Wire flash
OtherHII's Newport News Shipbuilding division has successfully completed acceptance sea trials for the John F. Kennedy (CVN 79), the second Gerald R. Ford-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. The carrier returned to the shipyard after further testing and evaluation of critical ship systems and components at sea. Earlier in 2026, the vessel had undergone successful builder's sea trials. The trials involved collaboration between NNS shipbuilders, John F. Kennedy sailors, and Navy personnel to test ship operations. Derek Murphy, NNS vice president of new construction aircraft carrier programs, praised the shipbuilders' quality work and commitment. With acceptance trials complete, the next step is preliminary acceptance, allowing the U.S. Navy to begin underway test and evaluation of the carrier's unique systems. CVN 79 continues the legacy of highly capable nuclear-powered aircraft carrier platforms.
Naval NewsWestern