CVNs

CVN is the United States Navy hull classification symbol for a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. CV stands for carrier, aircraft, and the N denotes propulsion by nuclear power. The designation identifies the ship’s primary role as a mobile air base at sea. The first ship to bear the CVN designation was USS Enterprise (CVN-65), commissioned in 1961 as the world’s first nuclear-powered carrier.

CVNs serve as the centerpiece of carrier strike groups, enabling power projection and sea control. They carry an air wing that typically includes fighters, electronic-warfare aircraft, helicopters, and support aircraft. In addition to air operations, CVNs contribute to maritime security and joint operations, with capabilities in air defense, anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, and strike missions. Their design emphasizes long endurance at sea to project power globally.

The two principal CVN classes are the Nimitz class and the Ford class. Nimitz-class carriers are among the largest warships and historically relied on conventional steam catapults. Ford-class carriers introduce the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) and Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG), along with other design improvements intended to increase sortie rate and reduce crew requirements, while maintaining nuclear propulsion.

Propulsion is provided by on-board nuclear reactors, enabling sustained high-speed operation without frequent refueling. A typical CVN operates with thousands of personnel, comprising ship’s company and the air wing, reflecting its status as a self-contained, long-range aviation platform.

Today, CVNs remain a core element of U.S. naval power, with ongoing construction and commissioning of Ford-class ships and plans for additional hulls to extend the capability and reach of American sea power.