USS Kitty Hawk Aircraft Carrier.

THE LAST CONVENTIONAL CARRIERS IN THE USN

When the US Navy contemplated a follow-on to the Forrestal class, it was decided to repeat the basic design, because it was believed that nuclear power was about to become standard. In fact this proved premature, and after the first two planned ships, a third, the America (CV66), was built, and then a fourth, the John F Kennedy (CV67), to a modified design. The main differences between the Kitty Hawks and the Forrestals were in layout. By repositioning the island superstructure further aft, room was found for two aircraft lifts forward on the starboard side. They were also given a lattice mast abaft the island and Terrier long-range missiles.

ARDUOUS SERVICE

Like all the US Navys carriers the Kitty Hawk (CV63) has seen intensive service, being sent to a number of crisis flashpoints during the Cold War and since. Between January 1988 and February 1991 she underwent an expensive Service Life Extension Programme (SLEP), which included upgraded catapults and arresting gear and detailed changes to her electronics and defensive weaponry. The Terrier missiles were replaced by short-range Sea Sparrows in the late 1970s. The ship is scheduled to be decommissioned in 2008.

TECHNICAL DATA
Type: Aircraft carrier
Machinery: 4-shaft geared turbines giving 280,0
Dimensions: Length, 319.4m (10475M; beam, 76.7m(25
Displacement: 80,945t (full load)
Draught: 11 .4m (361t)