Commissioned in 1961, Enterprise served the U.S. for over 50 years, playing a vital role in the Cold War, Vietnam War, and post-9/11 military operations including Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. The carrier was inactivated in December 2012, with the defueling and inactivation of its reactor plants completed in 2017.
The dismantling will be carried out under a $536.7 million firm-fixed-price contract awarded to NorthStar Maritime Dismantlement Services, LLC, of Vernon, Vermont, following a full and open competition. The project is expected to be completed by November 2029.
NorthStar is partnering with Modern American Recycling and Radiological Services, LLC (MARRS) in Mobile, Alabama, where the dismantling will take place. Waste Control Specialists LLC, of Andrews, Texas, will handle the disposal of low-level radiological and mixed hazardous waste, while non-hazardous materials will be recycled or disposed of according to all applicable regulations.
“This contract award is a significant milestone and key enabler to responsibly and safely close out a chapter in naval history,” said Rear Adm. James P. Downey, Program Executive Officer for Aircraft Carriers. “Utilising commercial industry allows the Navy to prioritise shipyard resources for mission readiness and future capability.”
Rear Adm. Robert Westendorff, Director, Naval Reactors, added: “This contract award is the result of many years of hard work by dedicated Navy and contractor personnel. It demonstrates the Navy’s commitment to safely and responsibly manage the full lifecycle of our nuclear-powered ships.”
By leveraging commercial sector expertise in nuclear decommissioning, the Navy expects to save approximately $1 billion compared to using public shipyards. This strategy supports ongoing fleet maintenance, modernisation, and environmental responsibility.
