About this Unit
USS Aylwin (FF-1081) was a Knox-class frigate commissioned by the United States Navy in 1971. Named after Rear Admiral John C. Aylwin, the ship was primarily tasked with anti-submarine warfare and escort duties during the Cold War era. Throughout her service, Aylwin participated in numerous Atlantic and Mediterranean deployments, supporting NATO operations and conducting various training exercises. She was decommissioned in 1992 and later transferred to the Turkish Navy, where she served as TCG Ege (F-256) before being retired.
Historical Facts
• Namesake Heritage: USS Aylwin (FF-1081) was named after John Cushing Aylwin, a notable officer in the US Navy who served with distinction during the War of 1812.
• Knox-Class Frigate: She was a Knox-class frigate, a class designed primarily for anti-submarine warfare during the Cold War era.
• Launch and Commission: The ship was launched on January 29, 1971, by Avondale Shipyards in Louisiana and commissioned into service on September 18, 1971.
• Vietnam War Service: Although commissioned late in the Vietnam War, the USS Aylwin participated in operations off the coast of Vietnam, providing escort and support roles.
• Technology Upgrades: Over her service life, Aylwin received several upgrades including systems to enhance her anti-submarine warfare capabilities, such as the SQS-26 sonar and the addition of the LAMPS helicopter system.
• Cold War Patrols: Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, she performed numerous patrols in the Atlantic and Mediterranean, frequently shadowing Soviet submarines and ships.
• Rescue Operations: In 1985, USS Aylwin played a key role in rescuing the crew of a disabled merchant vessel in the Atlantic, showcasing her versatility beyond combat missions.
• Training and Exercises: The ship frequently participated in NATO exercises, working closely with allied navies to improve interoperability and collective defense during the tense years of the Cold War.
• Decommissioning: USS Aylwin was decommissioned on August 15, 1992, after over 20 years of service and was later struck from the Naval Vessel Register.
• Final Fate: After decommissioning, she was sold for scrap in 2001, marking the end of her career but leaving a legacy through her contributions to maritime security and naval history.
