(A Nimitz Class Carrier)
(The USS Nimitz)
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Aircraft carriers provide a wide
range of possible response for the National Command Authority. The mission of the
aircraft carrier is to provide a credible, sustainable, independent forward presence and
conventional deterrence in peacetime, to operate as the cornerstone of joint/allied
maritime expeditionary forces in times of crisis, to operate and support aircraft attacks
on enemies, to protect friendly forces, and to engage in sustained independent operations
in war. Carriers support and operate aircraft that engage in attacks on airborne,
afloat, and ashore targets that threaten free use of the sea and engage in sustained
operations in support of other forces. Aircraft carriers are deployed worldwide in
support of U.S. interests and commitments. They can respond to global crises in ways
ranging from peacetime presence to full scale war. Together with their on-board air
wings, the carriers have vital roles across the full spectrum of conflict. The
carrier is the heart of the naval fleet and is protected by destroyers and other screening
ships to stop enemy craft from threatening it. The carrier's onboard fighters may
engage aerial, as well as surface targets. |