The Department of Defense has acknowledged the Navy's decision to name two upcoming Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carriers after former Presidents William J. Clinton and George W. Bush. This announcement was made by President Biden.

Aircraft carriers play a central role in America's naval forces, enabling the United States to project power globally and deliver combat capabilities in defense of democracy. The future USS William J. Clinton (CVN 82) and the future USS George W. Bush (CVN 83) are named in honor of these two significant Commanders in Chief who served with determination and dedication.

These new carriers will serve as enduring tributes to each president's legacy of service to the United States. The vessels, along with their crews, aim to protect national security, reflect on history, and inspire others to serve the republic.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III commented on this development: "The Department of Defense is honored by the Navy's naming of two future Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carriers as the future USS William J. Clinton (CVN 82) and the future USS George W. Bush (CVN 83), as announced today by President Biden."

He further added: "These two future carriers are named after historically significant Commanders in Chief who served our country with determination and dedication: President Bill Clinton and President George W. Bush."

In closing, he stated: "Like their namesakes, these two future carriers, and the crews who sail them, will work to safeguard our national security, remind us of our history, and inspire others to serve our great republic."