Difference between revisions of "USS Cleveland"

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{{Specs-Card|code=us_cruiser_cleveland_class_cleveland}}
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{{Specs-Card
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|code=us_cruiser_cleveland_class_cleveland
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|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
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}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the first part of the description, cover the history of the ship's creation and military application. In the second part, tell the reader about using this ship in the game. Add a screenshot: if a beginner player has a hard time remembering vehicles by name, a picture will help them identify the ship in question.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the first part of the description, cover the history of the ship's creation and military application. In the second part, tell the reader about using this ship in the game. Add a screenshot: if a beginner player has a hard time remembering vehicles by name, a picture will help them identify the ship in question.'' -->
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[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
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Laid down in July of 1940, the '''{{Specs|name}}''' was a later development of the earlier [[Brooklyn (Family)|Brooklyn-class]] light cruisers, with a slight reduction in the main battery firepower in exchange for a stronger secondary battery. Launched in 1941, Cleveland would go on to serve throughout the Second World War, notably taking part in such famous battles as Guadalcanal and the Battle of the Philippine sea. Her final act of the war would be to cover the evacuation of Allied POWs from occupied Japan, before being deactivated in 1947. She would remain in the reserves until her scrapping in 1960.
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{{Break}}
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American light cruiser {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Starfighters"]].
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Introduced in [[Update "Starfighters"]], USS Cleveland serves as a sidegrade to the earlier [[Brooklyn (Family)|Brooklyn class]], with one less {{Annotation|6-inch|152 mm}} triple gun mount. In exchange this allows for a bolstered secondary and anti-aircraft battery; in this case twelve {{Annotation|5-inch|127 mm}}/38 dual-purpose guns and a large number of 40 mm Bofors and 20 mm Oerlikon autocannons. Additionally, the main battery also has faster vertical and horizontal slew, allowing for more easily engaging multiple targets at once, or even targeting aircraft with the main battery. Captains of the USS Cleveland can expect to be incredibly effective against destroyers and light cruisers, but have a more difficult time at long range against more heavily armoured targets.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
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{{Specs-Fleet-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''Talk about the vehicle's armour. Note the most well-defended and most vulnerable zones, e.g. the ammo magazine. Evaluate the composition of components and assemblies responsible for movement and manoeuvrability. Evaluate the survivability of the primary and secondary armaments separately. Don't forget to mention the size of the crew, which plays an important role in fleet mechanics. Save tips on preserving survivability for the "Usage in battles" section. If necessary, use a graphical template to show the most well-protected or most vulnerable points in the armour.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Talk about the vehicle's armour. Note the most well-defended and most vulnerable zones, e.g. the ammo magazine. Evaluate the composition of components and assemblies responsible for movement and manoeuvrability. Evaluate the survivability of the primary and secondary armaments separately. Don't forget to mention the size of the crew, which plays an important role in fleet mechanics. Save tips on preserving survivability for the "Usage in battles" section. If necessary, use a graphical template to show the most well-protected or most vulnerable points in the armour.'' -->
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''Talk about the vehicle's armour. Note the most well-defended and most vulnerable zones, e.g. the ammo magazine. Evaluate the composition of components and assemblies responsible for movement and manoeuvrability. Evaluate the survivability of the primary and secondary armaments separately. Don't forget to mention the size of the crew, which plays an important role in fleet mechanics. Save tips on preserving survivability for the "Usage in battles" section. If necessary, use a graphical template to show the most well-protected or most vulnerable points in the armour.''
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The Cleveland is exceptionally well armoured, with 127 mm protecting the citadel, 165 mm on the turret faces and very strong barbette protection. As a result, it can be very difficult to disable its primary armament. In addition, its secondary armament of 5"/38 (127 mm) cannons are housed in turrets, which although will not stand up to a direct hit will protect them from HE shrapnel, thus making the warship significantly more resilient to destroyer superstructure fire spam than most other cruisers. Although its frontal magazine only has 50 mm of armour protection and no fuel tanks, this is compensated for by the very deep placement of it. In contrast the rear magazine has both good armour and fuel tanks, making it extremely difficult to detonate.
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However, the Cleveland's protection did have one big caveat. Unlike other post-treaty US cruisers, she doesn't have any anti-fragmentation hull armour at all, primarily to ease the production. This means the Cleveland is much more vulnerable to fire damage than other ship that does have one, thus she is somewhat prone to fire detonations, so putting them out quickly is a must.
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Overall the Cleveland is well armoured for a cruiser, and if angled has the resilience needed to battle multiple enemies simultaneously for a long period of time.
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{| class="wikitable"
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! Armour !! Front !! Side !! Rear !! Deck/Roof
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|-
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| Main turret (6"/47) || 165.1 mm <br> 100 mm (gun mantlet) || 76.2 mm || 38 mm || 76.2 mm
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|-
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| Barbette main turrets || 152.4 mm <br> 25.4 mm (underpart) || colspan="2" | 152.4 mm || N/A
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|-
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| Main magazine (Front) || 127 mm || 50.8 mm || 95.25 mm || 50.8 mm
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|-
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| Main magazine (Rear) || 127 mm || 119.4 mm (upper) <br> 76.2 mm (lower) || 95.25 mm || 50.8 mm
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|-
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|Secondary turret (5"/38) || 31.75 mm <br> 25.4 mm (gun mantlet) || colspan="3" | 31.75 mm
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|-
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| Barbette secondary || colspan="3" | 31.75 mm || N/A
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|-
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| AA guns (20 mm/70) || 12.7mm || N/A || N/A || N/A
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|-
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| Citadel || 95.25 mm || 127 mm (upper) <br> 82.55 mm (lower) || 95.25 mm || 50.8 mm (central) <br> 44.45 mm (Sides)
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|-
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| Bridge || colspan="3" | 152 mm || 57.15 mm
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|-
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|}
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
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<!-- ''Write about the ship's mobility. Evaluate its power and manoeuvrability, rudder rerouting speed, stopping speed at full tilt, with its maximum forward and reverse speed.'' -->{{NavalMobility}}
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{{Specs-Fleet-Mobility}}
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<!-- ''Write about the ship's mobility. Evaluate its power and manoeuvrability, rudder rerouting speed, stopping speed at full tilt, with its maximum forward and reverse speed.'' -->
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{{NavalMobility}}
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The USS Cleveland's speed is in line with the rest of the US cruiser lines, and as such is faster than the cruisers of most other nations. This can be used to get to cap points and positions quickly, as well as rotate around the map. The USS Cleveland is also decently agile for a cruiser, allowing it to make quick course adjustments and tight turns whether it is to dodge torpedoes or turn around and retreat.
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=== Modifications and economy ===
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{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armament ==
 
== Armament ==
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{{Specs-Fleet-Armaments}}
 
=== Primary armament ===
 
=== Primary armament ===
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{{Specs-Fleet-Primary}}
 
<!-- ''Provide information about the characteristics of the primary armament. Evaluate their efficacy in battle based on their reload speed, ballistics and the capacity of their shells. Add a link to the main article about the weapon: <code><nowiki>{{main|Weapon name (calibre)}}</nowiki></code>. Broadly describe the ammunition available for the primary armament, and provide recommendations on how to use it and which ammunition to choose.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Provide information about the characteristics of the primary armament. Evaluate their efficacy in battle based on their reload speed, ballistics and the capacity of their shells. Add a link to the main article about the weapon: <code><nowiki>{{main|Weapon name (calibre)}}</nowiki></code>. Broadly describe the ammunition available for the primary armament, and provide recommendations on how to use it and which ammunition to choose.'' -->
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[[File:6"-47 Mk.16 Triple.png|thumb|259x259px|One of ''Cleveland''<nowiki/>'s 6-inch triple turrets.]]
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[[File:6"-47 Mk.16 Triple.png|thumb|259x259px|One of Cleveland's 6-inch triple turrets.]]
 
{{main|6 inch/47 Mk.16 (152 mm)}}
 
{{main|6 inch/47 Mk.16 (152 mm)}}
  
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''Cleveland'' carries a main armament of twelve 6"/47 Mk.16 guns in four triple turrets, two fore and two aft. As the standard main armament of American light cruisers, these guns are very effective anti-ship weapons. The guns are capable of firing at 10 rounds per minute (6-second reload), meaning that they have one of the highest fire rates for any 6 inch cannon (only the German triple 6-inch turrets fire faster at 12 rounds per minute). That means that you can output a crazy 120 six-inch shells per minute! The guns have good firing arcs and good ballistics as well for a gun of its size. However, they have a relatively slow turret traverse speed compared to its contemporaries.
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The Cleveland carries a main armament of twelve 6"/47 Mk.16 (152 mm) guns in four triple turrets, two fore and two aft. As the standard main armament of American light cruisers, these guns are very effective anti-ship weapons. The guns are capable of firing at 10 rounds per minute (6-second reload), meaning that they have one of the highest rates of fire for any 152 mm cannon (only the German triple 150 mm turrets fire faster at 12 rounds per minute). That means that you can output a crazy 120 six-inch shells per minute! The guns have good firing arcs and good ballistics as well for a gun of its size. However, they have a relatively slow turret traverse speed compared to its contemporaries.
  
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The gun has access to four shell types - Mk.34 HC, Mk.35 AP, Mk. 34 HC with base fuse and Mk.34 HC-VT. Of these, the Mk. 35 AP is typically the best choice against armoured targets (i.e. heavy cruisers and battleships) as it is the only shell with good penetration values. The Mk.34 HC with base fuse could potentially be used against lighter-armoured cruisers, as it has superior penetration values compared to the original shell. Typically, one should take ~50% Mk.35 AP, ~40% Mk. 34 HC with base fuse, and ~10% Mk.34 HC-VT in case you want to attempt to shoot down aircraft with the main guns. The Mk.34 base fuse is superior to the original Mk.34 HC shell as it has better penetration values but retains the explosive mass.
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The gun has access to four shell types - Mk.34 HC, Mk.35 AP, Mk. 34 HC with base fuse and Mk.34 HC-VT. Of these, the Mk. 35 AP is typically the best choice against armoured targets (i.e. heavy cruisers and battleships) as it is the only shell with good penetration values. After researching parts and FPE, the AP shell should be the first priority. The Mk.34 HC with base fuse could potentially be used against lighter-armoured cruisers, as it has superior penetration values compared to the original shell. In addition, unlike most HE shells which cause significant flooding but little internal damage, the base fuse of this shell means that the Cleveland can cause insane internal damage to destroyers; even a Porter-class, otherwise quite resilient for a destroyer can have its entire crew wiped out in two or three salvoes. Typically, one should take ~50% Mk.35 AP, ~40% Mk. 34 HC with base fuse, and ~10% Mk.34 HC-VT in case you want to attempt to shoot down aircraft with the main guns - however this generally isn't recommended due to the turrets' slow rotation speed. The Mk.34 base fuse is superior to the original Mk.34 HC shell as it has better penetration values but retains the explosive mass.
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The end result is a balanced warship that has both the penetration to hit the vitals of enemy cruisers and the DPS to challenge and melt down multiple destroyers and cruisers alike in rapid succession.
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{{:6 inch/47 Mk.16 (152 mm)/Ammunition|6 inch Mk.34 HC, 6 inch Mk.35 AP, 6 inch Mk.34 HC (base fuze), 6 inch Mk.34 HC-VT}}
  
 
=== Secondary armament ===
 
=== Secondary armament ===
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{{Specs-Fleet-Secondary}}
 
<!-- ''Some ships are fitted with weapons of various calibres. Secondary armaments are defined as weapons chosen with the control <code>Select secondary weapon</code>. Evaluate the secondary armaments and give advice on how to use them. Describe the ammunition available for the secondary armament. Provide recommendations on how to use them and which ammunition to choose. Remember that any anti-air armament, even heavy calibre weapons, belong in the next section. If there is no secondary armament, remove this section.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Some ships are fitted with weapons of various calibres. Secondary armaments are defined as weapons chosen with the control <code>Select secondary weapon</code>. Evaluate the secondary armaments and give advice on how to use them. Describe the ammunition available for the secondary armament. Provide recommendations on how to use them and which ammunition to choose. Remember that any anti-air armament, even heavy calibre weapons, belong in the next section. If there is no secondary armament, remove this section.'' -->
 
{{main|5 inch/38 Mk.12 (127 mm)}}
 
{{main|5 inch/38 Mk.12 (127 mm)}}
  
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''Cleveland'' is equipped with twelve 5"/38 (12.7 cm) Mark 12 guns mounted in six twin dual-purpose turrets. These guns are extremely effective against surface and air targets alike, and are capable of firing at an obscene 22 rounds per minute while using first-stage ammunition. The weapon also has a very good vertical and horizontal rotation speed, and is capable of engaging aircraft due to its high-angle capability (up to 85 degrees).
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USS Cleveland is equipped with twelve 5"/38 (127 mm) Mark 12 guns mounted in six twin dual-purpose turrets. These guns are extremely effective against surface and air targets alike, and are capable of firing at an obscene 22 rounds per minute while using first-stage ammunition. The weapon also has a very good vertical and horizontal rotation speed, and is capable of engaging aircraft due to its high-angle capability (up to 85 degrees).
  
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''Cleveland'' gets access to the standard three shell types - Mk.34 AAC, Mk.46 Common SP, and Mk.31 AAVT. The SP is typically the best pick for heavier-armoured targets such as cruisers, while the AAC shell works better against unarmoured targets due to its large explosive filler. The Mk.31 AAVT is a great option for dealing with air targets due to its proximity fuse - a single direct hit should be enough to destroy an incoming bomber.
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The Cleveland gets access to the standard three shell types - Mk.34 AAC, Mk.46 Common SP, and Mk.31 AAVT. The SP is typically the best pick for heavier-armoured targets such as cruisers, while the AAC shell works better against unarmoured targets due to its large explosive filler. The Mk.31 AAVT is a great option for dealing with air targets due to its proximity fuse - a single direct hit should be enough to destroy an incoming bomber.
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{{:5 inch/38 Mk.12 (127 mm)/Ammunition|5 inch AAC Mk.34, 5 inch SP Common Mk.46, 5 inch AAVT Mk.31}}
  
 
=== Anti-aircraft armament ===
 
=== Anti-aircraft armament ===
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{{Specs-Fleet-AA}}
 
<!-- ''An important part of the ship's armament responsible for air defence. Anti-aircraft armament is defined by the weapon chosen with the control <code>Select anti-aircraft weapons</code>. Talk about the ship's anti-air cannons and machine guns, the number of guns and their positions, their effective range, and about their overall effectiveness – including against surface targets. If there are no anti-aircraft armaments, remove this section.'' -->
 
<!-- ''An important part of the ship's armament responsible for air defence. Anti-aircraft armament is defined by the weapon chosen with the control <code>Select anti-aircraft weapons</code>. Talk about the ship's anti-air cannons and machine guns, the number of guns and their positions, their effective range, and about their overall effectiveness – including against surface targets. If there are no anti-aircraft armaments, remove this section.'' -->
 
{{main|Bofors L/60 Mark 1 (40 mm)|20 mm/70 Oerlikon Mk.II (20 mm)}}
 
{{main|Bofors L/60 Mark 1 (40 mm)|20 mm/70 Oerlikon Mk.II (20 mm)}}
  
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''Cleveland'' gets access to eight 40 mm Bofors guns in four twin mounts. These weapons are extremely potent anti-aircraft guns due to their accuracy and punching power. Though these weapons fire slower than the 20 mm Oerlikon or 12.7 mm AN-M2, they more than make up for it due to their hard-hitting 40 mm shells. These guns are capable of shredding aircraft and small boats from ranges of 2.5 km away, though effectiveness will drop off after that range due to the large bullet drop. The guns fire from 4-round clips that reload continuously, meaning that they are capable of continuous fire. However, note that they will eventually jam after firing too long.
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USS Cleveland gets access to eight 40 mm Bofors guns in four twin mounts. These weapons are extremely potent anti-aircraft guns due to their accuracy and punching power. Though these weapons fire slower than the 20 mm Oerlikon or 12.7 mm AN-M2, they more than make up for it due to their hard-hitting 40 mm shells. These guns are capable of shredding aircraft and small boats from ranges of 2.5 km away, though effectiveness will drop off after that range due to the large bullet drop. The guns fire from 4-round clips that reload continuously, meaning that they are capable of continuous fire. However, note that they will eventually jam after firing too long.
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The Cleveland also gets access to 13 single 20 mm Oerlikon mounts. The 20 mm Oerlikon cannon was the standard light anti-aircraft gun for several nations, including the United States, and replaced the prior AN-M2 Browning machine gun. This weapon is an effective short-range AA gun, and has great firing angles. However, note that the weapon is rather ineffective at long ranges, as its 20 mm shells lose velocity pretty fast after ~1.5 km. As well, the guns fire from a drum magazine that will need to be reloaded. Because of the magazine design, the gun will not jam with continuous fire.
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=== Scout plane ===
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{{Specs-Fleet-Plane}}
  
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''Cleveland'' also gets access to 13 single 20 mm Oerlikon mounts. The 20 mm Oerlikon cannon was the standard light anti-aircraft gun for several nations, including the United States, and replaced the prior AN-M2 Browning machine gun. This weapon is an effective short-range AA gun, and has great firing angles. However, note that the weapon is rather ineffective at long ranges, as its 20 mm shells lose velocity pretty fast after ~1.5 km. As well, the guns fire from a drum magazine that will need to be reloaded. Because of the magazine design, the gun will not jam with continuous fire.
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Located on the stern are two catapults with one OS2U-1 scout plane each which provide unique offensive and defensive abilities, expanding tactical options. Ship-launched scout planes fly just like regular tree units but lack munition choices and cockpit views. Alongside the typical abilities of strafing, dropping 2 x 100 lb bombs, and capping zones, the OS2U-1 and other scout planes have the added ability to lay down smoke cover (up to 3 times). Captains will be wise to remember to utilise the aircraft and consider when best to use it, for example to cap a point early or late in the match, to create a smoke screen to stymie enemy bombardment and repair, to attack enemy units directly, or perhaps something completely new! With two scout planes one can risk a cap attempt at the beginning of the match, saving the second for any opportunity that presents itself.
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'''Note:''' Because the catapult is directly behind the rear turret the aircraft would block the guns, so it will not be visible until you launch it.
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the technique of using this ship, the characteristics of her use in a team and tips on strategy. Abstain from writing an entire guide – don't try to provide a single point of view, but give the reader food for thought. Talk about the most dangerous opponents for this vehicle and provide recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of playing with this vehicle in various modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the technique of using this ship, the characteristics of her use in a team and tips on strategy. Abstain from writing an entire guide – don't try to provide a single point of view, but give the reader food for thought. Talk about the most dangerous opponents for this vehicle and provide recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of playing with this vehicle in various modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
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''Describe the technique of using this ship, the characteristics of her use in a team and tips on strategy. Abstain from writing an entire guide – don't try to provide a single point of view, but give the reader food for thought. Talk about the most dangerous opponents for this vehicle and provide recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of playing with this vehicle in various modes (AB, RB, SB).''
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USS Cleveland, being the multi role ship that she is, is quite versatile.
  
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=== Modules ===
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AA Boat: Cleveland's remarkable AA battery means she could easily devastate any plane that comes close to her, provided that your 5"/38 (127 mm) guns have HE-VT ammo, otherwise aircraft could easily get into ordnance-dropping range.
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{| class="wikitable"
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! Tier
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Destroyer Hunter: Cleveland's primary armament of 12 x 6 inch (152 mm) guns allows her to get devastating salvoes on her enemies, and with her base fuse ammunition she could easily sink an enemy DD with a couple salvoes. Her secondary armament of 12 x 5 inch (127 mm) guns allows her to whittle down nearby destroyers without you having to use your main guns.
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! Seakeeping
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! colspan="2" | Unsinkability
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Cruiser Killer: Cleveland's rapid fire main guns with excellent AP ammunition allow her to penetrate enemy light cruisers and some heavy cruiser's armour belts with ease, allowing her to slowly demolish their crew. While not as good at this as the [[USS Brooklyn]] or [[USS Helena]], she is still exceptional in this role.
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! colspan="3" | Firepower
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|-
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The Cleveland's 6 inch (152 mm) guns lose effectiveness at long range, so it is best used as a brawler in relatively shallow or closed waters, using islands to get into close range of enemies before using rapid cannon shots to quickly suppress and sink hostile vessels. In addition, as a consequence of having lower calibre guns and not having torpedoes, the Cleveland is utterly hopeless against enemy battlecruisers and battleships. When encountering them, the best course of action is generally to turn tail, smoke up, and run.
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| I
 
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| Dry-Docking
 
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| Tool Set
 
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|
 
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| 6 inch Mk.35 AP
 
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|
 
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| Anti-Air Armament Targeting
 
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|-
 
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| II
 
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| Rudder Replacement
 
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| Fire Protection System
 
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| Smokescreen
 
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| 6 inch Mk.34 HC (base fuze)
 
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| 5 inch SP Common Mk.46
 
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| Auxiliary Armament Targeting
 
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|-
 
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| III
 
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| Propeller Replacement
 
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| Shrapnel Protection
 
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| Ventilation
 
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| Improved Rangefinder
 
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| 5 inch AAVT Mk.31
 
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| Primary Armament Targeting
 
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|-
 
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| IV
 
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| Engine Maintenance
 
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| New Pumps
 
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| Ammo Wetting
 
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| 6 inch Mk.34 HC-VT
 
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|
 
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|
 
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|-
 
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|}
 
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
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''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".''
 
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
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* 2 x triple-mount 6 inch and 2 x dual-mount 5 inch cannons can fire straight ahead, allowing decent firepower while only exposing a small silhouette towards the enemy
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* 2 x triple-mount 6 inch (152mm) and 2 x dual-mount 5 inch (127mm) cannons can fire straight ahead, allowing decent firepower while only exposing a small silhouette towards the enemy
 
* Excellent armour
 
* Excellent armour
 
* Devastating AA suite
 
* Devastating AA suite
 +
* Two scout seaplanes
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* Does not carry any torpedoes (less external fire hazards!)
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
*
+
* Lack of anti-fragmentation armour makes her more vulnerable from fire damage
 +
* Does not carry any torpedoes (cannot deny chokepoints or easily destroy enemy capital ships)
 +
* Gets ammoracked easily when stock
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the ship in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the ship and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Ship-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the ship's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the ship in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the ship and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Ship-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the ship's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
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''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the ship in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the ship and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Ship-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the ship's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''
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[[File:USS Cleveland underway.jpg|thumb|450x450px|USS Cleveland underway, late 1942.]]
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The USS Cleveland was the lead ship of her class of light cruisers built for the United States Navy during the Second World War. Designed as a follow-up to the earlier Brooklyn-class light cruisers, the ship carried an improved secondary and anti-aircraft armament layout which was used for most successive American cruiser classes. Cleveland saw extensive service during the Second World War in both the Atlantic and Pacific theatres; she was decommissioned after the war and eventually scrapped in 1960.
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=== Design and development ===
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The Cleveland class was designed as a follow-up to the previous [[USS Brooklyn|Brooklyn-class]], with improved anti-aircraft protection, speed and range. After navy simulations found that the Brooklyn's anti-aircraft armament was woefully inadequate for fending off large amounts of enemy aircraft, the Cleveland class's design was modified to carry a heavily-improved anti-aircraft armament. The #3 turret of the Brooklyn was removed to accommodate a larger bridge and superstructure, which housed Cleveland's extensive fire control and radar systems. The secondary and anti-aircraft armament was also completely redesigned, focused on new 40 mm Bofors and 20 mm Oerlikon cannons. The design was so successful that the Cleveland class would become the largest cruiser class ever built during WWII - a total of 52 ships were ordered, and 27 were completed to the Cleveland design. A further 13 ships were ordered under the improved Fargo class, while 9 ships were converted into light aircraft carriers. Cleveland, the lead ship of the class, was laid down on July 1st 1940, and following completion, was commissioned on June 15th 1942.
 +
 
 +
Cleveland's main armament consisted of twelve 6 inch (152 mm) Mark 16 guns in four triple mounts, two fore and two aft. Her secondary armament was heavily improved, with twelve 5 inch (127 mm) Mk 12 guns in six dual turrets. Compared to the last Brooklyn subclass, the ships gained two more Mk 12 twin mounts as the removed 6-inch turret cleared up a lot of space. The Cleveland was initially armed with four dual Bofors mounts and 13 Oerlikon automatic guns for anti-aircraft defence, but similar to other American cruisers at the time, lacked torpedo armament. Her total crew complement was 1,255 officers and men, and she had a maximum speed of 32.5 knots (60 km/h).
 +
 
 +
=== Operational history ===
 +
Following her commissioning in June of 1942, Cleveland was immediately sent to join the Allied naval task force supporting the landings in North Africa. She remained there until November, when she was sent to the Pacific Theatre to support operations there. For most of late 1942 to early 1943, Cleveland was in the Guadalcanal area, where she escorted troop convoys and provided fire support. Later in 1943, she participated in the Battle of Empress Augusta Bay, where her radar-guided gunfire helped sink the Japanese cruiser Sendai.
 +
 
 +
In 1944, Cleveland participated in the Marinanas operation and later the battle of the Philippine Sea, which resulted in a total defeat for the Japanese naval force. She spent the latter part of 1944 supporting operations in the Philippines, based from Subic bay naval base. In July of 1945, she was sent to Okinawa, and performed patrols off of the east China sea until the Japanese surrender. After the end of the war, Cleveland repatriated allied prisoners, and later embarked on a training cruise that took her from Bermuda to Halifax. In 1947, Cleveland was inactivated, and eventually scrapped in 1960. She earned 13 battle stars for her WWII service.
 +
 
 +
=== [[wt:en/news/6744-development-uss-cleveland-the-workhorse-of-the-navy-en|Devblog]] ===
 +
In 1938, the U.S. sought an expansion of its navy, following the increase in geopolitical tensions across the globe at the time. As a result, two new 6,000 ton light cruisers were ordered whose specifications complied with the restrictions applied by the Second London Naval Treaty of 1936. In 1939, this design was revised, having its displacement increased to 8,000 tons and the general layout resembling a more compact Brooklyn-class cruiser.
 +
 
 +
Initially, plans were made for the construction of around 20 ships of this class. However, with the outbreak of WWII in September 1939, these plans were expanded to 52 ships and the design of the vessel had its displacement significantly increased again, since restrictions from previous treaties were no longer being taken into account. In reality however, 27 Cleveland-class cruisers would actually end up being built, with another 9 being converted into light aircraft carriers of the Independence-class.
 +
 
 +
USS Cleveland (CL-55), being the lead ship of the class, was laid down in July 1940 and saw completion in June 1942 when she also officially got commissioned into service with the USN. Upon entering service, USS Cleveland's first mission involved providing fire support to allied troops landing in Morocco in October 1942. Shortly after, USS Cleveland set course for the Pacific Theater in December, where the ship would serve until the end of WWII.
 +
 
 +
Although USS Cleveland took part in many operations during her service career, one of her more notable engagements with the enemy was the Battle of Empress Augusta Bay, where Cleveland among with some of her sister ships, successfully defeated a Japanese task force, bound to attack US forces stationed at Bougainville, during a decisive night battle. During the battle, Cleveland-class cruisers proved the effectiveness of their advanced fire control systems and showcased the class' versatility, dealing large damage to both Japanese surface vessels as well as aircraft.
 +
 
 +
Following the end of hostilities in 1945, USS Cleveland was briefly part of the Allied occupation force in Japan, before sailing back to the U.S. in December that year. Following a brief overhaul in January, USS Cleveland was decommissioned in June 1946 and put into reserve in 1947. Ultimately, the ship was sold for scrap in February 1960, marking the end of her service career.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
 
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;Skins
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* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=us_cruiser_cleveland_class_cleveland Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
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;Videos
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{{Youtube-gallery|mziQ42bc5uU|'''USS Cleveland - History & Guide''' - ''Cmdr. Tyrael''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
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* ''reference to the series of the ship;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the ship;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
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''Links to articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 
  
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* ''reference to the series of the ship;''
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* [[USS Baltimore]] and [[USS Pittsburgh]] - heavy cruiser with a design based on the Cleveland
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* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
 
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
 
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* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
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* ''other literature.'' -->
  
 
* [[wt:en/news/6744-development-uss-cleveland-the-workhorse-of-the-navy-en|[Devblog] USS Cleveland (CL-55): The Workhorse of the Navy]]
 
* [[wt:en/news/6744-development-uss-cleveland-the-workhorse-of-the-navy-en|[Devblog] USS Cleveland (CL-55): The Workhorse of the Navy]]
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=== References ===
 +
 +
* Helgason, G. (1995). USS Cleveland. Retrieved January 26, 2021, from <nowiki>https://uboat.net/allies/warships/ship/2579.html</nowiki>
 +
* Woodford, S. R. (2019, August 27). Cleveland II (CL-55). Retrieved January 26, 2021, from <nowiki>https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/c/cleveland-ii.html</nowiki>
  
 
{{ShipManufacturer New York Shipbuilding Corp.}}
 
{{ShipManufacturer New York Shipbuilding Corp.}}
 
{{USA light cruisers}}
 
{{USA light cruisers}}

Latest revision as of 19:30, 31 March 2024

Introducing Wiki 3.0
USS Cleveland
us_cruiser_cleveland_class_cleveland.png
GarageImage USS Cleveland.jpg
USS Cleveland
USA flag.png USA
V Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
6.0 6.0 6.0
Class:
Research:125 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:360 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png

Description

Laid down in July of 1940, the Cleveland-class, USS Cleveland (CL-55), 1942 was a later development of the earlier Brooklyn-class light cruisers, with a slight reduction in the main battery firepower in exchange for a stronger secondary battery. Launched in 1941, Cleveland would go on to serve throughout the Second World War, notably taking part in such famous battles as Guadalcanal and the Battle of the Philippine sea. Her final act of the war would be to cover the evacuation of Allied POWs from occupied Japan, before being deactivated in 1947. She would remain in the reserves until her scrapping in 1960.

Introduced in Update "Starfighters", USS Cleveland serves as a sidegrade to the earlier Brooklyn class, with one less 6-inch triple gun mount. In exchange this allows for a bolstered secondary and anti-aircraft battery; in this case twelve 5-inch/38 dual-purpose guns and a large number of 40 mm Bofors and 20 mm Oerlikon autocannons. Additionally, the main battery also has faster vertical and horizontal slew, allowing for more easily engaging multiple targets at once, or even targeting aircraft with the main battery. Captains of the USS Cleveland can expect to be incredibly effective against destroyers and light cruisers, but have a more difficult time at long range against more heavily armoured targets.

General info

Survivability and armour

Armourfront / side / back
Citadel127 / 127 / 51 mm
Main fire tower165 / 76 / 76 mm
Hull25 mm (steel)
Superstructure17 mm (steel)
Number of section8
Displacement13 897 t
Crew1 255 people

The Cleveland is exceptionally well armoured, with 127 mm protecting the citadel, 165 mm on the turret faces and very strong barbette protection. As a result, it can be very difficult to disable its primary armament. In addition, its secondary armament of 5"/38 (127 mm) cannons are housed in turrets, which although will not stand up to a direct hit will protect them from HE shrapnel, thus making the warship significantly more resilient to destroyer superstructure fire spam than most other cruisers. Although its frontal magazine only has 50 mm of armour protection and no fuel tanks, this is compensated for by the very deep placement of it. In contrast the rear magazine has both good armour and fuel tanks, making it extremely difficult to detonate.

However, the Cleveland's protection did have one big caveat. Unlike other post-treaty US cruisers, she doesn't have any anti-fragmentation hull armour at all, primarily to ease the production. This means the Cleveland is much more vulnerable to fire damage than other ship that does have one, thus she is somewhat prone to fire detonations, so putting them out quickly is a must.

Overall the Cleveland is well armoured for a cruiser, and if angled has the resilience needed to battle multiple enemies simultaneously for a long period of time.

Armour Front Side Rear Deck/Roof
Main turret (6"/47) 165.1 mm
100 mm (gun mantlet) 		76.2 mm 38 mm 76.2 mm
Barbette main turrets 152.4 mm
25.4 mm (underpart) 		152.4 mm N/A
Main magazine (Front) 127 mm 50.8 mm 95.25 mm 50.8 mm
Main magazine (Rear) 127 mm 119.4 mm (upper)
76.2 mm (lower) 		95.25 mm 50.8 mm
Secondary turret (5"/38) 31.75 mm
25.4 mm (gun mantlet) 		31.75 mm
Barbette secondary 31.75 mm N/A
AA guns (20 mm/70) 12.7mm N/A N/A N/A
Citadel 95.25 mm 127 mm (upper)
82.55 mm (lower) 		95.25 mm 50.8 mm (central)
44.45 mm (Sides)
Bridge 152 mm 57.15 mm

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB70 / 21 km/h
RB60 / 18 km/h
Mobility Characteristics
Game Mode Upgrade Status Maximum Speed (km/h) Turn Time (s) Turn Radius (m)
Forward Reverse
AB Stock ___ ___
Upgraded 70 21
RB/SB Stock ___ ___
Upgraded 60 18

The USS Cleveland's speed is in line with the rest of the US cruiser lines, and as such is faster than the cruisers of most other nations. This can be used to get to cap points and positions quickly, as well as rotate around the map. The USS Cleveland is also decently agile for a cruiser, allowing it to make quick course adjustments and tight turns whether it is to dodge torpedoes or turn around and retreat.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB12 168 → 16 426 Sl icon.png
RB11 946 → 16 127 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications131 800 Rp icon.png
213 600 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost1 900 Ge icon.png
Crew training105 000 Sl icon.png
Experts360 000 Sl icon.png
Aces1 400 Ge icon.png
Research Aces620 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
450 / 600 / 100 % Sl icon.png
184 / 184 / 184 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Seakeeping Unsinkability Firepower
Mods new ship hull.png
Dry-Docking
Research:
6 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods new ship rudder.png
Rudder Replacement
Research:
4 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
7 800 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods new ship screw.png
Propeller Replacement
Research:
5 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 800 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods new ship engine.png
Engine Maintenance
Research:
8 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods ship damage control crew.png
Damage Control Division
Research:
6 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods ship fire control crew.png
Fire Division
Research:
4 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
7 800 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods engine smoke screen system.png
Smokescreen
Research:
4 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
7 800 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods ship anti fragmentation protection.png
Shrapnel Protection
Research:
5 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 800 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods ship venting.png
Ventilation
Research:
5 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 800 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods new ship pumps.png
New Pumps
Research:
8 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods ship ammo wetting.png
Ammo Wetting
Research:
8 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods new aa caliber turrets.png
Anti-Air Armament Targeting
Research:
6 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
152mm_us_mk35_navy_ap_ammo_pack
Research:
6 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods new aux caliber turrets.png
Auxiliary Armament Targeting
Research:
4 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
7 800 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods he frag base fuse tank.png
152mm_us_mk34_base_fuse_navy_he_ammo_pack
Research:
4 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
7 800 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
127mm_usa_mk46_special_common_sap_ammo_pack
Research:
4 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
7 800 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods new main caliber turrets.png
Primary Armament Targeting
Research:
5 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 800 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods ship rangefinder.png
Improved Rangefinder
Research:
5 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 800 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods he frag proxi fuze ship.png
127mm_usa_mk31_aavt_radio_fuse_ammo_pack
Research:
5 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 800 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods shipSupportPlane.png
Hydroplane
Research:
8 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods he frag proxi fuze ship.png
152mm_us_mk34_radio_fuse_navy_he_ammo_pack
Research:
8 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png

Armament

Primary armament

4 х Turret3 x 6 inch/47 Mk.16 cannon
Ammunition600 rounds
Vertical guidance-5° / 40°
One of Cleveland's 6-inch triple turrets.
Main article: 6 inch/47 Mk.16 (152 mm)

The Cleveland carries a main armament of twelve 6"/47 Mk.16 (152 mm) guns in four triple turrets, two fore and two aft. As the standard main armament of American light cruisers, these guns are very effective anti-ship weapons. The guns are capable of firing at 10 rounds per minute (6-second reload), meaning that they have one of the highest rates of fire for any 152 mm cannon (only the German triple 150 mm turrets fire faster at 12 rounds per minute). That means that you can output a crazy 120 six-inch shells per minute! The guns have good firing arcs and good ballistics as well for a gun of its size. However, they have a relatively slow turret traverse speed compared to its contemporaries.

The gun has access to four shell types - Mk.34 HC, Mk.35 AP, Mk. 34 HC with base fuse and Mk.34 HC-VT. Of these, the Mk. 35 AP is typically the best choice against armoured targets (i.e. heavy cruisers and battleships) as it is the only shell with good penetration values. After researching parts and FPE, the AP shell should be the first priority. The Mk.34 HC with base fuse could potentially be used against lighter-armoured cruisers, as it has superior penetration values compared to the original shell. In addition, unlike most HE shells which cause significant flooding but little internal damage, the base fuse of this shell means that the Cleveland can cause insane internal damage to destroyers; even a Porter-class, otherwise quite resilient for a destroyer can have its entire crew wiped out in two or three salvoes. Typically, one should take ~50% Mk.35 AP, ~40% Mk. 34 HC with base fuse, and ~10% Mk.34 HC-VT in case you want to attempt to shoot down aircraft with the main guns - however this generally isn't recommended due to the turrets' slow rotation speed. The Mk.34 base fuse is superior to the original Mk.34 HC shell as it has better penetration values but retains the explosive mass.

The end result is a balanced warship that has both the penetration to hit the vitals of enemy cruisers and the DPS to challenge and melt down multiple destroyers and cruisers alike in rapid succession.

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
1,000 m 2,500 m 5,000 m 7,500 m 10,000 m 15,000 m
Mk.34 HC HE 49 49 49 49 49 49
Mk.35 AP APCBC 266 230 182 146 120 96
Mk.34 HC-VT HE-VT 49 49 49 49 49 49
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(s) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
Mk.34 HC HE 812 47.6 0 0.1 5,880 79° 80° 81°
Mk.35 AP APCBC 762 58.9 0.03 7 866.32 48° 63° 71°
Proximity-fused shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Arming
distance (m) 		Trigger
radius (m) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
Mk.34 HC-VT HE-VT 812 47.6 0 0.1 874 23 5,880 79° 80° 81°

Secondary armament

6 х Turret2 x 5 inch/38 Mk.12 cannon, mount Mk.28
Ammunition900 rounds
Main article: 5 inch/38 Mk.12 (127 mm)

USS Cleveland is equipped with twelve 5"/38 (127 mm) Mark 12 guns mounted in six twin dual-purpose turrets. These guns are extremely effective against surface and air targets alike, and are capable of firing at an obscene 22 rounds per minute while using first-stage ammunition. The weapon also has a very good vertical and horizontal rotation speed, and is capable of engaging aircraft due to its high-angle capability (up to 85 degrees).

The Cleveland gets access to the standard three shell types - Mk.34 AAC, Mk.46 Common SP, and Mk.31 AAVT. The SP is typically the best pick for heavier-armoured targets such as cruisers, while the AAC shell works better against unarmoured targets due to its large explosive filler. The Mk.31 AAVT is a great option for dealing with air targets due to its proximity fuse - a single direct hit should be enough to destroy an incoming bomber.

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
1,000 m 2,500 m 5,000 m 7,500 m 10,000 m 15,000 m
AAC Mk.34 HE 36 36 36 36 36 36
SP Common Mk.46 SP Common 150 125 93 71 56 45
AAVT Mk.31 HE-VT 36 36 36 36 36 36
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(s) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
AAC Mk.34 HE 792 25 0 0.1 3,220 79° 80° 81°
SP Common Mk.46 SP Common 792 25 0.01 6 906.5 48° 63° 71°
Proximity-fused shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(s) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Arming
distance (m) 		Trigger
radius (m) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
AAVT Mk.31 HE-VT 792 25 0 0.1 457 23 3,220 79° 80° 81°

Anti-aircraft armament

4 х Turret2 x 40 mm Bofors L/60 Mark 1 gun
Ammunition4000 rounds
Belt capacity4 rounds
Fire rate156 shots/min
13 х Turret20 mm/70 Oerlikon Mk.II autocannon
Ammunition1800 rounds
Belt capacity60 rounds
Fire rate450 shots/min
Main articles: Bofors L/60 Mark 1 (40 mm), 20 mm/70 Oerlikon Mk.II (20 mm)

USS Cleveland gets access to eight 40 mm Bofors guns in four twin mounts. These weapons are extremely potent anti-aircraft guns due to their accuracy and punching power. Though these weapons fire slower than the 20 mm Oerlikon or 12.7 mm AN-M2, they more than make up for it due to their hard-hitting 40 mm shells. These guns are capable of shredding aircraft and small boats from ranges of 2.5 km away, though effectiveness will drop off after that range due to the large bullet drop. The guns fire from 4-round clips that reload continuously, meaning that they are capable of continuous fire. However, note that they will eventually jam after firing too long.

The Cleveland also gets access to 13 single 20 mm Oerlikon mounts. The 20 mm Oerlikon cannon was the standard light anti-aircraft gun for several nations, including the United States, and replaced the prior AN-M2 Browning machine gun. This weapon is an effective short-range AA gun, and has great firing angles. However, note that the weapon is rather ineffective at long ranges, as its 20 mm shells lose velocity pretty fast after ~1.5 km. As well, the guns fire from a drum magazine that will need to be reloaded. Because of the magazine design, the gun will not jam with continuous fire.

Scout plane

Main article: 2 x OS2U-1

Located on the stern are two catapults with one OS2U-1 scout plane each which provide unique offensive and defensive abilities, expanding tactical options. Ship-launched scout planes fly just like regular tree units but lack munition choices and cockpit views. Alongside the typical abilities of strafing, dropping 2 x 100 lb bombs, and capping zones, the OS2U-1 and other scout planes have the added ability to lay down smoke cover (up to 3 times). Captains will be wise to remember to utilise the aircraft and consider when best to use it, for example to cap a point early or late in the match, to create a smoke screen to stymie enemy bombardment and repair, to attack enemy units directly, or perhaps something completely new! With two scout planes one can risk a cap attempt at the beginning of the match, saving the second for any opportunity that presents itself.

Note: Because the catapult is directly behind the rear turret the aircraft would block the guns, so it will not be visible until you launch it.

Usage in battles

USS Cleveland, being the multi role ship that she is, is quite versatile.

AA Boat: Cleveland's remarkable AA battery means she could easily devastate any plane that comes close to her, provided that your 5"/38 (127 mm) guns have HE-VT ammo, otherwise aircraft could easily get into ordnance-dropping range.

Destroyer Hunter: Cleveland's primary armament of 12 x 6 inch (152 mm) guns allows her to get devastating salvoes on her enemies, and with her base fuse ammunition she could easily sink an enemy DD with a couple salvoes. Her secondary armament of 12 x 5 inch (127 mm) guns allows her to whittle down nearby destroyers without you having to use your main guns.

Cruiser Killer: Cleveland's rapid fire main guns with excellent AP ammunition allow her to penetrate enemy light cruisers and some heavy cruiser's armour belts with ease, allowing her to slowly demolish their crew. While not as good at this as the USS Brooklyn or USS Helena, she is still exceptional in this role.

The Cleveland's 6 inch (152 mm) guns lose effectiveness at long range, so it is best used as a brawler in relatively shallow or closed waters, using islands to get into close range of enemies before using rapid cannon shots to quickly suppress and sink hostile vessels. In addition, as a consequence of having lower calibre guns and not having torpedoes, the Cleveland is utterly hopeless against enemy battlecruisers and battleships. When encountering them, the best course of action is generally to turn tail, smoke up, and run.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • 2 x triple-mount 6 inch (152mm) and 2 x dual-mount 5 inch (127mm) cannons can fire straight ahead, allowing decent firepower while only exposing a small silhouette towards the enemy
  • Excellent armour
  • Devastating AA suite
  • Two scout seaplanes
  • Does not carry any torpedoes (less external fire hazards!)

Cons:

  • Lack of anti-fragmentation armour makes her more vulnerable from fire damage
  • Does not carry any torpedoes (cannot deny chokepoints or easily destroy enemy capital ships)
  • Gets ammoracked easily when stock

History

USS Cleveland underway, late 1942.

The USS Cleveland was the lead ship of her class of light cruisers built for the United States Navy during the Second World War. Designed as a follow-up to the earlier Brooklyn-class light cruisers, the ship carried an improved secondary and anti-aircraft armament layout which was used for most successive American cruiser classes. Cleveland saw extensive service during the Second World War in both the Atlantic and Pacific theatres; she was decommissioned after the war and eventually scrapped in 1960.

Design and development

The Cleveland class was designed as a follow-up to the previous Brooklyn-class, with improved anti-aircraft protection, speed and range. After navy simulations found that the Brooklyn's anti-aircraft armament was woefully inadequate for fending off large amounts of enemy aircraft, the Cleveland class's design was modified to carry a heavily-improved anti-aircraft armament. The #3 turret of the Brooklyn was removed to accommodate a larger bridge and superstructure, which housed Cleveland's extensive fire control and radar systems. The secondary and anti-aircraft armament was also completely redesigned, focused on new 40 mm Bofors and 20 mm Oerlikon cannons. The design was so successful that the Cleveland class would become the largest cruiser class ever built during WWII - a total of 52 ships were ordered, and 27 were completed to the Cleveland design. A further 13 ships were ordered under the improved Fargo class, while 9 ships were converted into light aircraft carriers. Cleveland, the lead ship of the class, was laid down on July 1st 1940, and following completion, was commissioned on June 15th 1942.

Cleveland's main armament consisted of twelve 6 inch (152 mm) Mark 16 guns in four triple mounts, two fore and two aft. Her secondary armament was heavily improved, with twelve 5 inch (127 mm) Mk 12 guns in six dual turrets. Compared to the last Brooklyn subclass, the ships gained two more Mk 12 twin mounts as the removed 6-inch turret cleared up a lot of space. The Cleveland was initially armed with four dual Bofors mounts and 13 Oerlikon automatic guns for anti-aircraft defence, but similar to other American cruisers at the time, lacked torpedo armament. Her total crew complement was 1,255 officers and men, and she had a maximum speed of 32.5 knots (60 km/h).

Operational history

Following her commissioning in June of 1942, Cleveland was immediately sent to join the Allied naval task force supporting the landings in North Africa. She remained there until November, when she was sent to the Pacific Theatre to support operations there. For most of late 1942 to early 1943, Cleveland was in the Guadalcanal area, where she escorted troop convoys and provided fire support. Later in 1943, she participated in the Battle of Empress Augusta Bay, where her radar-guided gunfire helped sink the Japanese cruiser Sendai.

In 1944, Cleveland participated in the Marinanas operation and later the battle of the Philippine Sea, which resulted in a total defeat for the Japanese naval force. She spent the latter part of 1944 supporting operations in the Philippines, based from Subic bay naval base. In July of 1945, she was sent to Okinawa, and performed patrols off of the east China sea until the Japanese surrender. After the end of the war, Cleveland repatriated allied prisoners, and later embarked on a training cruise that took her from Bermuda to Halifax. In 1947, Cleveland was inactivated, and eventually scrapped in 1960. She earned 13 battle stars for her WWII service.

Devblog

In 1938, the U.S. sought an expansion of its navy, following the increase in geopolitical tensions across the globe at the time. As a result, two new 6,000 ton light cruisers were ordered whose specifications complied with the restrictions applied by the Second London Naval Treaty of 1936. In 1939, this design was revised, having its displacement increased to 8,000 tons and the general layout resembling a more compact Brooklyn-class cruiser.

Initially, plans were made for the construction of around 20 ships of this class. However, with the outbreak of WWII in September 1939, these plans were expanded to 52 ships and the design of the vessel had its displacement significantly increased again, since restrictions from previous treaties were no longer being taken into account. In reality however, 27 Cleveland-class cruisers would actually end up being built, with another 9 being converted into light aircraft carriers of the Independence-class.

USS Cleveland (CL-55), being the lead ship of the class, was laid down in July 1940 and saw completion in June 1942 when she also officially got commissioned into service with the USN. Upon entering service, USS Cleveland's first mission involved providing fire support to allied troops landing in Morocco in October 1942. Shortly after, USS Cleveland set course for the Pacific Theater in December, where the ship would serve until the end of WWII.

Although USS Cleveland took part in many operations during her service career, one of her more notable engagements with the enemy was the Battle of Empress Augusta Bay, where Cleveland among with some of her sister ships, successfully defeated a Japanese task force, bound to attack US forces stationed at Bougainville, during a decisive night battle. During the battle, Cleveland-class cruisers proved the effectiveness of their advanced fire control systems and showcased the class' versatility, dealing large damage to both Japanese surface vessels as well as aircraft.

Following the end of hostilities in 1945, USS Cleveland was briefly part of the Allied occupation force in Japan, before sailing back to the U.S. in December that year. Following a brief overhaul in January, USS Cleveland was decommissioned in June 1946 and put into reserve in 1947. Ultimately, the ship was sold for scrap in February 1960, marking the end of her service career.

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Videos
USS Cleveland - History & Guide - Cmdr. Tyrael

See also

External links

References

  • Helgason, G. (1995). USS Cleveland. Retrieved January 26, 2021, from https://uboat.net/allies/warships/ship/2579.html
  • Woodford, S. R. (2019, August 27). Cleveland II (CL-55). Retrieved January 26, 2021, from https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/c/cleveland-ii.html


New York Shipbuilding Corporation
Gun Destroyers (DD) 
Porter-class  USS Porter
Cruiser, Light (CL) 
Cleveland-class  USS Cleveland
Fargo-class  USS Fargo
Worcester-class  USS Roanoke
Large Cruisers (CB) 
Alaska-class  USS Alaska
Battleships (BB) 
Wyoming-class  USS Arkansas

USA light cruisers
Omaha-class  USS Detroit · USS Raleigh · USS Trenton
Atlanta-class  USS Atlanta
Brooklyn-class  USS Brooklyn · USS Helena
Cleveland-class  USS Cleveland
Fargo-class  USS Fargo
Worcester-class  USS Roanoke

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