USS Ronald Reagan begins sea trials after maintenance

The USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76), a Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, has commenced sea trials following an approximately 18-month maintenance period. The vessel departed from Bremerton, Washington, on September 3 to verify that essential systems are fully operational and that all repairs conducted during its Planned Incremental Availability (PIA) were successful.

During its time at Kitsap Naval Base, the crew and integrated air wing conducted various readiness exercises, including emergency aircraft recovery drills and flight deck rescue simulations. These trials are a required step before the ship officially returns to active service.

The carrier has a significant operational history in the Indo-Pacific region, having recently participated in the multinational Valiant Shield 2024 exercises after departing Yokosuka, Japan. The ship is expected to eventually transfer responsibilities to the USS George Washington (CVN-73).