Intro
Discover the latest on the USS John F. Kennedy CVN 79, the US Navys newest aircraft carrier. Learn 10 fascinating facts about its design, capabilities, and features, including its advanced electromagnetic catapult system, enhanced stealth capabilities, and cutting-edge radar technology, all while exploring the future of naval aviation.
The USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79) is the second Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier and the second ship in the United States Navy to bear the name of the 35th President of the United States. Here are ten interesting facts about this impressive warship.
1. Construction and Commissioning
The USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79) was laid down on August 22, 2015, at Newport News Shipbuilding in Virginia. The ship was officially named on May 29, 2011, by Caroline Kennedy, the daughter of President John F. Kennedy. The carrier was commissioned on December 7, 2019, in a ceremony held at Naval Station Norfolk.
Key Features of the USS John F. Kennedy
- Displacement: approximately 100,000 tons
- Length: 1,106 feet (337 meters)
- Beam: 257 feet (78 meters)
- Draft: 34 feet (10 meters)
- Speed: over 30 knots (56 km/h)
- Crew: approximately 5,000 sailors and officers
2. Design and Architecture
The USS John F. Kennedy is the second ship in the Gerald R. Ford class, which features a new design and architecture compared to the previous Nimitz-class aircraft carriers. The ship's design includes a larger and more efficient flight deck, improved handling systems, and a more advanced island.
Advantages of the New Design
- Increased sortie generation rate
- Improved sortie sustainment rate
- Enhanced air wing capacity
- Reduced manning requirements
3. Propulsion System
The USS John F. Kennedy is powered by two Bechtel A1B nuclear reactors, which provide approximately 700 megawatts of power. The reactors drive four main reduction gears, which power the ship's four propellers.
Benefits of Nuclear Power
- Longer endurance without refueling
- Higher speeds and faster acceleration
- Reduced dependence on fossil fuels
4. Aircraft and Air Wing
The USS John F. Kennedy can carry a variety of aircraft, including F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet fighter jets, F-35C Lightning II stealth fighters, and MH-60R Seahawk helicopters. The ship's air wing consists of approximately 60 aircraft.
Aircraft Capabilities
- F/A-18: air-to-air combat, air-to-ground strikes, and reconnaissance
- F-35C: air-to-air combat, air-to-ground strikes, and reconnaissance with advanced stealth capabilities
- MH-60R: anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare, and search and rescue
5. Radar and Electronic Warfare Systems
The USS John F. Kennedy features advanced radar and electronic warfare systems, including the AN/SPY-3 dual-band radar and the AN/SLQ-32(V)6 electronic warfare system.
Capabilities of Radar and Electronic Warfare Systems
- AN/SPY-3: air and surface search, tracking, and engagement
- AN/SLQ-32(V)6: electronic warfare, electronic support measures, and electronic attack
6. Command and Control Systems
The USS John F. Kennedy features advanced command and control systems, including the Ship Self-Defense System (SSDS) and the Common Aviation Support Equipment (CASE).
Capabilities of Command and Control Systems
- SSDS: air and missile defense, surface warfare, and electronic warfare
- CASE: aircraft maintenance, repair, and logistics support
7. Berthing and Galley
The USS John F. Kennedy has berthing for approximately 5,000 sailors and officers, as well as advanced galley facilities to provide meals for the crew.
Galley Facilities
- Multiple serving lines and food stations
- Advanced food preparation and cooking equipment
- Adequate storage and refrigeration facilities
8. Medical Facilities
The USS John F. Kennedy features advanced medical facilities, including a hospital, dental clinic, and pharmacy.
Medical Capabilities
- Emergency medical treatment and surgery
- Advanced diagnostic and imaging capabilities
- Pharmaceutical and medical supply storage
9. Cost and Budget
The construction cost of the USS John F. Kennedy was approximately $13.7 billion, making it one of the most expensive warships ever built.
Breakdown of Construction Costs
- Ship construction: approximately $10.4 billion
- Aircraft and equipment: approximately $2.5 billion
- Research and development: approximately $800 million
10. Future Plans and Deployment
The USS John F. Kennedy is expected to deploy in the near future, with its first deployment planned for 2023. The ship will participate in various exercises and operations, including the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise.
USS John F. Kennedy CVN-79 Image Gallery
What is the purpose of the USS John F. Kennedy?
+The USS John F. Kennedy is a Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier designed to serve as a floating airbase, providing airpower and support to military operations around the world.
How many aircraft can the USS John F. Kennedy carry?
+The USS John F. Kennedy can carry approximately 60 aircraft, including F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet fighter jets, F-35C Lightning II stealth fighters, and MH-60R Seahawk helicopters.
What is the significance of the USS John F. Kennedy's name?
+The USS John F. Kennedy is named after the 35th President of the United States, John F. Kennedy, who served from 1961 until his assassination in 1963. The ship's name honors his legacy and commitment to the United States military.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79). Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!