USS Wichita
heavy cruiser
USS Wichita refers to multiple ships in the United States Navy, but most notably to USS Wichita (CA-45), a unique heavy cruiser commissioned in 1939 and the last American heavy cruiser designed under the London Naval Treaty. She served in both the Atlantic and Pacific Theaters during World War II, earning 13 battle stars for her service, including key roles in the Battles of the Philippine Sea and Leyte Gulf, and in the Okinawa invasion. The ship was decommissioned in 1947, stricken in 1959, and scrapped the same year.
USS Wichita (LCS-13), a modern Freedom-class littoral combat ship, was commissioned in 2019 and is currently active, homeported at Naval Station Mayport, Florida. It is the third U.S. Navy vessel named after Wichita, Kansas.
USS Wichita – Quick facts:
USS Wichita (CA-45): Heavy cruiser, commissioned in 16 February 1939, decommissioned in 3 February 1947, scrapped in 1959.
USS Wichita (LCS-13): Freedom-class littoral combat ship, commissioned on 12 January 2019, currently active and assigned to Littoral Combat Ship Squadron Two.
USS Wichita (CA-45): Only ship of her class, originally intended as a New Orleans-class cruiser but redesigned with a Brooklyn-class hull and enhanced armor.
USS Wichita (CA-45): Earned 13 battle stars during World War II; served in Operation Torch, the Pacific Theater, and the Battle of Okinawa.
USS Wichita (LCS-13): Features advanced stability improvements, automated sensors, and is designated as a training ship for Mine Division Two Two.
Recent developments include the planned decommissioning of USS Wichita (LCS-13) in 2023, which was later averted after the Navy approved a main engine replacement, ensuring the ship remains in service.