Chinese Navy Ship Operating Off of Australia, Canberra Says

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – A People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) intelligence ship is currently operating off the north-west shelf of Australia, the Australian Department of Defence said Friday. Australia’s DoD identified the vessel as China’s Dongdiao-class auxiliary intelligence ship Haiwangxing (792) and released imagery and video of the ship. A graphic of Haiwangxing’s voyage showed […]

People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) Intelligence Collection Vessel Haiwangxing operating off the north-west shelf of Australia. Australian Department of Defence Photo

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – A People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) intelligence ship is currently operating off the north-west shelf of Australia, the Australian Department of Defence said Friday.

Australia’s DoD identified the vessel as China’s Dongdiao-class auxiliary intelligence ship Haiwangxing (792) and released imagery and video of the ship.

A graphic of Haiwangxing’s voyage showed the ship crossed Australia’s exclusive economic zone on the morning of May 6. On Sunday, it was approximately 70 nautical miles off the Harold E. Holt Communications Station, in Exmouth, Western Australia, while a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft monitored the ship.

Harold E. Holt Communications Station provides Very Low Frequency (VLF) communication transmission services for Australian, the United States and Australian-allied submarines.

The Chinese ship continued sailing southwards, and on Monday, it was 150 nautical miles off Exmouth while an RAAF P-8 tracked the intelligence ship. At the same time, HMAS Perth (FFH157) sailed out from port to monitor Haiwangxing but subsequently turned back because the Chinese ship changed its sailing direction on Tuesday morning. Haiwangxing turned north, sailing at a speed of six knots, 125 nautical miles from Exmouth. An RAAF P-8 and an Australian Border Force (ABF) Dash-8 maritime surveillance aircraft monitored the ship.

On Wednesday, Haiwangxing sailed northeast at 12 knots, with the ship approaching as close as 50 nautical miles of the of Harold E. Holt Communication Station, while an RAAF P-8, ABF Dash-8 and ABF patrol vessel ABFC Cape Sorell monitored. Haiwangxing was last spotted on Friday at 6 a.m. local time, approximately 250 nautical miles northwest of Broome Western Australia. An RAAF P-8 and a Maritime Border Command Dash-8 maritime surveillance aircraft monitored the ship on Thursday.

“Australia respects the right of all states to exercise freedom of navigation and overflight in international waters and airspace, just as we expect others to respect our right to do the same. Defence will continue to monitor the ship’s operation in our maritime approaches,” the Australian DoD said in the news release.

Movements of PLAN Dongdiao AGI-792 near Australia May 8-13 2022. Australian Department of Defence Photo

Meanwhile, over in the Philippine Sea, the PLAN’s CNS Liaoning (16) carrier strike group continues flight operations, according to the Japanese Ministry of Defense’s daily news releases this week. Liaoning; Type 055 destroyer CNS Nanchang (101); Type 052D destroyers CNS Xining (117), CNS Urumqi (118) and CNS Chengdu (120); Type 052C destroyer CNS Zhengzhou (151); Type 054A frigate CNS Xiangtan (531); and Type 901 fast combat support ship CNS Hulunhu (901) sailed into the Pacific Ocean via the Miyako Strait earlier this month.

The carrier and ships in its CSG performed a series of flight operations four days in a row this week. On 9 a.m. Sunday local time, Liaoning, the two Type 052D destroyers and Hulunhu were sighted 160 kilometers south of Ishigaki Island conducting flight operations with its embarked J-15 fighter aircraft and Z-18 helicopters from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., according to news releases from Japan’s Joint Staff Office.

On Monday, the same ships were seen at 10 a.m. sailing 200 kilometers south of Ishigaki Island, performing flight operations from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. On Tuesday at 9 a.m., the group was sailing 310 kilometers south of Ishigaki Island, performing flight operations from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. On Wednesday at 9 a.m., Liaoning and two Type 052D destroyers were seen 160 kilometers south of Ishigaki Island, again performing flight operations from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) destroyer helicopter carrier JS Izumo (DDH-183) has tracked the Liaoning carrier strike group since May 2. Japanese destroyer JS Suzutsuki (DD-117) took over the task of tracking the Liaoning carrier group on Tuesday.

A People’s Liberation Army Navy J-15 carrier fighter takes off from Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning (16) on May 7, 2022. Japanese MoD Photo

Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) fighter aircraft scrambled each day in response to the J-15 launches, according to the news release. In a Tuesday press conference, Japan Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi said the Chinese carried out a total of 100 sorties with its J-15s and Z-18s from Liaoning between May 3 and May 8.

While the activities of the PLAN carrier group were likely aimed at improving its aircraft carriers’ operational capabilities and its ability to carry out operations away from home, Kishi said Japan is concerned about the operations given that they were happening close to the Ryuku Islands and Taiwan. The Japanese Ministry of Defense will continue to monitor such activities, he said.

The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group is also operating in the Philippine Sea. Earlier this week, the CSG conducted deterrence missions in the Philippine Sea by performing long-range maritime strike with refueling help from Pacific Air Forces KC-135 Stratotankers, according to a U.S. 7th Fleet news release issued Friday.

An F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to the “Tophatters” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 14, prepares to make an arrested landing on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) in the Philippine Sea on May 12, 2022. U.S. Navy Photo

USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72), destroyers USS Spruance (DDG-111) and USS Dewey (DDG-105), and cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG-53) also performed multi-domain training to defend the carrier, according to the news release.

“Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group is a powerful presence in the Philippine Sea that serves as a deterrent to aggressive or malign actors and supports a free and open Indo-Pacific,” Rear Adm. J.T. Anderson, the commander of carrier strike group Three, said in the release. “There is no better way to strengthen our combat-credible capabilities than to work alongside other joint forces to demonstrate our commitment to sovereignty, the region, and a rules-based international order.”

USNI News Fleet and Marine Tracker: Dec. 27, 2021

These are the approximate positions of the U.S. Navy’s deployed carrier strike groups and amphibious ready groups throughout the world as of Dec. 27, 2021, based on Navy and public data. In cases where a CSG or ARG is conducting disaggregated operations, the chart reflects the location of the capital ship. Total U.S. Navy Battle […]

USNI News Graphic

Total U.S. Navy Battle Force:

296

Ships Underway

Deployed Ships Underway	Non-deployed Ships Underway	Total Ships Underway
39	1	40

In Yokosuka, Japan

Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Equipment) 3rd Class Camille Islas, from Downey, California; Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 1st Class Timothy Patrick Tomaneng, from Winchester, California; and Interior Communications Electrician Seaman Kimberly Zuluaga, from Miami, wrap gifts for an Angel Tree Gift Drive in the ship’s Internet cafe aboard aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) on Dec. 21, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) is in port in Yokosuka, Japan.

In Sasebo, Japan

Cmdr. Bryan Gallant, the executive officer aboard the forward-deployed amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD-47), conducts a tour of the ship’s well deck for allies from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force on Dec. 8, 2021. US Navy Photo

The ships of the America Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) are in port in Sasebo, Japan.

In Guam

Operations Specialist 3rd Class Rauf Acheampong, right, a native of Nsuaem, Ghana, and Operations Specialist Seaman Ethan Garcia, a native of Los Angeles, stand starboard quarter lookout aboard Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) as the ship pulls into Guam during a port visit on Dec. 23, 2021. US Navy Photo

The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group spent Christmas in Guam. Vinson is scheduled to depart on Tuesday, according to local press.

Aircraft carrier

USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), homeported in San Diego, Calif.

Carrier Air Wing 2

An F-35C Lightning II, assigned to the ‘Argonauts’ of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147, launches off the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) on Dec. 22, 2021. US Navy Photo

Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, based at Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif., is embarked aboard Carl Vinson and includes a total of nine squadrons and detachments:

The “Argonauts” of VFA-147 Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) flying F-35Cs from Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif.
The “Bounty Hunters” of VFA-2 – F/A-18F – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Stingers” of VFA-113 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Golden Dragons” of VFA-192 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Gauntlets” of VAQ-136 – EA-18G – Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) – from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash.
The “Black Eagles” of VAW-113 – E-2D – Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) – from Naval Air Station Point Mugu, Calif.
The “Titans” of VRM-30 – CMV-22B – Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) – from Naval Air Station North Island, Calif.
The “Black Knights” of HSC-4 – MH-60S – Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) – from Naval Air Station North Island.
The “Blue Hawks” of HSM-78 – MH-60R – Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) – from Naval Air Station North Island.

Cruiser

Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG-57) transits alongside Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) on Dec. 14, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS Lake Champlain (CG-57), homeported in San Diego, Calif.

Destroyer Squadron 1

Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stockdale (DDG-106) transits the Philippine Sea as two MH-60S Knight Hawks, assigned to the ‘Black Knights’ of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 4, conduct a vertical replenishment-at-sea between Henry J. Kaiser-class dry cargo ship USNS Carl Brashear (T-AKE-7) on Dec. 21, 2021. US Navy Photo

Destroyer Squadron 1 is based in San Diego and is embarked on the carrier.

USS Dewey (DDG-105), homeported in San Diego.
USS O’Kane (DDG-77), homeported in San Diego.
USS Michael Murphy (DDG-112), homeported in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
USS Chafee (DDG-90), homeported in Pearl Harbor.
USS Stockdale (DDG-106), homeported in San Diego.

In the Gulf of Aden

Cmdr. John Sims, senior medical officer aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD-2), makes a holiday cookie with Emily Steinway, the Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) fun boss aboard Essex, during an MWR event aboard Essex on Dec. 21, 2021. US Navy Photo

The Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) with the embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit is in the Gulf of Aden. The ARG deployed Aug. 12.

The ARG is comprised of three ships: landing helicopter dock USS Essex (LHD-2), amphibious transport dock USS Portland (LPD-27) and amphibious dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD-52). Together the 11th MEU, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 1 and ships are designated as an ARG/MEU. In addition to the ships, the principal Navy elements of the ARG are a Naval Beach Group element, the Tactical Air Control Squadron element, a fleet surgical team and a helicopter sea combat squadron element.

U.S. Navy Lt. Paul Guzman a Catholic Chaplain deployed to Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti (CLDJ) performed a Catholic Christmas Eve Mass for sailors and Marines aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD-2) on Dec. 24, 2021. US Navy Photo

The 11th MEU consists of four major components: a command element, a ground combat element, an aviation combat element and a logistics combat element. The 11th MEU is comprised of Battalion Landing Team 1/1, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 165 (Reinforced), Marine Attack Squadron 214 and Combat Logistics Battalion 11.

In the Ionian Sea

Command Master Chief Keith Wilkerson, left, Capt. Gavin Duff, commanding officer, middle, Capt. Shane Marchesi, executive officer, cut a holiday themed cake with culinary specialists on the mess deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) on Dec. 25, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) and the Truman Carrier Strike Group CSG are in the Ionian Sea after a port call in Souda Bay, Greece. The CSG departed for its deployment on Dec. 1. Along with the U.S. ships, Royal Norwegian Navy frigate HNoMS Fridtjof Nansen (F310) joined the strike group under the Cooperative Deployment Program.

Aircraft carrier
USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75), homeported in Norfolk, Va.

Carrier Air Wing 1

Lt. Arny Warren, from Baltimore, directs a pilot of an F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to the ‘Blue Blasters’ of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 34, before launching on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) on Dec. 24, 2021. US Navy Photo

Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1, based at Naval Air Station Oceana, is embarked aboard Harry S. Truman and includes a total of nine squadrons and detachments:

The “Red Rippers” of VFA-11 Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) flying F/A-18Fs from Naval Air Station Oceana, Va.
The “Fighting Checkmates” of VFA-211 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Oceana.
The “Blue Blasters” of VFA-34 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Oceana.
The “Sunliners” of VFA-81 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Oceana.
The “Rooks” of VAQ-137 – EA-18G – Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) – from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash.
The “Seahawks” of VAW-126 – E-2D – Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) – from Naval Air Station Norfolk, Va.
The “Rawhides” of VRC-40 – Detachment – C-2A – Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) – from Naval Air Station Norfolk.
The “Dragon Slayers” of HSC-11 – MH-60S – Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) – from Naval Air Station Norfolk.
The “Proud Warriors of HSM-72 – MH-60R – Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) – from Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla.

Cruiser

Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS San Jacinto (CG-56) fires a MK 45 light weight gun system during a weapons shoot on Dec. 10, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS San Jacinto (CG-56), homeported at Naval Station Norfolk.

Destroyer Squadron 28

Operations Specialist 2nd Class Omar Hernandez, from Houston, mans the rails as the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG-109) transits into Piraeus, Greece for a routine port visit on Dec. 24, 2021. US Navy Photo

Destroyer Squadron 28 is based in Norfolk and is embarked on the carrier.

USS Cole (DDG-67), homeported at Naval Station Norfolk.
USS Bainbridge (DDG- 96), homeported at Naval Station Norfolk.
USS Gravely (DDG-107), homeported at Naval Station Norfolk.
USS Jason Dunham (DDG-109), homeported at Naval Station Mayport, Fla.
Royal Norwegian Navy frigate HNoMS Fridtjof Nansen (F310).

In addition to these major formations, not shown are others serving in submarines, individual surface ships, aircraft squadrons, SEALs, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Forces, Seabees, Coast Guard cutters, EOD Mobile Units, and more serving throughout the globe.

USNI News Fleet and Marine Tracker: Dec. 20, 2021

These are the approximate positions of the U.S. Navy’s deployed carrier strike groups and amphibious ready groups throughout the world as of Dec. 20, 2021, based on Navy and public data. In cases where a CSG or ARG is conducting disaggregated operations, the chart reflects the location of the capital ship. Total U.S. Navy Battle […]

USNI News Graphic

Total U.S. Navy Battle Force:

295

Ships Underway

Deployed Ships Underway	Non-deployed Ships Underway	Total Ships Underway
55	3	58

In Yokosuka, Japan

Cryptologic Technician (Collection) 3rd Class Whitney Dorsett returns to formation during a frocking ceremony on the flight deck of the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) on Dec. 13, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) is in port in Yokosuka, Japan.

In Sasebo, Japan

Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Bennet Coen, from Honolulu, assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA-6), directs sailors during aircraft firefighting drills in the ship’s hangar bay on Dec. 7, 2021. US Navy Photo

The ships of the America Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) are in port in Sasebo, Japan.

In the Western Pacific

Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Matthew Strickland, a native of Tallahassee, Fla., acts as a safety observer for an EA-18G Growler, assigned to the “Gauntlets” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 136, as it is lifted aboard an elevator on Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) on Dec. 18, 2021. US Navy Photo

The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is underway in the Western Pacific.

Aircraft carrier

Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) transits the Indian Ocean on Dec. 18, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), homeported in San Diego, Calif.

Carrier Air Wing 2

Sailor supports flight operations on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) as it transits the Indian Ocean during a bilateral training exercise with the Royal Australian Air Force on Dec. 17, 2021. Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group and elements of the Royal Australian Navy and Air Force are conducting a bilateral training exercise to test and refine warfighting capabilities in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. US Navy Photo

Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, based at Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif., is embarked aboard Carl Vinson and includes a total of nine squadrons and detachments:

The “Argonauts” of VFA-147 Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) flying F-35Cs from Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif.
The “Bounty Hunters” of VFA-2 – F/A-18F – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Stingers” of VFA-113 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Golden Dragons” of VFA-192 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Gauntlets” of VAQ-136 – EA-18G – Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) – from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash.
The “Black Eagles” of VAW-113 – E-2D – Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) – from Naval Air Station Point Mugu, Calif.
The “Titans” of VRM-30 – CMV-22B – Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) – from Naval Air Station North Island, Calif.
The “Black Knights” of HSC-4 – MH-60S – Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) – from Naval Air Station North Island.
The “Blue Hawks” of HSM-78 – MH-60R – Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) – from Naval Air Station North Island.

Cruiser

An MH-60S Knight Hawk, assigned to the ‘Black Knights’ of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 4 flies over Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG-57) while transiting alongside Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) on Dec. 14, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS Lake Champlain (CG-57), homeported in San Diego, Calif.

Destroyer Squadron 1

Naval Aircrewman (Helicopter) 2nd Class Ancent Devera, a native of Honolulu, Hawaii conducts a dry rope exercise with Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stockdale (DDG-106) while flying in an MH-60S Knight Hawk, assigned to ‘The Black Knights’ of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 4, Dec. 18, 2021. US Navy Photo

Destroyer Squadron 1 is based in San Diego and is embarked on the carrier.

USS Dewey (DDG-105), homeported in San Diego.
USS O’Kane (DDG-77), homeported in San Diego.
USS Michael Murphy (DDG-112), homeported in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
USS Chafee (DDG-90), homeported in Pearl Harbor.
USS Stockdale (DDG-106), homeported in San Diego.

In the Gulf of Aden

Dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Wally Schirra (T-AKE-8), bottom right, leads a formation through the Strait of Hormuz with amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD-2), top middle, fast response cutter USCGC Robert Goldman (WPC-1142), middle right, and coastal patrol ship USS Whirlwind (PC-11) on Dec. 11, 2021. US Navy Photo

The Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) with the embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit is in the Gulf of Aden. The ARG deployed Aug. 12.

In the Mediterranean Sea

Chief Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Sheldon Popo, from Brooklyn, directs aircraft on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) on Dec. 15, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS Harry S. Truman and the Truman Carrier Strike Group (CSG) are in the Mediterranean Sea. The CSG departed for its deployment on Dec. 1. Along with the U.S. ships, Royal Norwegian Navy frigate HNoMS Fridtjof Nansen (F310) joined the strike group under the Cooperative Deployment Program.

Aircraft carrier
USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75), homeported in Norfolk, Va.

Carrier Air Wing 1

An F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to the ‘Fighting Checkmates’ of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211, lands on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) on Dec. 13, 2021. US Navy Photo

Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1, based at Naval Air Station Oceana, is embarked aboard Harry S. Truman and includes a total of nine squadrons and detachments:

The “Red Rippers” of VFA-11 Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) flying F/A-18Fs from Naval Air Station Oceana, Va.
The “Fighting Checkmates” of VFA-211 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Oceana.
The “Blue Blasters” of VFA-34 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Oceana.
The “Sunliners” of VFA-81 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Oceana.
The “Rooks” of VAQ-137 – EA-18G – Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) – from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash.
The “Seahawks” of VAW-126 – E-2D – Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) – from Naval Air Station Norfolk, Va.
The “Rawhides” of VRC-40 – Detachment – C-2A – Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) – from Naval Air Station Norfolk.
The “Dragon Slayers” of HSC-11 – MH-60S – Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) – from Naval Air Station Norfolk.
The “Proud Warriors of HSM-72 – MH-60R – Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) – from Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla.

Cruiser

Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS San Jacinto (CG-56) transits alongside the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) during a replenishment-at-sea, Dec. 9, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS San Jacinto (CG-56), homeported at Naval Station Norfolk.

Destroyer Squadron 28

Arleigh-Burke Class destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG-109), front, and Royal Moroccan Navy’s Sigma-class frigate Allal Ben Abdallah (F 615) transits the Strait of Gibraltar in formation behind the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) on Dec. 14, 2021. US Navy Photo

Destroyer Squadron 28 is based in Norfolk and is embarked on the carrier.

USS Cole (DDG-67), homeported at Naval Station Norfolk.
USS Bainbridge (DDG- 96), homeported at Naval Station Norfolk.
USS Gravely (DDG-107), homeported at Naval Station Norfolk.
USS Jason Dunham (DDG-109), homeported at Naval Station Mayport, Fla.
Royal Norwegian Navy frigate HNoMS Fridtjof Nansen (F310).

USNI News Fleet and Marine Tracker: Dec. 13, 2021

These are the approximate positions of the U.S. Navy’s deployed carrier strike groups and amphibious ready groups throughout the world as of Dec. 13, 2021, based on Navy and public data. In cases where a CSG or ARG is conducting disaggregated operations, the chart reflects the location of the capital ship. Total U.S. Navy Battle […]

USNI News Graphic

Total U.S. Navy Battle Force:

295

Ships Underway

Deployed Ships Underway	Non-deployed Ships Underway	Total Ships Underway
51	20	71

In Yokosuka, Japan

Cmdr. Cody Lutke from Shreveport, Louisiana gives a tour of the pilot house to students from the National Defense Academy of Japan aboard the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) on Dec. 4, 2021 in Yokosuka, Japan. U.S. Navy Photo

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) is in port in Yokosuka, Japan.

In Sasebo, Japan

Lt. Cmdr. Tyler Maness, assigned to Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 11, conducts a tour of the flight deck aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) for allies from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force on Dec. 8, 2021 in Sasebo, Japan. U.S. Navy Photo

The ships of the America Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) are in port in Sasebo, Japan.

In the Indian Ocean

Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) conducts a replenishment-at-sea with Henry J. Kaiser-class fleet replenishment oiler USNS Rappahannock (T-AO 204), Dec. 7, 2021 in the Philippine Sea. U.S. Navy Photo

The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is underway in the Indian Ocean, off the northwest coast of Australia.

Aircraft carrier
USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), homeported in San Diego, Calif.

Carrier Air Wing 2

Double rainbows form on the horizon while an EA-18G Growler, assigned to the “Gauntlets” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 136, is stowed on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), Dec. 8, 2021 in the Philippine Sea. U.S. Navy Photo

Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, based at Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif., is embarked aboard Carl Vinson and includes a total of nine squadrons and detachments:

The “Argonauts” of VFA-147 Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) flying F-35Cs from Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif.
The “Bounty Hunters” of VFA-2 – F/A-18F – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Stingers” of VFA-113 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Golden Dragons” of VFA-192 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Gauntlets” of VAQ-136 – EA-18G – Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) – from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash.
The “Black Eagles” of VAW-113 – E-2D – Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) – from Naval Air Station Point Mugu, Calif.
The “Titans” of VRM-30 – CMV-22B – Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) – from Naval Air Station North Island, Calif.
The “Black Knights” of HSC-4 – MH-60S – Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) – from Naval Air Station North Island.
The “Blue Hawks” of HSM-78 – MH-60R – Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) – from Naval Air Station North Island.

Cruiser

Seaman Sergio Vielmas, a native of Los Angeles, Calif., stands Landing Signalman during vertical replenishment drills for an MH-60R Sea Hawk assigned to the “Blue Hawks” of Helicopter Maritime Squadron (HSM) 78 aboard Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG 57), Nov. 20, 2021 in the Philippine Sea. U.S. Navy Photo

USS Lake Champlain (CG-57), homeported in San Diego, Calif.

Destroyer Squadron 1

Sailors aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Chafee (DDG 90) conduct line handling with Henry J. Kaiser-class fleet replenishment oiler USNS Rappahannock (T-AO 204) during a replenishment-at-sea in South China Sea, Nov. 30, 2021. U.S. Navy Photo

Destroyer Squadron 1 is based in San Diego and is embarked on the carrier.

USS Dewey (DDG-105), homeported in San Diego.
USS O’Kane (DDG-77), homeported in San Diego.
USS Michael Murphy (DDG-112), homeported in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
USS Chafee (DDG-90), homeported in Pearl Harbor.
USS Stockdale (DDG-106), homeported in San Diego.

In the Gulf of Oman

Amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) conducts a strait transit through the Strait of Hormuz with fast response cutter USCGC Robert Goldman (WPC 1142), left, dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Wally Schirra (T-AKE 8), middle, and coastal patrol ship USS Whirlwind (PC 11), Dec. 11. U.S. Navy Photo

The Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) with the embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit just transited the Strait of Hormuz and is now in the Gulf of Oman. The ARG deployed Aug. 12.

In the United Kingdom

HMS Queen Elizabeth returns from her seven month global mission on Dec. 9, 2021. UK Royal Navy Photo

HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08) and escorts of the United Kingdom Royal Navy Carrier Strike Group 21 (CSG 21) returned to their home ports in HMNB Devonport and HMNB Portsmouth on Dec. 9, marking the end of the carrier’s seven-month maiden deployment.

CSG 21 sailed 49,000 nautical miles to the Indo-Pacific and back. CSG 21 ships arriving home were aircraft carrier Queen Elizabeth, destroyers HMS Diamond (D34) and HMS Defender (D36), frigates HMS Richmond (F239) and HMS Kent (F78) and replenishment ship RFA Fort Victoria (A387).

The remaining ships of the CSG 21 had returned home earlier. American destroyer USS The Sullivans (DDG-68) detached from the group in late October and arrived home in Mayport, Fla., on Nov. 24. Meanwhile, Dutch frigate HNLMS Evertsen (F805) detached from the group on Dec. 2 and arrived home at Nieuwe Haven Naval Base, Den Helder on Dec. 5. U.K. replenishment ship RFA Tidespring (A136), which was replaced as the CSG’s tanker by RFA Tidesurge (A138) on Nov. 20, returned home to Portland Port, Devon on Dec. 2. The U.K rotated its Astute-class submarines for the deployment, with one submarine accompanying the group at various periods.

The U.K. air elements of CSG 21 flew home Dec. 8 and 9, with the Merlin helicopters of 820 Naval Air Squadron and 845 NAS returning to Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose and RNAS Yeovilton, respectively, on Dec. 9. The Wildcat helicopters of 815 NAS returned to RNAS Yeovilton on Dec. 8, while “The Dambusters” of Royal Air Force 617 Squadron arrived home at RAF Marham on Dec. 9.

The “Wake Island Avengers” of U.S. Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 arrived home at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma on Dec. 8 after departing from CSG 21 last month. The squadron first landed aboard Queen Elizabeth in May 2021 for an integrated deployment with the U.K.’s 617 Squadron. A U.S. Marine Corps release stated that during the Royal Navy carrier’s initial operating deployment, VMFA-211 and the 617 squadron completed more than 1,278 sorties, flew more than 2200 hours, and conducted 44 combat missions in support of the counter-ISIS mission — Operation Inherent Resolve.

The ten F-35Bs of the squadron flew to Naval Station Rota on Nov. 24, with the remainder of the squadron disembarking from Queen Elizabeth on Dec. 2, when the carrier made a port call in Rota. On Dec. 5, the main body of personnel and equipment flew from Naval Station Rota to MCAS Yuma. The aircraft flew into MCAS Cherry Point, N.C., and subsequently flew to MCAS Yuma.

In the Eastern Pacific

Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Fuel) Airman Matthew Kjoller, left, and Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Fuel) Airman Jarrett Tipton fake out a fuel hose on the flight deck aboard amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8), Dec. 9. Makin Island is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet. U.S. Navy Photo

The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) is underway in the U.S. 3rd Fleet area of responsibility. USS Makin Island (LHD-8), USS San Diego (LPD-22) and USS Somerset (LPD-25) – along with the 15th MEU – returned from their last deployment in May 2021.

In the Western Atlantic

Sailors attach a fuel hose to a JP-5 fuel pump aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) on Dec. 3, 2021. Truman is operating as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. U.S. Navy Photo

The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group departed from Norfolk, Va., on Dec. 1 for a scheduled deployment. Along with the U.S. ships; Royal Norwegian Navy Frigate HNoMS Fridtjof Nansen (F310) joined the strike group under the Cooperative Deployment Program, which, according to the Navy, emphasizes the strengthening of defense partnerships and capabilities between the U.S. and bilateral or multilateral partners.

Aircraft carrier
USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75), homeported in Norfolk, Va.

Carrier Air Wing 1

An F/A-18E Super Hornet, attached to the “Sunliners” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 81, lands on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) in the Atlantic Ocean on Dec. 2, 2021. U.S. Navy Photo

Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1, based at Naval Air Station Oceana, is embarked aboard Harry S. Truman and includes a total of nine squadrons and detachments:

The “Red Rippers” of VFA-11 Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) flying F/A-18Fs from Naval Air Station Oceana, Va.
The “Fighting Checkmates” of VFA-211 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Oceana.
The “Blue Blasters” of VFA-34 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Oceana.
The “Sunliners” of VFA-81 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Oceana.
The “Rooks” of VAQ-137 – EA-18G – Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) – from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash.
The “Seahawks” of VAW-126 – E-2D – Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) – from Naval Air Station Norfolk, Va.
The “Rawhides” of VRC-40 – Detachment – C-2A – Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) – from Naval Air Station Norfolk.
The “Dragon Slayers” of HSC-11 – MH-60S – Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) – from Naval Air Station Norfolk.
The “Proud Warriors of HSM-72 – MH-60R – Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) – from Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla.

Cruiser
USS San Jacinto (CG-56), homeported at Naval Station Norfolk.

Destroyer Squadron 28

Sailors aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Gravely (DDG 107) man the rails during a Sea-and-Anchor ceremony on Dec. 1, 2021. Gravely is operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. U.S. Navy Photo

Destroyer Squadron 28 is based in Norfolk and is embarked on the carrier.

USS Cole (DDG-67), homeported at Naval Station Norfolk.
USS Bainbridge (DDG- 96), homeported at Naval Station Norfolk.
USS Gravely (DDG-107), homeported at Naval Station Norfolk.
USS Jason Dunham (DDG-109), homeported at Naval Station Mayport, Fla.
Royal Norwegian Navy Frigate HNoMS Fridtjof Nansen (F310).

U.S. Navy Aviation Boatswains Mates secure an MV-22 Osprey assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotar Squadron 263, during flight operations aboard amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), Dec. 6, 2021. U.S. Navy Photo

The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) is underway in the Virginia Capes Operating Area. Also underway in the Virginia Capes are USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) and USS Iwo Jima (LHD-7).

USNI News Fleet and Marine Tracker: Dec. 6, 2021

These are the approximate positions of the U.S. Navy’s deployed carrier strike groups and amphibious ready groups throughout the world as of Dec. 6, 2021, based on Navy and public data. In cases where a CSG or ARG is conducting disaggregated operations, the chart reflects the location of the capital ship. Total U.S. Navy Battle […]

USNI News Graphic

Total U.S. Navy Battle Force:

295

Ships Underway

Deployed Ships Underway	Non-deployed Ships Underway	Total Ships Underway
52	32	84

In Yokosuka, Japan

A relic from the USS Arizona (BB-39) is displayed aboard USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) in remembrance and commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. The relic originates from a section of the superstructure of Arizona that was removed from the ship when the Arizona Memorial was constructed. US Navy Photo

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) is in port in Yokosuka, Japan.

In Sasebo, Japan

Sailors assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA-6) sort mail on the pier on Nov. 30, 2021. US Navy Photo

The ships of the America Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) are in port in Sasebo, Japan.

In the Philippine Sea

Sailors perform a foreign object debris (FOD) walkdown after a mass casualty drill on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) on Dec. 4, 2021. US Navy Photo

The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is underway in the Philippine Sea. Naval forces from Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan and the U.S. concluded a nine-day multilateral, multinational annual exercise in the Philippine Sea on Nov. 30.

The five participating international navies included the Royal Australian Navy, the Royal Canadian Navy, the German Navy, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and the U.S Navy.

“The U.S. participated with aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) with embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG-57), destroyer USS Stockdale (DDG106), replenishment ships USNS Rappahannock (T-AO-204) and USNS John Ericsson (T-AO-194) and an unnamed Los Angeles class submarine,” USNI News reported last week.

Aircraft carrier
USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), homeported in San Diego, Calif.

Carrier Air Wing 2

A CMV-22B Osprey, assigned to the ‘Titans’ of Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) 30, lands on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) on Dec. 1, 2021. US Navy Photo

Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, based at Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif., is embarked aboard Carl Vinson and includes a total of nine squadrons and detachments:

The “Argonauts” of VFA-147 Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) flying F-35Cs from Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif.
The “Bounty Hunters” of VFA-2 – F/A-18F – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Stingers” of VFA-113 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Golden Dragons” of VFA-192 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Gauntlets” of VAQ-136 – EA-18G – Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) – from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash.
The “Black Eagles” of VAW-113 – E-2D – Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) – from Naval Air Station Point Mugu, Calif.
The “Titans” of VRM-30 – CMV-22B – Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) – from Naval Air Station North Island, Calif.
The “Black Knights” of HSC-4 – MH-60S – Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) – from Naval Air Station North Island.
The “Blue Hawks” of HSM-78 – MH-60R – Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) – from Naval Air Station North Island.

Cruiser

Lt. j.g. Eli Voight, a native of Gillette, Wyo., stands watch as officer of the deck aboard Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG-57), Dec. 1, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS Lake Champlain (CG-57), homeported in San Diego, Calif.

Destroyer Squadron 1

Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG-105) conducts flight operations with an MH-60R Helicopter assigned to the ‘Warlords’ of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM-51) on Nov. 11, 2021. US Navy Photo

Destroyer Squadron 1 is based in San Diego and is embarked on the carrier.

USS Dewey (DDG-105), homeported in San Diego, Calif.
USS O’Kane (DDG-77), homeported in San Diego.
USS Michael Murphy (DDG-112), homeported in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
USS Chafee (DDG-90), homeported in Pearl Harbor.
USS Stockdale (DDG-106), homeported in San Diego.

In the Persian Gulf

AV-8B Harrier, attached to Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 214, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), prepares to land on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD-2) during flight operations on Dec. 4, 2021. US Navy Photo

The Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) with the embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit is underway in the Persian Gulf. The ARG deployed Aug. 12.

In the Atlantic

Even after months at sea we have another first!

The first RAS – Replenishment at Sea between HMSQNLZ and RFA Tidesurge

Thank you @RFATidesurge #CSG21 @RoyalNavy pic.twitter.com/EvaqFJUcsY

— HMS Queen Elizabeth (@HMSQNLZ) December 2, 2021

The United Kingdom Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08) departed Rota, Spain today after pulling into port on Dec. 2.

Carrier Strike Group 21 is now on the final leg of its seven-month deployment, which has seen the group travel over 40,000 nautical miles to the Indo-Pacific and back. Ships and aircraft from the group have operated and exercised with over 40 countries during the deployment. The group is currently dispersed and the original composition has changed. U.K. replenishment ship RFA Tidespring (A136) was replaced by RFA Tidesurge (A138) earlier this month.

Queen Elizabeth is currently with destroyer HMS Diamond (D34), replenishment ship RFA Fort Victoria (A387) and, as was when CSG 21 operated in the Mediterranean in June, Italian destroyer ITS Andrea Doria (D553).

The “Wake Island Avengers” of U.S. Marine Corps Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 completed their embarkation on Queen Elizabeth, with the squadron departing Nov. 24 for Naval Station Rota, Spain, for the first leg of the return flight home. The U.S. squadron had been integrated with the Royal Air Force 617 Squadron “The Dambusters.”

A U.K. F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter operating from Queen Elizabeth crashed in the eastern Mediterranean on Nov. 17. The U.S. Navy is helping the U.K. recover the F-35B. A U.K. government spokesperson confirmed to USNI News that the U.S. Navy was dispatching a ship and crew to help with the deep salvage mission.

The CSG has been accompanied by a U.K. Royal Navy nuclear attack boat.

In the Eastern Pacific

An AH-1Z Viper helicopter, assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 469, takes off from amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD-8) on Dec. 4, 2021. US Navy Photo

The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) is underway in the Virginia Capes Operating Areas. USS Makin Island (LHD-8), USS San Diego (LPD-22) and USS Somerset (LPD-25) – along with the 15th MEU – returned from their last deployment in May 2021.

In the Western Atlantic

The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group departed from Norfolk, Va., on Wednesday for a scheduled deployment. Along with the U.S. ships; Royal Norwegian Navy Frigate HNoMS Fridtjof Nansen (F310) joined the strike group under the Cooperative Deployment Program, which, according to the Navy, emphasizes the strengthening of defense partnerships and capabilities between the U.S. and bilateral or multilateral partners.

Aircraft carrier
USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75), homeported in Norfolk, Va.

Carrier Air Wing 1

An E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, attached to the ‘Seahawks’ of Airborne Command and Control Squadron (VAW) 126, prepares to land on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) on Dec. 2, 2021. US Navy Photo

Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1, based at Naval Air Station Oceana, is embarked aboard Harry S. Truman and includes a total of nine squadrons and detachments:

The “Red Rippers of VFA-11 Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) flying F/A-18Fs from Naval Air Station Oceana, Va.
The “Fighting Checkmates” of VFA-211 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Oceana.
The “Blue Blasters of VFA-34 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Oceana.
The “Sunliners” of VFA-81 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Oceana.
The “Rooks” of VAQ-137 – EA-18G – Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) – from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash.
The “Seahawks” of VAW-126 – E-2D – Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) – from Naval Air Station Norfolk, Va.
The “Rawhides” of VRC-40 – detachment – C-2A – Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) – from Naval Air Station Norfolk.
The “Dragon Slayers” of HSC-11 – MH-60S – Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) – from Naval Air Station Norfolk.
The “Proud Warriors of HSM-72 – MH-60R – Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) – from Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla.

Cruiser
USS San Jacinto (CG-56), homeported at Naval Station Norfolk, Va.

Destroyer Squadron 28

USS Jason Dunham (DDG-109) departs Naval Station Mayport, Fla., on Dec. 1, 2021. US Navy Photo

Destroyer Squadron 28 is based in Norfolk and is embarked on the carrier.

USS Cole (DDG-67), homeported at Naval Station Norfolk.
USS Bainbridge (DDG- 96), homeported at Naval Station Norfolk.
USS Gravely (DDG-107), homeported at Naval Station Norfolk.
USS Jason Dunham (DDG-109), homeported at Naval Station Mayport, Fla.
Royal Norwegian Navy Frigate HNoMS Fridtjof Nansen (F310).

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Eliot Koivula, a rifleman with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), prepares to disembark amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD-3), to execute a raid, on Dec. 5, 2021. US Marine Corps Photo

The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) is underway in Virginia Capes operating areas.

USNI News Fleet and Marine Tracker: Nov. 29, 2021

These are the approximate positions of the U.S. Navy’s deployed carrier strike groups and amphibious ready groups throughout the world as of Nov. 29, 2021, based on Navy and public data. In cases where a CSG or ARG is conducting disaggregated operations, the chart reflects the location of the capital ship. Total U.S. Navy Battle […]

USNI News Graphic

Total U.S. Navy Battle Force:

295

Ships Underway

Deployed Ships Underway	Non-deployed Ships Underway	Total Ships Underway
44	20	64

In Yokosuka, Japan

Rear Adm. Michael Donnelly, Commander, Task Force (CTF) 70, shows Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy Rear Adm. An Sang-min, ROK Fleet Maritime Operations Center Director, staff working spaces aboard USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76). CTF 70 is forward-deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific on Nov. 29, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) is in port in Yokosuka, Japan.

In Sasebo, Japan

U.S. service members crane a CV-22 Osprey aircraft for transfer onto Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan’s flight line, Nov. 20, 2021. The aircraft was aboard the USS America (LHA-6) while the ship was docked at MCAS Iwakuni’s deep-water harbor on Nov. 20, 2021. US Marine Corps Photo

The ships of the America Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) are in port in Sasebo, Japan.

In the Philippine Sea

Rear Adm. Dan Martin, right, commander, Carrier Strike Group One, and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) officers observe flight operations aboard Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) during Annual Exercise (ANNUALEX) 2021 on Nov. 28, 2021. US Navy Photo

The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is underway in the Philippine Sea.

Aircraft carrier
USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), homeported in San Diego, Calif.

Carrier Air Wing 2

An F-35C Lightning II, assigned to the ‘Argonauts’ of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147, prepares to launch off the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) during Annual Exercise (ANNUALEX) 2021 on Nov. 28, 2021. US Navy Photo

Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, based at Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif., is embarked aboard Carl Vinson and includes a total of nine squadrons and detachments:

The “Argonauts” of VFA-147 Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) flying F-35Cs from Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif.
The “Bounty Hunters” of VFA-2 – F/A-18F – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Stingers” of VFA-113 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Golden Dragons” of VFA-192 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Gauntlets” of VAQ-136 – EA-18G – Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) – from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash.
The “Black Eagles” of VAW-113 – E-2D – Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) – from Naval Air Station Point Mugu, Calif.
The “Titans” of VRM-30 – CMV-22B – Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) – from Naval Air Station North Island, Calif.
The “Black Knights” of HSC-4 – MH-60S – Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) – from Naval Air Station North Island.
The “Blue Hawks” of HSM-78 – MH-60R – Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) – from Naval Air Station North Island.

Cruiser

Fire Control (Aegis) Master Chief Petty Officer Jason Villanueva, left, a native of Fayetteville, N.C., and Culinary Specialist Seaman Kaleb Ferris, a native of Canby, Ore., carve Thanksgiving turkey aboard Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG-57) on Nov. 25, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS Lake Champlain (CG-57), homeported in San Diego, Calif.

Destroyer Squadron 1

Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stockdale (DDG-106) conducts a fueling-at-sea with Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) on Nov. 20, 2021. US Navy Photo

Destroyer Squadron 1 is based in San Diego and is embarked on the carrier.

USS Dewey (DDG-105), homeported in San Diego, Calif.
USS O’Kane (DDG-77), homeported in San Diego.
USS Michael Murphy (DDG-112), homeported in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
USS Chafee (DDG-90), homeported in Pearl Harbor.
USS Stockdale (DDG-106), homeported in San Diego.

In Manama, Bahrain

Sailors handle line aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD-2) during sea-and-anchor, Nov. 20, 2021. US Navy Photo

The Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) with the embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit is in port in Manama, Bahrain. The ARG deployed Aug. 12.

The 11th MEU consists of four major components: a command element, a ground combat element, an aviation combat element, and a logistics combat element. The 11th MEU is comprised of Battalion Landing Team 1/1, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 165 (Reinforced), Marine Attack Squadron 214 and Combat Logistics Battalion 11.

In the Mediterranean Sea

@HMSQNLZ has arrived in Palma Time for some rest and relaxation for the Ship’s Company.#CSG21 @RoyalNavy pic.twitter.com/8gwcgctMm9

— HMS Queen Elizabeth (@HMSQNLZ) November 26, 2021

United Kingdom Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08) pulled into Palma de Mallorca on Friday. Last week Queen Elizabeth and Italian carrier ITS Cavour (CVH550) cross-decked their embarked F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters southeast of Sicily in the Mediterranean, making Italy the second nation after the U.S. to operate the aircraft off the U.K. warship, reported USNI News.

USS The Sullivans (DDG-68) detached from the group in late October and arrived home Nov. 24 at Naval Station Mayport, Fla.

Queen Elizabeth is currently with destroyer HMS Diamond (D34), Tidesurge, replenishment ship RFA Fort Victoria (A387) and, as was when CSG 21 operated in the Mediterranean in June, Italian destroyer ITS Andrea Doria (D553).

Memorial to 820 Naval Air Squadron’s Role in the 1940 World War II Battle of Cape Sparivento was held aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth on Nov. 24, 2021. UK Royal Navy Photo

The “Wake Island Avengers” of U.S. Marine Corps Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 completed their embarkation on Queen Elizabeth, with the squadron departing Nov. 24 for Naval Station Rota, Spain, for the first leg of the return flight home. The U.S. squadron had been integrated with the Royal Air Force 617 Squadron “The Dambusters.”

A U.K. F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter operating from Queen Elizabeth crashed in the eastern Mediterranean on Nov. 17. The U.S. Navy is helping the U.K. recover the F-35B. A U.K. government spokesperson confirmed to USNI News that the U.S. Navy is dispatching a ship and crew to help with the deep salvage mission.

The CSG has been accompanied by a U.K. Royal Navy nuclear attack boat.

In the Eastern Pacific

Aviation Machinist’s Mate 3rd Class Brandon Montoya, from Buda, Texas, performs maintenance in the hangar bay aboard USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) on Nov. 26, 2021. US Navy Photo

The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group (CSG) is underway in the Southern California Operating Areas.

USNI News Fleet and Marine Tracker: Nov. 22, 2021

These are the approximate positions of the U.S. Navy’s deployed carrier strike groups and amphibious ready groups throughout the world as of Nov. 22, 2021, based on Navy and public data. In cases where a CSG or ARG is conducting disaggregated operations, the chart reflects the location of the capital ship. Total U.S. Navy Battle […]

Total U.S. Navy Battle Force:

295

Ships Underway

Deployed Ships Underway	Non-deployed Ships Underway	Total Ships Underway
56	28	84

In Japan

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Russell Smith aboard USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) on Nov. 22, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) is in port in Yokosuka, Japan.

In the Sea of Japan

Capt. Ken Ward, commanding officer of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA-6), second from right, leads a tour for local and regional civic and military leadership on the ship’s flight deck during a port visit to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan on Nov. 19, 2021. US Navy Photo

The America Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) is underway in the Sea of Japan.

In the Philippine Sea

Two F-35C Lightning IIs, assigned to the ‘Argonauts’ of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147, fly over Nimitz-Class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) during Annual Exercise (ANNUALEX) 2021 on Nov. 21, 2021. US Navy Photo

The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is underway in the Philippine Sea.

Aircraft carrier
USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), homeported in San Diego, Calif.

Carrier Air Wing 2

Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Kongo-class guided-missile destroyer JS Kirishima (DDG 174), U.S. Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stockdale (DDG-106) and JMSDF Takanami-class destroyer JS Onami (DD 111) sail alongside Nimitz-Class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) during Annual Exercise (ANNUALEX) 2021 on Nov. 21, 2021. US Navy Photo

Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, based at Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif., is embarked aboard Carl Vinson and includes a total of nine squadrons and detachments:

The “Argonauts” of VFA-147 Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) flying F-35Cs from Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif.
The “Bounty Hunters” of VFA-2 – F/A-18F – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Stingers” of VFA-113 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Golden Dragons” of VFA-192 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Gauntlets” of VAQ-136 – EA-18G – Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) – from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash.
The “Black Eagles” of VAW-113 – E-2D – Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) – from Naval Air Station Point Mugu, Calif.
The “Titans” of VRM-30 – CMV-22B – Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) – from Naval Air Station North Island, Calif.
The “Black Knights” of HSC-4 – MH-60S – Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) – from Naval Air Station North Island.
The “Blue Hawks” of HSM-78 – MH-60R – Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) – from Naval Air Station North Island.

Cruiser

Sonar Technician 2nd Class Michael Abeyta, a native of Snowflake, Ariz., attends weapons familiarization for the M4 as part of Security Reaction Force (SRF) training aboard Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG-57) on Nov. 5, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS Lake Champlain (CG-57), homeported in San Diego, Calif.

Destroyer Squadron 1

Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Akizuki-class destroyer JS Teruzuki (DD 116), Royal Australian Navy Perth-class guided-missile destroyer HMAS Brisbane (D 41), JMSDF Kongo-class guided-missile destroyer JS Kirishima (DDG 174), JMSDF Asagiri-class destroyer JS Yamagiri (DD 152), and U.S. Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stockdale (DDG-106) sail in formation during Annual Exercise (ANNUALEX) 2021 on Nov. 21, 2021. US Navy Photo

Destroyer Squadron 1 is based in San Diego and is embarked on the carrier.

USS Dewey (DDG-105), homeported in San Diego, Calif.
USS O’Kane (DDG-77), homeported in San Diego.
USS Michael Murphy (DDG-112), homeported in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
USS Chafee (DDG-90), homeported in Pearl Harbor.
USS Stockdale (DDG-106), homeported in San Diego.

In Manama, Bahrain

Chief Air-Traffic Controller Christopher Reed speaks during a chief pinning ceremony aboard a Landing Craft, Air Cushion, attached to Assault Craft Unit Five, in the well deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD-2), Nov. 21, 2021. US Navy Photo

The Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) with the embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit deployed Aug. 12 and is in port in Manama, Bahrain.

Boatswain’s Mate 3rd Class Valen Leirer uses a sound powered phone aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD-2) during sea-and-anchor, Nov. 20, 2021. US Navy Photo

In the Mediterranean Sea

After a challenging week for #CSG21 it is great to see the flight deck of @HMSQNLZ busy operating F-35B jets from the @USMC and @OC617Sqn again. @RoyalNavy @RoyalAirForce pic.twitter.com/LiAzUKYcwG

— Commander UK Carrier Strike Group (@smrmoorhouse) November 20, 2021

The U.K. Royal Navy Carrier Strike Group, led by HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08), is on the tail-end of its deployment and is currently in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea in the vicinity of Crete. A U.K. F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter operating from Queen Elizabeth crashed in the Mediterranean on Wednesday, the U.K. Ministry of Defense announced. “A British F-35 pilot from HMS Queen Elizabeth ejected during routine flying operations in the Mediterranean this morning,” reads a statement from the MoD. “The pilot has been safely returned to the ship and an investigation has begun, so it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time.”

The Times reported that the U.K. has requested U.S. Navy diving and salvage assets to locate and recover the lost jet.

The U.K. CSG has included: Type 23 anti-submarine frigates HMS Richmond (F239) and HMS Kent (F78); Type 45 guided-missile destroyers HMS Defender (D36) and HMS Diamond (D34); Royal Fleet Auxiliary’s RFA Fort Victoria and RFA Tidespring; and Dutch frigate HNLMS Evertsen (F805). Guided-missile destroyer USS The Sullivans (DDG-68) had deployed with the strike group, but has detached and headed back home. The CSG has been accompanied by a U.K. Royal Navy nuclear attack boat. The “Wake Island Avengers” of U.S. Marine Corps Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 are embarked and integrated with the Royal Air Force 617 Squadron “The Dambusters.”

In the Eastern Pacific

An F-35C Lightning II, assigned to The ‘Black Knights’ of Marine Wing Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314, launches from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) on Nov. 15, 2021. US Marine Corps Photo

The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group (CSG) is underway in the Southern California Operating Areas.

In the Atlantic

The Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) arrives at its homeport of Naval Station Mayport, Florida, Oct. 11, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS Iwo Jima (LHD-7) is conducting local operations off the East Coast.

USNI News Fleet and Marine Tracker: Nov. 15, 2021

These are the approximate positions of the U.S. Navy’s deployed carrier strike groups and amphibious ready groups throughout the world as of Nov. 15, 2021, based on Navy and public data. In cases where a CSG or ARG is conducting disaggregated operations, the chart reflects the location of the capital ship. Total U.S. Navy Battle […]

USNI News Graphic

Total U.S. Navy Battle Force:

294

Ships Underway

Deployed Ships Underway	Non-deployed Ships Underway	Total Ships Underway
51	27	78

In Japan

Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chief of Staff, Japan Joint Staff, Warrant Officer Shigeru Sawada tours the ship’s museum aboard USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) on Nov. 8, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) is in port in Yokosuka, Japan.

In the Sea of Japan

Sailors assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA-6) raise a seven meter small boat on replenishment-at-sea station seven during a man overboard drill on Nov. 5, 2021. US Navy Photo

The America Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) is underway in the Sea of Japan.

In Guam

Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) transits the Philippine Sea to Guam for a port visit on Nov. 11, 2021. US Navy Photo

The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group (CSG) entered port in Guam on Nov. 11.

Aircraft carrier
USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), homeported in San Diego, Calif.

Carrier Air Wing 2

Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) transits to Naval Base Guam for a port visit on Nov. 11, 2021. US Navy Photo

Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, based at Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif., is embarked aboard Carl Vinson and includes a total of nine squadrons and detachments:

The “Argonauts” of VFA-147 Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) flying F-35Cs from Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif.
The “Bounty Hunters” of VFA-2 – F/A-18F – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Stingers” of VFA-113 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Golden Dragons” of VFA-192 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Gauntlets” of VAQ-136 – EA-18G – Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) – from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash.
The “Black Eagles” of VAW-113 – E-2D – Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) – from Naval Air Station Point Mugu, Calif.
The “Titans” of VRM-30 – CMV-22B – Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) – from Naval Air Station North Island, Calif.
The “Black Knights” of HSC-4 – MH-60S – Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) – from Naval Air Station North Island.
The “Blue Hawks” of HSM-78 – MH-60R – Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) – from Naval Air Station North Island.

Cruiser

Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG-57) transits the South China Sea on Nov. 4, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS Lake Champlain (CG-57), homeported in San Diego, Calif.

Destroyer Squadron 1

Quartermaster 1st Class Mark Davis, (left), from Somerset, N.J., and Boatswain’s Mate 3rd Class Kevon Martin, (right), from New York, conduct enlisted surface warfare training in the pilot house aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG-105) on Nov. 11, 2021. US Navy Photo

Destroyer Squadron 1 is based in San Diego and is embarked on the carrier.

USS Dewey (DDG-105), homeported in San Diego, Calif.
USS O’Kane (DDG-77), homeported in San Diego.
USS Michael Murphy (DDG-112), homeported in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
USS Chafee (DDG-90), homeported in Pearl Harbor.
USS Stockdale (DDG-106), homeported in San Diego.

In the Persian Gulf

11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) celebrates the Marine Corps 246th birthday on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD-2) on Nov. 10, 2021. US Navy Photo

The Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) with the embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit deployed Aug. 12 and is back in the Persian Gulf.

According to the Navy, “the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD-2) and 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) conducted bilateral interoperability training with the Royal Navy’s aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08) and embarked the ‘Wake Island Avengers’ Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 in the Gulf of Oman, Nov. 8. Amphibious transport dock USS Portland (LPD-27) has recently been operating in the Red Sea.

VMFA-211 cross-decked F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters from Queen Elizabeth to Essex.

“We are privileged to have had this opportunity to train alongside a longstanding NATO ally in the Middle East. Our integrated aircraft training with HMS Queen Elizabeth has helped demonstrate our efficacy in the region and our commitment to maritime security and stability worldwide,” said Capt. DeWayne Sanders, the commodore of Amphibious Squadron One (CPR 1).

Marines flying a UH-1Y Venom attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 165 (Reinforced), 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, flies past HMS Queen Elizabeth while a Royal Navy pilot with the United Kingdom’s 617 Squadron taxis on the flight deck in the Arabian Sea on Nov. 8, 2021. US Marine Corps Photo

In addition to the F-35Bs, the Royal Navy cross-decked Merlin MK4’s, attached to 845 Naval Air Squadron (NAS), accomplishing routine deck landings aboard Essex.

UH-1Y Venom helicopters and MV-22B Ospreys tiltrotors, attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 165 (Reinforced), 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), conducted cross-deck landings on Queen Elizabeth.

Commodore Steve Moorhouse, commander of the U.K.’s Carrier Strike Group, stated: “The force development work we have been undertaking with the U.S. Navy has been groundbreaking. We are all comfortable with helicopters lilly-padding from one deck to another but doing it with fixed-wing aircraft is a whole new game. This level of interoperability goes far beyond anything we have exercised before with any partner and offers a degree of flexibility and agility that Commanders have long dreamt of.”

Meanwhile, a recently posted video shows an Iranian helicopter flying close to Essex.

The U.K. Royal Navy Carrier Strike Group, led by Queen Elizabeth, is on the tail-end of its current deployment and is making its way back to the Mediterranean Sea and the U.K. The U.K. CSG has included: Type 23 anti-submarine frigates HMS Richmond (F239) and HMS Kent (F78); Type 45 guided-missile destroyers HMS Defender (D36) and HMS Diamond (D34); Royal Fleet Auxiliary’s RFA Fort Victoria and RFA Tidespring; and Dutch frigate HNLMS Evertsen (F805). Guided-missile destroyer USS The Sullivans (DDG-68) had deployed with the strike group but has detached and headed back home. The CSG has been accompanied by a U.K. Royal Navy nuclear attack boat. The “Wake Island Avengers” of U.S. Marine Corps Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 are embarked and integrated with the Royal Air Force 617 Squadron “The Dambusters.”

In the Black Sea

Blue Ridge-class USS Mount Whitney (LCC-20) departs the Black Sea and transits Bosphorus carrying the “Dragon Whales” of Helicopter Sea Combat (HSC) Squadron 28 MH-60S Knight Hawks on Nov. 15, 2021. Photo by Yörük Işık‏ used with permission

Two U.S. warships have recently operated in the Black Sea in support of NATO operations in the region.

Europe-based command ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC-20) and guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG-78) have been in the region for two weeks. Porter entered the Black Sea on Oct. 30, while Mount Whitney entered the Black Sea on Nov. 4. The ships spent most of last week in Batumi, Georgia. Mount Whitney departed the Black Sea on Nov. 15.

In the Eastern Pacific

An F-35C Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter, assigned to “The Black Knights” of Marine Wing Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314, launches from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72). US Marine Corps Photo

The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group (CSG) is underway in the Southern California Operating Areas.

In the Atlantic

Damage Controlman 3rd Class Diana Taber tests the showers at a decontamination station aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) on Nov. 9, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) departed from Naval Station Norfolk, Va., this morning as part of a series of underways after the completion of an extensive maintenance period.

USNI News Fleet and Marine Tracker: Nov. 8, 2021

These are the approximate positions of the U.S. Navy’s deployed carrier strike groups and amphibious ready groups throughout the world as of Nov. 8, 2021, based on Navy and public data. In cases where a CSG or ARG is conducting disaggregated operations, the chart reflects the location of the capital ship. Total U.S. Navy Battle […]

USNI News Graphic

Total U.S. Navy Battle Force:

294

Ships Underway

Deployed Ships Underway	Non-deployed Ships Underway	Total Ships Underway
44	28	72

Ships Deployed by Fleet

3rd Fleet	4th Fleet	5th Fleet	6th Fleet	7th Fleet	Total
2	2	15	16	64	99

In Japan

Royal Canadian Air Force Maj. Liam Doyle, assigned to the Royal Canadian Navy’s Halifax-class frigate HMCS Winnipeg (FFH 338) helicopter air detachment, speaks to Japanese journalists during a tour aboard the Winnipeg at Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo Nov. 6, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) is in port in Yokosuka, Japan. USS America (LHA-6) is in port in Sasebo, Japan.

In the Western Pacific

U.S. Navy Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) and JMSDF Izumo-class helicopter destroyer JS Kaga (DDH-184) transit together in the South China Sea on Oct. 30, 2021. US Navy Photo

The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group (CSG) is underway in the Western Pacific.

Aircraft carrier
USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), homeported in San Diego, Calif.

Carrier Air Wing 2

Sailors aboard Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG-57) holds a fuel line to an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to ‘Blue Hawks’ of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 78 Combat Element 1, during a helicopter in-flight replenishment drill on Oct 21, 2021. US Navy Photo

Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, based at Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif., is embarked aboard Carl Vinson and includes a total of nine squadrons and detachments:

The “Argonauts” of VFA-147 Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) flying F-35Cs from Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif.
The “Bounty Hunters” of VFA-2 – F/A-18F – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Stingers” of VFA-113 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Golden Dragons” of VFA-192 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Gauntlets” of VAQ-136 – EA-18G – Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) – from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash.
The “Black Eagles” of VAW-113 – E-2D – Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) – from Naval Air Station Point Mugu, Calif.
The “Titans” of VRM-30 – CMV-22B – Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) – from Naval Air Station North Island, Calif.
The “Black Knights” of HSC-4 – MH-60S – Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) – from Naval Air Station North Island.
The “Blue Hawks” of HSM-78 – MH-60R – Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) – from Naval Air Station North Island.

Cruiser

Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Shiloh (CG-67), Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG 57) transit the South China Sea on Nov. 4, 2021. US NAvy Photo

USS Lake Champlain (CG-57), homeported in San Diego, Calif.

Destroyer Squadron 1

Aviation Machinist Mate 2nd Class Sirkaylon Morgan, from Dallas, conducts maintenance on a MH-60R Helicopter assigned to the ‘Warlords’ of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM-51) aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG-105) on Nov. 6, 2021. US Navy Photo

Destroyer Squadron 1 is based in San Diego and is embarked on the carrier.

USS Dewey (DDG-105), homeported in San Diego, Calif.
USS O’Kane (DDG-77), homeported in San Diego.
USS Michael Murphy (DDG-112), homeported in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
USS Chafee (DDG-90), homeported in Pearl Harbor.
USS Stockdale (DDG-106), homeported in San Diego.

In the North Arabian Sea

U.S. 5th Fleet commander Vice Adm. Brad Cooper aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08) on Nov. 7, 2021. U.K. Royal Navy Photo

The U.K. Royal Navy Carrier Strike Group, led by HMS Queen Elizabeth (R06), conducted joint exercises with the United Arab Emirates and Oman last week. The CSG made a port call in Duqm, Oman, where it hosted U.S. 5th Fleet commander Vice Adm. Brad Cooper.

The U.K. Carrier Strike Group has included: Type 23 anti-submarine frigates HMS Richmond (F239) and HMS Kent (F78); Type 45 guided-missile destroyers HMS Defender (D36) and HMS Diamond (D34); Royal Fleet Auxiliary’s RFA Fort Victoria and RFA Tidespring; and Dutch frigate HNLMS Evertsen (F805). The CSG has been accompanied by a U.K. Royal Navy nuclear attack boat. The “Wake Island Avengers” of U.S. Marine Corps Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 are embarked and integrated with the Royal Air Force 617 Squadron “The Dambusters.”

Damage Controlman 2nd Class Artin Abramian trains sailors aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD-2) on Nov. 5, 2021. US Navy Photo

The Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) with the embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit deployed Aug. 12.

In the Black Sea

USS Mount Whitney (LCC-20) enters in the Black Sea on Nov. 4, 2021. Photo by Yörük Işık‏ used with permission

Two U.S. warships are operating in the Black Sea in support of NATO operations in the region.

Europe-based command ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC-20) and guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG-78) have been in the region for a little over a week.

Porter entered the Black Sea on Oct. 30, while Mount Whitney entered the Black Sea on Nov. 4.

On Monday, the pair pulled into Batumi, Georgia.

In the Eastern Pacific

Sailors navigate through Puget Sound aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN-68) on Nov. 6, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) is underway in the Southern California Operating Areas.

USS Nimtitz (CVN-70) is underway following a maintenance period in Washington.

USNI News Fleet and Marine Tracker: Nov. 1, 2021

CORRECTION: Due to an editing error, the position of the Carl Vinson Carrier was incorrect in an earlier version of this post. A separate editing error misidentified USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) as USS Geroge Washington (CVN-73). This post has updated the map and headings. These are the approximate positions of the U.S. Navy’s deployed […]

USNI News Graphic

CORRECTION: Due to an editing error, the position of the Carl Vinson Carrier was incorrect in an earlier version of this post. A separate editing error misidentified USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) as USS Geroge Washington (CVN-73). This post has updated the map and headings.

These are the approximate positions of the U.S. Navy’s deployed carrier strike groups and amphibious ready groups throughout the world as of Nov. 1, 2021, based on Navy and public data. In cases where a CSG or ARG is conducting disaggregated operations, the chart reflects the location of the capital ship.

Total U.S. Navy Battle Force:

294

Ships Underway

Deployed Ships Underway	Non-deployed Ships Underway	Total Ships Underway
52	17	69

Ships Deployed by Fleet

Fleet Forces	3rd Fleet	4th Fleet	5th Fleet	6th Fleet	7th Fleet	Total
0	1	2	15	16	63	97

In Japan

Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro speaks to the crew during an all hands call in the hangar bay of the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) on Oct. 26, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) is in port in Yokosuka, Japan. Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro visited Ronald Reagan on Oct. 26 and addressed the crew.

USS America (LHA-6) is in port in Sasebo, Japan.

In the South China Sea

USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) conducts flight operations in the South China Sea on Oct. 30, 2021. US Navy Photo

The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group (CSG) is in the South China Sea. Last week, the CSG operated in the South China Sea last week with JS Kaga (DDH-184).

Aircraft carrier
USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), homeported in San Diego, Calif.

Carrier Air Wing 2

An F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to the ‘Stingers’ of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 113, recovers on the flight deck of Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) on Oct. 30, 2021. US Navy Photo

Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, based at Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif., is embarked aboard Carl Vinson and includes a total of nine squadrons and detachments:

The “Argonauts” of VFA-147 Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) flying F-35Cs from Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif.
The “Bounty Hunters” of VFA-2 – F/A-18F – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Stingers” of VFA-113 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Golden Dragons” of VFA-192 – F/A-18E – from Naval Air Station Lemoore.
The “Gauntlets” of VAQ-136 – EA-18G – Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) – from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash.
The “Black Eagles” of VAW-113 – E-2D – Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) – from Naval Air Station Point Mugu, Calif.
The “Titans” of VRM-30 – CMV-22B – Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) – from Naval Air Station North Island, Calif.
The “Black Knights” of HSC-4 – MH-60S – Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) – from Naval Air Station North Island.
The “Blue Hawks” of HSM-78 – MH-60R – Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) – from Naval Air Station North Island.

Cruiser

USNS Big Horn (T-AO-198) conducts a refueling-at-sea with Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) and Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG-57) on Oct. 26, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS Lake Champlain (CG-57), homeported in San Diego, Calif.

Destroyer Squadron 1

Royal Saudi Naval forces assigned to Saudi frigate Al Riyadh (812), participate in a visit, board, search, and seizure (VBSS) drill with guided-missile destroyer USS O’Kane (DDG-77) during exercise Indigo Defender on Oct. 25, 2021. US Navy Photo

Destroyer Squadron 1 is based in San Diego and is embarked on the carrier.

USS Dewey (DDG-105), homeported in San Diego, Calif.
USS O’Kane (DDG-77), homeported in San Diego.
USS Michael Murphy (DDG-112), homeported in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
USS Chafee (DDG-90), homeported in Pearl Harbor.
USS Stockdale (DDG-106), homeported in San Diego.

In the Persian Gulf

Shabab Oman II and HMS Queen Elizabeth on OCt. 31, 2021. Royal Navy Photo

The U.K. Royal Navy Carrier Strike Group, led by HMS Queen Elizabeth (R06), conducted joint exercises with India last week. After leaving India, the group is scheduled to visit the Gulf, with a number of exercises planned. The group will undertake F-35 exercises with Oman and United Arab Emirates air forces and perform maritime training alongside the Royal Navy of Oman.

The U.K. Carrier Strike Group includes: Type 23 anti-submarine frigates HMS Richmond (F239) and HMS Kent (F78); Type 45 guided-missile destroyers HMS Defender (D36) and HMS Diamond (D34); Royal Fleet Auxiliary’s RFA Fort Victoria and RFA Tidespring; and Dutch frigate HNLMS Evertsen (F805). The CSG has been accompanied by a U.K. Royal Navy nuclear attack boat. The “Wake Island Avengers” of U.S. Marine Corps Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 are embarked and integrated with the Royal Air Force 617 Squadron “The Dambusters.”

Kuwaiti Solider adjusts the windage knob for an M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System at Kuwait Naval Base on Oct. 17, 2021. US Marine Corps Photo

The Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) with the embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit deployed Aug. 12 and was in port in Manama, Bahrain last week. The ARG is now back underway in the Persian Gulf.

In Norfolk, Va.

Sailors heave a phone-and-distance line on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) during a replenishment-at-sea on Oct. 22, 2021. US Navy Photo

Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 8 completed its Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) on Oct. 26, according to Naval Air Forces, Atlantic. CSG 8’s flagship, the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), departed Norfolk, Va. on Sep. 30 to participate in the COMPTUEX to certify it as a combat-ready naval force capable of conducting a full spectrum of integrated maritime, joint and combined operations. Truman is now back in port in Naval Station Norfolk, Va.

In the Western Atlantic

A sailor watches as an E-2D Hawkeye aircraft, assigned to Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 120, land during flight operations on the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) on Oct. 27, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) is underway in the Virginia Capes Operating Areas.

In the Eastern Pacific

Sailors form a hose team during a flight deck firefighting drill aboard amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD-8) on Oct. 28, 2021. US Navy Photo

USS Makin Island (LHD-8) is underway in the Southern California Operating Areas.

In addition to these major formations, not shown are thousands of others serving in submarines, individual surface ships, aircraft squadrons, SEALs, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Forces, Seabees, Coast Guard cutters, EOD Mobile Units, and more serving throughout the globe.