Naval Flight Operations at Sea

Action-packed images of naval aircraft during landing and takeoff on various carriers, capturing the intensity of military aviation.

Atlantic Ocean, March 20, 2012 - An MV-22 Osprey lands on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) during flight operations.

060317-N-8547M-010. Base: USS Saipan (LHA 2) Country: At Sea

DN-ST-88-00685. Base: USS Dwight D Eisenhower (CVN 69) Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

Atlantic Ocean, March 20, 2012 - An MV-22 Osprey lands on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) during flight operations.

EAST CHINA SEA (Aug. 31, 2022) Sailors assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault carrier USS America (LHA 6) conduct flight operations on the ships flight deck while sailing in the East China Sea, Aug. 31, 2022. America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, is operating in the 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready-response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

220927-N-XN177-1010 MANILLIA, Philippines (Sept. 27, 2022) - U.S. Marines watch as amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) pulls into Manilla, Philippines for a port visit Sept. 27, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

EAST CHINA SEA (Jan. 16, 2020) An MV-22 Osprey assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 265 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), takes off from the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6). America, flagship of the America Expeditionary Strike Group, 31st MEU team, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

An E2-D Hawkeye attached to the "Bear Aces" of Airborne Command and Control (VAW) Squadron 124 approaches USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN 78) flight deck, June 6, 2022. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications.

220813-N-FO865-1018PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug 13, 2022) - Landing Craft Utility (LCU) 1648, assigned to Assault Craft Unit 1, exits the well deck of amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26), August 13. LCUs bolster the interoperability of the U.S. Navy and Marines using Navy craft to transport Marine land vehicles and troops from ship to shore creating a more lethal force. John P. Murtha, part of amphibious squadron (CPR) SEVEN, along with 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), is currently underway conducting integrated training in U.S. 3rd Fleet to prepare for an upcoming deployment.

230120-N-DU622-1475 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Jan. 20, 2023) U.S. Navy Sailors refuel an MV-22 Osprey from the Ugly Angels of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 362 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz is in U.S. 7th Fleet conducting routine operations. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with Allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

220917-N-LK647-0077 ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sept. 17, 2022) The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60) fires the ships forward 5-inch gun as part of a live fire exercise during Surface Warfare Advanced Tactical Training (SWATT). Normandy is underway as part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group conducting SWATT exercises to increase lethality, ensure combat readiness, and promote tactical innovation. SWATT is led by the Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center, whose mission is to increase the tactical proficiency and lethality of the surface force.

120104-N-PB383-536 ARABIAN SEA (Jan. 4, 2012) A CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter assigned to Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 268 Reinforced, transfers cargo from the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Patuxent (T-AO 201) to the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) during a replenishment at sea. New Orleans and embarked Marines assigned to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (11th MEU) are deployed as part of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

DN-ST-87-03370. Subject Operation/Series: DISPLAY DETERMINATION '86 Base: USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67) Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED)

220522-N-BR419-1023 PACIFIC OCEAN (May 22, 2022) An F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to the Dambusters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195, lands on the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) during carrier qualifications. Ronald Reagan and Carrier Air Wing (CAG) 5 are conducting carrier qualifications to certify the ship and embarked squadrons are fully capable for at sea flight 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.

DN-SC-90-04292. Base: USS Dwight D Eisenhower (CVN 69) Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED)

240118-N-ED228-1015 PACIFIC OCEAN (Jan. 18, 2024) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 14, participates in flight operations aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln is currently underway conducting routine operations in the Pacific Ocean.

220914-N-XN177-1215 PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 14, 2022) - An MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) takes off from the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Sept. 14, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

220906-N-TT639-1118 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Sept. 6, 2022) - Sailors and U.S. Marines participate in a foreign object debris (FOD) walkdown on the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Sept. 6, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

DN-ST-88-00687. Base: USS Dwight D Eisenhower (CVN 69) Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

230202-N-MH015-1026 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Feb. 2, 2023) An F/A-18E Super Hornet from the Blue Diamonds of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 146 and an F/A-18F Super Hornet from the Fighting Redcocks of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 22 prepare to launch from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz is in U.S. 7th Fleet conducting routine operations. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with Allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

PHILIPPINE SEA (April 27, 2022) Aviation Boatswains Mate (Equipment) Airman Vital Depina, from Boston, pushes back an arresting wire 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.

Sailors assigned to the first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) and the "Tridents" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 9 conduct an ammunition onload, Sept. 25, 2022. Ford is underway in Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications and workups for a scheduled deployment this fall.

Sailors assigned to the first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) and the "Tridents" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 9 conduct an ammunition onload, Sept. 25, 2022. Ford is underway in Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications and workups for a scheduled deployment this fall.

PHILIPPINE SEA (April 3, 2020) An F-35B Lightning II assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 265 (Reinforced) takes off from the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6). America, flagship of the America Expeditionary Strike Group, 31st MEU, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

A T-45A Goshawk trainer aircraft prepares to catch the arresting cable on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS JOHN F. KENNEDY (CV 67) during its first series of carrier qualifications. Country: Unknown

An AV-8B+ Harrier II jet aboard the Italian Navy Cavour aircraft carrier.

Plane directors position an F/A-18 Hornet aircraft on the flight deck as another F/A-18 approaches for a landing during flight operations aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS CARL VINSON (CVN-70). The aircraft are assigned to Fighter Attack Squadron 125 (VFA-125). Country: Unknown

ARABIAN SEA (Sept. 12, 2019) An F/A-18F Super Hornet attached to the Jolly Rogers of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 103 and a C-2A Greyhound attached the Rawhides of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40 launch from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). The Abraham Lincoln 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 and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. With Abraham Lincoln as the flagship, deployed strike group assets include staffs, ships and aircraft of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 12, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 2, the guided-missile cruiser USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55) and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 taxis the flight deck aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7) while underway, June 29, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners, and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

221002-N-DU622-1125 PACIFIC OCEAN (Oct. 2, 2022) An E-2C Hawkeye, from the "Sun Kings" of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 116, makes an arrested gear landing on the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz Carrier Strike Group is underway preparing for an upcoming deployment.

060826-N-8604L-793. Country: Indian Ocean (IOC)

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 13, 2022) Airman Shaion Plummer, from New York City, right, under instruction of Aviation Boatswains Mate (Handling) 1st Class Mark Usi, from Spring Valley, California, signals to an MV-22 Osprey attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 363 as it takes off from the flight deck of Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, four submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

120110-N-SB587-278ATLANTIC OCEAN (Jan. 10, 2012) An MV-22 Osprey takes off from the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3). Kearsarge is conducting crew certifications in preparation for future amphibious operations.

An SH-60B Sea Hawk helicopter prepares to take off from the flight deck of the guided missile frigate USS DOYLE (FFG-39). Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Oct. 23, 2018) An MV-22 Osprey attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 264, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), departs the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) during the Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 4 composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX), Oct. 18, 2018. COMPTUEX is the final pre-deployment exercise that certifies the combined Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 22nd Marine Expeditionary Units (MEU) abilities to conduct military operations at sea and project power ashore through joint planning and execution of challenging and realistic scenarios.

A Super Etendard aircraft of the Argentine Navy prepares to briefly touch down on the flight deck of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN (CVN-72). The plane is taking part in touch-and-go landings aboard the LINCOLN during the vessel's circumnavigation of South America. Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

A Strike-Fighter Squadron 106 (VF-106) F/A-18 Hornet aircraft is launched during flight operations aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (CVN-69). Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

DN-SC-04-15248. Base: USS Nimitz (CVN 68)

SOUTH CHINA SEA (Aug. 28, 2017) The amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) conducts flight operations while transiting the Malacca Straits. America and its amphibious ready group are operating in the Indo-Asia Pacific region to strengthen partnerships and serve as a ready-response force for any type of contingency.

040225-N-4757S-028. Base: USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

PACIFIC OCEAN (MAY 5, 2016) An F/A-18E Super Hornet from the Argonauts of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147 launches from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). Carl Vinson is underway conducting carrier qualifications off the coast of Southern California with embarked Carrier Wing Eleven (CVW 11).

DN-SC-89-02646. Subject Operation/Series: WEST WIND 88 Base: USS Forrestal (CV 59) Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

220624-N-XN177-2278 PACIFIC OCEAN (June 24, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Strike Fighter Squadron (VMFA) 121 taxis on the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), June 24, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

220623-N-XN177-2112 PACIFIC OCEAN (June 23, 2022) - An MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 folds its wings on the flight deck of amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), June 23, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

DN-SC-87-06589. Base: USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

221125-N-BR419-2048 PHILIPPPINE SEA (Nov. 25, 2022) Aviation Boatswains Mate (Equipment) 3rd Class Shanastie Hublanco, from Naalehu, Hawaii, clears the runway prior to the launch of an F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to the Eagles of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 115, on the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), in the Philippine Sea, Nov. 25. The Eagles conduct carrier-based air strikes and strike force escort missions, as well as ship, battle group, and intelligence collection 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.

A British Royal Navy FA-2 Sea Harrier takes off from the flight deck of Invincible Class Aircraft carrier, HMS ILLUSTRIOUS (RO 6). The British vessel is operating in the Persian Gulf in support of the Southwest Asia build-up. Base: Hms Illustrious (RO 6)

A Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 30 (VRC-30) C-2A Greyhound aircraft lands on the flight deck of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS NIMITZ (CVN-68) during flight operations aboard the vessel. Country: Unknown

221002-N-NX635-2049 PACIFIC OCEAN. (Oct. 2, 2022) A U.S. Navy E-2C Hawkeye, from the "Sun Kings" of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 116 makes an areested landing on the flight deck aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz Carrier Strike Group is underway in preparation for an upcoming deployment.

A C-2A Greyhound, attached to the ÒRawhidesÓ of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40, lands on the flight deck of the first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), March 28, 2023. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean executing its Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX), an intense, multi-week exercise designed to fully integrate a carrier strike group as a cohesive, multi-mission fighting force and to test their ability to carry out sustained combat operations from the sea. As the first-in-class ship of Ford-class aircraft carriers, CVN 78 represents a generational leap in the U.S. NavyÕs capacity to project power on a global scale.

220920-N-XN177-1228 PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 20, 2022) - A CH-53 Super Stallion helicopter assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) lands on the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Sept. 20, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

221009-N-XN177-1163 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Oct. 9, 2022) - Sailors refuel an MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) on the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Oct. 9, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

220615-N-XN177-3261 PHILIPPINE SEA (June 15, 2022) - An MV-22 Osprey aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 lands on the flight deck of amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), June 15, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

220813-N-XN177-1043 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 13, 2022) - An MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) lands aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Aug. 13, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

PHILIPPINE SEA (Oct. 28, 2022) Okinawan press and local representatives watch aircraft takeoff from the flight deck during a ship tour of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), in the Philippine Sea, Oct. 28, 2022. 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.

220921-N-TT639-2173 PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 21, 2022) - Sailors move an MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) across the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Sept. 21, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

221206-N-EU502-1043 PACIFIC OCEAN (Dec. 6, 2022) - An MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 364 takes off from the flight deck of amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Dec. 6, 2022. Tripoli is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

220617-N-DW158-1299 PHILIPPINE SEA (June 17, 2022) Cmdr. Kenneth Holland, Carrier Air Wing 5 operations officer, and Midshipman 1st Class Nate Williams, from Narragansett, Rhode Island, launch in an F/A-18F Super Hornet attached to the Diamondbacks of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102, from the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan hosted five U.S. Naval Academy Midshipmen for their summer cruise allowing them to experience day-to-day life aboard an aircraft carrier. 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.

PHILIPPINE SEA (May 7, 2022) An E-2D Hawkeye, assigned to the "Wallbangers" of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 117, prepares to make an arrested landing 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-SC-90-04289. Base: USS Dwight D Eisenhower (CVN 69) Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED)

ARABIAN GULF (March 3, 2015) Lt. Bryce Fitzgerald signals to launch an C-2A Greyhound from the Providers of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 30 during flight operations aboard the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). Carl Vinson is deployed to the area supporting maritime security operations, strike operations in Iraq and Syria as directed, and theater security cooperation efforts in the 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 22, 2022) Aviation Boatswains Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Erin Parker, from Raeford, N.C., signals for an MV-22B Osprey, attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 363, to take off from the flight deck of Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, three submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

DN-ST-86-10025. Base: USS America (CV 66) Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED)

DN-ST-87-05056. Base: USS Dwight D Eisenhower (CVN 69)

220817-N-XN177-2432 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 17, 2022) - An MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) takes off from amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Aug. 17, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

DN-SC-87-10002. Base: Guantanamo Bay Country: Cuba (CUB)

240214-N-CY569-1150 ATLANTIC OCEAN (Feb. 14, 2024) An F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to the Pukin Dogs of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143, launches off the flight deck of of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), Feb. 14, 2024. Truman is the flagship of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group and is currently underway conducting flight deck certification as part of the basic phase. Navy

010330-N-8500S-001. Subject Operation/Series: KERNEL BLITZ 2001 Base: Uss Denver (LPD 9) Scene Major Command Shown: FLTCOMBATCAMGRUPAC

220825-N-TT639-1081 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 25, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) launches from amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), Aug. 25, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

A V-BAT unmanned aerial system launches aboard Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD-50), Feb. 9, 2024. The V-BAT provides the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable (MEU(SOC)) the capability to increase maritime awareness through utilization of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance sensors. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, with the embarked 26th MEU(SOC) 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. Marine Corps

An E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt.

220703-N-DN159-1101 IONIAN SEA (July 3, 2022) An MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter, attached to the Proud Warriors” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 72, left, and two MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopters, attached to the "Dragonslayers" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 11, fly alongside USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), right, and USS Bainbridge (DDG 96) during an air and sea power demonstration, July 3, 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.

060724-N-0569T-076. Base: USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6)

220905-N-XN177-1386 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Sept. 5, 2022) - Sailors refuel MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Sept. 5, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

220403-N-XN177-2017 PACIFIC OCEAN (April 3, 2022) - An F-35B Lightning II aircraft attached to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 225 lands on the flight deck aboard amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA 7), April 3. VMFA-225 is embarked aboard Tripoli as part of the U.S. Marine Corps Lightning carrier concept demonstration. The Lightning carrier concept demonstration shows Tripoli and other amphibious assault ships are capable of operating as dedicated fixed-wing strike platforms when needed, capable of bringing fifth generation Short Takeoff/Vertical Landing (STOVL) aircraft wherever they are required.

220909-N-NV699-1122 ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sep. 9, 2022) The homeward bound pennant flies onboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), Sep. 9, 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.

DN-ST-88-00259. Base: Diego Garcia Country: British Indian Ocean Territory (IOT)

120619-N-EK905-049 PACIFIC OCEAN (June 19, 2012) Sailors and Marines and their friends and family watch an air show from the weather decks aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8). Makin Island and embarked Marines assigned to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit are underway on a Tiger Cruise in the U.S. 3rd Fleet Area of operations.

221013-N-XN177-2012 PHILIPPINE SEA (Oct. 13, 2022) - U.S. Marines load equipment onto an MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) on the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Oct. 13, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

220914-N-LI114-1047 PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 14, 2022) Sailors observe as an F/A-18F Super Hornet, attached to the Diamondbacks of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102, launches from the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), in the Pacific Ocean, Sept. 14. The Diamondbacks conduct carrier-based air strikes and strike force escort missions, as well as ship, battle group, and intelligence collection 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.

220824-N-TP544-1083 BALTIC SEA (Aug. 24, 2022) A U.S. Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier, attached to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), flies past U.S. Navy Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handler) First Class Tu N. Chau during flight operations on the flight deck of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) Aug. 24, 2022. The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd MEU, 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.

220914-N-XN177-1229 PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 14, 2022) - An MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced) takes off from the flight deck aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Sept. 14, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

DN-SC-87-10758. Base: USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

PACIFIC OCEAN (June 13, 2013) An aviation boatswain's mate (handling) directs an MV-22 Osprey onto the flight deck during flight operations aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4). Boxer is conducting predeployment training during the amphibious exercise Dawn Blitz. Dawn Blitz is a scenario-driven exercise led by U.S. 3rd Fleet and I Marine Expeditionary Force that will test participants in the planning and execution of amphibious operations through a series of live training events.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sept. 11, 2020) Two T-45C Goshawks training aircraft attached to Training Air Wing (TAW) 2 prepare to launch from the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), Sept. 11, 2020. Gerald R. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications.

220511-N-XN177-2114 PACIFIC OCEAN (May 11, 2022) - An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 prepares to take off from the flight deck of amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), May 11, 2022. Tripoli is conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

220717-N-MJ302-1005 PACIFIC OCEAN (July 17, 2022) A CMV-22B Osprey, from the "Sunhawks" of Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) 30, lands on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz is underway in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of operations.

A catapult officer maintains his position following the launch of an aircraft from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Constellation (CV-64) during PACEX '89. An KA-6D Intruder aircraft is parked in the background. Subject Operation/Series: PACEX '89 Country: Unknown

Italian Navy personnel on the deck of the ITS Cavour aircraft carrier.

DN-SC-88-07639. Base: USS Enterprise (CVN 65) Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

KUMAMOTO, Japan (April 19, 2016) Members of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force prepare to load supplies onto an MV-22B Osprey aircraft from Marine Medium Tilitrotor Squadron (VMM) 265 attached to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit in support of the Government of Japan's relief efforts following earthquakes near Kumamoto. The long-standing alliance between Japan and the U.S. allows U.S. military forces in Japan to provide rapid, integrated support to the Japan Self-Defense Force and civil relief efforts.

DN-SC-88-06065. Base: Boston State: Massachusetts (MA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 13, 2022) Airman Shaion Plummer, from New York City, right, under instruction of Aviation Boatswains Mate (Handling) 1st Class Mark Usi, from Spring Valley, California, signals to an MV-22 Osprey attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 363 as it takes off from the flight deck of Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, four submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

061130-N-8591H-129. Base: Philippine Sea

PACIFIC OCEAN (Feb. 28, 2015) An MV-22B Osprey from the Greyhawks of Marine Medium-lift Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161 takes off from the flight deck of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). Essex is underway conducting an amphibious squadron and Marine expeditionary unit integration training exercise with Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 3 and the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (15th MEU) in preparation for an upcoming deployment.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Dec. 10, 2020) A T-45C Goshawk attached to Training Air Wing 2 lands aboard the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), Dec. 10, 2020. Gerald R. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications.

Ships from the George Washington and Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Groups and aircraft from the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Marine Corps operate in formation at the conclusion of Valiant Shield 2014. Valiant Shield is a U.S.-only exercise integrating Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps assets, offering real-world joint operational experience to develop capabilities that provide a full range of options to defend U.S. interests and those of its allies and partners.

050119-N-7130B-034. Base: USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76)

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