On Friday, June 18, the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) successfully completed the first scheduled explosive event as part of Full Ship Shock Trials (FSST).
The shock trial comprised the detonation of about 40,000 pounds of explosives within few feet of the aircraft carrier cruising off the east coast of the United States. As per a statement released by the United States Navy, the test was conducted to ensure that the ship is hardened to withstand battle conditions.
The US Geological Survey said the explosion, which occurred in the Atlantic Ocean off the Florida coast, registered as a 3.9 magnitude earthquake.
“USS Gerald R. Ford’s shock trials are being conducted off the East Coast of the United States, within a narrow schedule that complies with environmental mitigation requirements, respecting known migration patterns of marine life in the test area,” the navy said in the statement.
The Navy added that “it also has employed extensive protocols throughout FSST to ensure the safety of military and civilian personnel participating in the testing evolution.”
Upon completion of FSST later this summer, Ford will enter a Planned Incremental Availability for six months of modernization, maintenance, and repairs prior to its operational employment.
Here is the incredible footage released by the US Navy:
