The cruiser, once the undisputed workhorse of global navies during the 20th century, has seen a dramatic evolution in its role, design, and deployment. While the vessel type was once abundant, today’s modern navies have largely transitioned to destroyers and frigates. However, several nations still maintain cruisers in active service, either as powerful command platforms or as a symbol of naval prestige.
This article explores which countries still operate cruisers, the unique capabilities these warships bring to modern navies, and the geopolitical significance behind their continued use.
Understanding the Role of Cruisers in Modern Navies
Before diving into the countries that maintain cruisers in their fleets, it’s essential to understand what a cruiser is and why, despite advancements in naval technology, some nations continue to operate them.
What Defines a Cruiser?
A cruiser is a large surface warship designed for high-speed, long-range operations, often equipped with advanced weaponry. Historically, cruisers were classified by armament:
- Light cruisers
- Heavy cruisers
- Guided missile cruisers
In modern usage, especially since the Cold War, the term primarily refers to guided missile cruisers (CGs), capable of air defense, anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and land attack missions.
The Shift in Naval Doctrine
As destroyers grew in size and capability, particularly with the advent of Aegis combat systems and advanced missile technology, the traditional role of cruisers diminished. Most navies found that destroyers could perform the same tasks at a lower cost, prompting them to retire their cruisers.
However, not all nations have abandoned the cruiser. Some view them as invaluable assets that offer advantages that modern destroyers cannot match.
Countries with Active Cruiser Fleets
As of the most recent assessments in 2024–2025, the number of operational cruisers globally is small. Only a handful of countries continue to operate them, primarily the United States, Russia, and China—all major maritime powers with global ambitions.
1. United States: The Largest Cruiser Fleet in the World
The U.S. Navy maintains one of the most advanced cruiser fleets globally, consisting primarily of the Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruisers.
| Class | Number in Service | First Commissioned |
|---|---|---|
| Ticonderoga-class CG | 22 (as of 2024; under retirement plan) | 1981 |
Key Features:
- Equipped with the Aegis Combat System and AN/SPY-6 radar
- Capable of ballistic missile defense (BMD) missions
- Act as flagship command centers when deployed with carrier strike groups
The U.S. Navy is planning to decommission its Ticonderoga cruisers as part of modernization efforts, but many remain in service, offering unmatched capabilities in coordination, command, and missile defense.
2. Russia: A Shrinking Fleet with Strategic Purpose
The Russian Navy possesses a small but formidable set of cruisers, focusing on long-range firepower and area dominance.
| Class | Number in Service | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Slava-class CG | 3 (out of original 5) | Active |
| Kirov-class Battlecruiser | 3 active, 1 undergoing modernization | High-value asset |
Key Features:
- Kirov-class ships are nuclear-powered and among the largest surface combatants globally
- Armed with P-700 Granit (SS-N-19 Shipwreck) anti-ship cruise missiles
- Primarily used for long-range strategic strikes and fleet flagship duties
Russia’s reliance on these ships is partly due to budgetary limitations that prevent a fleet-wide modernization to match the tonnage and electronics of Western navies. The Kirov-class, specifically, represents Russia’s continued commitment to maintaining strong, heavily armed surface warships for strategic deterrence.
3. China: Rising Naval Power with a Strategic Cruiser Approach
While not traditionally known for operating classic cruisers, the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) has introduced vessels that perform cruiser-equivalent functions with advanced sensor arrays, missile systems, and command capabilities.
The PLAN has not formally designated a “cruiser” class, but some analysts argue that the Type 055 destroyer functions similarly to a cruiser.
| Class | Classified As | Number in Service |
|---|---|---|
| Type 055 Destroyers | Destroyer | 8 active (2024), with more in production |
Key Features:
- 13,000+ ton displacement, placing it among the largest surface warships
- Armed with the HHQ-9 air defense missile system and YJ-18 anti-ship cruise missiles
- Designed for long-range strikes and fleet command roles
Though China officially classifies the Type 055 as a “large destroyer,” many international observers suggest it should be considered a cruiser due to its displacement, capabilities, and role in naval operations. With ongoing advancements, China may soon field a class of ships that rivals or surpasses the cruiser classes of the United States and Russia.
Other Countries That Operated Cruisers Historically
While only the U.S., Russia, and China maintain active cruiser or cruiser-equivalent ships today, several other countries once operated cruisers in the 20th century, primarily during World War II and the Cold War.
Historical Cruiser Operators
- United Kingdom: Operated many classes including the County-class and later Type 82 destroyers, which served cruiser-like functions.
- Japan: Maintained cruisers for empire defense during World War II; since then, has focused on destroyers like the Maya and Atago classes (Aegis-equipped).
- India: Operated the Gorshkov/INS Vikramaditya as a hybrid air defense cruiser and aircraft carrier platform.
- France: Decommissioned its last cruiser, the Jeanne d’Arc, in 2010.
- Germany and Italy: Retired their cruiser fleets by the late 20th century.
Though these navies have retired their cruiser classes, the concept lives on in advanced destroyers, frigates, and airborne command platforms.
Cruiser Features That Set Them Apart from Destroyers
To maintain relevance, it’s important to understand what differentiates cruisers from other surface combatants, such as destroyers and frigates.
1. Command and Control Capabilities
Most modern cruisers, especially the Ticonderoga-class in the U.S., have enhanced command support systems, allowing them to act as mobile command centers at sea. This includes advanced communications infrastructure and mission planning tools.
2. Enhanced Sensor Suite and BMD Integration
Cruisers often integrate more robust sensor systems, including upgraded phased-array radars and missile defense capabilities. The SPY-6 and Aegis system upgrades on U.S. cruisers are indicative of this trend.
3. Extended Range and Endurance
Designed for sustained operations far from port, cruisers are typically nuclear-powered or equipped with large fuel reserves, a necessity for long patrols or deployments.
4. Multirole Flexibility
Unlike many destroyers, which specialize in missions like AAW (anti-air warfare), cruisers maintain a more balanced suite of weapons and defenses tailored for multiple threat environments.
Future Outlook: The Fate of the Cruiser in the 21st Century
While cruisers remain viable assets for the leading naval powers, the future of the cruiser is uncertain. Technological trends and budgetary pressures will shape whether we see new cruiser designs or if advanced destroyers fully replace them.
U.S. Future Surface Combatant Plans
The Department of Defense has announced ongoing discussions on what will replace the Ticonderoga cruisers. The DDG(X) program, seen as potential cruiser-successors, might emerge with displacement and capabilities rivaling today’s cruisers.
Key initiatives include:
- Upgraded radar systems (SPY+(6))
- Hybrid-electric or integrated power systems
- Naval hypersonic strike capability (Conventional Prompt Strike)
It remains to be seen whether future U.S. surface combatants will be officially designated as cruisers or whether they will continue under the updated destroyer classification.
Russia’s Strategic Cruiser Upgrade Plans
The Kirov-class ships are undergoing a series of modernization programs to extend their service life into the 2030s. The Russian Navy expects to fit these battlecruisers with newer anti-ship missiles like the Zircon hypersonic weapon, further securing their role as high-impact warships amid shrinking numbers.
China’s Potential Cruiser Expansion
While not officially acknowledging a cruiser, as discussed earlier, China’s Type 055 destroyers could form the basis of a future naval class that would operate similar to cruisers. There is also speculation that China might eventually follow in the path of U.S. and Soviet navies by developing a dedicated cruiser class in response to expanding maritime ambitions.
Why the Cruiser Endures: Strategic, Tactical, and Symbolic Reasons
Despite their declining numbers globally, cruisers remain active for a variety of strategic and symbolic reasons.
1. Symbol of Naval Power
To maintain a cruiser fleet is to assert that a nation is capable of projecting naval power beyond its shores. For major powers, cruisers serve as visible assets that emphasize readiness and global operations.
2. Fleet Command and Control
Some navies maintain large surface combatants as floating headquarters to manage complex maritime operations, especially in contested or multi-threat environments.
3. BMD and Integrated Defense Mission
Cruisers, due to their size and weaponry, are crucial platforms in regional and global ballistic missile defense. Their endurance and multi-role capability allow for persistent deterrence and missile shield operations.
4. Regional Deterrence and Prestige
A powerful cruiser or battlecruiser can act as a deterrent force multiplier. Russia’s Kirov-class, for example, is used as a prestige platform to demonstrate capability, particularly during major operations near NATO waters or in international disputes.
Conclusion: The Cruiser’s Legacy and Future in Naval Strategy
Although the cruiser has largely faded from common naval use, a select few countries—primarily the United States, Russia, and, to a degree, China—highlight that it continues to play significant roles in modern naval doctrine.
From command centers to missile defense platforms, the cruiser offers capabilities that advanced but smaller destroyers cannot fully replicate. And while classifications may change over time, the underlying mission and functionality of cruisers live on in new forms and designs.
So, “Which countries still have cruisers?” — the answer includes those with active cruisers like the U.S. and Russia, and those with cruiser-equivalent vessels like China, setting the stage for a nuanced evolution of the concept into the 21st century.
As defense strategies shift toward hypersonic warfare, AI-driven command systems, and integrated naval operations, the cruiser’s legacy might transition—but it will likely not disappear.
What defines a cruiser in modern naval terms?
In modern naval terminology, a cruiser is a large surface combatant ship designed to operate independently or as part of a fleet, capable of carrying out a range of missions including air defense, anti-submarine warfare, and land attack. These vessels are typically equipped with advanced radar systems, missile launchers, and other armaments that allow them to perform multiple roles in naval operations. Cruisers often serve as command platforms and are valued for their endurance, firepower, and technological sophistication.
Historically, cruisers filled a gap between destroyers and battleships, but in today’s navies, they are often second only to aircraft carriers in size and capability. Many modern cruisers are guided-missile cruisers, such as the U.S. Navy’s Ticonderoga-class, which are designed around the Aegis Combat System. While the role and design of cruisers have evolved, their strategic importance in fleet operations remains significant.
Which countries currently operate cruisers in their navies?
As of the most recent data, the countries that operate cruisers include the United States, Russia, and India. The U.S. Navy maintains the largest fleet with the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruisers, which are integral to carrier strike groups and amphibious ready groups. Russia has a small but formidable fleet of cruisers, most notably the Kirov-class vessels, which are among the largest and most heavily armed surface ships in the world.
India operates the Kolkata-class destroyers, which some analysts categorize as cruisers due to their size and weapon systems, though officially they are classified as destroyers. Other nations, such as China, have ships that may approach cruiser-like capabilities, like the Type 055 destroyers, but there is debate over their formal classification. These countries maintain cruisers or cruiser-like ships to project naval power and provide high-end combat capability.
Why do some navies choose not to have cruisers anymore?
Many navies have moved away from operating cruisers because of the high cost of acquisition, maintenance, and operation of such large and complex vessels. Modern guided-missile destroyers and frigates, such as the Arleigh Burke-class or the upcoming Constellation-class, can perform many roles previously reserved for cruisers at a lower cost. Additionally, advances in missile systems, radar, and unmanned platforms have reduced the reliance on large hulls for firepower and sensing capabilities.
Naval strategy has also evolved, with many countries prioritizing distributed lethality and fleet flexibility over concentrated firepower on a few large ships. Budget constraints and the need to maintain a higher number of smaller ships have further influenced this shift. As a result, most modern navies today focus on destroyers and frigates as their primary surface combatants, rather than traditional cruisers.
How have cruiser designs changed in the 21st century?
Modern cruiser designs have evolved to incorporate stealth technology, advanced radar systems, and integrated combat management systems that allow for multi-mission capabilities. Unlike older cruisers, which were often focused on gun-based combat or heavy missile armament, current designs prioritize missile defense, electronic warfare, and command-and-control functions. The Russian Kirov-class modernization program and U.S. Arleigh Burke Flight III upgrades reflect this emphasis on high technology and networked warfare.
Electric propulsion, modular weapon systems, and multi-role missile launchers have also become common in recent cruiser and cruiser-like designs. These innovations allow for greater adaptability and the ability to integrate new systems quickly as technology changes. While true cruiser classes are rare, new designs—such as the Chinese Type 055 and proposed U.S. Next-Generation Cruiser—reflect modern interpretations of the cruiser concept tailored for 21st-century naval warfare.
What is the role of cruisers in modern naval warfare?
In modern naval warfare, cruisers serve as key enablers of fleet air defense, ballistic missile defense, and precision strike operations. They often act as the primary node for sensor coordination and battle group command in high-intensity environments. U.S. Ticonderoga-class cruisers, for example, provide critical Aegis-based radar and missile defense support to carrier strike groups, protecting fleet assets from air and missile threats.
Cruisers are also capable of operating independently to enforce maritime presence, conduct long-range strikes with cruise missiles, or provide escort and fire support for amphibious operations. Their advanced capabilities make them important in contested environments, where their ability to sustain operations and process large amounts of data is vital. In short, modern cruisers continue to be a symbol of naval power projection and operational sophistication.
Are there any plans to build new cruisers in the near future?
Yes, several countries have explored or are planning future cruiser-class vessels. The U.S. Navy had initially planned to develop theNext-Generation Cruiser (CGN), intended to replace aging Ticonderoga-class ships and integrate new technologies. However, recent shifts in U.S. strategy have placed more focus on the DDG(X) destroyer program as a potential replacement for cruiser roles. Nevertheless, the need for large surface combatants with advanced capabilities remains a topic of discussion.
Russia, on the other hand, has considered developing a new class of cruiser known as the Leader-class, though funding and industrial challenges have delayed the project. China’s Type 055 destroyers have raised speculation about whether the country will formally introduce a cruiser-class designation in the future. These developments reflect the enduring need for large, capable surface ships to meet emerging maritime security demands.
What distinguishes destroyers from cruisers in today’s navies?
While destroyers and cruisers share similarities, especially in modern designs, the primary distinctions lie in displacement, mission scope, and endurance. Cruisers are generally larger, have more advanced combat systems, and can perform a broader array of roles, including fleet command, ballistic missile defense, and sustained operations in high-threat environments. Destroyers, while capable, are typically optimized for more specific missions such as escort duties or regional defense.
Cruisers often house more extensive sensor suites and have greater integrated firepower, allowing them to serve as the nerve center of a battle group. Their capacity to carry more missiles and to house additional command facilities makes them distinct from destroyers, which are more numerous and cost-effective. However, the line between the two is blurring as newer destroyers begin to rival older cruiser models in capability and complexity.