US Navy aircraft carrier USS Enterprise goes for razor blades

A U.S. Navy warship, USS Enterprise, is waiting to be dismantled. It's the end of an era of an aircraft carrier that's served for more than half a century.

When we hear the phrase "go for razor blades", we usually think of objects that have lost their worth, such as old cars or used tools. In this context, however, it refers to one of the most famous ships in history – USS Enterprise (CVN-65). Last Tuesday, the U.S. Navy announced that this aircraft carrier, which was for more than half a century a showcase of the American Navy's power, would be dismantled.

Farewell to the legend of the United States Navy

The Enterprise, called "Big E", for over half a century was the pride of the U.S. Navy. Now, in the face of technological progress and new challenges, it's time to say goodbye to this legendary ship.

Although nuclear reactors have been removed, the ship still contains "radiographic residues and hazardous waste". Their safe and responsible disposal is the next stage of the dismantling process.

The decision to dismantle the USS Enterprise was not easy. The final place where the ship will be dismantled is still not selected. Will it be the shipyards of Newport News, Brownsville, or Mobile? It is crucial that the selected shipyard has adequate experience, especially in the field of recycling such impressive units.

Service history

The Enterprise served the United States Navy from 1961 to 2017 as the first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. People called him "Big E." Although it is the longest-built warship, Nimitz and Ford aircraft carriers surpass it in terms of buoyancy.

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The ship participated in many important events in US history. He was present during the blockade of Cuba during the Cuban Rocket Crisis, taking part in air battles and bombing missions in Vietnam. He also helped evacuate the U.S. embassy during the fall of Saigon. After the September 11 attacks, he hit al-Qaeda and Taliban bases and also served in the Persian Gulf, supporting operations of Enduring Freedom.

The Enterprise ceased its service in 2012 and soon thereafter began its deactivation. Budgetary problems caused delays in the nuclear fuel disposal process, which was not completed until late 2016. The ship is currently being stored at Hampton Roads, awaiting dismantling.

End of USS Enterprise carrier era

Even though the Enterprise will soon disappear, his spirit will live on. The new Ford-type aircraft carrier (CVN-80) will proudly bear the name USS Enterprise, in tribute to this legendary ship. In addition, its construction will use part of the steel recovered from the original "Big E", which symbolically combines both units.

Written by Mariusz Dasiewicz