USS John F. Kennedy returns Nimitz-class radar feature
By The BriefBrief
The USS John F. Kennedy is being configured with major radar changes that require “illuminators” to support Evolved Sea Sparrow Missiles protecting the carrier. The update brings back a key feature associated with the Nimitz class to enable missile defense.
WHO:USS John F. Kennedy; Evolved Sea Sparrow Missiles
WHAT:Radar changes on USS John F. Kennedy require adding “illuminators” to support Evolved Sea Sparrow Missiles.
WHEN:Reported Aug 19, 2026 at 3:15 PM ET
WHERE:USA
WHY:The radar changes mean “illuminators” are needed to help Evolved Sea Sparrow Missiles protect the carrier.
Reporting from 1 identified publisher for this event.