N03-058-168 PEGASUS- CLASS HYDROFOIL

USS Pegasus (PHM-1) was an American hydrofoil, the keel of which was laid in May 1973, launched in November 1974, and in July 1977 the hydrofoil entered service. The total length of the vessel at the time of launching was 41 meters and 8.5 meters wide. Full displacement reached 255 tons, and maximum speed - 48 knots. The on-board armament at the time of the launch consisted of a single 76mm OTO Melara cannon and two RGM-84 Harpoon anti-ship missile launchers. USS Pegasus (PHM-1) was the leading unit of the hydrofoil class of the same name. Units of this type were built as the fastest possible and highly maneuverable, also having very strong armament for such a small size and displacement. USS Pegasus (PHM-1) was intended primarily for destroying surface targets in coastal waters, and its ability to combat underwater and air threats was virtually zero. A great supporter of units of this type was Admiral Elmo Zumwalt. After his retirement, the project was brought to a halt and funds for its further development were limited. The USS Pegasus (PHM-1) was not withdrawn from the US Navy immediately - it served until July 1993.