Containments were built around the shafts to maintain temperature and humidity levels while complex fiberglass work was completed. For the rudders, large holes were cut through the decks, and the rudders and all associated systems were removed. Refurbished rudders were then removed from the decommissioned carrier USS Ranger while that ship was in the water, to be re-machined and installed on the Hawk. The aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk departed from Naval Air Station North Island on 06 July 1998, ending a 37 year relationship with the city of San Diego. USS Kitty Hawk arrived in Yokosuka in August 1998.
Projects range from repairing water-tight doors and hatches to replacing corroded deck drains.
The overhaul saw upgrades to virtually every system on the ship, from the galleys to the engine rooms, and the flight deck to the anchors. USS Constellation's Combat Systems Suite is one of the most advanced and capable in the fleet. Enhanced by worldwide satellite communications and high frequency data links, information is available for anyplace, at any time. It automatically plots the ship's position by Global Positioning Satellite and keeps a complete record, alleviating yet another time consuming job aboard ship. Also new to the ship is the Flat Panel Display.