Aircraft Carrier Operations

Dynamic shots of sailors and aircraft on aircraft carriers, capturing the intense atmosphere of flight operations and maintenance tasks.

Red Sea, September 4, 2013 - An F/A-18F Super Hornet prepares to launch off the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz.

An S-3A Viking aircraft descends through a heavy fog to land aboard the aircraft carrier USS FORRESTAL (CV-59) during the allied forces exercise Team Work '88. Subject Operation/Series: TEAM WORK '88 Country: North Atlantic Ocean

220630-N-BR419-1061 PHILIPPINE SEA (June 30, 2022) An EA-18G Growler attached to the Shadowhawks of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141, launches from the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). The primary role of EA-18G Growlers is to disrupt the ability to communicate between units in combat through the use of electronic warfare. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

Squadron maintenance crewmen check over an F-14A Tomcat aircraft secured on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS SARATOGA (CV-60) during Operation Desert Shield. The aircraft is carrying AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles, top, and AIM-7 Sparrow missiles on its wing pylons. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT SHIELD Country: Unknown

DN-SC-87-00524. Base: USS Saratoga (CV 60) Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED)

PHILIPPINE SEA (April 6, 2022) Airman Cristina Rodriguezkoenig, left, from Marlton, N.J., and Lt. Isay Rapoport, from Aurora, Colo., signal an F-35C Lightning II, assigned to the "Black Knights" of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314, on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

DN-ST-89-07451. Base: USS Independence (CV 62) Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

120706-N-SK590-458 ARABIAN SEA (July 6, 2012) Sailors wait for an F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the Vigilantes of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 151 to launch from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) before conducting a post-launch catapult inspection. Lincoln is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and combat flight operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

220824-N-GP384-1248 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Aug. 24, 2022) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Nadia Chapel, from Cincinnati, directs an aircraft on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), Aug. 24, 2022. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

INDIAN OCEAN (Nov. 20, 2017) Sailors prepare to launch an F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the "Mighty Shrikes" of Strike Fighter Attack Squadron (VFA) 94 from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71). Theodore Roosevelt is deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts.

An aviation ordnance warrant officer from Attack Squadron 75 (VA-75) stands on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS JOHN F. KENNEDY (CV-67). Country: Adriatic Sea

A US Navy (USN) waist catapult operator runs out to ready Catapult No. 3 for aircraft recovery as a USN F/A-18F Super Hornet, Strike Fighter Squadron 102 (VFA-102), Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi, Japan (JPN), launches off the flightdeck of the USN Aircraft Carrier USS KITTY HAWK (CV 63) during Joint Air and Sea Exercise (JASEX) 05. A US Navy (USN) waist catapult operator runs out to ready Catapult No. 3 for aircraft recovery as a USN F/A-18F Super Hornet, Strike Fighter Squadron 102 (VFA-102), Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi, Japan (JPN), launches off the flightdeck of the USN Aircraft Carrier USS KITTY HAWK (CV 63) during Joint Air and Sea Exercise (JASEX) 05.

The arresting gear officer signals as an F/A-18A Hornet aircraft comes in for a landing aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (CVN-69) during Fleet Ex '90. Subject Operation/Series: FLEET EX '90 Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

Lieutenant Keith Gauthier performs a preflight check on his Fighter Squadron 142 (VF-142) F-14A Tomcat aircraft prior to taking off from the flight deck of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (CVN 69). Base: USS Dwight D Eisenhower (CVN 69) Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED)

220702-N-PA358-3104 ADRIATIC SEA (July 2, 2022) Distinguished visitors from North Macedonia observe flight operations on the flight deck of USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) during a scheduled visit to the ship, July 2, 2022. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

011107-F-0308N-188. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Country: Unknown Scene Major Command Shown: CENTCOM

221109-N-DW158-1102 PHILIPPINE SEA (Nov. 9, 2022) Multinational defense attachés watch an F/A-18E Super Hornet attached, to the Dambusters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195, launch from the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), in the Philippine Sea, Nov. 9. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

Sailors assigned to the first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN 78) air department, retreat from a simulated aircraft fire during a mass casualty drill on the flight deck, Oct. 14, 2022. The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group (GRFCSG) is deployed in the Atlantic Ocean, conducting training and operations alongside NATO Allies and partners to enhance integration for future operations and demonstrate the U.S. Navy's commitment to a peaceful, stable and conflict-free Atlantic region.

060313-N-4776G-025. Base: USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76)

DN-ST-87-10489. Base: USS Dwight D Eisenhower (CVN 69) Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

DN-SC-90-03807. Base: USS Dwight D Eisenhower (CVN 69) Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED)

ARABIAN SEA (Jan. 6, 2020) Sailors carry out pre-flight checks on an F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the Fighting Checkmates” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211, during flight operations on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) in the Arabian Sea, Jan. 6, 2020. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean Sea and the Pacific Ocean through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points.

220416-N-UP745-1027 East Mediterranean Sea (April 16, 2022) Sailors, assigned to the Vipers of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 48, conduct flight operations aboard Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109), in the East Mediterranean Sea, April 16, 2022. Jason Dunham is a part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S., allied and partner interest in Europe and Africa.

070506-N-5330L-002. Base: USS Dwight D Eisenhower (CVN 69)

111228-N-YL945-108PACIFIC OCEAN (Dec. 28, 2011) Aviation ordnancemen assigned to the Bounty Hunters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 34 prepare to upload ordnance during flight operations on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Lincoln is in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations (AOO) as part of a deployment to the western Pacific and Indian Oceans en route to support coalition efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet AOO.

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Robert Weede, an AV-8B Harrier II jet pilot with Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 231, receives the signal for takeoff from U.S. Navy Aviation Boatswains Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Donahven Beaver on the flight deck aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), Dec. 6, 2022. VMA-231 trained with U.S. Sailors to strengthen interoperability and conduct carrier qualifications prior to their upcoming deployment with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit. VMA-231 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

A catapult crewman checks the nose gear of a Fighter Attack Squadron 86 (VFA-86) F/A-18C Hornet aircraft on a catapult aboard the aircraft carrier USS AMERICA (CV-66). The carrier is participating in the joint service exercise Ocean Venture '93. Subject Operation/Series: OCEAN VENTURE '93 State: Puerto Rico (PR) Country: United States Of America (USA)

ARABIAN GULF (Aug. 22, 2016) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) Airman Malik Robinson conducts maintenance on a bow catapult on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike). Ike and its Carrier Strike Group are deployed in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.

220726-N-DW158-1010 SOUTH CHINA SEA (July 26, 2022) Sailors participate in a mass casualty drill on the flight deck aboard the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Mass casualty drills test the ships damage control and medical response team proficiency in an integrated training environment. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

Flight deck crewmen watch as a KA-6D Intruder aircraft descends through a heavy fog to land aboard the aircraft carrier USS FORRESTAL (CV-59) during the allied forces exercise Team Work '88. Subject Operation/Series: TEAM WORK '88 Country: North Atlantic Ocean

GBU-12 Laser-guided Bomb USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67) US Navy

221211-N-MZ309-1394 ADRIATIC SEA (Dec. 11, 2022) A Sailor assigned to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) signals to an MH-60S Nighthawk helicopter, attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, during a replenishment-at-sea with the Supply-class fast combat support ship USNS Arctic (T-AOE 8), Dec. 11, 2022. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 is the offensive air and strike component of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 10, George H.W. Bush CSG. The squadrons of CVW-7 are Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 86, VFA-103, VFA-136, VFA-143, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121, HSC-5, and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 46. The George H.W. Bush CSG is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

DN-ST-87-10485. Base: USS Dwight D Eisenhower (CVN 69) Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

A catapult team performs a first run no-load on the number two catapult steam system during morning preparations for launch aboard USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN 73). George Washington and embarked Carrier Air Wing One (CVW-1) are in the the Persian Gulf to support UN efforts to compel Iraqi compliance with UN resolutions. Base: USS George Washington (CVN 73) Country: At Sea

Hangar deck personnel use an SD-1D spotting dolly to move a Fighter Squadron 142 (VF-142) F-14A Tomcat aircraft off of an elevator aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (CVN-69) during FLEET EX '90. Subject Operation/Series: FLEET EX '90 Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

221012-N-SN516-1035 PACIFIC OCEAN (Oct. 12, 2022) U.S. Navy Seaman Evan Flynn, from Bakersfield, Calif., prepares a helicopter for takeoff during flight quarters aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Decatur (DDG 73). Decatur is currently operating with Nimitz Carrier Strike Group in preparation for an upcoming deployment.

The battleship USS IOWA (BB-61) launches a Harpoon anti-ship cruise missile during Fleet Exercise 2-86. Country: Unknown

Aviation Boatswain's Mate Third Class Adrian Tellez launches the second of six AV-8B2 Harriers from the flight deck of the USS Kearsarge. The Harriers left the Kearsarge as the ship came closer to the US after a six month deployemnt to the Mediterranean. Base: USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC) Scene Major Command Shown: SECOND FLEET

A catapult officer gives the signal to launch an Attack Squadron 196 (VA-196) A-6E Intruder aircraft during flight operations aboard the aircraft carrier USS INDEPENDENCE (CV-62). The INDEPENDENCE is one of the U.S. Navy ships sent to the Persian Gulf in response to Iraq's invasion of Kuwait. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT SHIELD/STORM Country: Unknown

Soldiers from the various battalions of the 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, NY, are led by flight deck personnel to their waiting UH-60's for a dress rehearsal. Subject Operation/Series: UPHOLD DEMOCRACY Base: USS Dwight D Eisenhower (CVN 69)

240212-N-PV534-4021 PACIFIC OCEAN (Feb. 12, 2024) Capt. Damon Loveless, left, executive officer of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), welcomes aboard U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Robert Brodie, assistant wing commander, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, on the flight deck of Abraham Lincoln. The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group is underway in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of operations conducting advanced tactical training that increases warfighting capability and tactical proficiency across all domains. Navy

110629-N-EE987-227ARABIAN SEA (June 29, 2011) Aviation Ordnancemen assigned to the Argonauts of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147 transport ordnance across the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14 are deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting close-air support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom.

030225-N-3235P-505. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Base: USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75)

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Joshua Moracco, 204th Airlift Squadron loadmaster, prepares to deploy an LUU 2 Flare from the back of a C-17 Globemaster III during a flare deployment training operation held July 7, 2022, Kenai Peninsula Borough, Alaska. The addition of high-intensity illuminating flares comes from the Hawaii Air National Guard's continued support of NASA's SpaceX Human Space Flight program. It enhances the airlift squadron's ability to conduct contingency astronaut rescue operations in various lighting conditions.

220921-N-YQ181-1186 PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 21, 2022) Aviation Structural Mechanic Airman Tracer Dumas, from Marblehead, Massachusetts, directs an E-2D Hawkeye, attached to the Tiger Tails of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 125, as it launches from the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), in the Philippine Sea, Sept. 21. E-2D Hawkeyes perform tactical airborne, early warning missions to provide valuable information to Carrier Strike Group 5 as it plans and executes operations. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

220723-N-TP544-1001 ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 23, 2022) U.S. Navy Mass Communications Specialist 3rd Class Ryan Clark records flight operations on the flight deck of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) July 23, 2022. The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

PACIFIC OCEAN (May 6, 2013) Aviation Boatswains Mate (Equipment) 2nd Class Joshua McNeese prepares to launch an F/A-18F Super Hornet from the Fist of the Fleet of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 25 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). Carl Vinson and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 are currently underway off the coast of Southern California conducting flight operations.

221014-N-DU622-1218 PACIFIC OCEAN (Oct. 14, 2022) Two shooters’ give the sign to launch on the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz Strike Group is underway preparing for an upcoming deployment.

220520-N-ZE328-1266 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (May 20, 2022) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 1st Class Christopher Duviella, from New York, directs the pilot of an EA-18G Growler, attached to the "Rooks" of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 137, on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) in support of Neptune Shield 22, May 20, 2022. Neptune Shield 22 is the natural evolution of NATO's ability to integrate the high-end maritime warfare capabilities of an Aircraft Carrier Strike Group, an Amphibious Ready Group and a Marine Expeditionary Unit to support the defense of the alliance.

Aviation Boatswain's Mate H (Aircraft Handling) 2nd Class Michael Mappin gives the signal to stop as he demonstrates fixed wing aircraft hand signals on the flight deck of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN (CVN-72). Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

220909-N-ZG822-1169 ADRIATIC SEA (Sep. 9, 2022) A Sailor performs a pre-flight inspection on an F/A-18E Super Hornet aircraft, attached to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 136, aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), Sep. 9, 2022. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 is the offensive air and strike component of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 10 and the George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group (GHWBCSG). The squadrons of CVW-7 are, VFA-86, VFA-103, VFA-136, VFA-143 Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5 and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 46. The GHWBCSG is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied, and partner interests.

Dame Karen Pierce, Her Majestys Ambassador to the United States of America, observes flight operations on USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN 78) flight deck. Her Majesty's Ambassador and staff visited Ford to observe flight operations and discuss Ford-class unique systems and equipment. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications and strike group integration as part of the ships basic training phase. (Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Zachary Melvin)

PACIFIC OCEAN (Oct. 21, 2018) A Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier attached to the Black Sheep” of Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 214 launches off the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) during flight deck night operations. Boxer is underway conducting routine operations in the 3rd Fleet area of operations.

A US Navy Sailor directs traffic aboard the USS TARAWA (LHA 1) during Exercise KERNEL BLITZ 2001. Subject Operation/Series: KERNEL BLITZ (LHA 1) Base: USS Tarawa (LHA 1) Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

A left rear view of an F-4J Phantom II aircraft as it is catapulted from the deck of the aircraft carrier USS CORAL SEA (CV-43). Country: Unknown

110813-N-FE409-035ARABIAN SEA (Aug. 13, 2011) Sailors inspect a catapult between launches during flight operations aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). George H.W. Bush is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility on its first operational deployment conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operations Enduring Freedom and New Dawn.

Aviation Structural Mechanic E (Safety Equipment) 1ST Class Castilleja, a reservist attached to Strike Fighter Squadron 305 (VFA-305), stands beside an F/A-18A Hornet aircraft on the flight deck of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS NIMITZ (CVN-68). Castilleja is serving two weeks active duty on the carrier. Subject Operation/Series: SOUTHERN WATCH Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

Airwing safety officers overlook an F-14 "Tomcat" being attached to a catapult (not shown) on board the USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN 71). The THEODORE ROOSEVELT and its Airwing are deployed to the Adriatic in support of the NATO-led Operation Allied Force. Subject Operation/Series: ALLIED FORCE Country: Adriatic Sea

220624-N-BP862-1010 TUNISIAN SEA (June 24, 2022) Aviation Ordnanceman 2rd Class Michael Bettes, from Big Wood, Maryland, assigned to the "Sunliners" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 81, tests the systems of an F/A-18E Super Hornet during a release and control check on the flight deck of USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), June 24, 2022. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

8th Civil Engineering Squadron members wearing chemical warfare gear perform rapid runway repair during exercise Team Spirit '81. Subject Operation/Series: TEAM SPIRIT '81 Base: Kunsan Air Base Country: Republic Of Korea (KOR)

DN-SC-89-09464. Base: USS Niagara Falls (AFS 3)

DN-SD-00-03343. Base: USS Independence (CV 62)

Ordnancemen prepare to load an AIM-9 Sidewinder missile on an A-7E Corsair II aircraft aboard the aircraft carrier USS AMERICA (CV-66) during Operation El Dorado, a retaliatory strike on Libyan terrorist targets. Subject Operation/Series: EL DORADO Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED)

060921-N-5576W-002. Base: USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71)

061108-N-3729H-033. Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

Atlantic Ocean, February 11, 2012 -A shooter launches a T-45 Goshawk training aircraft from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush.

DN-ST-85-02913. Base: USS Nimitz (CVN 68) Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED)

PACIFIC OCEAN (May 8, 2012) Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) direct an F-18/E Super Hornet assigned to the Salty Dogs of Air Test and Evaluation (VX) 23 squadron into launching position. Nimitz is conducting carrier qualifications off the coast of southern California.

170722-N-WS581-054NORFOLK (July 22, 2017) Jets conduct a flyover during the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN 78) commissioning ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk, Va. Ford is the lead ship of the Ford-class aircraft carriers, and the first new U.S. aircraft carrier designed in 40 years.

120109-N-OY799-064 ARABIAN SEA (Jan. 9:: 2012) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Michael Linscott directs a fixed-wing aircraft on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom.

GULF OF OMAN (Jan. 5, 2014) Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 3rd Class Kwasi Asamoah, left, Airman Isaac Grosfeldkatz, and Airman Mark Brockman, all three assigned to the Seahawks of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 126, wash an E-2C Hawkeye aircraft on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). Harry S. Truman, flagship for the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, supporting theater security cooperation efforts and supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

111213-N-OY799-090ARABIAN GULF (Dec. 13, 2011) Sailors spray the flight deck during a fresh water wash down aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom and New Dawn.

220509-N-IN734-1056 GULF OF OMAN (May 09, 2022) Seaman Johnny Nichols performs defensive manuevers during an oleoresin capiscum course aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Momsen (DDG 92) in the Gulf of Oman, May 9. Momsen is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

220710-N-FB730-1101 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (July 10, 2022) Simulated casualties are transported via aircraft elevator to relocate during a mass casualty drill on the flight deck of USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), July 10, 2022. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Jan. 28, 2013) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) 2nd Class Manolito Recto, from Vallejo, Calif., signals for the launch an aircraft aboard the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom.

Crewmen and Marines run on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS GUAM (LPH-9) during morning physical training (PT). Country: Adriatic Sea

SINGAPORE (March 16, 2023) Aviation Electricians Mate Airman Daniel Kuriloyoung, assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 35, from Beaverton, Oregon, uses hand signals to communicate with an MH-60R SeaHawk, attached to HSM-35, on the flight deck of Independence-class littoral combat ship USS Oakland (LCS 24) at Changi Naval Base, Singapore, March 16, 2023. Oakland, part of Destroyer Squadron 7, is on a rotational deployment, operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with Allies and partners and serve as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

070316-M-7459S-034. Base: USS Bataan (LHD 3) Country: Indian Ocean (IOC) Scene Major Command Shown: 26TH MEU

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