The USS Gerald R Ford is the largest aircraft carrier in the world, costing nearly $13 billion to construct. The 1,100-foot long vessel is a marvel of modern engineering, with a crew of over 4,500 people. In this article, we will take a tour inside the USS Gerald R Ford and learn about its construction, navigation, and daily life on board.
Construction of the USS Gerald R Ford
The construction of the USS Gerald R Ford was a monumental undertaking that took nearly four years to complete. Newport News Shipbuilding was responsible for constructing the massive carrier, which required over 5,000 shipbuilders to complete. The ship’s construction utilized advanced technologies such as modular construction, which allowed sections of the ship to be constructed off-site and then assembled on the shipyard. This approach reduced construction time, lowered costs, and increased quality.
Navigation of the USS Gerald R Ford
Navigating the USS Gerald R Ford is a complex process that requires the assistance of tugboats to navigate out of shallow waters. Once clear of the docks and any underwater obstacles, the aircraft carrier can continue out to sea under its own power. Despite being able to reach speeds of more than 35 miles per hour, the traditional rudder system cannot turn effectively when moving at slower speeds.
Daily Life on Board the USS Gerald R Ford
Life aboard the USS Gerald R Ford is similar to any other modern aircraft carrier. The ship’s crew is responsible for inspecting the deck for foreign object debris (FOD) daily. The daily operations aboard the carrier’s flight deck can knock bolts, pieces of metal, and various other objects free from planes, machinery, and more. The ship’s culinary team features a huge team of culinary specialists who take a customer-focused approach to their job. They aim to produce delicious meals that also fit the Navy’s dietary and health requirements.
Conclusion
The USS Gerald R Ford is a marvel of modern engineering and the largest aircraft carrier in the world. Its construction utilized advanced technologies such as modular construction, and it requires the assistance of tugboats to navigate out of shallow waters. Life aboard the ship is similar to any other modern aircraft carrier, with a focus on safety and maintaining the ship’s operational readiness. The USS Gerald R Ford is a floating city, with thousands of people living on board at any given time, and it is a testament to the United States’ commitment to national defense.