Aircraft Carriers

U.S. sailors shift colors on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) in the waters of Valparaíso, Chile, on April 17, 2026. USS Nimitz, along with destroyer es**rt USS Gridley (DDG 01), arrived for a port visit as part of the “Southern Seas 2026” exercise.

On station and vigilant. The USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) conducts U.S. operations in the Arabian Sea on April 16, 2026. The presence of our Carrier Strike Groups is essential for maintaining maritime security and ensuring stability in vital global waterways.

Epic Fury in action! An F/A-18F Super Hornet of VFA-41 readies for launch from the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Projecting power from the sea.

The future of air dominance takes flight. An F-35C Lightning II from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314 launches from USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) as part of Operation Epic Fury. The integration of 5th-generation stealth fighters aboard our carriers is critical to maintaining air superiority.

Here come the "Mighty Bison"! A Aviation Structural Mechanic carefully signals a CMV-22B Osprey from Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) 40 for a landing aboard USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77).

Unleashing the fury! An F/A-18E Super Hornet from Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 151 rockets off the flight deck of USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) during Operation Epic Fury. This is the awesome power of naval aviation in action.

Presence and partnership. This photo shows USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), the first in its class, underway in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea in March. USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) remains fully mission-capable and prepared to support national objectives in any area of operation.

Setting sail for open waters. USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) heads toward the Chesapeake Bay on March 31, 2026, after departing Naval Station Norfolk. Every departure marks the start of a new mission, ensuring our fleet remains ready and resilient.

The definition of power projection. U.S. Sailors prepare to tow an F/A-18E Super Hornet on the flight deck of USS Nimitz (CVN 68) during flight operations in the Pacific Ocean.

Power in Pairs! Two F/A-18F Super Hornets from the renowned Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41 prepare to launch from the flight deck of the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) in the Arabian Sea, February 15, 2026.

An aircraft carrier's effectiveness is showcased by its ability to project stability and ensure security. The sight of multiple Super Hornets ready for action highlights the USS Abraham Lincoln's vital role as a stabilizing presence and a hub of operational excellence.