USS Gerald R. Ford is an aircraft carrier for the United States Navy and the lead ship of her class. The ship is named after the 38th President of the United States, Gerald Ford, whose World War II naval service included combat duty aboard the light aircraft carrier Monterey in the Pacific Theater.
USS GERALD R. FORD
- Lead aircraft carrier of its class and the biggest warship ever built.
- Cost of $13 billion, making it the most expensive warship in history.
- Length of 1,092 ft (333 m) and displacement of 100,000 tonnes.
- Powered by two nuclear reactors, with operational range of 25 years before a mid-life refuel is needed.
- Speed in excess of 30 knots (56 km/h or 35 mph).
- Armed with its own surface-to-air missiles and guns.
- Can carry over 75 military aircraft, including F-35 fighter jets.
- Has been deployed by the US in a show of support for Israel and for regional deterrence.
