A New Era for Naval Technology begins as the USS Gerald R. Ford sets sail.
The USS Gerald R. Ford has set sail on its first official deployment after almost two decades of construction and a decade since its christening.
The chosen service members face unforeseen risks as they embark on this technologically advanced vessel expected to perform exceedingly well.
The USS Ford houses thousands of personnel and provides power infrastructure, living quarters, sanitation, and food service to them as a floating city.
As a floating airport, the USS Ford has the capacity to launch almost 270 air missions daily.
The USS Ford is the largest aircraft carrier in service and the largest warship ever built, measuring 1,106 feet in length.
It is expected to serve for 90 years, with 50 years before the need for refueling, making it a remarkable vessel.
Future carriers of the class are estimated to cost approximately $12 billion each, and the USS Ford cost is $13.3 billion.
The USS Ford's dramatic design departure from the Nimitz-class vessels includes an Island located 140 feet further aft, allowing more space for aircraft to line up for a launch.
The USS Ford's real difference lies in its electromagnetic launch systems, advanced radar, weapons, and powerful nuclear reactor, making it a marvel of modern naval technology.