USS Musk: U.S. Navy's Newest Aircraft Carrier to Honor Elon Musk
In a surprising turn of events, the U.S. Navy has announced that its next aircraft carrier, originally set to be named USS Enterprise (CVN 80), will instead be christened USS Musk. This marks the first time in history that an active Senior Advisor to the President has had a warship named in their honor. The executive order authorizing the name change is expected to be signed later today, reinforcing the administration’s efforts to revamp the Navy’s image and shipbuilding priorities.
A Symbol of Modern Innovation
The USS Musk will be the third Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier and is expected to be commissioned by 2029 to replace the aging USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). Ford-class carriers represent the cutting edge of naval warfare, featuring advanced electromagnetic aircraft launch systems (EMALS), improved nuclear reactors, and an overall reduction in crew size due to automation.
It is no coincidence that the Navy chose this particular ship to bear the name of Elon Musk, who has been instrumental in revolutionizing space travel, electric vehicles, and artificial intelligence. The inclusion of EMALS—an electromagnetic launch system—aligns symbolically with Musk’s emphasis on electric-powered technologies. However, it remains to be seen whether President Trump, who previously criticized EMALS in favor of traditional steam catapults, will support its continued use on the USS Musk.
A Shift in Naval Traditions
This renaming is part of a broader initiative under the "Make Ship Names Great Again" campaign, aimed at countering what the administration sees as unnecessary political correctness in military traditions. Some analysts view this decision as a move to embrace figures who represent innovation and economic growth rather than historical figures or military heroes. Critics argue that naming an aircraft carrier after a living, politically connected individual is a break from long-standing traditions and could set a controversial precedent.
Adding to the controversy, reports have surfaced suggesting that a new U.S. Navy Signal Intelligence (SIGINT) vessel could be named after Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, though the White House has denied this. Meanwhile, speculation continues that the USS Constitution, the Navy’s oldest commissioned warship, may soon be decommissioned. Critics argue that retiring the wooden ship is an unnecessary erasure of history, but officials insist it is an outdated relic unfit for modern naval warfare.
The Bigger Picture
The decision to rename CVN 80 as USS Musk fits into a broader narrative of redefining U.S. military priorities. With China rapidly expanding its naval capabilities—launching its new Type-004 Fujian-class carriers—the U.S. Navy is under pressure to maintain its technological edge. The Ford-class carriers, including USS Musk, represent the future of American sea power. However, the controversy surrounding this naming choice suggests that, for many, military tradition still holds significant weight.
As the ship nears its launch later this year, debate will continue over whether the USS Musk represents a bold new vision for the Navy or an unnecessary politicization of military assets. Regardless, one thing is certain: this aircraft carrier’s name will keep it in the spotlight for years to come.
