The United States launched the USS Enterprise, the world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, marking a new era in naval engineering and global military strategy. The ship, commissioned in 1961, became a technological symbol of Cold War power and remains one of the most significant advances in maritime history.
A technological leap in naval warfare
At 342 metres long and powered by eight nuclear reactors, the USS Enterprise (CVN-65) was not only the first of its kind but also the longest warship ever built at the time. The ship could reach speeds of over 30 knots and operate for years without refuelling, an unprecedented advantage over conventional oil-powered carriers. This innovation greatly extended operational reach, enabling the US Navy to project force globally without dependence on vulnerable fuel supply lines.
Cold War significance
Launched at the height of the Cold War, Enterprise was a strategic asset in the US arsenal. Its nuclear propulsion meant it could remain at sea for extended deployments, responding quickly to crises in any part of the world. The vessel participated in key missions ranging from the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962 to supporting combat operations during the Vietnam War and later conflicts in the Middle East.
A floating symbol of American power
Nicknamed the “Big E,” the carrier housed up to 5,800 personnel and could carry more than 90 aircraft, making it a floating airbase. Its sheer size and endurance transformed naval logistics and operations, underscoring America’s ability to sustain military presence across multiple theatres simultaneously. Beyond its tactical role, Enterprise embodied US industrial capability and the strategic dominance of nuclear technology at sea.
Legacy and retirement
The Enterprise served for over 50 years before being decommissioned in 2017, making it one of the longest-serving aircraft carriers in history. Its success paved the way for the Nimitz-class carriers and the modern Gerald R. Ford-class, which continue to rely on nuclear propulsion. The ship’s pioneering design ensured that nuclear power became the standard for US supercarriers, a legacy that continues to shape naval power projection today.
REFH – Newshub, 24 September 2025
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