From PAE Maritime Communications
NEWPORT NEWS – Future USS John F. Kennedy (CVN 79) completed Acceptance Trials Aug. 15, following a 4-day underway period off the Atlantic Coast.
Acceptance Trials is a series of crew-led test events designed to demonstrate to the U.S. Navy’s Board of Inspection and Survey that the ship is constructed in accordance with contract specifications, and that the crew is adequately trained to conduct operations at sea. Completion of Acceptance Trials is a significant milestone in the path to delivering the Nation’s next aircraft carrier, the second of the Ford Class, which is currently 98% complete.
“Over the last few days, the crew of the future USS John F. Kennedy performed incredibly well and have demonstrated that they are ready to put this ship to work for the Navy,” said Capt. Mark Johnson, Program Manager for Aircraft Carrier New Construction (PMS 378). “This milestone is a testament to the shared commitment of our sailors and our Navy-industry team, who remain dedicated to completing the final stages of construction with precision and efficiency.”
With the successful completion of Acceptance Trials, the next step for the ship is Preliminary Acceptance. Preliminary acceptance will enable the Navy to begin underway test and evaluation__ __of CVN 79 unique systems, allowing the crew to gain operational proficiency while the prime contractor continues to complete construction on the remaining four advanced weapons elevators. Final delivery will take place in Spring of 2027, ensuring the ship is delivered to the Navy on the fastest possible path to achieve combat readiness.
Future USS John F. Kennedy previously conducted successful Builder’s Trials in February 2026.
For 250 years, American naval power has projected strength globally, operating forward 24/7, 365 days a year. This operational tempo demands continuous capability, and the Fleet of the Future is our answer.
The Portfolio Acquisition Executive (PAE) for Maritime is the single accountable organization for delivering surface ships for the U.S. Navy. This new centralized organizational construct will empower leaders with broader scope and greater authority to accelerate delivery of combat capability and ensure acquisition speed and discipline are driven by what the warfighter needs-when they need it.