During the trials, Sailors, shipbuilders, and government partners tested major ship systems, equipment, and operational capabilities for the first time underway. The Navy said the effort validated performance across propulsion, power generation, and ship handling ahead of further construction and activation work.
“Taking Kennedy to sea is a testament to the grit and determination of the world’s finest shipbuilders,” said Derek Murphy, vice president of new construction aircraft carrier programs at Newport News Shipbuilding. “Our nation is depending on us to deliver these critical assets that will protect freedom around the world and we’re proud to see CVN 79 take another step toward joining the fleet.”
“There were countless hands that contributed to this successful sea trial, both of the hard-working patriots who built this great ship and of the Sailors who are now bringing her to life,” said Capt. Doug Langenberg, the ship’s commanding officer. “John F. Kennedy going to sea for the first time is truly momentous.”
“This has been a long time coming,” said Lt. Ward Wilkinson, the officer of the deck who led the carrier as it departed the shipyard for the first time. “This is proof that hard work pays off and to say that I had a part in this ship pulling out for the first time… the weight is not lost on me.”
John F. Kennedy incorporates Ford-class enhancements designed to improve survivability, increase lethality, and reduce manning compared with Nimitz-class carriers, including a new nuclear power plant and significantly greater electrical generating capacity. “I have been on a number of trials, but this steam plant impressed me in several ways,” said Deron Hathaway of the Navy Nuclear Laboratory, citing automation and reduced workload as notable improvements.
Following the successful sea trials, the carrier has returned to Newport News Shipbuilding to complete remaining construction, testing, and activation, with acceptance trials expected next. “This is a win for America, no matter how you look at it,” said Capt. Sam Morrison, the ship’s executive officer, adding that the milestone reflects years of coordinated effort by the crew, industry partners, and a nationwide industrial base supporting the Ford-class program.
