USS Iowa (BB-61) is coming soon

The USS Iowa (BB-61) is a model battleship of the US Navy, named after the state of Iowa. It is one of the last representatives of its class to undergo a comprehensive modernization of its internal systems in order to improve its performance and maneuverability. Its air defense systems have been strengthened, and universal launchers have been installed that are capable of performing both offensive tasks and providing protection against enemy torpedoes.

Let's take a closer look at it!

Armament:

1. CHAMP missile battery [2x1]

2. Mark 7-I cannon (406 mm) [3x1]🔒

3. Mark 12-I cannon (127 mm) [6x1]🔒

4. RUR-5I ASROC grenade launcher [2x1]🔒

5. RAH-66 Comanche helicopter [1x1]

6. Bofors 40 L/60 MK 12-I (40 mm) autocannon [4x1]🔒

7. Sea RAM air defense [2x1]

8. Sea RAM air defense [2x1]

Many owners of the USS Missouri (BB-63) will be familiar with this battleship's armament. However, unlike its younger sibling, the ship received four modified Bofors 40 L/60 MK 12-I (40 mm) automatic cannons, capable of attacking both surface and air targets in automatic mode. It is worth noting the reduction in the number of missile batteries to two, which, however, was compensated for by the installation of two modified RUR-5I ASROC grenade launchers. The main caliber is represented by three powerful Mark 7-I (406 mm) triple-barrel artillery installations, which have impressive performance in terms of projectile velocity and salvo accuracy. In addition to these, the ship is equipped with six Mark 12-I (127 mm) auxiliary caliber guns. The ship's defense is provided by two double Sea RAM air defense slots, which, however, can be replaced with any others. Also, as usual, there is a helicopter pad with a RAH-66 Comanche helicopter in the stern.

What is the gameplay like on the new battleship?

Pros:

• Accurate main caliber
• Good speed characteristics for a battleship
• Good damage per volley from secondary caliber guns compared to similar ships

Cons:

• Weak air defense

The gameplay on the USS Iowa (BB-61), as mentioned earlier, will be familiar to anyone who has played on the USS Missouri (BB-63) at least once. It is worth noting that due to its high speed, it will be able to reach the line of engagement slightly earlier than other ships of its class. However, this can be risky — its rather weak air defense may not be able to cope with a massive missile strike or air raid. The timely use of the electronic warfare system can partially save the situation, but it is not worth relying on it alone. This battleship requires careful and thoughtful behavior. It is not worth going out on it without the support of allies into open enemy ships. An excellent solution would be to select single targets and, thanks to its good speed characteristics, quickly catch up with and destroy the unfortunate enemy. This significantly distinguishes this battleship from other representatives of its class, which, due to their slowness, are unable to catch up with and pursue the enemy.

What is the result?

The new American battleship brings new gameplay as a fast large ship capable not only of pursuing its target, but also of inflicting tremendous damage when it catches up with it. However, nothing prevents you from continuing to use the classic tactic of participating in the thick of the action, as with other battleships, while not forgetting the features of your air defense.