Aircraft Carrier CVN 73 George Washington: 5 Fascinating Facts
The CVN 73 George Washington is a United States Navy nuclear-powered aircraft carrier that has been in service since 1992. Here are five interesting facts about this iconic warship:
1. Namesake and Commissioning
The George Washington was named after the first President of the United States, George Washington. It was commissioned on July 4, 1992, at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Virginia. The ship’s motto, “According to the Way,” reflects the values and principles of the ship’s namesake.
2. Design and Construction
The George Washington was built by the Newport News Shipbuilding company in Virginia, with construction beginning in 1986. The ship measures 1,092 feet (333 meters) in length and 257 feet (78 meters) in width, with a displacement of over 100,000 tons. It has a top speed of over 30 knots (56 km/h) and a range of unlimited distance, thanks to its nuclear-powered propulsion system.
3. Aircraft Operations
The George Washington is equipped to carry over 60 aircraft, including fighter jets, attack planes, and helicopters. The ship’s flight deck is over 1,000 feet (305 meters) long and 257 feet (78 meters) wide, with four catapults and four arresting gear engines. The ship’s air wing, Carrier Air Wing 5, consists of over 2,000 personnel and operates from the ship during deployments.
4. Operational History
The George Washington has been involved in several notable operations throughout its career. In 1993, the ship participated in Operation Southern Watch, enforcing a no-fly zone over Iraq. In 2003, it supported Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing air support for ground troops. The ship has also participated in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts, including the response to the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami in Japan.
5. Modernization and Maintenance
To ensure the George Washington remains effective and efficient, the ship has undergone several modernization and maintenance efforts. In 2005, the ship completed a major overhaul, known as a Docking Planned Incremental Availability (DPIA), which included upgrades to its propulsion system and combat systems. More recently, the ship completed a year-long maintenance period in 2019, which included repairs to its hull and flight deck.
🚨 Note: The George Washington has been scheduled for decommissioning in the mid-2020s, marking the end of an era for this historic warship.
As the George Washington continues to serve as a vital component of the United States Navy, its rich history and impressive capabilities make it a revered symbol of American military power.
What is the George Washington’s primary mission?
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The George Washington’s primary mission is to serve as a mobile airbase, providing air support for ground troops and enforcing naval superiority.
How many aircraft can the George Washington carry?
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The George Washington can carry over 60 aircraft, including fighter jets, attack planes, and helicopters.
What is the George Washington’s top speed?
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The George Washington has a top speed of over 30 knots (56 km/h).
Related Terms:
- USS Abraham Lincoln
- USS John C Stennis
- USS Theodore Roosevelt
- USS Carl Vinson
- USS George Washington
- Uss george washington commanding officers
