Trump-class Battleship will get same nuclear reactor as Ford aircraft carrier

The U.S. Navy has finalized plans for its new Trump-class battleship, announcing it will utilize the same A1B nuclear reactor currently powering the Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier. Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle confirmed in the Navy’s latest shipbuilding plan that the battleship will incorporate key components from the Ford-class, including the reactor, steam generator, and reactor cooling pumps, alongside advanced combat systems like radar and missile systems. Construction of the first Trump-class battleship is scheduled to begin in fiscal year 2028, with an expected delivery in 2036. The Navy aims to build a fleet of 15 battleships by 2056, emphasizing their role as high-endurance capital ships capable of sustained operations in the Pacific. Caudle highlighted the ship’s ability to provide significant payload capacity for future conflicts, particularly in the vast Pacific theater where endurance and firepower are critical. Budget documents reveal a substantial financial commitment, with the Navy requesting $1 billion for advance procurement and $837 million for research and development in fiscal year 2027. The first battleship’s construction alone is projected to cost $17 billion in FY28, followed by $13 billion for the second ship in 2030. The total five-year development cost is estimated at $46 billion, sparking scrutiny from lawmakers. Rep. Betty McCollum, ranking member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, criticized the expense, calling it unaffordable. Navy leaders, however, defend the investment, citing design challenges with next-generation destroyers as justification for the battleship’s larger hull and expanded capabilities. Rear Adm. Ben Reynolds noted that the battleship will fill gaps left by destroyers, offering functions beyond the capabilities of current DDG-class vessels.