What is a target ship?

[Dan in Toledo]

Everyone knows that the Utah was sunk at Pearl. It was a target BB. But just what is a target BB. I realize the name is somewhat self explanatory but could someone give me a little in depth detail as to what a target does and how it is used.

Also what is an accomodation ship or a block ship?

[mogami]

It was used for Naval gunfire practice. It was towed and the shooting ship placed a 10 mil offset so as to not actually hit the ship (anything within the 10 mil was considered a hit) At the time of the strike the Utah was painted white with red stripes. The pilots had been shown pictures of her and told not to waste ordinance on her, but of course they did any way. (with her gun mounts and super structure removed they thought she was a CV)

[ July 18, 2001: Message edited by: Mogami ]

[Nikademus]

she was also used as a target for airplanes as well in the same vein as the Japanese ex-battleship Settsu.

Practice bombs of course, i specifically recall reading that her (Utah) upper decks had been reinforced to withstand the impact from them.

[ August 29, 2001: Message edited by: Nikademus ]</p>

[Blackhorse]

Block Ships were old hulks that were towed in position and sunk to "block" a channel to keep ships from using a harbor, or to create an artificial reef.

[msvknight]

Accomodation ships provided (surprise) accomodation for crews while their (usually) submarines and (sometimes) warships were in port. Saved the space in the 5 star hotels at places such as Pago Pago and Hollandia.

[Dan in Toledo]

Thanks for the responses. <img src="smile.gif" border="0">