The Tacoma class of patrol frigates served in the US Navy during World War II. Named for Tacoma, Washington, the Tacoma class design was based on the British River class frigates, primarily distinguished by the pole foremast (instead of the British tripod) and carried heavier guns. Unlike most other types of warships, the Tacomas were built to merchant specifications, which resulted in weaker vessels but enabled them to be built quickly, and in Maritime Commission shipyards rather than the Navy's own yards.
96 were built, of which 21 were loaned to the Royal Navy. Late in the war, another 28 were loaned to the Soviet Navy in preparation for the invasion of Japan. In the postwar era, many Tacoma class frigates were sold to friendly nations such as South Korea and Taiwan.
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