The idea of a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier was conceived in the late 1950s, a period marked by rapid advancements in nuclear technology.
The Enterprise was laid down on February 4, 1958, at Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company in Virginia. Her construction was a monumental task, involving the integration of eight Westinghouse A2W nuclear reactors, which provided the ship with unprecedented power and endurance.
Launched on September 24, 1960, and christened by Mrs. William B. Franke, the wife of the Secretary of the Navy, the Enterprise was a marvel of engineering. At 1,123 feet long, she was the longest naval vessel ever built at the time. Her displacement of 93,284 long tons made her one of the largest carriers in the world.
USS Enterprise: The “Big E” Enters Service
Upon her commissioning, the Enterprise embarked on a series of rigorous tests and training exercises to determine her capabilities. These trials were highly successful, with the ship’s reactors generating immense horsepower, allowing her to outpace her destroyer escorts. The Enterprise’s first significant mission was as part of the Project Mercury Recovery Force, where she played a role in the recovery of astronaut John Glenn after his historic orbit around the Earth.
Vietnam War and Cold War Operations
The Enterprise’s first major combat deployment was during the Vietnam War. She participated in Operation Sea Orbit in 1964, a circumnavigation of the globe by a nuclear-powered task force, demonstrating the strategic mobility of nuclear-powered ships.
During the Vietnam War, the Enterprise conducted numerous air strikes against North Vietnamese targets, earning several commendations for her performance. During one operation, however, an MK-Zuni rocket suddenly exploded, cooking off other ordinances and causing a huge fire on the carriers deck. While it was controlled quickly, the carrier had to head to Perl Harbor for repairs, putting it out of action for some time.
Throughout the Cold War, the Enterprise was a key asset in the U.S. Navy’s arsenal. She was involved in various operations, including the blockade during the Cuban Missile Crisis and numerous deployments in the Mediterranean and Pacific Oceans. Her nuclear reactors allowed her to operate for extended periods without refueling, providing a significant strategic advantage.
Upgrades and Modernization
Over the years, the USS Enterprise underwent several upgrades to enhance her capabilities. In 1975, she was reclassified from CVA(N)-65 to CVN-65, reflecting her nuclear-powered status. Significant refits included the installation of modern radar systems, electronic warfare suites, and advanced armaments such as the NATO Sea Sparrow and Phalanx CIWS mounts.
One of the most notable upgrades was the addition of steam-powered catapults, which significantly improved the efficiency of aircraft launches. These advancements ensured that the Enterprise remained at the forefront throughout her service life despite the rapidly changing environment.
Later Operations and the Gulf War
After the end of the Vietnam War, The Enterprise continued to serve faithfully in the Navy. However, despite its reliable reputation, even the Enterprise was prone to the occasional accident. In 1982, during a deployment in the Western Pacific, the aircraft carrier ran aground on a sand bar in San Francisco Bay where it was stuck for several hours.
Ironically, George Takai, actor in the show Star Trek, was on board at the time.
The Enterprise continued to play a vital role in U.S. military operations into the late 20th and early 21st centuries. During the Gulf War in 1991, she launched air strikes against Iraqi targets, contributing to the coalition’s victory.
In the years following, the Enterprise participated in operations in the Balkans, Afghanistan, and Iraq, showcasing her versatility and enduring relevance.
The Enterprise’s Final Frontier
After more than 50 years of faithful service, the Enterprise was decommissioned on February 3, 2017. Her decommissioning marked the end of an era for the U.S. Navy, as she was the first and last of her class. The Enterprise’s legacy, however, forever influenced American carrier design to this day.
The Enterprise was much more than just a ship; she was a symbol of American ingenuity and strength. Her motto, “We are Legend; Ready on Arrival; The First, the Finest; Eight Reactors, None Faster,” encapsulates the spirit of the “Big E”.
The USS Enterprise (CVN-65) remains one of the most iconic aircraft carriers in history. From her groundbreaking nuclear-powered design to her extensive service in major conflicts, the Enterprise set numerous records and achieved many milestones. Her story is one of innovation, resilience, and excellence, and it deserves to be remembered for the rest of time.
About the Author: Isaac Seitz
Isaac Seitz, a 19FortyFive Defense Columnist, graduated from Patrick Henry College’s Strategic Intelligence and National Security program. He has also studied Russian at Middlebury Language Schools and has worked as an intelligence Analyst in the private sector.
