About this Unit
USS **Bainbridge** (CGN-25) was a nuclear-powered guided missile cruiser commissioned into the United States Navy in 1962. As the first nuclear-powered frigate (later reclassified as a cruiser), she played a pioneering role in demonstrating the strategic value of nuclear propulsion within surface combatants. Bainbridge notably participated in Operation Sea Orbit in 1964, circumnavigating the globe without refueling alongside USS Enterprise and USS Long Beach. Throughout her nearly 33 years of service, Bainbridge was deployed extensively in the Atlantic, Mediterranean, and Indian Oceans, before decommissioning in 1996.
Historical Facts
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First Nuclear-Powered Frigate: USS Bainbridge (CGN-25) was the world’s first nuclear-powered guided missile frigate, later reclassified as a cruiser, showcasing the U.S. Navy’s commitment to nuclear propulsion.
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Commissioned in 1962: Bainbridge was commissioned on October 6, 1962, and named after Commodore William Bainbridge, a hero of the early U.S. Navy.
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Operation Sea Orbit: In 1964, Bainbridge, alongside USS Enterprise (CVN-65) and USS Long Beach (CGN-9), completed Operation Sea Orbit—the first all-nuclear-powered task force to circumnavigate the globe without refueling.
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Reclassification: Initially designated as DLGN-25 (Destroyer Leader, Guided Missile, Nuclear), she was reclassified as CGN-25 (Cruiser, Guided Missile, Nuclear) in 1975 to better reflect her capabilities.
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Vietnam War Service: Bainbridge served in the Vietnam War, providing plane guard, search and rescue, and radar picket duties for aircraft carriers on Yankee Station.
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Rescue Operations: In 1975, Bainbridge assisted in the evacuation of Saigon (Operation Frequent Wind), rescuing refugees and U.S. personnel as South Vietnam fell.
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Advanced Weaponry: The ship was equipped with guided missiles (RIM-8 Talos, later replaced by Standard missiles), anti-submarine rockets (ASROC), and torpedoes, making her a formidable multi-role warship.
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Overhauls and Upgrades: Bainbridge underwent several major overhauls and reactor refuelings throughout her service life, updating her combat systems and extending her operational capabilities.
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Decommissioning: After 33 years of service, Bainbridge was decommissioned on October 6, 1996, exactly 34 years after commissioning, and subsequently dismantled due to the complexities of her nuclear propulsion.
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Legacy: Bainbridge’s innovations in nuclear propulsion and guided missile technology influenced the design of future U.S. Navy surface combatants and demonstrated the strategic value of nuclear-powered surface ships.
