USS George H. Bush (CVN-77) Under Construction at Newport News Shipbuilding, September 2006

The USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) was the tenth and final Nimitz-class aircraft carrier built for the United States Navy. Construction of this powerful warship began at the Newport News Shipbuilding facility in Virginia, marking a significant addition to the Navy’s fleet. Named in honor of the 41st President of the United States and former Navy aviator George H.W. Bush, this carrier is one of the most advanced of its kind.

By September 2006, construction was in full swing, showcasing impressive engineering and state-of-the-art technology. Newport News Shipbuilding, the only shipyard capable of building nuclear-powered aircraft carriers for the U.S. Navy, worked meticulously on each aspect of the vessel. The ship was designed with modernized features that would allow it to support a broad range of aircraft and advanced weaponry.

The carrier’s construction highlighted innovations in nuclear propulsion systems and new automated systems, which would enhance the crew’s efficiency and improve the carrier’s operational capabilities. These enhancements set the George H.W. Bush apart from its predecessors and laid the groundwork for the upcoming Ford-class carriers, which would build upon its innovations.

The USS George H.W. Bush was officially commissioned on January 10, 2009, serving as a testament to American engineering and military strength. Since its commissioning, it has played a vital role in various global operations, projecting power and supporting missions worldwide. The construction of CVN-77 represents not only a milestone in naval engineering but also a tribute to President George H.W. Bush’s legacy and commitment to public service and national defense.