United States' CV-1 USS Langley aircraft carrier

Photos

Design

The United States Navy couldn't get funding from the United States Congress to build an aircraft carrier so they converted the fleet collier USS Jupiter (AC-3). The USS Langley was to be only used for developing carrier operations.

Flight Deck

The Langley's flight deck was made from wood on top of a beam and girder framework. The side under the flight deck did not have walls.

The flight deck was also flush without an island.

Based on British designs the Langley initially had longitudinal wires for landings. However, it was decided to add a backup system of transverse wires that had casings that had sand filled in them. Later a hydraulic system was developed and it was to be the standard of carriers going forward.

There were two 60' catapults.

Bridge

The bridge was located under the flight deck.

Funnels

The funnels were located on the port size and were hinged.

Hangar

Four of the holds were used to store aircraft. Maintenance was done on the flight deck.

A single elevator brought aircraft to the flight deck.

Ships

CV-1 USS Langley

• Formerly the USS Jupiter (AC-3)
• Manufacturer: Mare Island
• October 11, 1918: Laid down.
• March 1920: Selected to be converted to carrier at Norfolk Navy Yard.
• 1922, August 12, 1924: Launched.
• March 20, 1922, March 1922: Completed.
• 1928: Catapults on flight deck removed.
• 1936: Removed from service as an aircraft carrier. Conversion to a seaplane tender. 41% of the front of the flight deck was removed. Four 3" L/50 guns added on the flight deck. Four .50 cal machine guns added near bridge.
• 1937: Became seaplane tender. Designated the AV-3. 250' of the flight deck was removed.
• February 1942: Ferrying P-40s to Dutch East Indies.
• February 27, 1942, 1942: Sunk.

Usage

While ferrying P-40s to the Dutch East Indies the Langley suffered five near misses from bombs and had to be scuttled by its escort, the USS Whipple.

Specifications