USS Fletcher (DD-992) is coming soon

Today we focus on the legendary destroyer USS Fletcher (DD-992), a true symbol of the US Navy's era of technological innovation. Let's find out what made the USS Fletcher one of the formidable and versatile combat units of its time!

⚓️ USS Fletcher (DD-992), the thirtieth Spruance-class destroyer, was part of the U.S. Navy's first major class of gas turbine powered ships. Commissioned in July 1980, she operated primarily in the Western and South Pacific, as well as the Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf. Fletcher was the first ship to be named in honour of Admirals Frank and Jack Fletcher.

Built during the Cold War, the ship focused on key functions such as anti-submarine operations, escorting battle groups and providing artillery support in warfare. Thanks to its clever design and state-of-the-art technology at the time of its construction, the destroyer became an important part of the U.S. Navy.

The ship was highly manoeuvrable and could reach speeds in excess of 30 knots thanks to gas turbine engines and variable pitch propellers. In 1994-1995, Fletcher was upgraded with a Mk 41 Vertical Launcher, which greatly expanded her capabilities, including the use of Tomahawk cruise missiles. The ship's primary mission was strike and anti-submarine warfare, for which she was equipped with advanced detection and fire control systems, including AN/SQR-19 Tactical Towed Sonar and Naval Tactical Data System (NTDS).

Fletcher's armament included 5-inch guns, torpedo tubes, Sea Sparrow, Harpoon and Tomahawk missiles, and Phalanx close-in protection systems. Crew comfort was improved with spacious cabins and additional facilities such as a gym and library. After being decommissioned in 2004, the ship was scuttled during torpedo trials in 2008.

Meet our variant of the legendary destroyer, the USS Fletcher (DD-992).

Armament:

1. RIM-161 (SM-3) missile battery [2x1]
2. Mark 45 Mod 4 (127mm) cannon [3x1]
3. RUR-5B ASROC grenade launcher [2x1]
4. RAH-66 Comanche helicopter [1x1]
5. Mk 38 Mod 3 autocannon [4x1] (locked)
6. Sea RAM Air Defence [3x1]
7. RIM-162 ESSM Air Defence [1x1] (locked)

The ship is equipped with an impressive arsenal that allows it to effectively counter both underwater and surface threats. Three main-calibre gun mounts are provided to engage enemy vessels, providing powerful fire support and a high degree of target destruction. For torpedo and submarine warfare, two grenade launchers are installed to complement the anti-submarine defence, ensuring the ship is able to fulfil its primary mission of protecting combat formations from underwater threats.

Additional armament includes a missile battery located in the centre of the hull, enabling the ship to respond rapidly to air and surface threats, depending on the selected missile system. The ship is equipped with a helipad at the stern, allowing the deployment of a helicopter that can be adapted for various missions, including reconnaissance and attacks against the enemy.

A multi-layered air defence system is provided to protect the ship from air attack. This includes long-range RIM-162 ESSM SAMs, which effectively engage air targets at long ranges, and the medium-range Sea RAM system, which provides a rapid response to manoeuvring threats. At close range, the Mk 38 Mod 3 automatic artillery system is used to neutralise low-flying targets and provide an additional layer of protection.

Combining the most advanced technology of its time with flexibility of use, USS Fletcher is an important element of the fleet's combat power, capable of performing a wide range of missions in modern maritime operations.

Keep an eye on the official news to make sure you don't miss the arrival of the legendary USS Fletcher (DD-992) on Modern Warships!