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Caption:
Pacific Ocean (Sept.1, 2006) -- An S-3B Viking assigned to the
"Shamrocks" of Sea Control Squadron Four One (VS-41) launches from the
flight deck aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN
68). The S-3B Viking is an all weather, carrier-based jet aircraft,
providing protection against hostile surface combatants while also
functioning as the Carrier Battle Groups' primary overhead/mission
tanker. The F/A-18E/F Super Hornet is gradually replacing the Viking,
with squadrons being disestablished as Super Hornet aircraft join the
respective Air Wings. The Nimitz is currently underway off the coast of
Southern California conducting sea trials after successfully completing
a six-month Planned Incremental Availability (PIA) period. U.S. Navy
photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Michael N. Tialemasunu
(RELEASED)
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