The Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program turns 75 on Friday, Aug. 4. The joint Department of Navy and Department of Energy organization is responsible for all aspects of the Navy’s nuclear propulsion, including research, design, construction, testing, operation, maintenance and ultimate disposition of naval nuclear propulsion plants.

Newport News Shipbuilding has contributed to a record of more than 171 million miles safely steamed on nuclear power. Today, the Navy operates 99 reactors and 79 nuclear-powered warships – including NNS-built aircraft carriers and submarines.

“It’s an exciting time in the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program; we are fully embracing our responsibility to continue powering maritime dominance for the next 75 years,” said Adm. Frank Caldwell, director of the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program.