The Reagan incorporates dozens of new technologies and innovations developed since the first Nimitz-class carrier, USS Nimitz (CVN 68), was delivered to the Navy in 1975. Among the changes are highly integrated ship systems with increased capacity to support future upgrades and more facilities for women than on previous ships. Other substantial design changes include:

  Bulbous bow for improved hull efficiency

• First Nimitz-class carrier to have the new bulbous bow design.

• New bow provides more buoyancy to the forward end of the ship and improved hull efficiency.

Completely redesigned island

• First major design change of the island house since the early 1960s.

• First time an island was designed using a 3D product model.

• The overall height of the island house did not change, but the new island has one less deck.

• Individual deck heights were increased by nine inches to accommodate overhead systems and allow growth margins for future capability improvements.

• One Weapons Elevator was relocated and now extends up into the aft section of the island, allowing for more efficient movement of aircraft ordnance during flight operations.

• All antennas have completely new arrangements with more radar and communications systems.