re: The USS Gerald R. Ford

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I was on the JFK from 78-81. It was the last conventional carrier. We hit 47 knots one time, I know this as I worked in the we office and we had a speed indicator. Word was top speed was 50+ knots. That big ship could fly.

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I was on board the USS Pegasus (PHM) in the late 80's. Our "listed" speed with the foil engaged was 48 knots. I was told that we could easily top 60 knots. I was only on it for two months but it was quite an experience.

Electromagnetic catapults... far superior to the steam ones. I still want a Battle ship with electromagnetic railguns that shoot up to a 100 miles or so (in arch to to get over the horizon).

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Electromagnetic catapults... far superior to the steam ones. I still want a Battle ship with electromagnetic railguns that shoot up to a 100 miles or so (in arch to to get over the horizon).

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those cats are frought with problems..

why a rail gun when a guided missile or ballistic missile can do the same - with more accuracy

Catapults are working fine and all issues are resolved. They're having trouble with the arresting gear now.

I think the idea of going to emals is to possibly reduce reactor power usage, prolonging the life of the ship. Also, less strain on the ship's backbone during cat shots. Current steam cat shots shake my rack like no other and the steam is loud as shite

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If any ptesident loses 5000 sailors in 15 minutes that will make him think twice. Dont kid yourself.

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I agree with your assertion that any president would rightfully give pause before risking sailor's lives. But to say that carriers would be bottled up in harbor is not true. The US Navy knows the risks associated with wartime operations at sea.

There are countermeasures for missiles and most foreign submarines would not ever get close enough for a shot as each of our Carrier Battle Groups have robust antisubmarine operations ranging from destroyers, helos, P8 and S3 aircraft, as well as the strongest antisubmarine countermeasure...friendly submarines in the CBG

High casualty rates when ships are lost is not a new phenomenon. Look at the HMS Hood and USS Indianapolis as a high profile example

Wiki of sunken ships in wartime with casualties in upwards of 9K dead

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The USS Gerald R. Ford

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1,106 feet of America telling the rest of the world to suck it.

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Wiki of sunken ships in wartime with casualties in upwards of 9K dead

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There is only one ship sinking in history with more than 9k dead. The list of WWII ships that sank with more than 300 dead.

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How did a non electected Prez. get the most expensive ship named after them? 

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I'm worried that it may not have been wise to name it "Ford". Now it may break down when needed most.

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why a rail gun when a guided missile or ballistic missile can do the same - with more accuracy

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The Navy likes the weapon for several reasons, not the least of which it has a range of 100 miles and doesn’t require explosive warheads. That makes it far safer for sailors, and cheaper for taxpayers. According to the Navy, each 18-inch projectile costs about $25,000, compared to $500,000 to $1.5 million for conventional missiles.

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Wired Article

Does it really take 12-15 years to build one of these?