9 Legendary Cruise Ships That Ruled the Oceans

7. Des Moines-class Heavy Cruiser

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The Des Moines-class cruisers set new standards in naval gunnery with their autoloading 8-inch guns. This automated system achieved an unmatched rate of fire, making these ships ideal for shore bombardment and surface combat. Advanced fire control systems and a robust design ensured their effectiveness well into the Cold War. Even as missiles became dominant, the Des Moines-class demonstrated the enduring value of heavy gun armament.