John F. Kennedy returned to Newport News after additional at-sea testing and evaluation of major ship systems and components. The carrier had already completed builder’s sea trials earlier this year, marking a previous step in its test programme.
The latest trials brought together Newport News shipbuilders, John F. Kennedy sailors and Navy personnel to evaluate ship operations at sea. HII said the work demonstrated the performance of systems and components as the carrier progresses through the acceptance process.
“It is an honor to take Kennedy to sea to demonstrate the quality work and commitment by our shipbuilders,” said Derek Murphy, NNS vice president of new construction aircraft carrier programs. “This critical set of sea trials is a testament to the entire nuclear shipbuilding enterprise and the work of thousands across our country to prepare CVN 79 to join the fleet.”
With acceptance trials completed, the next step is preliminary acceptance of the carrier. That milestone will allow the Navy to begin underway testing and evaluation of systems unique to John F. Kennedy.
CVN 79 is the second nuclear-powered aircraft carrier of the Gerald R. Ford class. Its progression from builder’s trials through acceptance trials represents the latest stage in preparing the ship for Navy operations and eventual entry into the fleet.
