The future USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79) left Newport News, Virginia, on August 12 to begin acceptance trials, putting the U.S. Navy’s second Ford-class nuclear aircraft carrier through a critical test before delivery. The trials will help determine whether the ship and its advanced aviation systems are ready to move toward fleet service. John F. Kennedy is making its second trip to sea after completing eight days of builder’s trials in February. The new campaign comes after delays tied in part to certification of the Advanced Arresting Gear and work on the carrier’s Advanced Weapons Elevators, two technologies central to moving aircraft and weapons through high-tempo flight operations. Read more.
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