Intro
Explore the impressive USS Ronald Reagan CVN 76, a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier. Learn 10 fascinating facts about its history, capabilities, and operations. Discover its role in naval aviation, missile defense, and global presence. From its launch to its current deployments, get the inside scoop on this mighty warship and its significance in modern naval power.
The USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) is a Nimitz-class nuclear-powered supercarrier that serves as the flagship of the United States Pacific Fleet. Here are 10 interesting facts about this impressive vessel:
Aircraft Carrier Heritage
The USS Ronald Reagan is the ninth Nimitz-class aircraft carrier to be built by the United States Navy. It was named after the 40th President of the United States, Ronald Reagan, who served from 1981 to 1989.
Length and Beam
The USS Ronald Reagan measures 1,092 feet (333 meters) in length and 257 feet (78 meters) in beam. It has a draft of 34 feet (10 meters) and a displacement of over 100,000 tons.
Crew and Air Wing
The USS Ronald Reagan has a crew of over 5,000 sailors and airmen. It is capable of carrying up to 60 aircraft, including F/A-18 Hornets, F/A-18E/F Super Hornets, EA-6B Prowlers, and SH-60 Seahawk helicopters.
Propulsion
The USS Ronald Reagan is powered by two nuclear reactors, which provide enough energy to power a city of 100,000 people. It has four General Electric turbines, which produce 260,000 horsepower.
Speed
The USS Ronald Reagan is capable of reaching speeds of over 30 knots (56 kilometers per hour).
Armament
The USS Ronald Reagan is equipped with three Mark 29 missile launchers, four Phalanx Close-In Weapons Systems (CIWS), and two Rolling Airframe Missiles (RAM) launchers.
Advanced Technology
The USS Ronald Reagan features advanced technology, including the Aegis Combat System, which provides real-time tracking and engagement of multiple targets.
Global Presence
The USS Ronald Reagan has been involved in several military operations and humanitarian missions around the world, including Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Home Port
The USS Ronald Reagan is homeported at Naval Base San Diego, California.
Maiden Voyage
The USS Ronald Reagan made its maiden voyage in 2003, traveling from the Norfolk Naval Shipyard to its homeport in San Diego.
Unique Features
The USS Ronald Reagan has several unique features, including a bulbous bow, which reduces drag and improves fuel efficiency, and a flight deck made of heat-resistant material that can withstand the intense heat generated by aircraft taking off and landing.
Operating Costs
The USS Ronald Reagan costs over $1 billion to operate annually, making it one of the most expensive warships in the world.
Ship's Crest
The USS Ronald Reagan's ship's crest features a bald eagle, which symbolizes American strength and freedom, and a motto that reads "Peace Through Strength."
Combat Operations
The USS Ronald Reagan has been involved in several combat operations, including Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
Humanitarian Missions
The USS Ronald Reagan has been involved in several humanitarian missions, including providing disaster relief to Japan after the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami.
Deterrent Capability
The USS Ronald Reagan serves as a deterrent to potential adversaries, providing a visible presence of American military power and capability.
Integrated Warfare
The USS Ronald Reagan is capable of conducting integrated warfare, including air, surface, and subsurface operations.
Ships of the Fleet
The USS Ronald Reagan is one of 12 Nimitz-class aircraft carriers in the United States Navy.
Ships' History
The USS Ronald Reagan was commissioned on July 12, 2003, and has been in service for over 18 years.
We hope you found these facts interesting! The USS Ronald Reagan is an incredible piece of American naval history and a testament to the country's military prowess.
Gallery of USS Ronald Reagan
USS Ronald Reagan Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the USS Ronald Reagan's nickname?
+The USS Ronald Reagan's nickname is "America's Flagship."
How many aircraft can the USS Ronald Reagan carry?
+The USS Ronald Reagan can carry up to 60 aircraft.
What is the USS Ronald Reagan's top speed?
+The USS Ronald Reagan's top speed is over 30 knots (56 kilometers per hour).
We hope you found this article informative and engaging! Do you have any questions or comments about the USS Ronald Reagan? Please feel free to share them in the comments section below.