The era of battleships had already come to an end by the late 1940s. During World War II, it became clear that even a giant bristling with hundreds of guns could be sent to the bottom remarkably quickly by carrier-based aircraft. The age of massive-caliber artillery rapidly gave way to a new force that would rise to the top of the food chain in naval warfare. The fate of giants such as the Yamato and Bismarck is striking proof of that!
But is there still a place for battleships in the modern world? Our featured ship today embodies the idea of what a classic artillery warship might look like in the present day. It has received only the upgrades necessary to defend against threats from the skies, while the foundation of its firepower remains not modern missiles, but good old-fashioned guns.
Historical Background
USS New Jersey (BB-62) is one of the most decorated Iowa-class battleships in the history of the U.S. Navy. Launched in 1942, this steel giant served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, earning 19 battle stars for its outstanding service. Its main argument in any conflict was always its exceptional armor protection and the devastating firepower of its nine 406 mm main guns.
In the battleship's current combat configuration, no missile armament is available—the ship relies on classic, uncompromising firepower. To deliver devastating strikes, it relies exclusively on its heavy artillery and powerful grenade launchers. At the same time, the battleship and its allies are protected by a dense, multi-layered air-defense system that creates a formidable shield against aerial threats.
The ship's tactical ace is a unique vertical takeoff attack aircraft stationed on its deck. It not only significantly extends the reconnaissance range for precise gun targeting, but also provides proactive, maneuverable defense against enemy air groups, making the legendary New Jersey a truly versatile and formidable force at sea.
Armament
Cannon— Mark 7N (406 mm) [x3]🔒
Grenade Launcher — RUR-5B ASROC [x4]
Strike fighter — F-35B [x1]🔒
Autocannon — Mark 12-N (127 mm) [x6]🔒
Autocannon — Bofors 40 L/60 MK 12-N (40 mm) [x4]🔒
Air Defense — RIM-7 Sea Sparrow [x2]
Air Defense — Sea RAM [x2]
Air Defense — Sea RAM [x2]
Gameplay
So, how should you play this new American warship? Since the ship has only two active slots for its main guns and grenade launchers, you shouldn't expect much tactical flexibility. The optimal strategy is to fight on the front line, raining fire down on sluggish opponents who carelessly peek out from behind cover. You can also try engaging at long range, but without standard guided weaponry, success will depend entirely on your accuracy. That said, nothing prevents you from equipping a homing system in the grenade launcher slot that operates like a missile battery—but that ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Let's not keep you waiting and get straight to the battleship's main feature—the modern F-35B attack aircraft on board. You may be wondering: how can it take off without a full-sized aircraft carrier deck? The answer is simple: this aircraft is capable of vertical takeoff. And the surprises don't end there. Some players may assume that a single attack aircraft poses no serious threat, but underestimating it could cost the enemy an entire air unit. Thanks to its powerful missiles and aircraft cannon, this "lone wolf" can deal very significant damage. Be sure to use this ace up your sleeve for reconnaissance and precision strikes, especially against enemy aircraft. But remember: your ship is not an aircraft carrier. You won't be able to replenish its ammunition or repair the aircraft during battle, so use its potential wisely.
Conclusion
USS New Jersey (BB-62) is an excellent choice for fans of classic battleships and their devastating gunfire. However, the real ace up its sleeve is its unique attack aircraft. It not only provides the capability for full-fledged aerial reconnaissance, but can also deliver timely strikes against enemy ships and aircraft. Take command of this legendary warship and prove your superiority!