The forward gun wells contain the four (4) three-inch/50-caliber guns, the gun directors, ammunition hoists and disposal bins that make up the Nitro Class ammunition ship's main armament. Prior to the fantail conversion to helicopter decks on these ships in the mid 1960s, an additional four (4) three-inch/50-caliber guns were located there. (See pictures of aft guns on the helo deck page)