HII announced that its Newport News Shipbuilding division has successfully completed builder's sea trials of John F. Kennedy CVN 79, the second Gerald R. Ford-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier.
The ship returned to NNS after testing important ship systems and components at sea for the first time. The sea trials brought together NNS shipbuilders, John F. Kennedy sailors, and Navy personnel to execute the testing and demonstrate ship operations.
This marks an important milestone in the construction of CVN 79, which continues the legacy of highly capable nuclear-powered aircraft carrier platforms. The Ford-class enhancements incorporated into the design support increased operational efficiency and reduced manning requirements. These enhancements also feature a new nuclear power plant and increased electrical power-generation capacity.
The successful completion of sea trials demonstrates NNS's commitment to delivering high-quality vessels that meet the Navy's evolving needs. The Gerald R. Ford-class carriers are designed to provide enhanced capabilities for carrier air wing operations, including improved survivability and lethality.
With CVN 79 now having completed its builder's sea trials, it is one step closer to entering service with the US Navy. The ship's successful testing of critical systems and components will help ensure that it meets the Navy's performance standards. NNS has a long history of delivering nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, with many notable vessels in its portfolio including the Nimitz-class and Gerald R.
Ford-class carriers. The company's expertise and experience have been essential to the success of CVN 79 thus far. The successful completion of sea trials is a testament to the hard work and dedication of NNS's shipbuilders, sailors, and Navy personnel who worked together to bring this important project to fruition.
The successful completion of builder's sea trials for John F. Kennedy CVN 79 marks an exciting milestone in the construction of a new generation of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers. With its advanced design features and enhanced capabilities, CVN 79 is poised to provide the US Navy with a highly capable platform for carrier air wing operations.
