US Navy reviews Ford-class aircraft carrier program amid cost concerns. Navy Secretary John Phelan announced a comprehensive review of the advanced carrier's design and long-term expenses, with results expected next month. The assessment will determine whether systems and capabilities align with operational requirements. Future versions of the Ford-class may face cancellation, though Phelan stated the Navy will maintain carrier capabilities. The review follows years of criticism regarding the carrier's magnetic catapult technology. The USS Gerald R. Ford recently completed a record deployment exceeding 300 days. Budget documents released Tuesday notably omitted Ford-class carriers from planned ship acquisitions, listing only generic aircraft carriers instead. This contrasts with other vessels like Columbia-class submarines listed by specific class name.
