USS Gerald R. Ford's First Fixed-Wing Aircraft Launch

ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 28, 2017) An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 23 piloted by Lt. Cmdr. Jamie Struck, launches from the flight deck of USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78). The aircraft carrier is underway conducting test and evaluation operations. Less than one week after Pres. Donald J. Trump commissioned the U.S. Navy's newest aircraft carrier, Gerald R. Ford launched and recovered its first fixed-wing aircraft off the coast of Virginia. The first arrested landing, or "trap", occurred at 3:10 PM (EST) and the first catapult launch happened at 4:37 PM (EST).
(U.S. Navy video/Released)

[bmelo]

Notice how much smoother the launch is... Less stress on the aircraft compared to steam catapults.

[riff]

That was cool seeing the flight deck guys celebrating launch.

[ghostmourn]

What a time to be alive! We have gone from the first home computers to railguns and Ford class carriers in about 40 years.

[xXEndLessKaosXx]

that seamed really smooth compared to the steam cat

[AsreiMurasame]

Despite the cost overruns and issues it has run into I am happy my tax dollars are supporting equipment like this. The Ford class should be an amazing addition to the U.S's Navy.

[brendaproffitt]

INCREDIBLE...great job on this video too.Thank you so much

[rahsaanmoore]

It's crazy not having the normal steam come off the CATS like on the other carriers, wonder how that catapult sound under the deck

[ACommonError]

You can tell the crew loves what they do.   Awesome job

[geomodelrailroader]

congratulations NAVY on the first successful launch of an aircraft from USS Ford.

[aurelioangulo]

I m proud of you my nephew because you have been a important key in this project . Now we're able to see you job taking place in an important aircrafts carrier.

[viking_II]

Electromagnetic efficiency for 100, 000 tons of diplomacy.

[lw]

does Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System get planes to higher speed at launch?
Smoother yes, but does it get to take off speed faster than steam?

[edwardwilliams]

I have a question, when a new ship comes online do people like the guys on deck request a transfer? Are these new recruits? A combination of new and experienced? I know I would want to be serving on the newest ship available.

[proelitematthew]

No steam!! less work on Air Frame shop lol. sooo quiet tho.

[aurelioangulo]

O. V .now you will be part of the history on years to come. My God bless you.

[kamiash]

Did previous carriers have steam projected or something like that

[fem]

USA USA USA Congratulations for U.S. Navy

[ejayv]

I Want To Join To This Navy Someday...

[teddyballgame]

This launching system over the lifespan of this carrier will save money because maintenance and also on the aircraft .

[rexfield]

Now, go snuff Korea Kray Kray KImmy.