

Naval Classification

The Destroyer Escort (DE) was a United States Navy mid-20th-century classification for a warship designed with the endurance necessary to escort mid-ocean convoys of merchant marine ships. These vessels were typically rated for a speed of 20 knots (37 km/h; 23 mph).

Purpose-Built for Escort

Unlike full-sized fleet destroyers, which needed to match the speed of capital ships, destroyer escorts were optimized for the slower speeds of convoys (10-12 knots). Their primary mission was anti-submarine warfare (ASW), requiring a tighter turning radius and specialized armament, making them more cost-effective for escort duties.

Global Impact

The development of the DE was heavily influenced by the British need during World War II for anti-submarine ships capable of operating in open oceans. The US designed these vessels for mass production, providing a crucial capability for Allied maritime security.

Origins

Lend-Lease Initiative

The concept originated from the British requirement for escort vessels. Under the Lend-Lease Act, the US was commissioned to design and build these ships. The initial design, known as the "British Destroyer Escort" (BDE), was adapted by the US Navy.

Mass Production Design

Designed for efficient mass production, DEs were a less expensive alternative to fleet destroyers. This allowed for the rapid construction of a large number of vessels essential for protecting vital sea lanes during wartime.

Alternatives and Comparisons

The US Maritime Commission developed the Tacoma-class frigates (PF) using civilian construction standards for a similar role. However, these were viewed as inferior to the naval-standard DEs in terms of maneuverability, habitability, and structural integrity.

Design & Propulsion

Core Requirements

Destroyer escorts needed to maneuver relative to slow convoys, defend against aircraft, and detect, pursue, and attack submarines. Their operational speed limit of around 20 knots was sufficient for ASW, as sonar effectiveness decreased significantly at higher speeds.

Propulsion Systems

Many WWII-era US DEs utilized diesel-electric or turbo-electric drives. This avoided the need for specialized gearboxes, which were in high demand for fleet destroyers. Electric drive also allowed engine rooms to function as power stations, enabling post-war repurposing.

Post-War Evolution

Post-war DEs were larger and had enhanced anti-aircraft capabilities but remained smaller and slower than contemporary destroyers. Some WWII destroyers were converted to "escort destroyers" (DDE) to supplement ASW roles.

Diverse Roles

Convoy Escort

The primary role was protecting merchant convoys against submarine threats, ensuring the safe passage of vital supplies and personnel across oceans.

Radar Picket Duty

During WWII and later, some DEs were converted to radar picket destroyers (DERs) to extend early warning radar coverage, particularly for protecting naval formations and coastal areas.

High-Speed Transport

A significant number of WWII DEs were converted into high-speed transports (APDs). This involved adding decks for troops and davits for launching landing craft, enabling amphibious assault support.

US Navy Destroyer Escort Classes

The US Navy commissioned numerous classes of destroyer escorts, each with variations in propulsion, armament, and design. The following table outlines some of the key classes:

WWII Era Classes

During World War II, several major classes were produced, reflecting different design philosophies and propulsion methods.

Class Name	Propulsion	Guns	Torpedoes	Lead Ship	Commissioned	Ships Built
Evarts (GMT)	diesel - electric	3 × 3in/50	0	USS Evarts (DE-5)	Apr 1943	97
Buckley (TE)	turbo - electric	3 × 3in/50	3 × 21in	USS Buckley (DE-51)	Apr 1943	148
Cannon (DET)	diesel - electric	3 × 3in/50	3 × 21in	USS Cannon (DE-99)	Sep 1943	72
Edsall (FMR)	geared diesel	3 × 3in/50	3 × 21in	USS Edsall (DE-129)	Apr 1943	85
Rudderow (TEV)	turbo - electric	2 × 5in/38	3 × 21in	USS Rudderow (DE-224)	May 1944	22
John C. Butler (WGT)	geared turbine	2 × 5in/38	3 × 21in	USS John C. Butler (DE-339)	Mar 1944	83

Post-War & Reclassification

Following WWII, new builds were designated as "ocean escorts" (DE), and in 1975, the US Navy reclassified them as frigates (FF) to align with NATO nomenclature.

Class Name	Propulsion	Guns	Torpedoes	Lead Ship	Commissioned	Ships Built
Dealey	geared turbine	4 × 3in/50	4 × 21in	USS Dealey (DE-1006)	Jun 1954	13
Claud Jones	diesel	2 × 3in/50	6 × 13in	USS Claud Jones (DE-1033)	Feb 1959	4
Bronstein	geared turbine	2 × 3in/50 Mk33, ASROC	6 × 13in	USS Bronstein (DE-1037)	Jun 1963	2
Garcia	geared turbine	2 × 5in/38	-	USS Garcia (DE-1040)	Dec 1964	10
Brooke (DEG)	geared turbine	1 × 5in/38	-	USS Brooke (DEG-1)	Mar 1966	6
Knox	geared turbine	1 x 5in/54	-	USS Knox (DE-1052)	Apr 1969	46

Comparison with Contemporary Frigates

Destroyer escorts shared many characteristics with contemporary frigates from other navies, designed for similar escort and anti-submarine roles. The table below highlights key differences and similarities:

Name	Date	Nation	Displacement (tons)	Speed (knots)	Number Built	Notes
River-class frigate	1942	UK	1,370	20	151
Edsall-class DE	1943	US	1,200	21	85
Evarts-class DE	1943	US	1,140	21	72
Buckley-class DE	1943	US	1,400	23	102
Cannon-class DE	1943	US	1,240	21	72
Tacoma-class frigate	1943	US	1,430	20	96	Civilian standards
Loch-class frigate	1944	UK	1,435	20	30	Anti-submarine
John C. Butler-class DE	1944	US	1,350	24	87
Rudderow-class DE	1944	US	1,450	24	22
Bay-class frigate	1945	UK	1,580	20	26	Anti-aircraft
Dealey class DE	1954	US	1,450	25	13
Type 12 frigate (Whitby)	1956	UK	2,150	31	8	Anti-submarine
Knox class DE	1969	US	3,011	27	46

Surviving Destroyer Escorts

Museum Ships

Several destroyer escorts have been preserved as museum ships, offering a tangible connection to naval history:

USS Stewart (DE-238) - Galveston, Texas
USS Slater (DE-766) - Albany, New York
BNS Bauru (BE-4) - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
ARC Cordoba (DT-15) - Tocancipa, Colombia

Active Service

One notable example of a WWII-era DE still in service is the HTMS Pin Klao (DE-1), formerly USS Hemminger (DE-746), serving as a training ship in the Royal Thai Navy. Additionally, the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force operates modern Abukuma-class destroyer escorts.

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References

the first ship commissioned of the class was HMS Bayntun on 20 January 1943

A full list of references for this article are available at the Destroyer escort Wikipedia page

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This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional military or historical advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for consulting official naval archives, historical texts, or seeking advice from qualified maritime historians or naval professionals. Always refer to primary sources and expert analysis for definitive information.

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Guardians of the Deep

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Definition ℹ️

🛡️ Naval Classification

🚢 Purpose-Built for Escort

🌍 Global Impact

Origins 📜

🤝 Lend-Lease Initiative

🏭 Mass Production Design

⚖️ Alternatives and Comparisons

Design & Propulsion ⚙️

⚓ Core Requirements

⚡ Propulsion Systems

🔧 Post-War Evolution

Diverse Roles 🎯

🌊 Convoy Escort

📡 Radar Picket Duty

🚀 High-Speed Transport

US Navy Destroyer Escort Classes 📚

📜 WWII Era Classes

🚀 Post-War & Reclassification

Comparison with Contemporary Frigates ⚖️

Surviving Destroyer Escorts ⚓

🏛️ Museum Ships

🎖️ Active Service

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Definition

Naval Classification

Purpose-Built for Escort

Global Impact

Origins

Lend-Lease Initiative

Mass Production Design

Alternatives and Comparisons

Design & Propulsion

Core Requirements

Propulsion Systems

Post-War Evolution

Diverse Roles

Convoy Escort

Radar Picket Duty

High-Speed Transport

US Navy Destroyer Escort Classes

WWII Era Classes

Post-War & Reclassification

Comparison with Contemporary Frigates

Surviving Destroyer Escorts

Museum Ships

Active Service

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice