2 | 15 | 2016
A weekly publication of Newport News Shipbuilding
NNS Conducts Catapult Testing on Lincoln On Feb. 10, Newport News Shipbuilding announced that it has begun testing the updated catapult systems aboard USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), which is nearing the end of its mid-life refueling and complex overhaul (RCOH). Working with the U.S. Navy crew aboard Lincoln, NNS shipbuilders are testing the steam catapult systems through a process called “no-load” testing, during which the overhauled components in the catapult systems are operated with steam for the first time. “When an aircraft carrier undergoes its overhaul, we completely update and modernize the components in the ship’s catapult systems,” said Chris Miner, vice president of In-Service Aircraft Carrier Programs. “Many of the components are tested at a land-based facility prior to being installed into the ship for final testing. It’s rewarding to see the hard work of the shipbuilders and the Navy culminate in ‘shooting’ the catapults with steam for the first time in over three years. The testing of the catapults is another signal that this great ship is coming back to life and will soon rejoin the fleet for another 25 years of service to our country.” Capt. Ronald Ravelo, the ship’s commanding officer, was on the flight deck and gave the signal to launch the first “no-load.” “To everyone involved in this huge and significant milestone, thank you,” Ravelo said. “The test reminds us that this is what aircraft carriers do: We launch aircraft to project combat power from the sea in support of our national interests.” The testing involves shooting the catapults about 20 times with less than two minutes of recovery time between operations. Lincoln is in the final stages of testing all of its steam-powered systems. Sailors signal steam catapult systems testing aboard CVN 72. Lincoln is in its final stages of testing all of its steam-powered systems as part of its RCOH. Photo by John Whalen