The United States Navy's dramatic expansion during World War II saw the rapid growth from 790 ships in 1941 to a massive 6,768 by 1945, including substantial numbers of aircraft carriers, battleships, and the small but agile Patrol Torpedo (PT) boats. These boats, which played essential roles in both Pacific and European theaters, became famous thanks to figures like Lt. John F. Kennedy, and were designed for harassment and tactical missions rather than direct confrontations. The PT boats, among which the Elco models were most notable, showcased adaptability with varying armaments from torpedoes and machine guns to even rocket launchers at times.
The Second World War saw these PT boats' deployment predominantly in the Pacific Ocean, emphasizing their use in defense duties, reconnaissance, and even tactical offensive operations. Their agility earned them the nickname "Mosquito Fleet" for their capability to strike unexpectedly and disappear into the distance. Key players in numerous campaigns, such as the battles in the Solomon Islands and Guadalcanal, these boats proved invaluable in both tactical utility and rapid deployment capabilities. Beyond the Pacific, they also made notable contributions during the Mediterranean campaigns and the Normandy invasions in Europe, further establishing their legendary status within naval warfare.
Get more insights in the full article at PT Boats — The U.S. Navy Mosquito Fleet - The Armory Life.
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