The US Navy has finalized the 10-month modernization of the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Virginia.
The progress is part of the force’s Planned Incremental Availability (PIA) initiative, which improves the operability of old vessels, adding “more combat-ready players” in the theater.
It underwent PIA in January 2024, was assembled in 2003, and entered service four years later.
Upgrades delivered to the ship encompass afloat networks, the enterprise services system, tactical common data link, and galley equipment to amplify its situational awareness, communication reliability, and overall operational capability.
Approximately 550 personnel supported the carrier’s renovation, the navy said.
“The Bush team and crew supported this availability with capability and commitment,” Norfolk Naval Shipyard Commanding Officer Capt. Jip Mosman commented.
“Their teamwork and dedication to returning this critical asset to the fleet will serve as the model for future maintenance and modernization programs in America’s shipyards.”
USS George H.W. Bush
The USS Bush is the 10th and final Nimitz carrier developed for the US Navy. Its namesake was a World War II naval aviator, former Central Intelligence Agency head, and America’s 41st president.
The hull is 1,092 feet (333 meters) long and can accommodate up to 90 fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters as well as 6,000 personnel.
It sails with four steam turbines and twin Westinghouse nuclear reactors for speeds of over 30 knots (35 miles/56 kilometers per hour).
In addition to its electronic warfare and torpedo countermeasures, the vessel is protected by anti-ship and surface-to-air missiles, automated close-in guns, and Kevlar in critical areas.