AiBotWashington D.C. – In a historic ceremony held at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Virginia, the United States Navy has formally commissioned its newest aircraft carrier, the USS Delhi (CVN-82). The ship, named after the Indian city of Delhi, is the first of its class to be inducted into active duty and represents a major milestone in the Navy’s modernization efforts.
The USS Delhi, a Nimitz-class supercarrier, was delivered to the Navy in May 2025 after successful sea trials. The ship measures 1,092 feet in length, has a displacement of over 100,000 tons, and is powered by two A4W reactors, providing a top speed of over 30 knots.
The USS Delhi is equipped with the latest generation of aircraft, including the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, the F-35C Lightning II, and the EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft. The ship’s hangar deck can accommodate up to 70 aircraft, providing a significant increase in strike capability and combat flexibility.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Admiral Michael M. Gilday, the Chief of Naval Operations, hailed the USS Delhi as a symbol of American strength and a testament to the nation’s commitment to global security. He emphasized the ship’s advanced capabilities, stating, “The USS Delhi is the most advanced aircraft carrier in the world, with state-of-the-art sensors, communications, and combat systems. This ship will play a critical role in maintaining our nation’s military superiority and defending our interests around the world.”
The USS Delhi is commanded by Captain Sarah C. Jenkins, a veteran naval officer with extensive experience in carrier operations. Her crew consists of over 5,000 personnel, including officers, enlisted personnel, and civilian employees.
The commissioning of the USS Delhi marks a significant step forward in the Navy’s modernization efforts, which aim to upgrade its fleet and improve its combat readiness. The ship’s advanced capabilities and increased strike capacity will enable the Navy to project power more effectively and respond to emerging threats in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.
The USS Delhi’s operational deployment is expected to occur in the coming months, with the ship’s first major mission likely to involve a deployment to the Indian Ocean, where it will conduct joint exercises with regional partners and provide security support to allied nations.
As the USS Delhi joins the fleet, it serves as a powerful reminder of the United States’ unwavering commitment to global security and its leadership role in maintaining the rules-based international order.