The USS Akron was a rigid airship of the United States Navy, launched in 1931. It was designed for reconnaissance and was one of the largest airships ever built, measuring 785 feet in length. The Akron was equipped with advanced technology for its time, including a hangar for smaller aircraft, known as F9C Sparrowhawks, which could be launched and recovered mid-flight. Tragically, the USS Akron met its end on April 4, 1933, when it crashed off the coast of New Jersey during a storm. Of the 79 crew members aboard, 73 lost their lives, making it one of the deadliest airship disasters in history. The incident raised concerns about the safety and viability of airships in military operations.