The Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carriers are transforming the way the U.S. Navy exercises power at sea. The Nimitz-class carriers were the backbone of American maritime supremacy for decades, but the Ford-class pushes the idea further—introducing new technology, greater efficiency, and the capability to meet the needs of naval warfare in the modern age. These vessels are not only larger; they’re smarter, faster, and designed for the challenges of the next decades.
At over 1,090 feet in length and around 100,000 tons, the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) and her sisters are the largest warships to ever be constructed. But their real power lies within. The Ford-class features 23 new technologies, such as the electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) and advanced arresting gear (AAG), in place of older steam and hydraulic systems. These enable aircraft to recover and launch more rapidly, subjecting the planes and ships to lower stress levels and producing increased sortie rates and improved long-term performance.
Electrical power generation is also the next step. Ford’s two A1B nuclear reactors generate 250% more electrical capacity than the Nimitz-class, providing it with the energy reserves to power future systems such as advanced sensors or directed-energy weapons. Even the ordnance lifts have been redesigned—using electromagnetic motors to lift ordnance from lower decks to the flight deck quicker, more securely, and with fewer men involved.
The Ford’s journey from building to active service has been an in-the-field test bed for these innovations. In Full Ship Shock Trials, when controlled blasts test how effectively the ship can survive combat conditions, the Ford needed significantly fewer repairs than previous carriers. Its design also facilitates upgrading, with less downtime when introducing new features. Rear Adm. James P. Downey attributed this to the ship’s engineering and the increasing proficiency of its crew.
The initial deployment of the ship was not merely a matter of testing systems—it was a matter of establishing its position in the fleet. Sail with eight allied navies, the Ford engaged in exercises at the high end of the spectrum, like Silent Wolverine, and worked in lockstep with NATO forces.
During the deployment, the crew conducted more than 1,250 sorties, transported more than 78 tons of ordnance, and conducted missions that varied from air defense to anti-submarine warfare. The Vice Adm. Dan Dwyer termed it an unmistakable display of naval joint power and cooperation in securing important waters.
Command leadership was key to the achievement of this deployment. Captain Sarah Ramirez commended the crew for their flexibility and capacity to execute sophisticated missions in difficult environments.
Rear Admiral Michael Chen spoke about how EMALS and AAG have already revolutionized routine carrier operations, boosting readiness and efficiency. The synergy of advanced systems and a proficient crew demonstrated that technology is only as effective as the individuals implementing it.
In the background, the Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center (MARMC) kept the Ford in full mission capability, offering predictive maintenance and expedient technical assistance. Capt. Jay Young said that the ability to deliver several fully ready ships on schedule demonstrates the Navy’s capability to preserve its operational advantage.
In the years to come, the Ford-class will be the pillar of the carrier fleet for decades. The second ship in the class, the John F. Kennedy (CVN 79), is already taking advantage of lessons learned with the Ford—improvements that will reduce life cycle costs and enhance performance. Secretary of the Navy John Phelan called the Kennedy a symbol of American power and a tribute to American shipbuilding prowess, poised to bring unparalleled capabilities to the fleet.
The strategic return is worthwhile. With contested waters requiring flexibility, velocity, and durability, the Ford-class provides all three. Its advancements don’t merely make the carrier itself more powerful—its advancements amplify the entire strike group’s power and enhance alliances with allied navies. As Commander Mark Thompson succinctly put it, the Ford-class is the cutting edge of naval innovation, allowing the United States to maintain its reach, defend its interests, and keep up with whatever lies ahead.