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The mission of USS John C. Stennis and her
embarked Air Wing Seven is to conduct sustained combat air
operations while forward deployed in the global arena. The embarked Air Wing consists of eight
to nine squadrons. Attached aircraft are the F-14 Tomcat, F/A-18 Hornet, EA-6B Prowler, S-3
Viking, E-2C Hawkeye, and SH-60 Seahawk.
The Air Wing can destroy enemy aircraft, ships, submarines, and land targets, or lay mines
hundreds of miles from the ship. USS John C. Stennis' aircraft are used to conduct strikes,
support land battles, protect the Battle Group or other friendly shipping, and implement a sea
or air blockade. The Air Wing provides a visible presence to demonstrate American power and
resolve in a crisis. The ship normally operates as the centerpiece of a Carrier Battle Group
commanded by a flag officer embarked in USS John C. Stennis and consisting of four to six other
ships.
USS John C. Stennis' two nuclear reactors give her virtually unlimited range and endurance and a
top speed in excess of 30 knots. The ship’s four catapults and four arresting gear engines
enable her to launch and recover aircraft rapidly and simultaneously. The ship carries
approximately three million gallons of fuel for her aircraft and escorts, and enough weapons
and stores for extended operations without replenishment. USS John C. Stennis also has extensive
repair capabilities, including a fully equipped Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department, a
micro-miniature electronics repair shop, and numerous ship repair shops.
For defense, in addition to her Air Wing and accompanying vessels, USS John C. Stennis has NATO
Sea Sparrow short-range, surface-to-air missile systems, the Phalanx Close-in Weapons System (an
extremely rapid firing 20mm gun) for cruise missile defense, and the SLQ-32 Electronic Warfare
System.
USS John C. Stennis Facts
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