USS Ford certified for everything but F-35

a reply to: ServiusTull

It's definitely going to be an interesting experience. The new coatings are supposed to be really durable though. There's a huge difference in look between old and new aircraft too.

Remember, dear leader is against upgrading the aircraft abilities of our carriers at all.

www.navytimes.com...

a reply to: TheBlackTiger

Considering the issues it's had, and the cost overruns, I don't really blame him for bashing it.

Costs: Since 2008, EMALS-related costs for the first-of-class Gerald R. Ford [CVN 78] have risen by 133.7%, from $317.7 – $742.6 million. AAG costs have also spiked, though its 124.8% jump is only from $75 – $168.6 million. This is so despite the Navy’s 2010 firm fixed-price contracts to produce these systems for CVN 78. Even with cost caps, however, late delivery and testing means that changes have to be made to a partially-complete ship. EMALS configuration changes have already forced electrical, wiring, and other changes within the ship; and instead of just being hoisted into place, the Advanced Arresting Gear will now have to be installed in pieces via a hole cut in the flight deck. AAG continues to undergo redesigns, most recently to its energy-absorbing “water twister,” and limited EMALS testing with the delayed F-35C risks forcing further changes after the ship has been built. The Navy says that all future changes will take place within the components’ allotted space and weight, but GAO doesn’t think they can possibly know that.

www.defenseindustrydaily.com...

The Ford was declared operationally safe to launch and recover all US Navy aircraft. At sea compatibility testing with EMALS and AAG was completed January 31st, and included the F-18E/F, E-2D, C-2A, EA-18G, and T-45.

www.flightglobal.com...

a reply to: Zaphod58

Sort of good news, bad news. "You're cleared to start operational testing with all types... Also, your reliability sucks..."

a reply to: Notoneofyou

yes, and that's a problem

CVN-78 received her Flight Deck Certification, and Carrier Air Traffic Control Center certification.

www.dvidshub.net...

Mo' money, mo' problems: www.bloomberg.com...

a reply to: RadioRobert

I heard something about toilet problems on the Bush, but not to that extent.

How many 40 foot Tic-Tacs can it carry?