About this Unit
USS Carronade (IFS-1) was the lead ship of the Inshore Fire Support Ship class, commissioned by the United States Navy in 1955. Specially designed for close-in naval gunfire support, she featured rapid-firing automatic rocket launchers and 40mm guns to assist amphibious landings and operations near shore. Carronade served primarily in the Pacific, notably providing critical inshore fire support during the Vietnam War for allied ground forces. After a distinguished career, she was decommissioned in 1970, marking the end of her unique contribution to naval warfare.
Historical Facts
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USS Carronade (IFS-1) Commissioning:
The USS Carronade was commissioned on 25 May 1955, serving as the lead ship of her class of Inshore Fire Support Ships, specifically designed to provide naval gunfire support close to shore.
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Unique Ship Classification:
The “IFS” designation—Inshore Fire Support—was unique and created specifically for the Carronade class, emphasizing their specialized mission in amphibious operations.
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First of Her Kind:
USS Carronade was the first purpose-built U.S. Navy ship designed exclusively for inshore fire support, equipped with rapid-firing guns and rocket launchers for close support of ground troops.
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Firepower:
She was armed with a dual-purpose 5"/38 caliber gun, eight 40 mm anti-aircraft guns, and eight twin-mounted 5-inch rocket launchers capable of delivering intense firepower in amphibious assaults.
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Service in Vietnam:
USS Carronade played a key role during the Vietnam War, supporting riverine and amphibious operations as part of Task Force 115, known as Operation Market Time, to interdict enemy supply lines.
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Advanced Weapons Control:
She featured one of the first automated rocket fire control systems, allowing for rapid and accurate shore bombardment, a technological innovation at the time.
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Decorations:
The ship earned seven battle stars for her Vietnam War service and received the Navy Unit Commendation for her performance during combat operations.
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Crew Nickname:
The crew of the USS Carronade affectionately referred to her as the "Cannonade," playing on her powerful armament and the sound of her rocket launches.
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Decommissioning:
After a distinguished career, Carronade was decommissioned on 24 April 1970 and ultimately struck from the Naval Vessel Register in 1974.
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Legacy:
The USS Carronade’s innovative design influenced the development of later naval fire support vessels, and she remains a notable example of Cold War-era amphibious support ships.
