Description
The USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) is the latest aircraft to enter service in the US Navy, and thus represents the pinnacle of American naval power, embodying the United States’ commitment to maintaining maritime superiority and projecting force around the globe.
Named after the 38th President of the United States, the USS Gerald R. Ford is the lead ship of its class, designed to replace the Nimitz-class carriers and serve as a cornerstone of American naval power projection for decades to come.
Weighing in at around 100,000 tons and stretching over 1,000 feet in length, the USS Gerald R. Ford boasts an impressive array of cutting-edge features and capabilities.
Its nuclear propulsion system provides virtually unlimited range and endurance, allowing it to operate continuously without the need for refuelling, being only limited by provisions of stores.
The carrier’s flight deck is equipped with electromagnetic catapults (EMALS) and advanced arresting gear, enabling it to launch and recover a wide variety of aircraft, including fighter jets, reconnaissance planes, and helicopters, with greater efficiency and flexibility compared to older carrier designs.
Additionally, the USS Gerald R. Ford incorporates an advanced island superstructure, reducing its radar cross-section and enhancing its survivability in modern combat environments.
Internally, the carrier features spacious hangar bays, state-of-the-art command and control facilities, and accommodations for its crew of over 4,500 personnel.
Her advanced weapons systems, including close-in weapons systems (CIWS) and surface-to-air missiles, provide formidable protection against air and missile threats.
