Background
The USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) is a first-in-class aircraft carrier, and the fast-new aircraft carrier designed in over 40 years. The Sailors who serve aboard Ford are tasked with ensuring tl1e ship is able to execute national tasking for decades to come.
Although it appears similar to a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, there are many features that make Ford unique. First-in-class technology includes a new nuclear plant, tl1c ability to generate nearly three times the amount of electrical power, innovative advanced arresting gear and the electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS).
Direct comparison between Nimitz and Ford Classes
Nimitz Class
· Steam catapult system
· Three hangar bays and four aircraft elevators
· Fueling stations only on flight deck catwalks
· Weapons elevators have a conveyor belt system
Ford Class
· Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS)
· Two hangar bays and three aircraft elevators
· In-deck fueling stations on flight deck
· Only ship with advanced weapons/ stores elevators
· Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG)
· Dual-Band Radar (DBR)
· Island is smaller and further aft on the flight deck
EMALS replaces the steam catapult system traditionally used to launch aircraft and will expand the aircraft launch envelope, paving the way for innovations in manned/ unmanned aircraft as well as providing tl1e opportunity for other technological advancements in the future.
