U.S. Navy USS John F Kennedy Aircraft Carrier Moves Under Power for First Time ahead sea trials.

The U.S. Navy’s future USS John F. Kennedy (CVN 79), the second Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier, has officially moved under its own power for the first time. On September 29, 2025, the carrier completed a successful propulsion turn test on the James River in Newport News, Virginia — a major milestone before upcoming Navy sea trials in 2026.

Built by Huntington Ingalls Industries, the USS John F. Kennedy represents the next generation of U.S. Navy supercarriers. The propulsion test marked the first time its advanced nuclear-powered systems were used to maneuver in water, signaling steady progress toward final delivery and operational readiness.

This video captures a historic step for America’s most advanced aircraft carrier, showcasing the scale, engineering, and significance of the U.S. Navy’s investment in Ford-class warships.

Stay tuned for updates as the Kennedy prepares for sea trials, pushing closer to joining the U.S. fleet later this decade.