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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)
prepares for launch 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 3rd Class Ashley Gayton (RELEASED)
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