About this Unit
USS Callaghan (DDG-994) was a Kidd-class guided missile destroyer of the United States Navy, commissioned in 1981. Named in honor of Rear Admiral Daniel J. Callaghan, a World War II hero, the ship specialized in air defense and multi-threat warfare. During her service, Callaghan operated primarily in the Pacific and Middle East, participating in exercises, patrols, and escort duties, including operations during the Iran-Iraq War. The vessel was decommissioned in 1998 and later sold to Taiwan, where she serves as ROCS Su Ao (DDG-1802).
Historical Facts
• Name and Namesake: USS Callaghan (DDG-994) was named in honor of Rear Admiral Daniel J. Callaghan, a Medal of Honor recipient who was killed in action during the Naval Battle of Guadalcanal in World War II.
• Kidd-Class Destroyer: USS Callaghan was the third ship in the Kidd-class of guided missile destroyers, a class originally ordered by the Shah of Iran before the 1979 Iranian Revolution.
• Unique Design: The Kidd-class ships, including Callaghan, were specifically designed with enhanced air conditioning and filtration systems for operations in hot, dusty, and chemical environments, reflecting their intended use in the Persian Gulf.
• Commissioning: USS Callaghan was commissioned on 27 August 1981 at Pascagoula, Mississippi, and was homeported in San Diego, California.
• Service in the Pacific: While in service with the U.S. Navy, Callaghan was primarily assigned to the Pacific Fleet and conducted numerous deployments in the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean.
• Humanitarian Missions: In 1983, Callaghan was involved in the rescue of Vietnamese refugees (boat people) in the South China Sea, demonstrating the humanitarian role of modern warships.
• Advanced Weaponry: The ship was equipped with the formidable Standard Missile (SM-2) air defense system, Harpoon anti-ship missiles, Tomahawk cruise missiles (later in her career), and advanced anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
• Decommissioning: USS Callaghan was decommissioned on 31 March 1998 after 17 years of U.S. Navy service.
• Transfer to Taiwan: After decommissioning, the ship was sold to Taiwan (Republic of China Navy), where she was renamed ROCS Su Ao (DDG-1802) and continues to serve as part of their fleet.
• Legacy: USS Callaghan was known for her reliability and versatility, earning multiple awards during her service, including the Navy Unit Commendation and the Battle "E" Efficiency Award.
