Intro
Discover the USS John F. Kennedy CVN-79, a cutting-edge Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier. Learn about its advanced electromagnetic catapults, dual-band radar, and state-of-the-art combat systems. Explore its capabilities, specifications, and role in the US Navys future fleet, revolutionizing naval aviation and warfare.
The USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79) is a Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier currently under construction by Huntington Ingalls Industries at its Newport News Shipbuilding division. The ship is the second in the Gerald R. Ford class of aircraft carriers, the first being the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78). Named after the 35th President of the United States, John F. Kennedy, the ship is designed to be a cutting-edge naval vessel, incorporating advanced technologies and innovations to enhance its operational capabilities.
Design and Features
The USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79) is built on the same design principles as its predecessor, the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78). The ship features a displacement of over 100,000 tons, making it one of the largest warships in the world. Its length is approximately 1,106 feet (337 meters), and its beam is around 257 feet (78 meters). The ship has a crew of around 5,000 personnel, including sailors, officers, and embarked air wing personnel.
One of the notable features of the USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79) is its advanced electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS), which replaces the traditional steam catapults used on previous aircraft carriers. EMALS uses electromagnetic energy to launch aircraft from the ship's deck, providing a smoother and more efficient launching process. Additionally, the ship features an advanced arresting gear system, which helps to recover aircraft safely.
Propulsion System
The USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79) is powered by two Bechtel A1B nuclear reactors, which provide the energy needed to power the ship's propulsion systems. The reactors are fueled by enriched uranium and use a pressurized water reactor design. The ship's propulsion system consists of four main reduction gears, which transmit power from the reactors to the ship's propellers.
Operational Capabilities
The USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79) is designed to operate in a variety of environments and scenarios, from peacetime operations to combat situations. The ship's air wing is equipped with a range of aircraft, including the F-35C Lightning II, F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, and E-2D Hawkeye.
Air Wing
The USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79) is capable of carrying a range of aircraft, including:
- F-35C Lightning II: A fifth-generation multirole fighter aircraft
- F/A-18E/F Super Hornet: A multirole fighter aircraft
- E-2D Hawkeye: An airborne early warning aircraft
- SH-60 Seahawk: A multirole helicopter
- MH-60 Romeo: A multirole helicopter
Construction and Timeline
The construction of the USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79) began in 2015, with the ship's keel being laid on August 22, 2015. The ship is currently under construction at Huntington Ingalls Industries' Newport News Shipbuilding division. The ship is expected to be delivered to the US Navy in 2024.
Timeline
- 2015: Construction begins on August 22
- 2017: Ship's keel is laid on August 22
- 2020: Ship is christened on December 7
- 2024: Ship is expected to be delivered to the US Navy
Gallery of USS John F. Kennedy CVN-79 Aircraft Carrier
USS John F. Kennedy CVN-79 Aircraft Carrier Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the USS John F. Kennedy CVN-79?
+The USS John F. Kennedy CVN-79 is a Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier currently under construction by Huntington Ingalls Industries.
What is the purpose of the USS John F. Kennedy CVN-79?
+The USS John F. Kennedy CVN-79 is designed to operate in a variety of environments and scenarios, from peacetime operations to combat situations, and is capable of carrying a range of aircraft.
When is the USS John F. Kennedy CVN-79 expected to be delivered to the US Navy?
+The USS John F. Kennedy CVN-79 is expected to be delivered to the US Navy in 2024.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the USS John F. Kennedy CVN-79 aircraft carrier. With its advanced features and capabilities, this ship is set to play a significant role in the US Navy's operations for years to come.