The prowess and strategic importance of aircraft carriers in the modern world cannot be overstated.

Today, we take a glimpse into the giants of the seas — the world’s largest aircraft carriers — a topic that resonates with the strategic insights and technical curiosity of our military tech and politics enthusiasts.

The largest aircraft carrier globally is the USS Gerald R. Ford Class (CVN-78) from the United States.

With a colossal displacement of 100,000 tons and a length spanning 337 meters, the USS Gerald R. Ford represents the zenith of naval engineering and military might.

Launched in May 2017, this behemoth of the seas boasts an advanced electromagnetic aircraft launch system, houses over 75 aircraft, and accommodates 4,539 personnel.

Its operational status was marked in December 2021.

Trailing closely is the Nimitz Class carrier, also from the US, with a displacement of 97,000 tonnes.

As the second-largest carrier class, it has been the cornerstone of American naval power since 1975. The fleet, spanning ten ships, is undergoing mid-life overhauls to ensure their dominance for another quarter-century.

These carriers can house over 5,000 personnel on their massive 4.5-acre flight decks.

With a displacement of 65,000 tons, HMS Queen Elizabeth, and its sibling HMS Prince of Wales, are the largest warships built for the Royal Navy.

These carriers embarked on their operational voyages, with HMS Queen Elizabeth completing a seven-month deployment in 2021 and HMS Prince of Wales serving as a NATO command ship in 2022.

From Russia, the fourth-largest carrier, Admiral Kuznetsov, has a displacement of 58,500 tonnes and accommodates a variety of aircraft, including Su-33 and MiG-29K fighters.

China’s naval architecture is on the rise with its launch, the Fujian.

With a displacement exceeding 80,000 tons and electromagnetic catapults for aircraft launch, Fujian marks a significant technological leap for the Chinese Navy.

Alongside the Shandong and Liaoning carriers, China is solidifying its presence in the world’s naval forces.

Relevant articles:
– Full list of world’s top 10 biggest aircraft carriers; 2 from India, The Indian Express
– Top 15 Biggest Aircraft Carriers in the World, Marine Insight
– Unveiling the 10 Biggest Aircraft Carriers in the World, Naval Technology
– 15 Best Aircraft Carriers in the World, SSBCrack