ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 16, 2021) An evolved sea sparrow missile (ESSM) launches from one of the weapons sponsons aboard the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) during combat systems ship qualification trials (CSSQT), April 16, 2021. CSSQT is a Naval Sea Systems Command requirement to verify that ship personnel can operate and maintain their combat systems in a safe and effective manner. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting its final independent steaming event of post-delivery tests and trials. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class William Spears)