 | This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (September 2008) |
&sq=Qlik&lang=&file=File:USS_Saipan_(CVL-48)_underway_c1955.jpg) USS Saipan underway, c. 1956
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| History | |
|---|---|
 United States | |
| Name | USS Saipan |
| Builder | New York Shipbuilding Corporation |
| Laid down | 10 July 1944 |
| Launched | 8 July 1945 |
| Commissioned | 14 July 1946 |
| Decommissioned | 14 January 1970 |
| Renamed | Arlington, 1965 |
| Fate | Sold for scrap 1976 |
| Badge | &sq=Qlik&lang=&file=File:USS_Saipan_(CVL-48)_insignia,_1953_(NH_70134-KN).png) |
| General characteristics | |
| Class and type | Saipan-class aircraft carrier |
| Displacement | 14,500 long tons (14,700 t) |
| Length | 684 ft (208 m) |
| Beam |
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| Draft | 28 ft (8.5 m) |
| Installed power | 120,000 shp (89,000 kW) |
| Propulsion |
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| Speed | 33 knots (61 km/h; 38 mph) |
| Capacity | 2,400 long tons (2,400 t) oil fuel |
| Complement | 1,721 officers and men |
| Armament | 40 × Bofors 40 mm guns |
| Aircraft carried | 50+ aircraft |
The first USS Saipan (CVL-48/AVT-6/CC-3) was a light aircraft carrier of the United States Navy, the lead ship of her class of carrier. She was later selected for conversion into a command ship in 1963–1964, but instead of becoming a command ship she was converted to the Major Communications Relay Ship Arlington (AGMR-2) in 1965.
Saipan was laid down on 10 July 1944 by the New York Shipbuilding Corporation, Camden, New Jersey, launched on 8 July 1945, sponsored by Mrs. John W. McCormack, and commissioned on 14 July 1946, Capt. John G. Crommelin in command.