The USS Baltimore (CL-43) was a light cruiser of the United States Navy, launched on July 28, 1943. It was part of the Baltimore-class cruisers, designed for anti-aircraft and surface warfare. The ship played a significant role during World War II, participating in various operations in the Pacific Theater, including the battles of Guadalcanal and Leyte Gulf. Commissioned on March 15, 1944, the USS Baltimore was equipped with advanced radar and weaponry for its time. After the war, it continued to serve in the Navy until it was decommissioned in 1949 and later scrapped in 1972.