The Knox-class design was derived from the Brooke-class frigate modified to extend range and without a long-range missile system.

[1] The ships were equipped with one Westinghouse geared steam turbine that drove the single propeller shaft.

The Knox class had a range of 4,500 nautical miles (8,300 km; 5,200 mi) at a speed of 20 knots (37 km/h; 23 mph).

The ships were equipped with a torpedo-carrying DASH drone helicopter; its telescoping hangar and landing pad were positioned amidships aft of the mack.

Constructed by Todd Shipyards, Los Angeles Division, San Pedro, CA, laid down 7 December 1968, launched 24 January 1970, and delivered 16 July 1971.