[Jimnorwellwarren]

How does that compare to similar vessels and if the costs are significantly higher, why is that?

[COEXERJ145]

It's a cost vs. versatility issue. The problem is while the Iowas can blast the hell out of anything within range of their guns, they are far more limited than an aircraft carrier. Even if they were put back into service, they could no longer carry TLAM's because all TLAM's now are built for VLS.

Don't get me wrong, I'd love to see the Iowa back in the fleet but is sadly isn't going to happen.

[quikdrw]

There are no similiar vessels. No other USN ship has any gun larger than 5 inches. the IOWA class has 9 16 inch guns that have a range of 25+ miles.