New American Destroyers: Close Test 14.4
Close Test 14.4 will introduce 4 new American destroyers as part of a new Tech Tree branch which is focused on the use of main battery guns. Ships of Tier VIII and above use an experimental 137mm (5.4") gun developed by the US Navy between 1939 and 1940, during their efforts to improve the firepower of their smaller ships and secondary battery of larger cruisers and battleships.
Tier VII - Hughes Ship Page
Tier VIII - Osborne Ship Page
Tier IX - Cristopher Ship Page
Tier X - Burrows Ship Page
The New Line: Hughes (VII), Osborne (VIII), Cristopher (IX), and Burrows (X)
This new branch of American destroyers represents an experimental design philosophy from the late 1930s, when the US Navy sought to enhance the firepower of smaller ships and secondary batteries of larger vessels.
Key Characteristics:
- Powerful Main Battery: Features improved guns with excellent rate of fire and high damage per minute
- Experimental 137mm Guns (Tiers VIII-X): Developed by the US Navy between 1939-1940 to improve firepower of smaller ships
- Versatile Shell Selection: Access to both HE and SAP ammunition types
- Reduced Concealment: Larger size makes these ships easier to spot
- Limited Torpedo Armament: Fewer torpedo tubes compared to other US destroyers
- Robust Survivability: Larger HP pools help offset their bigger target profile
Gun Performance
The Tier VIII Osborne, Tier IX Cristopher, and Tier X Burrows are equipped with the experimental 137mm (5.4") guns developed by the US Navy:
- Higher rate of fire than standard USN destroyer guns
- Excellent damage per minute potential
- Improved ballistics compared to earlier USN destroyer guns
- Dual-purpose capability (effective against both surface and air targets)
The Tier VII Hughes retains standard USN destroyer armament, serving as an introduction to the line's playstyle before the experimental guns become available.
Revolutionary Smoke Generator Mechanic
These destroyers introduce an innovative smoke system that changes how captains can utilize concealment:
- On-Demand Activation: Activate and deactivate smoke at will (with minimum activation period)
- Resource Management: Uses a charge system similar to submarine Dive Capacity
- Strategic Flexibility: Choose between short bursts of concealment or sustained smoke screens
- Limited Total Duration: Once the consumable is exhausted, it cannot be reused
This new mechanic allows for more dynamic smoke usage, adapting to changing battle conditions.
Optimal Combat Approach
These destroyers excel in mid- to long-range engagements where they can leverage their:
- Devastating main battery firepower (especially the 137mm guns on Tiers VIII-X)
- Flexible HE/SAP ammunition choices
- Innovative smoke generator for tactical positioning
- Substantial health pool to withstand return fire
However, their size and concealment limitations mean captains should avoid close-quarters brawls when possible.
Future Implications
The success of this new smoke generator mechanic may lead to its implementation on additional ships in future updates, offering commanders more tactical options in battle.
