Northrop Grumman
Corporation has redelivered the
USS George Washington (CVN
73) to the U.S. Navy following a 10-and-a-half-month maintenance
availability.
The work was performed by the company's Newport News sector and
the ship was redelivered after two days of successful sea trials, a
series of operational tests to demonstrate the carrier is fully mission
capable.
"This availability has been, from the beginning, marked by open
and honest communication between 'GW' and the shipyard," said Capt.
Garry R. White, commanding officer of the USS George Washington (CVN
73). "This, combined with unprecedented teamwork and spirit of
cooperation, has resulted in a remarkably successful maintenance
period. I could not be more proud of all those involved."
"The performance of the Newport News and Navy team during this
availability has been exceptional," said Ken Mahler, vice president of
aircraft carrier overhauls at Northrop Grumman Newport News. "Our team
goals of quality work completed safely, on or ahead of schedule and
below budget, have been achieved."
The George Washington arrived at the Newport News shipyard on
Jan. 28 for the availability, which included dry-docking for
approximately seven months. Work included repair and refurbishment of
the hull, sea chests, shafting, propellers, and rudders; blasting and
coating of numerous tanks; modernization of spaces to support the
F/A-18 Super Hornet aircraft equipment and weapons stowage systems;
enhancements to crew living areas; scheduled maintenance on propulsion
plant systems; and repair and inspections on a variety of ship systems.