Hull test model 3536 for the American battleship USS South Dakota (BB 57) in 1938

Naval History and Heritage Command NH 93908

 

North Carolina-class. ©Warshipsresearch.blogspot.com

South Dakota-class. ©Warshipsresearch.blogspot.com

Iowa-class. ©Warshipsresearch.blogspot.com

South Dakota-class (BB 57-60) consisted of the South Dakota, Indiana, Massachusetts and Alabama, preceded by the North Carolina-class succeeded by the Iowa-class built between 1939-1942. March 1937 started the design process resulting in several proposals.

“Hull model number 3536, photographed at the Experimental Model Basin, Washington Navy Yard, Washington, D.C., USAin 1938. Note the widely spaced skegs, supporting the outboard propeller shafts, that were a unique feature of this battleship class. Naval History and Heritage Command.”