Newport News Shipbuilding continues to make progress on Enterprise (CVN 80). Shipbuilders reached the latest milestone when a 940-ton aft section of the aircraft carrier was lifted into place, a move that came with some challenges.
“The first thing a shipbuilder would notice is the overwhelming size of the unit,” said Scott Buchwald, construction supervisor. “Its prominent shape and size lend to a lot of complex fitting and welding.”
The real challenge was installing large equipment and foundations, he said.
“The process begins with engineering, dimensional analysis, fitting, welding, machining, and ending with the eventual crane load out of its components,” he said. “In true shipbuilder fashion, we persevered and triumphed.”
Watch a video of the aft end lift below. View previous videos of Enterprise construction, including portside rudder installation and the mid-body transfer that now allows for two aircraft carriers to be built in one dry dock.
