The United States purchased the Roma from the Italian government for $250 000 in 1921. It was previously designated T34. It was the largest semi rigid airship in the world. It crashed in Norfolk Virginia during test flights on February 21 1922. The crash was believed to be caused by failure of the Roma's box rudder system which allowed it to maneuver over tight areas. The ship contacted high voltage lines and burst into flames. 34 people were killed 8 were injured and 3 escaped unharmed.