[REVISION HISTORY]
USS John F. Kennedy completes acceptance sea trials
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2026-08-17 21:51 UTC → 2026-08-23 07:30 UTC ·
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The USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79), the second Gerald R. Ford-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, has successfully completed its acceptance trials. Following a four-day underway period off the Atlantic Coast, the vessel underwent rigorous testing of critical operational systems to ensure compliance with contract specifications. The ship is currently reported as 98% complete. Following these trials, the vessel will move toward preliminary acceptance, a phase that allows the U.S. Navy to begin underway testing and evaluation of unique systems. While the crew works toward operational proficiency, the prime contractor, Newport News Shipbuilding of HII, will continue work on the remaining four advanced weapons elevators. The project has previously experienced delays of approximately one year due to technical complications with the Advanced Arresting Gear and the weapons elevator system. While seven of the eleven weapon elevators are operational for training and ammunition access, the functionality of the remaining four remains a focus of ongoing work. Final delivery to the U.S. Navy is expected in the spring of 2027, with the carrier designed to be compatible with F-35C fighter jets for its operational debut in 2028. In August 2026, the vessel departed Newport News Shipbuilding to begin its final major testing phase. These acceptance sea trials involved evaluations of propulsion, weapons, and other critical systems. Following preliminary acceptance by HII, the ship completed these trials on August 15, 2026. According to U.S. Navy budget documents, the vessel is now tentatively scheduled for delivery in March 2027, with fitting out expected to conclude by July 2027.
Versions
- 2026-08-23 07:30 UTC USS John F. Kennedy completes acceptance sea trials
- 2026-08-17 21:51 UTC USS John F. Kennedy completes acceptance sea trials
- 2026-08-15 16:40 UTC USS John F. Kennedy sea trials and delivery status
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