Battleships, also known as "capital ships," were heavily armored warships containing the largest force of firepower. The Navy used the term 'capital ship' to refer to the sturdiest and most important ship in the war. While capital ships included aircraft carriers and other vessels, they were most often battleships and were chosen to lead the fleet into battle. Battleships were a symbol of dominance during the 20th century, and for decades the battleship was a major factor in military strategy.

Asbestos was commonly used on battleships and was highly valued for its resistance to heat and fire. All ships built by the Navy before the mid-70s were filled with asbestos-containing materials. These materials were extensively used in engine and boiler rooms and other areas including mess halls, sleeping quarters and navigation rooms. Products such as cables, gaskets, valves, adhesives and many others also contained asbestos.

Any Naval personnel working in the construction, repair, demolition or renovation of these ships were likely exposed to asbestos. As a result, many veterans are being diagnosed with asbestos disease due to the exposure they encountered during military service.

Please select a ship from the list below for information regarding specific battleships and potential asbestos-exposure.

Battleships Index

Learn what foods to eat, which to avoid, and the best supplements for the fight against cancer and chemotherapy recovery.

Asbestos.com's Veterans Assistance Department can help you with questions about veterans and asbestos-related illnesses or about potential benefits.

Naval Ships Index
Search through our extensive list of ships that used asbestos-containing products.
(e.g. USS Alabama BB 60)

Two must read books for anyone who has or who is caring for someone with mesothelioma.

Get a Free Copy of Lean on Me or 100 Questions & Answers About Mesothelioma.

Receive a copy of our monthly newsletter
with the latest clinical trials, survivor stories,
doctor profiles, and more.

Feature Story
" Mike Dews, 9-Year Mesothelioma Survivor"

Mesothelioma Treatment: Potential Vaccination to Combat Asbestos Cancer
03/15/2010 - Recent findings from a study that have been published in the American Thoracic Society's American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine ha..
Mesothelioma Risk Found Among Asbestos Brake and Clutch Manufacturer Workers
03/12/2010 - An article recently published in Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology reports on the effects of asbestos exposure among workers in Iran's a..
Mesothelioma Cancer Takes Life of Pro Football Hall of Famer Merlin Olsen
03/11/2010 - Former National Football League (NFL) player Merlin Olsen passed away on March 10, 2010 at the age of 69 after battling the rare cancer mesothelioma. ..