US Navy
Net layers initially received the hull classification symbol YN (for "Yard Net Tender") but were later reclassified AN (for "Auxiliary Net Layer"). The British Admiralty knew such ships as a “boom defence vessel".
The first 32, all launched in 1940 (before the attack on Pearl Harbor), were built of steel. Due to the chronic shortage of steel during the war, the next 30 were built of wood. The last 15, laid down in 1944 and 1945, were again constructed of steel.
A total of 77 net layers of all classes served with the US Navy during the war. The vessels served in all theatres of war but particularly in the Pacific. Many of the ships were decommissioned after the war, but some continued in service for several more decades. Net layers were eventually made redundant by advances in underwater detection technology.
Net layers have two prominent steel "horns" on the bow, used in laying nets.
Read more about this topic: Net Laying Ship
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