Heavy cruisers of the Northampton class. Heroes of the war in the Pacific Ocean.

Heavy cruisers of the "Northampton" type were originally designed as flagships in fleets ("Chicago", "Houston", "Augusta") and in squadrons ("Northampton", "Chester", and "Louisville"). They were equipped with facilities for headquarters and command staff, increased armor, and for the first time in the American fleet, hangars and catapults for reconnaissance seaplanes were installed. All six cruisers actively participated in battles against the Japanese, becoming true heroes of the war in the Pacific theater of World War II. The "Northamptons" escorted aircraft carriers, participated in battles at Savo Island, in the Makassar Strait, at the Eastern Solomon Islands, in the Coral Sea, in the operation to capture the Marshall Islands, the Battles of Guadalcanal, Midway, and Iwo Jima. The "Northamptons" were repeatedly distinguished in battles - for example, the USS Louisville received a total of 13 "Battle Stars" (an award from the US Navy command to the most heroic ships and their crews). Just slightly behind was the USS Chester, awarded 11 battle stars. A new book by a renowned naval historian for the first time in detail tells the story of the creation, design, pre-war service, and impressive combat service of one of the most distinguished types of ships of World War II. The publication is illustrated with unique drawings and numerous exclusive photographs.