Military Lawmakers: Aircraft carrier Ford bound for Norfolk

The Navy’s newest aircraft carrier will begin its service to the nation at Naval Station Norfolk, providing an economic boost to the region, several congressmen announced Thursday.

The first-in-class Gerald R. Ford, built at Newport News Shipbuilding, is still undergoing final outfitting and testing at the shipyard. It is expected to join the fleet next year and sail rom Norfolk for at least the next several years, the congressmen said.

Meanwhile, a $30 million upgrade to the Navy’s amphibious base at Little Creek has paid dividends, the congressmen said. Once in danger of losing ships, the Navy has decided to retain four amphibious ships at that base — although that will involve moving ships from Norfolk, not from elsewhere.

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