This Monday, November 18, the U.S. Navy announced that the modernization process of the USS George H.W. Bush aircraft carrier has been completed, with Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) in charge of the operation. After successfully completing the corresponding tests over the weekend, the vessel will enter Planned Incremental Availability (PIA) status for a period of ten months, with Virginia serving as its homeport.
Delving into details of the modernization process, the aircraft carrier has been equipped with a new Network Tactical Common Data Link (NTCDL) system, significantly enhancing its capabilities for intelligence and reconnaissance missions while also facilitating data exchange with other U.S. Navy platforms. Additionally, the USS George H.W. Bush has received two new combination ovens for its kitchen, a modular refrigeration unit, and various updates to its onboard computer systems.
According to the official statement, the work was completed within the stipulated timelines, requiring the joint effort of shipyard personnel and U.S. Navy personnel stationed at the nearby Norfolk Naval Station. In total, over 550 people participated in the project, including personnel who gained experience during the modernization of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, completed in December 2022.
On this, Captain Jip Mosman, commander of NNSY, stated: “The Bush team and crew supported this availability with capability and commitment (…) Their teamwork and dedication to returning this critical asset to the fleet will serve as a model for future maintenance and modernization programs across U.S. shipyards.”
Finally, it is worth noting that the modernization of the USS George H.W. Bush is just one of the recent successful projects completed at Norfolk Naval Shipyard. This includes the recent undocking of the USS Toledo (SSN 769) to advance its technical overhaul and the arrival of the USS Montpelier (SSN 765) for the same process.
Images used for illustrative purposes
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