Introduction to USS Stennis CVN 74
The USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) is a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier that has been serving the United States Navy since 1995. Named after Senator John C. Stennis, the ship has a rich history of deployments and operations around the world. Here are five key things to know about the USS Stennis CVN 74.
1. History and Commissioning
The USS Stennis was commissioned on December 9, 1995, at Norfolk Naval Base, Virginia. It was built by Newport News Shipbuilding Company and took nearly five years to complete. The ship’s motto, “ Heritage and Pride,” reflects its commitment to upholding the traditions of the US Navy while also being proud of its own heritage.
2. Deployments and Operations
The USS Stennis has had a long history of deployments and operations around the world. Some of its notable deployments include:
- Operation Southern Watch: In 1998, the USS Stennis deployed to the Persian Gulf to enforce a no-fly zone over southern Iraq.
- Operation Iraqi Freedom: In 2000, the ship deployed to the Persian Gulf again to support the invasion of Iraq.
- Operation Enduring Freedom: In 2002, the USS Stennis deployed to the North Arabian Sea to support operations in Afghanistan.
- Humanitarian Assistance/Disaster Response (HA/DR): In 2013, the ship deployed to the Philippines to provide humanitarian assistance after Typhoon Haiyan.
🚨 Note: The USS Stennis has also participated in numerous exercises and operations with other countries, including Japan, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
3. Aircraft and Ship Capabilities
The USS Stennis is equipped with a range of aircraft, including:
- F/A-18 Hornet/Super Hornet: The ship’s primary fighter aircraft, used for air-to-air and air-to-ground combat.
- SH-60 Seahawk: A multi-mission helicopter used for anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and transport.
- E-2 Hawkeye: An airborne early warning aircraft used for surveillance and command and control.
The ship itself has a range of capabilities, including:
- Length: 1,092 feet (333 meters)
- Beam: 257 feet (78 meters)
- Draft: 34 feet (10 meters)
- Speed: Over 30 knots (56 km/h)
- Crew: Over 5,000 personnel
4. Command Structure and Organization
The USS Stennis is commanded by a captain, who is responsible for the overall operation of the ship. The ship’s command structure includes:
- Commanding Officer (CO): The captain of the ship, responsible for overall command.
- Executive Officer (XO): The second-in-command, responsible for day-to-day operations.
- Department Heads: Responsible for specific departments, such as operations, engineering, and air.
- Divisions: Smaller units within departments, responsible for specific tasks.
5. Maintenance and Upgrades
The USS Stennis undergoes regular maintenance and upgrades to ensure it remains operational and effective. Some notable upgrades include:
- Refueling and Complex Overhaul (RCOH): A major overhaul that involves refueling the ship’s nuclear reactors and performing other major repairs.
- Technology Insertion (TI): Upgrades to the ship’s combat systems and electronics.
- Flight Deck Repairs: Regular repairs and maintenance to the ship’s flight deck.
| Year | Upgrade/Repair | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 2005 | RCOH | Refueling and complex overhaul at Newport News Shipbuilding Company |
| 2013 | TI-14 | Technology insertion upgrade at Norfolk Naval Shipyard |
| 2019 | Flight Deck Repairs | Regular repairs and maintenance to the ship's flight deck |
The USS Stennis has a long and proud history of service to the United States Navy. With its range of aircraft and ship capabilities, it remains an important asset for the US military.
What is the USS Stennis’ motto?
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The USS Stennis’ motto is “Heritage and Pride.”
What is the USS Stennis’ primary fighter aircraft?
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The USS Stennis’ primary fighter aircraft is the F/A-18 Hornet/Super Hornet.
What is the USS Stennis’ length?
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The USS Stennis is 1,092 feet (333 meters) long.
Related Terms:
- Northrop Grumman Newport News
- USS Harry S Truman
- USS George Washington
- USS Ronald Reagan
- USS Carl Vinson
- Uss john c stennis
