Eagle-class patrol craft

The Eagle Boats were a series of 200-foot patrol boats constructed by Ford Motor Company during World War I as part of a wartime initiative to mass-produce naval vessels. Despite initial plans to build 100 units, only about 60 were completed before the war's end in 1918. Designed for speed and intended to counter German submarines, these boats faced several challenges, including design flaws that affected their seaworthiness and operational effectiveness.

Key points about the Eagle Boats include:

In summary, the Eagle Boats represent Ford's wartime effort to innovate naval vessel production, highlighting both the potential and limitations of integrating automotive manufacturing into shipbuilding. Their operational history, though not without flaws, provides valuable insights into industrial innovation and its applications in military contexts.