This article aims to catalog the named small combatants that have been constructed under U.S. Navy programs since World War II. This includes vessels built for the U.S. Navy as well as those constructed for foreign navies through various aid programs. The table provided summarizes these combatants chronologically, detailing essential information such as the type of ship, original name, owner, shipbuilder, tonnage, price, fiscal year, delivery date, and current disposition.
Historical Context
Small combatants have played a crucial role in naval operations, particularly in anti-submarine warfare (ASW). These vessels are typically smaller than traditional warships but are designed for specific roles, such as reconnaissance, escort duties, and anti-submarine patrols. The U.S. Navy has actively engaged in producing such vessels, often collaborating with international partners to enhance maritime security worldwide.
Overview of Named Small Combatants
The table below outlines some notable named small combatants constructed under U.S. Navy programs:
| Type | # | Original Name | Owner | Shipbuilder | Tons | Price ($mm) | FY | Delivery | Disposition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCE | 1604 | Fret | Dutch Navy | General Ship | 975 | N/A | 51 | 4-May-54 | F 818, scrapped 1988 |
| PCE | 1605 | Hermelijn | Dutch Navy | General Ship | 975 | N/A | 51 | 5-Aug-54 | F 819, scrapped 1987 |
| PCE | 1606 | Vos | Dutch Navy | General Ship | 975 | N/A | 51 | 2-Dec-54 | F 820, scrapped 1988 |
| PCE | 1607 | Wolf | Dutch Navy | Avondale | 975 | N/A | 51 | 26-Mar-54 | F 817, scrapped 1985 |
| PCE | 1610 | Le Fougueux | French Navy | Dubigeon (France) | 400 | N/A | 52 | 21-Jul-55 | P 641, sold for scrap 1978, now a museum ship in Dordrecht |
| PCE | 1614 | Porto Santo | Portuguese Navy | Normandie (France) | 400 | N/A | 52 | 9-Feb-55 | P 588, struck |
| PCE | 1619 | Albatros | Italian Navy | Castellamare (Italy) | 950 | N/A | 52 | 1-Jun-55 | F 543, struck 1989 |
| PCE | 1624 | Flora | Danish Navy | Tirreno (Italy) | 900 | N/A | 52 | 28-Aug-56 | F 346, struck 1978 |
| PCE | 1638 | Sultanhisar | Turkish Navy | Gunderson | 975 | N/A | 62 | 9-May-64 | P 111, active |
| PCE | 1644 | Peder Skram | Danish Navy | Helsingor (Denmark) | 2,720 | N/A | 62 | 30-Jun-66 | F 352, struck 1987 |
Notable Trends
- International Collaboration: Many of these vessels were built for allied nations, highlighting the U.S. Navy’s commitment to international maritime cooperation.
- Diverse Ownership: The range of owners includes various navies from Europe and beyond, such as the Dutch, French, Italian, and Turkish navies.
- Dispositions: While many vessels have been scrapped or struck from service, some have found new lives as museum ships, such as the Le Fougueux.
The named small combatants listed in this overview reflect the U.S. Navy’s extensive program for producing versatile naval vessels designed for specific operational roles. These ships have contributed to maritime security and defense strategies across the globe, serving various navies and adapting to the evolving demands of naval warfare.
As with any historical documentation, this list may not be exhaustive. Corrections and additions are welcome, as the U.S. Navy’s history continues to evolve with advancements in technology and international partnerships.