20 Largest Battleships Ever Built in the World

Battleships represent some of the most powerful and iconic vessels in naval history, built to project immense strength and withstand intense combat. These colossal warships, designed with heavy armor and massive guns, dominated the seas in the early to mid-20th century. Each battleship carried unique features, from record-breaking sizes to innovative weaponry, allowing them to play pivotal roles in major conflicts. Although advancements in air power and missiles eventually made these giants less central in modern navies, they remain legendary for their engineering marvel and influence. Exploring the largest battleships ever built offers a glimpse into a remarkable era of naval warfare and the incredible feats of design that made these ships icons of their time.

Yamato (Japan)

The Japanese battleship Yamato is one of the most famous and largest battleships ever built, commissioned in 1941. Measuring a colossal 263 meters (862 feet) in length, this massive ship was designed to overpower any naval adversary with its unmatched firepower. Its 460mm guns, the largest ever mounted on a warship, could launch shells weighing over a ton each. With a displacement of around 72,800 tons at full load, Yamato was built to withstand fierce battles and hold its own against multiple opponents. The ship’s heavily armored hull made it incredibly resilient, allowing it to endure substantial enemy fire. However, despite its size and might, Yamato was ultimately sunk in 1945 by American forces. The ship remains legendary for its engineering prowess and sheer scale, marking a peak in battleship design.

Musashi (Japan)

Musashi, sister ship to Yamato, was another giant in Japan’s naval fleet during World War II. Constructed with similar dimensions, Musashi stretched an impressive 263 meters (862 feet) and weighed around 72,800 tons when fully loaded. Equipped with the same formidable 460mm guns, it held unparalleled firepower that could devastate any vessel in range. Musashi was heavily armored to sustain damage in prolonged confrontations, with armor up to 650mm thick around vital areas. The ship’s massive structure required a considerable amount of fuel and resources to operate, which posed logistical challenges. Despite its might, Musashi was sunk in the Battle of Leyte Gulf in 1944. Its loss marked a turning point in naval warfare, symbolizing the decline of the battleship era.

USS Missouri (United States)

The USS Missouri, also known as “Mighty Mo,” is one of the most iconic battleships of the United States Navy. This vessel, stretching 270.4 meters (887 feet) in length, was part of the Iowa-class battleships designed during World War II. At full load, Missouri had a displacement of 57,500 tons, making it one of the largest American battleships ever built. Armed with nine 16-inch guns, Missouri could unleash powerful barrages against enemy ships and shore targets. The ship also featured advanced radar and fire control systems for improved accuracy in combat. In 1945, Missouri famously served as the site of Japan’s formal surrender, marking the end of World War II. Today, the ship serves as a museum, honoring its storied past and contributions to American history.

USS New Jersey (United States)

The USS New Jersey, another Iowa-class battleship, holds a significant place in U.S. naval history. Measuring 270.4 meters (887 feet) and weighing around 57,500 tons at full load, it was a powerful force in the Pacific theater during World War II. Equipped with nine 16-inch guns, New Jersey could strike targets miles away with devastating accuracy. Its advanced radar systems allowed it to detect and track enemy vessels over great distances, enhancing its combat effectiveness. The ship also featured thick armor plating, which provided essential protection against enemy fire. Decommissioned after the war, New Jersey saw active service again during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Today, it is preserved as a museum ship, allowing visitors to experience its impressive scale firsthand.

HMS Vanguard (United Kingdom)

The HMS Vanguard was the last battleship ever built by the British Royal Navy, completed in 1946 after World War II had ended. This vessel was 248 meters (814 feet) long, with a full-load displacement of 51,420 tons, making it one of the largest British battleships. Armed with eight 15-inch guns, Vanguard was designed for long-range engagements. Its armor was crafted to withstand substantial hits, protecting vital areas of the ship from enemy fire. Though it never saw combat, Vanguard represented the culmination of British battleship design and engineering. Due to post-war budget cuts, it was decommissioned in 1960. Nevertheless, Vanguard remains a remarkable example of British naval engineering.

USS Wisconsin (United States)

The USS Wisconsin is another Iowa-class battleship that left a lasting impact on the U.S. Navy’s wartime efforts. At 270.4 meters (887 feet) in length and displacing around 57,500 tons at full load, it was among the largest battleships ever operated by the United States. With nine 16-inch guns, Wisconsin could deliver massive firepower to any target in its path. Its advanced radar and targeting systems provided an edge in accuracy and range. Wisconsin saw action in World War II and later conflicts, including the Gulf War, demonstrating its versatility. Although decommissioned in 1991, Wisconsin is now preserved as a museum ship. Its size and capabilities continue to draw admiration from visitors.

USS Iowa (United States)

The USS Iowa, namesake of the Iowa-class battleships, was a formidable presence during World War II. Measuring 270.4 meters (887 feet) and with a displacement of 57,500 tons at full load, it was designed for both power and speed. Iowa carried nine 16-inch guns capable of launching shells over 20 miles, providing extensive fire support. Its armor protection and sophisticated radar made it a strategic asset in the Pacific theater. Iowa served in both World War II and the Korean War, showcasing its adaptability across conflicts. Decommissioned in 1990, it now serves as a museum, where visitors can witness its sheer size and firepower. Iowa symbolizes the peak of American battleship engineering.

Tirpitz (Germany)

The German battleship Tirpitz was the sister ship to the famous Bismarck and was equally imposing in size and firepower. Measuring 251 meters (823 feet) in length and with a full-load displacement of 52,600 tons, it was the largest battleship ever built by Germany. Armed with eight 15-inch guns, Tirpitz posed a significant threat to Allied naval forces. Its thick armor provided substantial protection against enemy attacks, making it difficult to disable. The ship spent much of its service in Norwegian waters, where it posed a constant threat to Allied convoys. After numerous attempts to neutralize it, Tirpitz was finally sunk by British bombers in 1944. Its legacy endures as a symbol of German naval strength.

Bismarck (Germany)

Bismarck, one of the most famous battleships in history, was a German behemoth known for its powerful armament and formidable size. At 251 meters (823 feet) long and with a displacement of 50,900 tons, Bismarck was built to dominate the Atlantic. Its main armament of eight 15-inch guns could inflict significant damage on any adversary. In 1941, Bismarck famously sank the British battlecruiser HMS Hood, demonstrating its lethal capabilities. However, the British Navy eventually overwhelmed Bismarck, sinking it after a fierce pursuit. Despite its short service, Bismarck left an indelible mark on naval warfare. Its sinking marked a strategic victory for the Allies and underscored the end of battleship supremacy.

USS Arizona (United States)

The USS Arizona is widely known for its tragic end at Pearl Harbor, but it was also one of the largest battleships in the U.S. fleet at the time. Measuring 185.3 meters (608 feet) in length and displacing around 32,600 tons at full load, it was a significant presence in the Pacific. Armed with twelve 14-inch guns, Arizona could unleash powerful salvos on enemy targets. Its heavy armor was designed to withstand substantial hits, although it proved vulnerable to aerial attacks. Built in 1915, Arizona served as a symbol of American naval power before World War II. Unfortunately, on December 7, 1941, it was hit by Japanese bombers, resulting in a catastrophic explosion. The sunken ship now stands as a solemn memorial to the lives lost in the attack.

USS South Dakota (United States)

The USS South Dakota, lead ship of its class, was designed to deliver both strength and speed in the U.S. Navy’s fleet. With a length of 207.3 meters (680 feet) and a full-load displacement of 44,500 tons, South Dakota combined formidable firepower with impressive maneuverability. Its main battery of nine 16-inch guns allowed it to strike from significant distances. Heavily armored, the ship was well-prepared to face enemy fire and protect its crew. Throughout its service in World War II, South Dakota earned a reputation for resilience, engaging in multiple Pacific battles. The vessel demonstrated the effectiveness of its advanced radar and fire control systems. Decommissioned in 1947, South Dakota is remembered for its robust design and combat achievements.

USS Alabama (United States)

The USS Alabama, another South Dakota-class battleship, played a crucial role in the Pacific and Atlantic theaters during World War II. At 207.3 meters (680 feet) in length and with a displacement of 44,500 tons when fully loaded, Alabama was a powerful force on the seas. It carried nine 16-inch guns that could deliver heavy blows to any enemy within range. The ship’s thick armor protected it from substantial damage, while its radar systems helped it locate and track enemy vessels with precision. During its service, Alabama supported numerous operations, providing cover for American forces and bombarding Japanese positions. After the war, it was decommissioned but later saved from scrapping by the people of Alabama. Today, USS Alabama is preserved as a museum, honoring its legacy and contributions to naval history.

Richelieu (France)

The Richelieu, France’s most famous battleship, was a unique and formidable addition to the French Navy during World War II. Spanning 247.9 meters (813 feet) and with a displacement of 48,950 tons, it was among the largest European battleships of its time. Unlike most battleships, Richelieu featured an unusual turret layout, with all eight of its 15-inch guns positioned at the front. This innovative design allowed it to focus immense firepower forward, useful in naval engagements. Heavily armored, it could withstand substantial hits, making it highly durable. During the war, Richelieu saw action in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters, supporting Allied forces. After the war, the ship underwent multiple upgrades before being decommissioned in the late 1950s. Richelieu remains a symbol of French naval innovation and resilience.

Vittorio Veneto (Italy)

Italy’s Vittorio Veneto, part of the Littorio-class battleships, was one of the largest and most powerful warships in the Italian Navy. At 237.8 meters (780 feet) long and with a displacement of 45,000 tons, Vittorio Veneto was a striking presence on the Mediterranean. Armed with nine 15-inch guns, it could deliver substantial firepower to engage enemy fleets. Its speed was impressive for a ship of its size, capable of reaching 30 knots, allowing it to outmaneuver many adversaries. The ship’s armor, including extensive underwater protection, provided strong defense against both shells and torpedoes. During World War II, Vittorio Veneto was involved in several major naval battles but faced challenges from Allied air power. After the war, the ship was eventually decommissioned, marking the end of Italy’s battleship era.

HMS Hood (United Kingdom)

The British battlecruiser HMS Hood was among the most iconic and largest warships in the Royal Navy. Although technically a battlecruiser, it was often considered a battleship due to its size, spanning 262.3 meters (861 feet) with a displacement of around 47,430 tons. Equipped with eight 15-inch guns, Hood could unleash devastating barrages, making it a feared presence on the seas. Known as the “Mighty Hood,” it was the pride of the Royal Navy during the interwar period. Despite its powerful guns, Hood had weaknesses in its deck armor, making it vulnerable to plunging fire. This flaw proved fatal in 1941 when it faced the German battleship Bismarck and was sunk in a catastrophic explosion. Its sinking was a significant loss for Britain, underscoring the need for improved armor in naval warfare.

Jean Bart (France)

The French battleship Jean Bart, a Richelieu-class vessel, was another massive warship built to defend France’s interests. It measured 247.9 meters (813 feet) in length, with a displacement of 48,950 tons when fully loaded. Designed to mount eight 15-inch guns, Jean Bart focused its main armament at the front, an unusual but effective layout. Though unfinished at the outbreak of World War II, Jean Bart was partially completed and saw limited action. Its thick armor and unique design made it a formidable opponent in short engagements. Following the war, Jean Bart underwent several modernizations before being fully completed. Eventually decommissioned in 1961, it remains an important part of French naval history.

USS West Virginia (United States)

The USS West Virginia, a Colorado-class battleship, was a critical asset to the U.S. Navy during World War II. This vessel was 190.2 meters (624 feet) long and had a displacement of 33,590 tons when fully loaded. Armed with eight 16-inch guns, West Virginia could deliver substantial firepower against enemy vessels and shore installations. The ship’s armor was designed to withstand heavy shellfire, providing valuable protection for its crew. Damaged during the Pearl Harbor attack, West Virginia underwent extensive repairs and modernization before returning to combat. It participated in several major battles, including the Battle of Leyte Gulf, where it demonstrated its firepower. After a distinguished service record, it was decommissioned in 1947, and its legacy continues to be honored.

USS Tennessee (United States)

The USS Tennessee was another powerful American battleship, classified as a Tennessee-class vessel. At 190.2 meters (624 feet) in length and with a displacement of 32,300 tons, Tennessee served valiantly in the Pacific during World War II. Armed with twelve 14-inch guns, it had formidable firepower capable of engaging heavily armored enemies. Its armor was reinforced after the attack on Pearl Harbor, where it sustained damage but remained operational. Post-repairs, Tennessee received enhanced anti-aircraft weapons and radar systems, boosting its capabilities. It participated in numerous operations, including the Battle of Iwo Jima, showcasing its resilience. After the war, Tennessee was decommissioned, but its contributions remain celebrated in naval history.

Roma (Italy)

Roma, an Italian Littorio-class battleship, was one of Italy’s most advanced warships. This battleship measured 237.8 meters (780 feet) in length, with a displacement of 45,000 tons when fully loaded. Roma was armed with nine 15-inch guns, which could deliver massive salvos against enemy fleets. Known for its speed, Roma could reach up to 30 knots, giving it a tactical edge in the Mediterranean. Unfortunately, Roma was struck and sunk by a German guided bomb in 1943, marking a tragic end to its service. The loss was deeply felt by the Italian Navy, as Roma represented the height of Italy’s naval engineering. Its sinking highlighted the vulnerability of large battleships to air attacks in modern warfare.

USS Maryland (United States)

The USS Maryland, a Colorado-class battleship, was one of the significant battleships in the U.S. Navy’s arsenal. With a length of 190.2 meters (624 feet) and a displacement of 32,600 tons, Maryland was a formidable presence during World War II. Equipped with eight 16-inch guns, the ship could deliver powerful strikes against heavily fortified targets. The battleship was heavily armored, designed to endure extensive damage and protect its crew. Despite sustaining hits during the Pearl Harbor attack, Maryland remained operational and was quickly repaired. It participated in many Pacific operations, including the Battle of Leyte Gulf. After the war, Maryland was decommissioned in 1947, and its service is remembered with honor.

This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.

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