Supercarrier USS Gerald R. Ford underway for Sea Trials

US Navy tests out its newest $13 billion supercarrier, most expensive warship ever built.

The future USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) underway on its own power for the first time. The first-of-class ship — the first new U.S. aircraft carrier design in 40 years — will spend several days conducting builder’s sea trials, a comprehensive test of many of the ship’s key systems and technologies.

Above credit U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ridge Leoni/Released

Supercarrier USS Gerald R. Ford underway for Sea Trials

Rear Adm. Brian Antonio, program executive officer for aircraft carriers, said:

“The Navy and our industry partners are excited to have the future USS Gerald R. Ford underway under her own power for the first time, executing a rigorous and comprehensive test program for this first-of-class ship. This milestone is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, and we look forward to learning a great deal during sea trials. We will continue to work together to deliver Ford’s critical capabilities to the fleet.”

Supercarrier USS Gerald R. Ford underway for Sea Trials

Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) man the rails as the ship departs Huntington Ingalls Industries Newport News Shipbuilding for builder’s sea trials off the U.S. East Coast.  Credit U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Christopher Delano/Released

PCU Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) Begins Builder's Sea Trials

Supercarrier USS Gerald R. Ford underway for Sea Trials

Images credit U.S. Navy 

source NAVY