Tacoma class frigate

The "Tacoma" class of patrol frigates served in the US Navy during World War II. Named for Tacoma, Washington, the "Tacoma" class design was based on the British River class frigates, primarily distinguished by the pole foremast (instead of the British tripod) and lighter main guns (3" instead of the British 4"). Unlike most other types of warships, the "Tacomas" were built to mercantile standards, which resulted in weaker vessels but enabled them to be built quickly, and in Maritime Commission shipyards rather than the Navy's own yards. Many of these ships were commanded by U.S. Coast Guard officer teams.

These ships were designed and armed mostly as anti-submarine warfare (ASW) ships.

96 were built, of which 21 were lent to the Royal Navy. The Royal Navy "Tacomas" were renamed after British colonies and were known collectively as Colony class frigates.

Late in the war, another 28 were lent to the Soviet Navy in preparation for the possible invasion of Japan, which was cancelled by the Japanese surrender on 14 Auguat 1945. In the postwar era, many "Tacoma" class frigates were sold to friendly nations such as Mexico, Peru, South Korea, France, Greece, Cuba, and Taiwan.

External links

* [http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/ship/pf-1.htm "PF-1 Tacoma" at GlobalSecurity.org]
* [http://www.navsource.org/archives/12/08003.htm "PG-111/PF-3 Tacoma" at NavSource Online]
* [http://www.history.navy.mil/danfs/t1/tacoma-iii.htm history.navy.mil: USS "Tacoma"]

Gallery