The Super Massive Battleship the US Couldn’t Retire

In 1938, the US Navy sought to design a new class of battleships to rival Japan’s high-speed warships. The initial plan called for six vessels, but only four were completed: Iowa, Missouri, Wisconsin, and New Jersey. The latter, nicknamed “Big J,” became the most combat-active and decorated Iowa-class battleship, setting a distinguished service record.

USS New Jersey: Big J

Ordered on July 1, 1939, USS New Jersey was armed with nine 16-inch, 50-caliber Mark 7 guns in three triple turrets. These guns fired 2,700-pound armor-piercing shells. The battleship was christened on December 7, 1942—the anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack—and commissioned into the US Navy on May 23, 1943.

World War II

New Jersey first saw combat in the Marshall Islands invasion, part of the strategy to establish American airfields and naval bases. The battleship played a role in every major amphibious assault after 1943. In the South Pacific, she and her sister ship Iowa attacked Japan’s main naval base, sinking fleeing warships.

New Jersey also bombarded critical Japanese positions and provided carrier escort, supporting strikes on Pacific islands and even participating in the first major carrier raid on Tokyo. During this operation, her crew shot down 20 enemy aircraft, including kamikazes, and rescued downed American pilots.

The Big J fought in two of the Pacific War’s most crucial battles. In June 1944, she engaged in the Battle of the Philippine Sea, the largest carrier battle in history. Three months later, she led the main fleet at the Battle of Leyte Gulf, the largest naval engagement ever recorded.

Uniquely, New Jersey served as the flagship for both of the US Navy’s most renowned WWII admirals: Raymond Spruance and William Halsey Jr. Alongside her sister ships, she spearheaded America’s counteroffensive in the Pacific and transported thousands of US troops back to the mainland after the war.

Post-War Service

Decommissioned in 1948, New Jersey avoided the fate of many warships that were scrapped. Instead, she was preserved for future use, returning to service in the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Cold War era. Over her career, Big J served for more than 21 years, far exceeding her sister ships’ active duty.

A Historic Legacy

USS New Jersey remains the most decorated battleship in US Navy history, earning 19 battle and campaign stars. Her storied service and exceptional combat record make her a symbol of American naval strength and resilience.