The French government, under President Emmanuel Macron, has confirmed the construction of a new nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, the Porte-Avions Nouvelle Génération (PA-NG), slated for completion in 2038. This new vessel, replacing the existing Charles de Gaulle, will be significantly larger, with a displacement of 78,000 tonnes. Despite some fiscal concerns, the project is moving forward with a predicted cost of €10.25 billion, designed to enhance France’s naval capabilities and bolster its defense spending, which will include approximately €6.5 billion in extra military spending in the next two years. The PA-NG will be the largest warship ever built in Europe, equipped with Rafale M fighter jets and featuring electromagnetic aircraft launch systems.
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France has officially approved the construction of a next-generation nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, the PA-NG, to replace the current Charles de Gaulle. The new carrier, set to be the largest warship built in Europe, will be equipped with advanced US-made launch and arresting systems, allowing for a broader range of aircraft, including future fighters and drones. The PA-NG will feature a significantly larger flight deck and two powerful nuclear reactors. Construction is anticipated to begin in the early 2030s, with full operational capability expected around 2038.
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According to the Navy’s Pacific Fleet, a fighter jet and a helicopter from the USS Nimitz crashed into the South China Sea within 30 minutes of each other, with all five crew members recovered safely. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the incidents. President Trump suggested that “bad fuel” may be a factor and ruled out foul play. The USS Nimitz is returning to its home port after deployment and is on its final mission before decommissioning.
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Russia’s lone aircraft carrier, the Admiral Kuznetsov, is likely destined for the scrapyard or a sale, according to shipbuilding sources. This feels like the inevitable conclusion to a long-running saga of neglect and repeated mishaps for a ship that’s more of a symbol than a functional war machine. The idea of this vessel, a source of national pride, ending up as scrap metal is a stark illustration of the current state of affairs, highlighting resource constraints and strategic missteps.
Who, realistically, would even want to buy this thing? The Kuznetsov has a reputation, and not a good one. It’s notoriously unreliable, a constant source of breakdowns, and even features a fire truck on deck – an unusual addition, to say the least.… Continue reading
Russia is reportedly considering retiring and scrapping its only aircraft carrier, the Admiral Kuznetsov, after years of costly repairs and setbacks. The vessel, plagued by mechanical failures and accidents since its launch in 1990, has been undergoing an extensive overhaul since 2018 with repeated delays. With the work suspended, discussions are now underway between the Russian Navy and shipbuilding authorities. Experts believe the carrier is outdated, and its retirement would leave Russia without an operational carrier, prompting debate about future naval capabilities and priorities.
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A US fighter jet recently rolled off an aircraft carrier and sank into the ocean, the Navy confirmed. The incident, which is currently under investigation, has understandably sparked a flurry of online commentary ranging from disbelief to dark humor. The sheer cost of the aircraft, estimated to be around $70 million, is a significant factor fueling the public’s reaction. Many are questioning how such an event could even occur, highlighting a perceived lack of basic safety protocols.
The possibility of inadequate securing mechanisms, such as the absence or failure of wheel chocks, has been raised. Some commenters even went so far as to jokingly suggest the Navy might request a budget for wooden wheel chocks, highlighting a perceived bureaucratic inefficiency.… Continue reading
As I read about the news regarding the US Navy aircraft carrier going head-to-head with the Houthis, one statement from the strike-group commander caught my attention. He mentioned that the carrier’s planes are constantly in the air, ready to combat any threat that may arise. And for me, that seems like a normal and necessary practice in an active war zone.
When you have the risk of enemy fire and the need to protect shipping and suppress firing positions, it’s only logical to have round-the-clock Combat Air Patrol (CAP). This allows for quick strikes and provides extra anti-air protection for a wide area.… Continue reading
The UK’s flagship aircraft carrier has recently faced a new unfortunate setback, as it won’t be able to lead a major NATO exercise. It’s disheartening to see such a crucial asset rendered inoperable, especially considering that this exercise involves playing the role of Russia’s adversary. One would think that the UK would prioritize having their side’s flagship fully functional during such exercises.
Fortunately, the UK made the wise decision to have two carriers instead of a single larger one, which allows for redundancy in case something goes wrong. In this case, HMS Prince of Wales will be taking the place of the incapacitated HMS Queen Elizabeth.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood