Part 10/12:
Despite these delays and cost controversies, the strategic importance of carriers remains central to U.S. military doctrine. With a legally mandated minimum of 11 carriers, the delay temporarily reduces the fleet to 10, prompting oversight and scrutiny from Congress.
The Future and Significance
The Kennedy is more than just steel and reactors; it embodies the evolution of naval warfare technology and the strategic resilience of the United States. Its capabilities—unmatched power margins, modernized flight systems, and potential operational lifespan of over fifty years—make it a vital asset on the world stage.