Watch the US Navy's new first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford finally set sail on its first deployment

• The first-class aircraft carrier is about to deploy.

• The most advanced aircraft carrier will deploy to the Atlantic.

• The flattop is about to be tested.

The first-in-class aircraft carrier is about to leave for its first deployment.

The Navy's most advanced aircraft carrier features a suite of new technologies that are intended to help the Navy maintain its edge over its rivals. The advanced capabilities have come at a price. The carrier is behind schedule and overspending.

Initially expected to deploy for the first time four years ago, the Ford is finally leaving Norfolk, Virginia for a short, service-retained deployment in the Atlantic Ocean.

The start of the deployment was delayed until the following day due to changing weather conditions.

The aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford is about to set sail. The ship leaves the pier at 1:20:00.

Five years ago, the carrier was commissioned, but the integration of new technologies led to setbacks, cost overruns, and delays.

If they function as designed during a deployment, these technological leaps will boost the ship's combat power.

The ship has been criticized by Congress. One congresswoman once called the Ford a "$13 billion nuclear-powered berthing barge", despite the fact that Donald Trump thought it wouldn't work.

The powerful ship has gone through the necessary trials, including the detonation of 40,000-pound bombs near the carrier, and is ready to deploy.

The chief of naval operations and command of the US 2nd Fleet will be in charge of Carrier Strike Group 12 during this short deployment to give the crew a chance to work out best operational practices.

Next year, the Ford will deploy on a more traditional deployment. The aim is to refine the Ford's capabilities, according to Capt. Paul Lanzilotta, the carrier's commanding officer.

The Navy is going to conduct drills with allies and partners. According to the sea service, the deployment will involve around 9000 personnel from nine countries.

"This deployment is an opportunity to push the ball further down the field and demonstrate the advantage that Ford and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 bring to the future of naval aviation, to the region and to our allies and partners", said Rear Adm. Gregory Huffman, commander of

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