Hey guys,
The US Navy went and started building a new class of super carrier's. The Keel was laid on 14 Nov 09 for the Gerald R. Ford CVN-78. It will take about 5yr to complete.

I'd heard rumors. Any pix or links to articles with specs, etc? Stephen

One source says the keel was laid on 11/13. But others state the 11/14 date. It is great to see the Navy getting this ship officially moving. The builders have been making parts for her already, but once the keel is down she can start to come to life.

But, it is also a sad day. This means the Big E is getting closer to retirement.

I was in Norfolk aboard CVN 77 last January and the graving dock for the Gerald Ford had blocks laid and pre assambles here and there....The GF will have the standard steam catapults and same reactor plants as CVN 77. It may even have a similar island design afterall since the change of catapult designs back to basics.
ENTERPRISE may even retire earlier than scheduled depending on the Obama Administration plans. Now is the time to start lobbying for CVN 79 to be named E. Yeah right.