News media outlets have been incorrectly reporting that the Navy has been launching trucks from the flight deck of the USS Gerald R. Ford. They’re actually purpose-built sleds, like the one above.The Navy’s most advanced aircraft carrier is considered the first Ford-class carrier, but it’s unclear what brand of trucks, er, uh, sleds have been seen launching from its bow.
As construction of the USS Gerald R. Ford—named for the late U.S. president—nears completion, the ship’s aircraft launching system is being tested with sleds that resemble medium-duty, flatbed trucks from afar.
The confusion has resulted in countless headlines stating that the Navy is launching trucks from its latest carrier. So far no false news reports have emerged claiming that the Navy is attempting to devise an alternative powered delivery truck.
How powerful is the ship’s catapult? Check out the $13 billion supercarrier in action as it launches these sleds like Legos.
The U.S. Navy expects to commission the ship this spring.
MEDIA: Trucks launched off USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier to test its jet catapult system pic.twitter.com/DGfETzdtaa
— The Int'l Spectator (@spectatorindex) February 5, 2017
