HMS Leander (CL-1932)

HMSAS Namaqualand (CL-1936)

HMAS Hobart (1935)

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The Leander class were important that they marked the return of the 6" cruiser after ten years of the Treaty heavy cruisers. The British Empire requires large numbers of cruisers, quantity rather than size. An 8000 ton cruiser meant they could build 3 6" cruisers for the price of 2 of the County types. A basic armament of 9 x 6" in triple turrets was deemed sufficient for this class with first single 4" as the heavy AA, these being replaced by twin 4" as they became available and as the ships went for refits. The ships were ordered in four groups of four. The first RN group completing in 1932-33, the Australis group in 1934-35, the next RN group in 1935-36 and the Southern African ships in 1936-37.



The four ships built for the Southern African Navy were the last overseas built cruisers for the SAN. From this class onwards the SAN built its own designs (with mixed results). With upright funnels and compact bridges these ships looked magnificent and served in theaters throughout the world. Several being lost (I am just not sure which ones yet and how).



Between 1939 and 1941 all of the ships that survived had electronic aids fitted for all the different levels of armament. Sea search and Air search radar were a must and improvements to these and other radars meant upgrades being put aboard the ships at regular refit intervals. The extra topweight from the electronics and extra AA weaponry meant the removal of the torpedoes and aircraft handling facilities to balance things out   

        
Launch of HMS Wyvern in 1935 with completion slated for 1936.

Original Leander class cruisers were fitted with four twin 6" as a main armament.

Last one with old 6" triple turrets and 4".


 

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