The Future of USS Enterprise: When Is the Next US Navy Carrier Named Enterprise Scheduled to Be Readied for Service?

Currently under construction at Newport News, Virginia, the next USS Enterprise (CVN 80) is set for integration into the U.S. Navy around 2025. Here's all the latest information on this upcoming supercarrier.

Construction of the CVN 80

The first steel was cut for the USS Enterprise CVN 80 in August 2017, with the ship being constructed as part of the Gerald R. Ford Class aircraft carriers. This marks the ninth vessel to bear the USS Enterprise name, a legacy that spans decades.

Notably, CVN 80 is being built on the steel from the decommissioned USS Enterprise CVN 65, which retired in April 2018. This name carries significant historical weight and political significance, given the decision to honor this long-standing name once again.

Timeline and Commissioning

The ship is well underway, with the initial stages completed. It is expected that CVN 80 will be delivered to the U.S. Navy by 2025, making it a key component of the modernized aircraft carrier fleet.

Further details indicate that the construction began even earlier, with the CVN-80 officially starting in 2017, with its commissioning set for 2027. Markably, this timeline aligns closely with the ongoing trends in naval technology and modernization efforts.

Political Significance and Naming Traditions

There's a rich history behind the naming of Naval ships, and the USS Enterprises hold a particularly important place. That said, the naming process is not without its considerations. Hyman G. Rickover, the father of the U.S. nuclear submarines, once explained why submarines were named after fish: 'Fish don’t vote.' This clever, and politically astute, explanation underscores the importance of naming these ships in a way that resonates with the public.

Interestingly, both the USS Enterprise and the space shuttle have been named in a way that speaks to their roles in American history and national identity. Therefore, it is only fitting that the next carrier ship in the Ford class should also carry this distinguished name, ensuring continuity and pride in the U.S. Navy legacy.

Additional Insights

Other information reveals that General Atomics has awarded a $10.1 million contract for work on the USS Kennedy, adding to the complex project that involves multiple stakeholders. This underscores the scale and importance of the construction process.

For enthusiasts and followers of naval history, the USS Enterprise CVN 80 represents not just technological advancement but also a continuation of a storied tradition. With scheduled timelines and ongoing advancements, the future of this supercarrier is bright and promising.