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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) makes preparations
for launch on 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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