The Iowa class modernized in the 80's with new reduction gearing could steam at 37 knots and keep up with the nuke carriers. They were among the fastest ships in the fleet. In WWII they could do 33 knots and were the fastest battleships of all time.
So what.
The carrier can far surpass that, as can the latest escorts.
Secondly, at that speed, the FUEL CONSUMPTION is much greater than the gas turbines.
Other than placing oilers throughout the theater, it ain't enough to keep up with the CVNs....
However, I am the first to agree that the 16" are the answer to maximum ordinance on target. The ability to place the shells where they needs to be 20 miles + is there, and just as reliable as the latest computer software
But the crew manning requirements are excessive. And unless we can "outsource" the crew for underpaid Canadians or Costa Ricans, it is too expensive a platform for the purpose to which it exists...
Mark Ude.
LT, USNR