The former nuclear aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN-65), recognized as the world's first nuclear aircraft carrier, has begun its final journey towards dismantling. This ship, which entered service in 1961, is heading to Mobile, Alabama for dismantling due to wear and tear after 55 years of service.
Date and Route
The USS Enterprise departed from Newport News, Virginia, on November 2, 2026, heading to Mobile, Alabama. The ship is being towed to this destination for dismantling. The dismantling contract for this ship, valued at $536 million, has been awarded to NorthStar Maritime Dismantlement Services. This company is a joint venture between NorthStar Group Services and Modern American Recycling and Radiological Services.
Details and Implications of Dismantling
After the deactivation of the USS Enterprise in December 2012, the United States Navy undertook various steps to remove the reactor fuel and officially retired it from service in 2017. Throughout its lifetime, this ship has traveled over one million nautical miles under nuclear power and will remain a symbol of the history of the United States Navy.
The dismantling of the USS Enterprise is being used as a model for other nuclear ships that are planned for dismantling. Currently, the United States Navy is awaiting the retirement of the USS Nimitz in early 2027. This ship, which is the eighth vessel named Enterprise, is recognized as a legacy in the history of the United States Navy.
The dismantling of the USS Enterprise marks the end of a historic era in the United States Navy. It is expected that this ship will become a new tourist attraction in Mobile in the future. Alongside it, the aircraft carrier S.S. United States will soon be transferred for its final journey to sea.
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