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NavSource Online: Aircraft Carrier Photo Archive

USS GERALD R. FORD   (CVN-78)


(Profile courtesy of ©Windjammer-Arts Naval Art & Aviation Art)



Flag Hoist/Radio Call Sign: November - Golf - Romeo - Foxtrot

Unit Awards, Campaign and Service Medals and Ribbons

   

Precedence of awards is from top to bottom, left to right
Top Row: National Defense Service Medal / Global War on Terrorism Service Medal

Operational and Building Data
Gerald R. Ford Class Nuclear Powered Aircraft Carrier
Awarded Laid down Launched Commissioned Decommissioned Stricken
10 Sept 2008 14 Nov 2009 9 Nov 2013 22 July 2017 (2067)  
Builder: Northrop Grumman Newport News, Newport News, VA

Advance construction of the CVN-21 project began on August 11, 2005 with the beveling of a 15-ton metal plate at Northrop Grumman Newport News' shipyards in Virginia. This metal plate will eventually be used in the construction of CVN-78. Advance construction will take an estimated two years before construction can begin on the actual ship herself. This gives technicians and engineers the time needed to test and design the ship, and all the new technologies that will be put into the vessel.

To replace USS Enterprise (CVN-65), inactivated in 2012 after 51 years of service. CVN-78 was officially named Gerald R. Ford, after the nation's 38th President, on 16 January 2007. On 10 September 2008 Northrop Grumman Corporation received a $5.1-billion, 7-year cost plus incentive fee contract award for detail design and construction of CVN-78.

As of July 2016, the ship was scheduled for delivery to the Navy in November 2016. In early October, however, it was announced that the delivery date would not be met, and that a new delivery date had not been set.

Conducted builder's sea trials off the coast, 8–14 April 2017. Successfully completed acceptance trials conducted by the U.S. Navy's Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV) in the Atlantic Ocean, 24–26 May. Delivered to the Navy by Huntington Ingalls Industries, Newport News Shipbuilding division, 31 May 2017.


Specifications

Key changes from previous carriers include: a sortie rate increased by 25% thanks to an enhanced flight deck layout, with improved weapons movement and "pit stops" to fuel and arm aircraft, a redesigned and relocated island, three (instead of four) faster and more powerful elevators, Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS, instead of steam catapults) and an Advanced Aircraft Recovery System (AARS); a new nuclear power plant; a new combat system; allowance for future technologies and reduced manning.

General Characteristics
(As of December 2005)
Displacement: approximately 100,000 long tons (approximately 101,600 metric tons) full load
Dimensions: 1,092' x 134' (flight deck, 256')  /  332.8 x 40.8 (flight deck, 78) meters
Power plant: 2 nuclear reactors; 4 shafts
Speed: 30+ knots
Armament: Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile; Rolling Airframe Missile; CIWS
Aircraft: 75+
Crew: 4,660 (ship, air wing and staff)

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Namesake
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CVN-78 is named after Gerald Rudolph Ford, Jr. (1913–2006), 38th President of the United States of America (1974–1977).

(Read about LCDR Gerald R. Ford, Jr, USNR, biography and WW2 service at the Naval Historical Center website.)

Gerald R. Ford, Jr. became the fourth consecutive President to have served in the US Navy. He was the first vice president in American history to succeed to the nation's highest office because of the resignation of a president, and he was the first person to occupy the White House without being elected either president or vice president. He viewed himself as "a moderate in domestic affairs, a conservative in fiscal affairs, and a dyed-in-the-wool internationalist in foreign affairs." Ford acted vigorously to maintain US power and prestige after the collapse of Cambodia and South Vietnam. Preventing a new war in the Middle East remained a major objective. Detente with the Soviet Union continued. On Inauguration Day his successor, President Carter, began his speech: "For myself and for our Nation, I want to thank my predecessor for all he has done to heal our land."

DOD File photo # 061227-D-0000X-001.
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LCDR Gerald Ford, who later became the 38th President of the United States (1974–1977) in uniform, 1945. Ford received his commission as an Ensign in the U.S Naval Reserve on 13 April 1942 and later participated in many actions in the Pacific aboard the fast aircraft carrier USS Monterey (CVL-26). He was eventually released from active duty under honorable conditions in February 1946. President Ford, 93, passed away on 26 December 2006 at his home in Rancho Mirage, Calif. DOD photo (# 061227-N-0000X-003).

Robert M. Cieri
Design & Construction
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Artist’s concept of CVN-21 one of a new class of aircraft carriers. A new nuclear propulsion plant will power the next class of aircraft carriers. The new plant will require fewer operators thereby lowering life-cycle costs, and will provide increased electrical power that will be available for the demands of developing technology. Smart sensors will assist in further reducing Navy watch standing requirements and in automating damage control functions such as detecting fire and flooding situations. Flight deck redesign and a transition to an advanced aircraft recovery system (AARS) will reduce crew workload, enhance safety and reduce the costs of operating and maintaining a carrier throughout her planed 50-year life cycle. U.S. Navy graphic (# 030606-N-0000X-001), June 6, 2003.

Note: At the 2003 Navy League show Newport News displayed a model of a new carrier with four catapults and three, rather than four, elevators — the island being moved aft. The large, redesigned deck makes it easier to handle aircraft. When combined with the newer, more powerful and faster elevators and catapults, it is claimed that the number of sorties per day can be significantly increased.

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The first piece of steel, a 15-ton plate for a side shell unit of CVN-78, the first ship of the CVN-21 program, is cut at the Northrop Grumman Newport News shipyard, August 11, 2005. The ceremony was held at the shipyards new heavy-plate bay facility, one of several new facilities built for the CVN-21 program. Innovations for the CVN-21 program include an enhanced flight deck capable of increased sortie rates, improved weapons movement, a redesigned island, a new nuclear power plant, reduced manning and allowance for future technologies.

Photo by John Whalen (# DCS05-417-146).

Courtesy of Nortrop Grumman Corporation
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Newport News, Va., Aug. 11, 2005 — The participants of the cutting for the first piece of steel for CVN-78, the first ship of the CVN-21 program, pose during a ceremony at Northrop Grumman Newport News shipyard. The ceremony was held at the shipyard's new heavy-plate bay facility, one of several new facilities built for the CVN-21 program.

Left to right: RADM H. Denby Starling II, Commander, Naval Air Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet, USN; RADM David Architzel, Program Executive Officer for Aircraft Carriers, USN; Joe S. Frank, Mayor of Newport News; Mike Petters, president, Northrop Grumman Newport News; Rep. Jo Ann Davis (R-Va.); Rep. Bobby Scott (D-Va.); and CAPT Michael E. McMahon, Commanding Officer, Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair, Newport News, USN.

Photo by John Whalen, courtesy of Northrop Grumman Corporation (# 050811-O-0000W-002).

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Commander, Operational Test and Evaluation Force and Program Executive Officer for Aircraft Carriers, RADM David Architzel, signs the first steel plate cut for CVN-78, the first ship of the CVN-21 program, during the ceremony at Northrop Grumman Newport News shipyard, August 11, 2008.

Photo by John Whalen (# DCS05-417-069).

Courtesy of Nortrop Grumman Corporation
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An artist's conception (2004) of CVN-78, the first of a new generation carrier design, CVN-21, for the US Navy, underway at Northrop Grumman Newport News. Construction is slated to begin in 2007. US Navy Photo (# 060630-N-0000X-001) courtesy Northrop Grumman Newport News Shipbuilding

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Another artist's concept of CVN-78. US Navy graphic (# 050708-D-8455H-001), July 8, 2005.

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A conceptual rendering of CVN-78. US Navy Illustration (# 060630-N-0000X-003) courtesy Northrop Grumman Newport News Shipbuilding.

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A design rendering of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78). This is the first in a class of new carriers to be built by Huntington Ingalls Newport News Shipbuilding. U.S. Navy photo illustration courtesy of Newport News Shipbuilding, # 100512-ZZ999-201. Washington, 12 May 2010.

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A design rendering of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, the future USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), July 2008.

Newport News Shipbuilding file, # DCS08-627-3.

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The Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG) program will supply Navy aircraft carriers with an electric motor based system that will replace the current MK 7 hydraulic system for aircraft deceleration during recovery operations. AAG allows arrestment of a broader range of aircraft, reduces manning and maintenance, and provides higher reliability and safety margins. GA's design replaces the mechanical hydraulic ram with rotary engines using simple, proven energy-absorbing water turbines coupled to a large induction motor, providing fine control of the arresting forces.

(Text and image courtesy of General Atomics.)

Tommy Trampp
Naming Ceremony, Washington, D.C., 16 January 2007
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Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Dr. Donald C. Winter, Vice President Dick Cheney, Susan Ford Bales, Jack Ford, Mike Ford, Steve Ford, Sen. John Warner, Sen. Carl Levin and Chief of Naval Operations ADM Mike Mullen salute as the model of USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) is unveiled. The ship as well as the newest class of aircraft carriers was named after the 38th President of the United States during a ceremony at the Pentagon.U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Shawn P. Eklund (# 070116-N-3642E-171).

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Secretary of the Navy Donald C. Winter, Sen. Carl Levin, Sen. John Warner and Chief of Naval Operations ADM Mike Mullen (l-r) applaud Susan Ford Bates after her remarks at the unveiling and naming of USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78). U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Chad J. McNeeley (# 070116-N-0696M-095).

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Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV), the Honorable Dr. Donald C. Winter, speaks to an audience of 300 during the official naming ceremony of USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78). U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Shawn P. Eklund (# 070116-N-3642E-063).

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Susan Ford Bales, daughter of President Gerald R. Ford, speaks during the official naming ceremony of USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78). U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Shawn P. Eklund (# 070116-N-3642E-217).

Robert M. Cieri
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Remarks by Dr. Donald C. Winter, Secretary of Navy — Naming of USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), Pentagon, Arlington, VA, Tuesday, January 16, 2007.

Robert M. Cieri
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An inner bottom unit of PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) is hoisted by crane at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding, Newport News, Va., January 4, 2008.

Photo by Ricky Thompson.

Courtesy of Nortrop Grumman Corporation
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The foundry's furnace reached temperatures up to 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit and melted the steel for Gerald R. Ford's (CVN-78) struts in about six hours. A strut is a cast structure that is welded into the hull to support the ship's shafting and propellers.

Photo by Chris Oxley (# DCS09-668-177).

Courtesy of Nortrop Grumman Corporation, via Bill Gonyo
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Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding in Newport News, Va., used its foundry to melt 35 tons of steel to cast strut arms needed to support the propeller shafts of the nuclear aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) on 9 October 2009.

Photo by Chris Oxley (# DCS09-668-222).

Courtesy of Nortrop Grumman Corporation, via Bill Gonyo
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Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) program engineers (left to right) Bruce Cashwell, Bob O'Brien, Paul Bredlau, Arnold Williams, Jessie Zarkowski, Connie Holub, Jimmy Boonruang, and Jackie Tisdale, sign a 15-foot banner to signify the completion of the ship's keel unit. Photo by John Whalen (#7581).

Courtesy of Nortrop Grumman Corporation
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John Knight, crane rigger, signs a 15-foot banner that would be on display at the Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) keel laying ceremony on 14 November 2009. Photo by Ricky Thompson (#7582).

Courtesy of Nortrop Grumman Corporation
Keel Laying and Authentication Ceremony, Newport News, Va., 14 November 2009
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Commemorative banner signed by Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding, Newport News, employees.

Photo by S. Dale Hargrave
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Speaker's platform. Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Ray Mabus is at the podium.

Photo by S. Dale Hargrave
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Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) the Honorable Ray Mabus delivers remarks during the keel laying and authentication ceremony for the newest class aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78). U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kevin S. O'Brien (#091114-N-5549O-091).

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Susan Ford Bales, daughter of former President Gerald R. Ford and ship's sponsor of the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), writes her initials onto a metal plate during the keel laying and authentication ceremony. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kevin S. O'Brien (# 091114-N-5549O-126).

Steve Graham
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Susan Ford Bales, daughter of President Gerald R. Ford, served as the ship's sponsor and keel authenticator for the ceremony, Newport News, Va., 14 November 2009. Bales authenticated the keel by chalking her initials onto a metal plate. (Left to right) Secretary of the Navy, Ray Mabus; U.S. Senator Carl Levin, (D-Mich); Director of Naval Nuclear Propulsion, ADM Kirkland Donald; Ship Sponsor Susan Ford Bales; and Corporate Vice President and President of Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding Mike Petters.

Photo courtesy of the Northrop Grumman Corporation, via Bill Gonyo
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Preparing to weld the Authenticator's initials into the keel plate. In front from left: SECNAV Mabus; Sen. Carl Levin (D, Mich), principal speaker; Susan Ford Bales, Authenticator and ship's Sponsor; Mr. Robert Bowker, Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding welder.

Photo by S. Dale Hargrave
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Robert Bowker welds the initials of Susan Ford Bales into the keel of the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) during a keel laying and authentication ceremony at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding in Newport News. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kevin S. O'Brien (# 091114-N-5549O-135).

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Mr. Bowker welds Susan Ford Bales' initials into the keel plate to authenticate the keel laying.

Photo by S. Dale Hargrave
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Robert Bowker, a structural welder with Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding, welds the initials of Susan Ford Bales into the keel of the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) during a keel laying and authentication ceremony. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cory Rose (#091114-N-0924R-003).

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The welded initials.

Photo by S. Dale Hargrave
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U.S. Senator Carl Levin, left; ADM Kirkland H. Donald, director of Naval Nuclear Propulsion; Susan Ford Bales, daughter of former President Gerald R. Ford and ship's sponsor; and Robert Bowker, a structural welder with Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding, display Bales's welded initials into a piece of steel during a keel laying and authentication ceremony. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cory Rose (#091114-N-0924R-002).

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(Left to right) U.S. Senator Carl Levin, (D-Mich); Ship Sponsor Susan Ford Bales; Corporate Vice President and President of Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding Mike Petters; and Shipbuilder Robert Bowker. Bowker welded Bales initials onto a plate, which will be permanently affixed to the ship, during the Keel Laying Ceremony, Newport News, Va., 14 November 2009.

Photo courtesy of the Northrop Grumman Corporation, via Bill Gonyo
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The first keel assembly is moved toward the building dock.

Photo by S. Dale Hargrave
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Susan Ford Bales, daughter of the ship's namesake, speaks to the crowd.

Photo by S. Dale Hargrave
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The first keel assembly is placed in the building dock.

Photo by S. Dale Hargrave
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The aircraft carrier PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) under construction in dry dock, at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding-Newport News, 28 July 2010.

Photo courtesy of Newport News Shipbuilding, a Division of Huntington Ingalls Industries.

Submitted by Ed Semeia.
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Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding in Newport News, Va., lifted two generators weighing over 195,000 pounds apiece into the aft section of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) on 28 July 2010. The generators supply backup power throughout the ship in the event that power is lost.

Photo by Chris Oxley.

Photo courtesy of Newport News Shipbuilding, a Division of Huntington Ingalls Industries.
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An F/A-18E Super Hornet prepares to launch during a test of the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) at Naval Air Systems Command, Lakehurst, N.J., 18 December 2010. The Navy has used steam catapults for more than 50 years to launch aircraft from aircraft carriers. EMALS is a complete carrier-based launch system designed for Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) and future Ford-class carriers. Newer, heavier and faster aircraft will result in launch energy requirements approaching the limits of the steam catapult, increasing maintenance on the system. The system's technology allows for a smooth acceleration at both high and low speeds, increasing the carrier's ability to launch aircraft in support of the warfighter. EMALS will provide the capability for launching all current and future carrier air wing platforms from lightweight unmanned aerial vehicles to heavy strike fighters. The first ship components were scheduled to be delivered to CVN-78 in 2011. U.S. Navy photo (# 101218-N-0000X-001).

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An F/A-18E Super Hornet is launched during a test of the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) at Naval Air Systems Command, Lakehurst, N.J., 18 December 2010. U.S. Navy photo (# 101218-N-0000X-002).

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PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), the lead ship in a new class of U.S. Navy carriers, took another step toward completion Saturday, 21 May 2011, as Huntington Ingalls Industries, Newport News, VA, erected a 945-ton superlift near the stern of the ship. The superlift erected on Gerald R. Ford contains a diesel generator room, a pump room, an oily water waste pump room, 16 complete tanks and 18 partial tanks that will be completed when the superlift is welded to the rest of the ship. The superlift is assembled from 18 smaller structural units supplied by the steel fabrication and assembly division. It is one of 162 total superlifts that comprise the ship.

Photo courtesy of Newport News Shipbuilding, a Division of Huntington Ingalls Industries.

Submitted by Ed Semeia.
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The aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) under construction at Huntington Ingalls Newport News Shipbuilding, 31 March 2011. U.S. Navy photo by Ricky Thompson courtesy of Newport News Shipbuilding (# 110331-N-ZZ999-202).

Photo courtesy of Newport News Shipbuilding, a Division of Huntington Ingalls Industries.
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Newport News Shipbuilding completed an 825-ton superlift on the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) on 12 September 2011. At 90 feet (27.4 m) long, 120 feet (36.6 m) wide and 30 feet (9.1 m) deep, the stern section superlift was among the largest of the 162 that comprise Gerald R. Ford.

Photo by John Whalen.

Photo courtesy of Newport News Shipbuilding, a Division of Huntington Ingalls Industries.

Submitted by Ed Semeia.
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The future aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) under construction at Huntington Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding, 26 January 2012. Gerald R. Ford is the first in class of a new carrier design being built at Newport News. Photo ©Huntington Ingalls Industries, by Chris Oxley (USN # 120126-N-ZZ999-011).

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The future aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) under construction at Huntington Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding, 27 February 2012. U.S. Navy photo by Ricky Thompson (# 120227-N-ZZ999-011).

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The first piece of the flight deck for the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) was erected 7 April 2012. The 717-metric ton unit includes combat systems and electronics spaces.

Photo by Chris Oxley.

Photo courtesy of Newport News Shipbuilding, a Division of Huntington Ingalls Industries.

Submitted by Ron Reeves.
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The first flight deck unit for the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) is lifted into place at Huntington Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding, 7 April 2012. PCU Gerald R. Ford is the first in class of a new carrier design being built at Newport News. U.S. Navy photo # 120407-N-ZZ999-101, by Chris Oxley.

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The final keel section of the future USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) is lowered into place at Huntington Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding, Newport News, Va., 24 May 2012. The 680-metric-ton, 60-foot-tall lower bow unit was joined to the other keel sections and was the last major section of the ship installed below the waterline. Gerald R. Ford was at the time more than 75 percent structurally complete in the dry dock, and on schedule to launch in 2013. The ship was scheduled to be delivered to the fleet in 2015. U.S. Navy photos courtesy of Ricky Thompson, Huntington Ingalls Industries Newport News Shipbuilding Division.

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NS027817b: The lower bow unit for Gerald R. Ford is lifted in place. Photo # 120524-N-ZZ999-011.

Ron Reeves.
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Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) ADM Jonathan Greenert tours the aircraft carrier Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), 14 September 2012, to personally see the construction efforts of the newest class of nuclear-powered super carrier, while at the Newport News Shipbuilding shipyard. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Peter D. Lawlor (# 120914-N-WL435-159).

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During a test lift before the offical landing the island is moved over the flight deck of the future USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), 24 January 2013.

Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) Photo by Ricky Thompson (# DCS13-38-122).

HII,
via Michael Mohl.
Island Landing Ceremony, Newport News, Va., 26 January 2013
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CAPT John Meier, prospective commanding officer of the future USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), speaks at the beginning of the island landing ceremony at Huntington Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding, 26 January 2013. The island-landing ceremony marks the final super-lift in the construction process for the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, scheduled to be delivered to the Navy in 2015. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Nathanael Miller (# 130126-N-YX169-053).

Ron Reeves.
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RADM Ted N. Branch, Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic, speaks at the beginning of the future nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN-78) island landing ceremony at Huntington Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding, 26 January 2013. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Nathanael Miller (# 130126-N-YX169-058).

Ron Reeves.
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Susan Ford Bales, daughter of late President Gerald R. Ford and ship's sponsor, speaks at the beginning of the future nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN-78) island landing ceremony at Huntington Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding, 26 January 2013. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Nathanael Miller (# 130126-N-YX169-095).

Ron Reeves.
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Huntington Ingalls Industries celebrated significant progress as the 555-metric ton island was lowered onto the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) at the company's Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division, 26 January 2013. The 60-foot long, 30-foot wide island was the 452nd lift of the nearly 500 total lifts needed to complete the aircraft carrier.

Photo courtesy of Newport News Shipbuilding, a Division of Huntington Ingalls Industries.

Submitted by Ed Semeia.
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The 555-metric ton island for the future USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) is lifted into position on the ship's flight deck during an island landing ceremony at Huntington Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding, 26 January 2013. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sabrina Fine (# 130126-N-NB538-151).

Ron Reeves.
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As above. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Nathanael Miller (# 130126-N-YX169-134).

Ron Reeves.
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As above. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sabrina Fine (# 130126-N-NB538-235).

Ron Reeves.
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RADM Ted N. Branch, Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic, places several coins under the future USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN-78) island during the "island landing ceremony" at Huntington Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding, 26 January 2013. Several mementoes are placed under the island in keeping with ancient shipbuilding traditions. Watching Branch are CAPT John Meier, prospective commanding officer; Newport News Shipbuilding president Matt Mulherin; and Susan Ford Bales, daughter of late President Gerald R. Ford and the ship's sponsor. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Nathanael Miller (# 130126-N-YX169-244).

Ron Reeves.
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The 555-metric ton island for the future nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) sits in place after being lifted into position on the ship's flight deck during an island landing ceremony at Huntington Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding, 26 January 2013. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Nathanael Miller (# 130126-N-YX169-360).

Ed Semeia.
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The island rests on the flight deck of the future USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), 19 February 2013.

Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) photo by Ricky Thompson, # DCS13-93-154.

Courtesy of HII,
via Michael Mohl.
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The flight deck of Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) is completed with the addition of the upper bow, 9 April 2013. The bow weighs 787 metric tons and brings the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier to 96 percent structural completion. U.S. Navy photo courtesy of Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc. (# 130409-N-ZZ999-101).

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The 1,050-metric ton gantry crane at Newport News Shipbuilding lifts the forward end of one of the catapults of the Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Gerald R. Ford (CVN‑78) into place, 8 May 2013. This completed more than three years of structural work making the primary hull structure of the aircraft carrier 100 percent complete. U.S. Navy photo courtesy of Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc. (# 130508-N-ZZ999-001).

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Shaun Worones, left, and Jerry Womack, Newport News Shipbuilding welders, weld the cover on a time capsule aboard the future USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78). The capsule contains commemorative items from the ship's commanding officer, CAPT John F. Meier, and the ship's sponsor, Susan Ford Bales. The event was held in honor of President Gerald R. Ford's 100th birthday, 13 July 2013. U.S. Navy photo courtesy of Huntington Ingalls Industries, by John Whalen (# 130711-N-ZZ999-001).

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223k

Bow view of PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) while under construction, circa July 2013.

Courtesy of Business Insider,
via Don Schroeder and Ron Reeves
CVN-78
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215k

"This bow alone is more than three stories tall and weighs 116,000 pounds."

CVN-78
NS027827a
177k

"Chain is made up of links weighing 360 pounds each." Circa July 2013.

CVN-78
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113k

"Using 'Big Blue'—the largest crane in the Western Hemisphere—towering 235 feet above the shipyard."

"'Big Blue' can lift nearly 2.5 million pounds at a time and is essential for assembling the new class of ship."

Circa 2013.

CVN-78
NS027827e
139k
CVN-78
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188k
CVN-78
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130k

Workers tighten studs on a port propeller shaft tail cap on Gerald R. Ford using a torque wrench.

Photo courtesy of Huntington Ingalls Industries.

Ron Reeves
Flooding the Dry Dock, Newport News, Va., 11 October 2013
CVN-78
NS027820
98k

Susan Ford Bales, ship's sponsor for Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), tours the dry dock prior to flooding the basin and floating the future aircraft carrier for the first time. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Joshua J. Wahl (# 131011-N-KK576-003).

Bob Haner
CVN-78
NS027820a
187k

Newport News Shipbuilding floods Dry Dock 12 to float PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78). U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Joshua J. Wahl (# 131011-N-KK576-013).

Bob Haner
CVN-78
NS027820b
141k

Newport News Shipbuilding floods Dry Dock 12 to float PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), Newport News, Va., 11 October 2013. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Joshua J. Wahl (# 131011-N-KK576-015).

Bob Haner
CVN-78
NS027820c
123k

Newport News Shipbuilding floods Dry Dock 12 to float PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), Newport News, Va., 11 October 2013. U.S. Navy photo by John Whalen (# 131011-N-ZZ999-001).

Bob Haner
CVN-78
NS027820d
123k

Susan Ford Bales, ship's sponsor for PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), begins the initial flooding procedure to float the aircraft carrier in Newport News Shipbuilding Dry Dock 12. U.S. Navy photo by Chirs Oxley (# 131011-N-ZZ999-002).

Bob Haner
CVN-78
NS027820e
141k

Susan Ford Bales, ship's sponsor for PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), observes the flooding of dry dock 12 at Newport News Shipbuilding, 11 October 2013, during floating operations for the future aircraft carrier. U.S. Navy photo by Chis Oxley (# 131011-N-ZZ999-003).

Bob Haner
Christening, Newport News, Va., 9 November 2013
CVN-78
NS027824
106k

CVN-78 sits in dry dock 12 at Newport News Shipbuilding, 8 November 2013, waiting for Ship's Sponsor Susan Ford Bales to break a bottle of sparkling wine across the bow, christening the ship Gerald R. Ford in a centuries-old naval tradition said to bring life and luck to the ship. This is the first of a new class of aircraft carriers replacing the 10-ship Nimitz class launched in 1972. The Gerald R. Ford class brings improved warfighting capability, quality of life improvements and reduced acquisition and life cycle-costs. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Davis Anderson (# 131108-N-HZ247-002).

Robert M. Cieri
CVN-78
NS027821a
90k

ADM John Richardson, Director of Nuclear Reactors, delivers brief remarks at the christening ceremony of the future USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) at Newport News Shipbuilding, Newport News, Va., 9 November 2013. The first in her class, the aircraft carrier is scheduled to join the Fleet in 2016. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Peter D. Lawlor (# 131109-N-WL435-441).

USN
CVN-78
NS027821b
75k

Former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld delivers brief remarks at the christening ceremony of the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) at Newport News Shipbuilding, Newport News, Va., 9 November 2013. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Peter D. Lawlor (# 131109-N-WL435-466).

USN
CVN-78
NS027821c
58k

Former Vice President Dick Cheney delivers brief remarks at the christening ceremony of the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) at Newport News Shipbuilding, Newport News, Va., 9 November 2013. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Peter D. Lawlor (# 131109-N-WL435-526).

USN
CVN-78
NS027821d
62k

Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) ADM Jonathan Greenert makes brief remarks at the christening ceremony of the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) at Newport News Shipbuilding, Newport News, Va., 9 November 2013. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Peter D. Lawlor (# 131109-N-WL435-690).

USN
CVN-78
NS027821e
79k

Susan Ford Bales, daughter of former President Gerald R. Ford and sponsor of the aircraft carrier that bears his name, thanks the current and future crews at the christening ceremony of the future USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) at Newport News Shipbuilding, Newport News, Va., 9 November 2013. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Peter D. Lawlor (# 131109-N-WL435-869).

USN
CVN-78
NS027821h
79k

Susan Ford Bales, daughter of former President Gerald R. Ford and sponsor of the aircraft carrier that bears his name, receives the bottle used during the christening ceremony of the future USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) at Newport News Shipbuilding, Newport News, Va., 9 November 2013. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Peter D. Lawlor (# 131109-N-WL435-998).

USN
CVN-78
NS027821
181k

Ship's Sponsor Susan Ford Bales, daughter of President Gerald R. Ford, christens the Navy's newest aircraft carrier, Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) during a ceremony at Huntington Ingalls Newport News Shipbuilding, Newport News, Va., 9 November 2013. CVN-78 is the first of a new class of aircraft carriers replacing the 10-ship Nimitz class launched in 1972. The Gerald R. Ford class brings improved warfighting capabilities, quality of life improvements and reduced acquisition and life cycle costs. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Joshua J. Wahl (# 131109-N-KK576-270).

USN
CVN-78
NS027821f
122k

Members of the official party applaud at the conclusion of the christening ceremony of the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) at Newport News Shipbuilding, Newport News, Va., 9 November 2013. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Peter D. Lawlor (# 131109-N-WL435-958).

USN
CVN-78
NS027821o
127k

Susan Ford Bales, daughter of former President Gerald R. Ford and sponsor of the ship, breaks a bottle of champagne on the bow of PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) at Newport News Shipbuilding during the christening ceremony for the aircraft carrier, 9 November 2013. The first in her class, Gerald R. Ford is scheduled to join the fleet in 2016. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Peter D. Lawlor (# 131109-N-WL435-911).

USN
CVN-78
NS027821g
76k

Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) ADM Jonathan Greenert congratulates Susan Ford Bales, sponsor of the aircraft carrier that bears her father's name, at the conclusion of the christening ceremony of the future USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) at Newport News Shipbuilding, Newport News, Va., 9 November 2013. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Peter D. Lawlor (# 131109-N-WL435-982).

USN
CVN-78
NS027821i
158k

Service members, crew, their families and distinguished guests bow their heads as Navy CAPT Jerome Hinson gives a benediction during the ship's christening ceremony. The Ford class brings improved war fighting capacity, quality of life improvements and reduced acquisition and life cycle costs. Newport News, Va., 9 November 2013. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Patrick Grieco (# 131109-N-VT117-043).

Robert M. Cieri
CVN-78
NS027821j
124k

Tens of thousands of Navy supporters attend the christening ceremony of the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) at Newport News Shipbuilding, Newport News, Va., 9 November 2013. The first in the Ford-class carriers, CVN-78 is scheduled to join the fleet in 2016. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Peter D. Lawlor (# 131109-N-WL435-370).

Robert M. Cieri
CVN-78
NS027821k
24k

Christening program.

Robert M. Cieri
CVN-78
NS027821l
122k

Order of events.

Robert M. Cieri
CVN-78
NS027821m
105k

Invitation.

Robert M. Cieri
CVN-78
NS027821n
115k

Admission ticket.

Robert M. Cieri
CVN-78
NS027823
158k

Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) gets underway, 17 November 2013, beginning the ship's launch and transit to Newport News Shipyard pier 3 for the final stages of construction and testing. The aircraft carrier was christened 9 November 2013 and was under construction at Huntington Ingalls Industries Newport News Shipyard. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Aidan P. Campbell (# 131117-N-DO831-018).

Robert M. Cieri
CVN-78
NS027823a
113k

Pre-Commissioning Unit Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) breaks the threshold of Newport News Shipyard Dry Dock 12 into the James River during the ship's launch and transit to Newport News Shipyard pier three for the final stages of construction and testing, 17 November 2013. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Second Class Aidan P. Campbell (# 131117-N-DO831-032).

Robert M. Cieri
CVN-78
NS027823b
80k

PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) transits the James River during the ship's launch and transit to Newport News Shipyard pier three for the final stages of construction and testing, 17 November 2013. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Second Class Aidan P. Campbell (# 131117-N-DO831-080).

Robert M. Cieri
CVN-78
NS027823c
75k

PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) is moved to Pier 3 at Newport News Shipbuilding, 17 November 2013. The ship would undergo additional outfitting and testing for the next 28 months. U.S. Navy photo courtesy of Huntington Ingalls Industries by Chris Oxley (# 131117-N-ZZ999-101).

Bill Gonyo
Robert M. Cieri
CVN-78
NS027823d
106k

As above. Photo courtesy of Huntington Ingalls Industries.

Tommy Trampp
CVN-78
NS027829
214k

An early morning view of Pier 3 and the aircraft carrier PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), 9 April 2014. Photo by Ricky Thompson, ©Newport News Shipbuilding (# DCS14-210-51).

Ron Reeves
CVN-78
NS027833
49k

PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) rests at pier three with the sunrise behind the island, 22 April 2014. Photo courtesy of ©Newport News Shipbuilding.

Tommy Trampp
CVN-78
NS027833a
206k

Aircraft carriers Enterprise (CVN-65) and Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) are docked alongside each other in the South Yard, as seen from the Navy Garage, Newport News, VA, 22 April 2014. Photo by Ricky Thompson, ©Huntington Ingalls Industries (# DCS14-252).

Ron Reeves
CVN-78
NS027836
239k

The island house of PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) looms over trees in downtown Newport News, 8 May 2014. Photo by Chris Oxley.

Ron Reeves
CVN-78
NS027828
306k

The Newport News Independence Day celebration, 4 July 2014, explodes with fireworks above ex-USS Enterprise (CVN-65) and PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78). Photo by John Whalen, ©Newport News Shipbuilding (# DCS14-450-75).

Ron Reeves
CVN-78
NS027825
153k

Ex-USS Enterprise (CVN-65) passes the torch to Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) to continue the protection of freedom.

Photo by John Whalen, 5 July 2014, Newport News Shipbuilding (# DCS14-450-20).

Ron Reeves
CVN-78
NS027830
104k

The sun rises over the south end of the shipyard, 6 February 2015, featuring PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), ex-USS Enterprise (CVN-65) and the VASCIC building. Photo by Ricky Thompson, ©Huntington Ingalls Industries (# DCS15-74-13).

Tommy Trampp
CVN-78
NS027832
167k

This series of photos of PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) was taken on Monday, 20 July 2015 at Newport News, Virginia.

Anthony Wood
CVN-78
NS027832a
125k
CVN-78
NS027832b
141k
CVN-78
NS027832c
144k
CVN-78
NS027832d
137k
CVN-78
NS027837
159k

Sailors in Air Department's V-3 Division aboard Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) line-up during general quarters on the flight deck, while in Newport News, Va., 31 March 2016. This ship-wide general quarters drill focused on damage control and emergency responses and was a significant step in certifying the crew as they trained to fight and take delivery of the ship. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Cathrine Mae O. Campbell (# 160331-N-ZE240-040).

USN
CVN-78
NS027834
126k

PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) statue unveiling ceremony aboard the ship, 7 April 2016, Newport News, Va. The statue depicts Gerald R. Ford holding a sextant and looking out over the water in memory of his naval service during World War Two. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Joshua J. Wahl (# 160407-N-KK576-183).

Ron Reeves
CVN-78
NS027834a
131k

A bronze statue honoring President Gerald R. Ford was unveiled aboard PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) during a ceremony in the ship's hangar bay, 7 April 2016, Newport News, Va. Ship Sponsor Susan Ford Bales, sculptor J. Brett Grill, and representatives of Huntington Ingalls Industries Newport News Shipbuilding attended the event. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matthew Fairchild (# 160407-N-OG138-076).

CVN-78
NS027838
68k

The sun rises over Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), 8 June 2016, in Newport News, Va., marking the beginning of the second day of Fast Cruise. The aircraft carrier was conducting a three-day Fast Cruise to familiarize the crew with the ship's systems for an extended period of time. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Ryan Carter (# 160608-N-TF680-001).

Gerald R. Ford completed her turn-ship evolution 11th June. This was a major milestone that brought the country's newest nuclear-powered aircraft carrier another step closer to delivery and commissioning.

Ron Reeves
CVN-78
NS027839
80k

Tug boats maneuver Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) into the James River during the ship's turn ship evolution, 11 June 2016. This is a major milestone that brings the country's newest aircraft carrier another step closer to delivery and commissioning. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cathrine Mae O. Campbell (# 160611-N-ZE240-178).

Robert Hurst
Ron Reeves
CVN-78
NS027839a
88k

Tug boats maneuver PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), into the James River during the ship's Turn Ship evolution, 11 June 2016. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cathrine Mae O. Campbell (# 160611-N-ZE240-001).

Tommy Trampp
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS0265dl
231k

Ex-Enterprise (CVN-65) in the foreground, and the future USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) in the middle distance. Newport News, Virginia, 1 December 2016. Photo ©Newport News Shipbuilding (# DCS16-700-40), by Chris Oxley.

Bob Haner, YN1, USN (Ret.)
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027840
79k

The future USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) underway on her own power for the first time, 8 April 2017, Newport News, VA. The first-of-class ship—the first new U.S. aircraft carrier design in 40 years—would spend several days conducting builder's sea trials, a comprehensive test of many of the ship's key systems and technologies. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ridge Leoni (# 170408-N-WZ792-033).

Ron Reeves
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027840b
897k

PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) underway on her own power for the first time, 8 April 2017.

U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ridge Leoni (# 170408-N-WZ792-198).

Boc Canchola, BT, USN (Ret.)
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027840a
157k

PCU Gerald R. Ford transits past the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, as she gets underway under her own power for the first time, 8 April 2017, for her initial builder's sea trials. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kristopher Ruiz.

Bob Haner, YN1, USN (Ret.)
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027849
435k

PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) builder's sea trials in the Atlantic Ocean, 11 April 2017. Photo by Ashley Major, ©Newport News Shipbuilding (# DCS17-208-1680).

Ron Reeves
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027841
98k

PCU Gerald R. Ford leaves an "S" type wake, while doing some high speed turns, during her initial builder's sea trials just off the east coast in the Atlantic, 12 April 2017. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Gitte Schmirrmacher.

Bob Haner, YN1, USN (Ret.)
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027841a
741k

PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) builder's sea trials in the Atlantic Ocean, 12 April 2017. Shaft alley. Photo by Ashley Major, ©Newport News Shipbuilding (# DCS17-208-1964).

Ron Reeves
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027871
366k

PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) pulls into Naval Station Norfolk for the first time, 14 April 2017, after conducting builder's sea trials for several days.

U.S. Navy photo by Matt Hildreth, courtesy of Huntington Ingalls Industries, # 170414-O-N0101-110.

Via Benjamin Gross-Payot
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027842
100k

Quartermaster 1st Class Jose Triana, assigned to the Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), attaches signal flags to a line, 27 April 2017, at Norfolk, VA. The aircraft carrier's "over the top" lines were being weight tested by the ship's navigation department. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Elizabeth A. Thompson (# 170427-N-ES536-0005).

Ron Reeves
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027854
602k

Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), left, and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) sit pierside at Naval Station Norfolk, 22 May 2017. Dwight D. Eisenhower was pierside during the sustainment phase of the Optimized Fleet Response Plan (OFRP). U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Nathan T. Beard (# 170522-N-QI061-088).

Gary Priolo
2017–
Commissioning, Newport News, Va., 22 July 2017

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) Commissioning Ceremony video. (US Navy video hosted on   YouTube  .)

CVN-78
NS027844
225k

Sailors man the rails of the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) during her commissioning ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk, Va. She is the lead ship of a new class, and the first new U.S. aircraft carrier designed in 40 years. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Julio Martinez Martinez (# 170722-N-JH384-216).

Ron Reeves
CVN-78
NS027844a
244k

Sailors man the rails of the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) during her commissioning ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk, Va. She is the lead ship of a new class, and the first new U.S. aircraft carrier designed in 40 years. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Julio Martinez Martinez (# 170722-N-JH384-222).

Ron Reeves
CVN-78
NS027844b
278k

MV-22 Ospreys assigned to the U.S. Presidential Helicopter Squadron land on the flight deck of USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) during the ship's commissioning ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk, Va., 22 July 2017. Gerald R. Ford is the lead ship of a new class of aircraft carriers, and the first new U.S. aircraft carrier designed in 40 years. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Andrew J. Sneeringer (# 170722-N-WS581-015).

Ron Reeves
CVN-78
NS027844c
339k

Sailors man the rails of the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) during her commissioning ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk, Va., 22 July 2017. Gerald R. Ford is the lead ship of a new class, and the first new U.S. aircraft carrier designed in 40 years. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Andrew J. Sneeringer (# 170722-N-WS581-072).

Ron Reeves
Bob Haner, YN1, USN (Ret.)
CVN-78
NS027844d
418k

"Commissioning of USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), July 22nd, 2017, Integrity at the Helm"

Ron Reeves
CVN-78
NS027847
311k

An F/A-18F Super Hornet ("Salty Dog" 123, BuNo 166969, SD123) assigned to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23 piloted by LCDR Jamie Struck, performs an arrested landing aboard USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), 28 July 2017. The aircraft carrier was underway in the Atlantic Ocean, conducting test and evaluation operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Elizabeth Thompson (# 170728-N-ES536-0113).

Ron Reeves
CVN-78
NS027847a
715k

An F/A-18F Super Hornet ("Salty Dog" 123, BuNo 166969, SD123) assigned to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23 flies over USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), 28 July 2017. The aircraft carrier was underway in the Atlantic Ocean, conducting test and evaluation operations. U.S. Navy photo by Erik Hildebrandt (# 170728-N-UZ648-062).

Ron Reeves
CVN-78
NS027847b
794k

An F/A-18F Super Hornet ("Salty Dog" 123, BuNo 166969, SD123) assigned to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23, piloted by LCDR Jamie R. Struck, approaches USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), 28 July 2017. The aircraft carrier was underway in the Atlantic Ocean, conducting test and evaluation operations. U.S. Navy photo by Erik Hildebrandt (# 170728-N-UZ648-093).

Ron Reeves
CVN-78
NS027847c
1.49M

An F/A-18F Super Hornet approaches USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) for an arrested landing, 28 July 2017. The aircraft carrier was underway in the Atlantic Ocean, conducting test and evaluation operations. U.S. Navy photo by Erik Hildebrandt (# 170728-N-UZ648-161).

Ron Reeves
CVN-78
NS027847d
290k

An Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) lubricates an electromagnetic aircraft launching system catapult aboard USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), 28 July 2017. The aircraft carrier was underway in the Atlantic Ocean, conducting test and evaluation operations.

U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua Murray (# 170728-N-WC455-0045).

Bob Canchola, BT, USN (Ret.)
CVN-78
NS027851
505K

Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer addresses the crew of USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) during an all-hands call in the ship's hangar bay, 10 August 2017. The aircraft carrier was underway in the Atlantic Ocean, conducting test and evaluation operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Connor D. Loessin (# 170810-N-YW238-0220).

Ron Reeves
CVN-78
NS027861
366K

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) pulls alongside the dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS William McLean (T-AKE 12) during a practice underway replenishment in the Atlantic Ocean, 14 August 2017. The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier was underway conducting test and evaluation operations.

NS027861: U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Mathew R. Fairchild (# 170814-N-OG138-0035).

NS027861a: U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Mathew R. Fairchild (# 170814-N-OG138-0048).

NS027861b: U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Mathew R. Fairchild (# 170814-N-OG138-0200).

NS027861c: U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Mathew R. Fairchild (# 170814-N-OG138-0233).

NS027861d: U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason Pastrick (# 170814-N-OS895-0081).

Via Bob Canchola, BT, USN (Ret.)
CVN-78
NS027861a
332K
CVN-78
NS027861b
541K
CVN-78
NS027861c
492K
CVN-78
NS027861d
395K
CVN-78
NS027872
186K

A Boeing F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the "Salty Dogs" of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23 performs a touch-and-go on the flight deck of USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), 29 September 2017, in the Atlantic Ocean. The aircraft carrier was underway conducting testing and evaluation operations.

This aircraft appears to be BuNo 165537, modex SD100.

U.S. Navy photo by MCS2 Ruben Reed, # 170929-N-QI093-0003.

Bob Canchola, BT, USN (Ret.)
CVN-78
NS027872a
170K

A Boeing F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the "Salty Dogs" of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23 performs a touch-and-go on the flight deck of USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), 29 September 2017, in the Atlantic Ocean. The aircraft carrier was underway conducting testing and evaluation operations.

U.S. Navy photo by MCS2 Ruben Reed, # 170929-N-QI093-0008.

CVN-78
NS027874
288K

An F/A-18F Super Hornet, assigned to the "Salty Dogs" of Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23, launches from the flight deck of USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), 6 October 2017, in the Atlantic Ocean. The aircraft carrier was underway conducting testing and evaluation operations.

U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sean Elliott (# 171006-N-XS424-0350).

Bob Canchola, BT, USN (Ret.)
CVN-78
NS027863
454K

An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the "Swordsmen" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 32, approaches USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN-78) Electromagnetic Aircraft Launching System (EMALS) during flight deck operations, 6 November 2017. The aircraft carrier was underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting testing and evaluation operations.

U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kristopher Ruiz (# 171106-N-XU135-0075).

Bob Canchola, BT, USN (Ret.)
CVN-78
NS027853
550K

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) transits the Atlantic Ocean at night, 13 December 2017. The aircraft carrier was underway conducting test and evaluation operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Joshua D. Sheppard (# 171213-N-PW494-0013).

Ron Reeves
CVN-78
NS027855
417K

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) arrives at Huntington Ingalls Newport News Shipbuilding, 15 July 2018, to begin her post-shakedown availability.

Photo ©2018 Newport News Shipbuilding, by John Whalen (# DCS18-497).

Courtesy of Huntington Ingalls Newport News Shipbuilding
CVN-65 Enterprise, CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS0265du
388k

Newport News Shipbuilding, 27 July 2018. Ex-USS Enterprise (CVN-65), left. USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) undergoing her post-shakedown availability. Huntington-Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding (HII-NNS) photo by Matt Hildreth.

Courtesy of HII‑NNS,
via Bob Haner
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027864
167k

CAPT Richard McCormack, USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN-78) commanding officer, receives the Legion of Merit award from RADM Roy J. Kelley, Commander, Naval Air Force, Atlantic, during the ship's change of command ceremony at Vista Point, Norfolk, VA, 10 August 2018. The change of command ceremony is a time-honored Naval tradition in which the transfer of responsibility, authority, and accountability occurs from one individual to another individual.

US Navy photo # 180810-N-ZE240-0054.

Tommy Trampp
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027864a
173k

VADM John Alexander, Commander, U.S. Third Fleet, delivers remarks during USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN-78) change of command ceremony at Vista Point, Norfolk, VA, 10 August 2018. CAPT John J. "Yank" Cummings relieved CAPT Richard C. McCormack.

US Navy photo # 180810-N-ZE240-0170.

CVN-65 Enterprise, CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS0265dt
632k

Newport News Shipbuilding, 3 October 2018. Ex-USS Enterprise (CVN-65)—closer to camera—, and USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) undergoing her post-shakedown availability. Huntington-Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding (HII-NNS) photo by Ashley Cowan.

Courtesy of HII‑NNS,
via Bob Haner
CVN-78
NS027866
278k

Carriers and subs are lined up along the South yard's piers, 13 November 2018.

Huntington Ingalls Industries, Newport News Shipbuilding (HII-NNS) photo by Matt Hildreth, # DCS18-765-30.

Courtesy of HII-NNS,
via Michael Mohl.
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027857
22k

November
Golf
Romeo
Foxtrot

John Spivey
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027858
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USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) floats pierside the morning of her turn-ship evolution, 17 March 2019. Huntington-Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding (HII-NNS) photo by Matt Hildreth.

Courtesy of HII‑NNS,
via Bob Haner
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027873
206k

The flag flies high atop a mast of USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) at Newport News Shipbuilding, 4 July 2019. Huntington-Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding (HII-NNS) photo by Matt Hildreth.

Courtesy of HII‑NNS,
via Bob Haner
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027868
435k

A shipbuilder watches from the Island House of the former USS Enterprise (CVN-65) as USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) pulls away from Pier 3 for sea trials, 25 October 2019.

Huntington-Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding (HII-NNS) photo by Ashley Cowan, # DCS19-615-47.

Courtesy of HII‑NNS,
via Bob Haner
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027869
584k

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) and USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) transit the Atlantic Ocean, 4 June 2020, marking the first time a Ford-class and a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier operated together underway. Gerald R. Ford was underway conducting integrated air wing operations, and the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group remained at sea in the Atlantic as a certified carrier strike group force ready for tasking in order to protect the crew from the risks posed by COVID-19, following their successful deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet Areas of Operation.

NS027869: U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Riley McDowell (#200604-N-OH637-1312).

NS027869a: U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Riley McDowell (#200604-N-OH637-1292).

NS027869b: U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Riley McDowell (#200604-N-OH637-1416).

NS027869c: U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Riley McDowell (#200604-N-OH637-1277).

NS027869d: U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Riley McDowell (#200604-N-OH637-1376).

NS027869e: U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Riley McDowell.

Bob Canchola, BT, USN (Ret.)
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027869a
518k
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027869b
585k
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027869c
898k
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027869d
869k
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027869e
432k
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
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USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) and the Italian aircraft carrier ITS Cavour (CVH-550) [page in Italian] transit the Atlantic Ocean, 20 March 2021, marking the first time a Ford-class and Italian carrier have operated together underway. As part of the Italian Navy's Ready for Operations (RFO) campaign for its flagship, Cavour was conducting sea trials in coordination with the F-35 Lightning II Joint Program Office's Patuxent River Integrated Test Force to obtain official certification to safely operate the F-35B. Gerald R. Ford was conducting integrated carrier strike group operations during independent steaming event 17 as part of her post-delivery test and trials phase of operations.

U. S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Riley McDowell (# 210320-N-OH637-1157).

Via Gary Priolo
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027862
344k

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) completes the first scheduled explosive event of Full Ship Shock Trials while underway in the Atlantic Ocean, 18 June 2021. The U.S. Navy conducts shock trials of new ship designs using live explosives to confirm that our warships can continue to meet demanding mission requirements under harsh conditions they might encounter in battle.

NS027862: U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Riley B. McDowell (# 210609-N-OH637-1001).

NS027862a: U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Riley B. McDowell (# 210609-N-OH637-1004).

Bob Canchola, BT, USN (Ret.)
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027862a
331k
CVN 79 John F. Kennedy, CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027936
318k

Carriers PCU John F. Kennedy (CVN-79), left, and USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), at Newport News Shipbuilding on 12 November 2021.

Courtesy of USNI News,
via Tommy Trampp
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027867
326k

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), Naval Station Norfolk, 5 March 2022, around 1230.

Michael Sciarini
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027867a
328k
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford
NS027867b
350k
Memorabilia
Model of USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), exhibited at the Gerald Ford Museum.
Courtesy of
Motion Models (2018).


NS027856
40 k

NS027856a
45 k

NS027856b
44 k

NS027856c
54 k

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74 k

NS027856e
56 k

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59 k

NS027856g
77 k

NS027856h
89 k

NS027856i
51 k

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36 k

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42 k

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74 k

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48 k

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38 k

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57 k

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82 k
CVN-78
NS027819
97k

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), "Integrity at the Helm" coin.

Howard Weitzell
CVN-78
NS027819a
240k

A very nice, but non-official, coin issued for both the Keel Laying and Christening Ceremonies.

Howard Weitzell
CVN-78
NS027822b
123k

Builder's original logo.

Ron Reeves
Howard Weitzell
CVN-78
NS027822
265k

Ship's crest and motto, "Integrity at the Helm."

Ron Reeves & Wolfgang Hechler
CVN-78
NS027822c
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Ship's crest and motto, "Integrity at the Helm," in color.

Courtesy of Don McGrogan, BMCS, USN Ret.
CVN-78
NS027822a
152k

Ship's patch.

Howard Weitzell
CVN-78
NS027822d
47k

Satiric, black-humored patch related to the 2020–2022 COVID-19 pandemic.

Tommy Trampp
CVN-78
NS027835
35k

Boy Scouts of America, Colonial Virginia Council, a licensed official patch commemorating the christening of CVN-78.

Howard Weitzell
CVN-78
NS027835a
175k

Postcard issued by Founders Brewery, Grand Rapids, MI, the boyhood home of Gerald R. Ford. They provided the Christening Ceremony beverages.

Howard Weitzell
CVN-78
NS027835b
49k

Hologram issued for the Keel Laying Ceremony.

Howard Weitzell
CVN-78
NS027835c
64k

Piece made for a time capsule. Note the island landing ceremony coin with ship's sponsor name.

Howard Weitzell

For more photos and information about this ship, see:

Related Links
Hazegray & Underway World Aircraft Carrier Pages by Andrew Toppan.
Official USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) website
CVN-78 Gerald R. Ford [ CVN 21 / CVN-X / CVX ] at GlobalSecurity.org
  Search YouTube for videos related to "USS Gerald R. Ford"  

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Last update: 17 December 2023