USS Marinette is the Navy’s fastest—and most overpowered—ship. Powered by twin Boeing 777 jet turbines and four massive water jets, it can crash stop in its own length and operate in 15 feet of water.

Speed is hardly paramount for naval vessels -- it's not always going to be the feature that wins a battle or even a war -- but it doesn't hurt. Depending on the type of ship, speed can be the ...