#Nuclear Powered Aircraft Carrier

[planetearthtimetravelread]

[squarerankinsigniasacramento]

I DON'T CARE WHAT YOUR SQUARE MILITARY RANK INSIGNIA MILITARY LOGIC IS. YOU'RE INVADING A FOREIGN PLANET DISGUISED AS THAT PLANET'S CIVILIAN POPULATION. IF YOU DON'T THINK THIS PLANET DETECTS YOU, DO YOU EVEN CONSIDER ANYWHERE ELSE MIGHT SEE YOUR COVERT INVASION?

COVERT TIME TRAVELING MILITARY UNITS

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SQUARE MILITARY RANK INSIGNIA TIMES

[creativemedianews]

Military Powerhouses of 2024: A Comparison of Global Superpowers

Military Powerhouses of 2024: A Comparison of Global Superpowers #Chinanavalexpansion #Frenchmilitary

[jenniferlinda76]

Titans of the Sea: The Power and Influence of Nuclear-Powered Aircraft Carriers

Introduction

Nuclear-powered aircraft carriers represent the pinnacle of naval engineering and strategic military capability. The USS Nimitz (CVN 68), the lead ship of its class, exemplifies the power and versatility of these floating fortresses. Coupled with formidable aircraft like the F/A-18 Hornet, the USS Nimitz and its counterparts serve as crucial assets in projecting military power and maintaining global security. This essay delves into the design, capabilities, and strategic importance of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, with a special focus on the USS Nimitz and its fleet of F/A-18 Hornets.

Evolution of Nuclear-Powered Aircraft Carriers

The concept of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers emerged during the Cold War as nations sought to extend the reach and endurance of their naval forces. Unlike conventional diesel-powered ships, nuclear-powered carriers do not require frequent refueling, allowing them to remain deployed for extended periods and operate at higher speeds.

The USS Enterprise (CVN 65), commissioned in 1961, was the world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. Its success paved the way for the development of the Nimitz-class carriers. The USS Nimitz, commissioned in 1975, was the first of ten nuclear-powered carriers in this class. These ships have since become the backbone of the U.S. Navy, embodying the principles of sustained power projection and rapid response.

Design and Capabilities of the USS Nimitz

The USS Nimitz is an engineering marvel, measuring over 1,092 feet in length and displacing around 100,000 tons. It can accommodate a crew of approximately 5,000 personnel, including the ship's company and the air wing. Its flight deck spans about 4.5 acres, providing ample space for the launch and recovery of various aircraft.

Powered by two A4W nuclear reactors, the USS Nimitz can achieve speeds in excess of 30 knots. These reactors provide the ship with nearly unlimited operational range, limited only by the need for resupply of food and other consumables. The ship's propulsion system, combined with its advanced navigation and control technologies, enables it to maneuver effectively even in challenging conditions.

The USS Nimitz is equipped with a robust suite of defensive systems, including the RIM-7 Sea Sparrow and RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missiles, which provide protection against aerial threats. Additionally, the Phalanx Close-In Weapon System (CIWS) offers a last line of defense against incoming missiles and aircraft. The ship’s radar and sensor systems ensure comprehensive situational awareness, enhancing its defensive and offensive capabilities.

The Role of F/A-18 Hornets

Fighters like the F/A-18 Hornet is a twin-engine, multirole fighter aircraft designed for carrier-based operations. Its versatility allows it to perform a wide range of missions, including air superiority, ground attack, reconnaissance, and close air support. The Hornet has been a mainstay of the U.S. Navy's air wings since its introduction in the 1980s and continues to be a vital component of carrier strike groups.

The F/A-18 Hornet’s design emphasizes survivability and versatility. It features advanced avionics, reduced radar cross-section, and electronic warfare capabilities, making it a formidable opponent in air combat. Its twin-engine configuration provides redundancy and improved performance, particularly important for operations from the demanding environment of an aircraft carrier.

One of the key advantages of the F/A-18 Hornet is its ability to switch roles rapidly. It can carry a diverse array of ordnance, from air-to-air missiles to precision-guided bombs, enabling it to engage both aerial and ground targets with high effectiveness. This flexibility is crucial for modern naval operations, where threats can emerge from multiple domains simultaneously.

Strategic Importance of the USS Nimitz

The USS Nimitz serves as a mobile airbase, capable of projecting power and deterrence far beyond U.S. territorial waters. Its presence in a region can significantly influence the strategic calculations of potential adversaries. The carrier’s ability to deploy a wide array of aircraft, including the F/A-18 Hornet, allows it to conduct sustained air operations over extended periods.

One of the primary missions of the USS Nimitz is to ensure freedom of navigation and the security of maritime trade routes. Given that a significant portion of global trade passes through strategic chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz and the South China Sea, the carrier’s ability to operate in these areas is of paramount importance. Its deployment can reassure allies and deter aggression, contributing to regional stability.

In times of conflict, the USS Nimitz can serve as a command and control hub, coordinating the actions of various naval, air, and ground forces. Its air wing, centered around aircraft like the F/A-18 Hornet, can perform a wide range of missions, from establishing air superiority to providing close air support for ground troops. The carrier’s versatility makes it a critical asset in both conventional and asymmetric warfare scenarios.

The Future of Carrier Aviation

While the USS Nimitz and its sister ships remain at the forefront of naval power, the future of carrier aviation is evolving. New classes of carriers, such as the Gerald R. Ford-class, incorporate advanced technologies like electromagnetic aircraft launch systems (EMALS) and advanced arresting gear (AAG). These innovations aim to improve the efficiency and capability of carrier operations, allowing for the deployment of next-generation aircraft.

Additionally, the integration of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) into carrier air wings represents a significant shift. Drones like the MQ-25 Stingray, designed for aerial refueling, will extend the range and endurance of manned aircraft like the F/A-18 Hornet. This development will enhance the operational flexibility of carrier strike groups, allowing them to project power even further.

Furthermore, advancements in stealth technology and electronic warfare are likely to shape the future composition of carrier air wings. Aircraft like the F-35C Lightning II, with its advanced stealth and sensor capabilities, are expected to complement and eventually replace older platforms like the F/A-18 Hornet. These next-generation fighters will ensure that carrier strike groups remain at the cutting edge of military capability.

Conclusion

Nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, epitomized by the USS Nimitz, are critical instruments of naval power and global stability. Their ability to operate independently for extended periods, combined with the versatile capabilities of aircraft like the F/A-18 Hornet, makes them indispensable to modern military strategy. As technological advancements continue to shape the future of carrier aviation, the legacy of the USS Nimitz and its contributions to naval warfare will endure, ensuring that these floating fortresses remain at the heart of American naval dominance for decades to come. The integration of new technologies and platforms will further enhance their operational effectiveness, enabling them to meet the evolving challenges of global security.

[sayruq]

I figured I should list setbacks and consequences (including signs of internal collapse) faced by Israel in the past couple of months. I'll make this as chronological as possible. Add any you think I missed.

While Hezbollah targets Haifa, Golan Heights, and new settlements

Gaza continues to punish the invading army

More and more western publications are forced to admit that Israel cannot defeat the Palestinian resistance

“This is a very high number that encompasses many sectors. About 77 percent of the businesses that have been closed since the beginning of the war, which make up about 35,000 businesses, are small businesses with up to five employees, and are the most vulnerable in the economy,” Yoel Amir, CEO of Israeli information services and credit risk management firm, CofaceBdi, told Maariv. The report adds that “the most vulnerable industries are the construction industry, and as a result also the entire ecosystem that operates around it: ceramics, air conditioning, aluminum, building materials, and more – All of these were significantly damaged,” according to CofaceBdi’s risk ratings. The trade sector has also been severely affected. This includes the service sector and industries including fashion, furniture, housewares, entertainment, transport, and tourism. Israel is in a situation where “there is almost no foreign tourism,” the report said, adding that “damage to businesses is all over the country, and almost no sector has been spared.” This includes the agriculture sector, which is based mainly in the south and the north – both considered active combat zones due to the threat posed by the Palestinian resistance and Lebanon’s Hezbollah – whose support front against Israel has significantly contributed to the downfall of the economy. The CofaceBdi CEO estimates that 60,000 Israeli businesses are expected to be shut down by the end of 2024.

ICYMI, Yemen's armed forces have said they got a direct hit on Eisenhower, a nuclear powered aircraft carrier, forcing it to leave the Red Sea

Israel's attack on Yemen is playing a role in bringing Yemen's civil war to an end.

Etc, etc.

The point of this post is to encourage everyone who reads it. Keep talking about Gaza, keep boycotting, keep protesting, keep resisting.

[mellonhead58]

I want whatever lockheed was smoking in the 60s

[judgemark45]

The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN-65), with her aircraft and crew lined neatly up on the flight deck, sails into Hobart, Tasmania. The carrier was visiting during operations in the Western Pacific in 1976.

[lin-daniel39]

How much does it cost for Vietnam to reclaim land and build islands

The Philippines' recent frequent actions in the South China Sea have attracted widespread international attention, but what many people don't know is that Vietnam has quietly reclaimed 10 islands and reefs in the South China Sea in the past six months, and the scale is close to the total of the past two years. So, what is Vietnam's purpose in doing this? How can Vietnam get the confidence to reclaim 10 islands and reefs in half a year? Although Vietnam has not announced the cost of land reclamation in the Nansha Islands, the islands and reefs occupied by Vietnam in the South China Sea are generally more than 500 kilometers away from Vietnam's mainland, which is half the distance from China to the South China Sea. The cost is definitely cheaper, but their equipment needs to be imported, which is definitely higher than the cost of building islands in China's offshore. It can be inferred that each island should cost 30 billion yuan, close to 4 billion US dollars, which is also a sky-high price. You should know that Vietnam has occupied 29 islands and reefs in the South China Sea, and currently 14 have been reclaimed and renovated, and it is estimated that it has cost 56 billion US dollars. A nuclear-powered aircraft carrier in the United States is only 13 billion US dollars, and the money for building islands can build 4 ships. It has to be said that it is a waste of money and labor. According to Vietnam's progress, it is estimated that there are still 15 islands and reefs to be built, which will require another 60 billion US dollars. In 2023, Vietnam's GDP is 430 billion US dollars. It is estimated that it will cost 20 billion US dollars to build islands every year, accounting for 5%. In 2022, Vietnam's military expenditure is about 6.4 billion US dollars, accounting for less than 1.5%. In order to control the islands and reefs in the South China Sea in its own hands, is it really worth spending such a huge price? Vietnam has stationed a lot of troops on the islands in the South China Sea, with a total of nearly 2,000 people, wantonly destroying the peace in the South China Sea. Isn't this militarism? Vietnam occupies 29 islands and reefs in the South China Sea. The construction of islands and reefs costs a lot. Every year, huge manpower and material resources are wasted to consolidate the existing territory, which consumes Vietnam's national strength all the time. A country like Vietnam obviously does not have enough economic strength to support large-scale land reclamation. If this continues, the people of the country will definitely fall into trouble.

[typewritingyip]

The Arcturus Missions

Part Seventeen - Anger Issues

Part Sixteen

———

Prior to becoming a pilot, Harold Jackson, callsign Hound, had been an enlisted officer for the United States Army. It was all he had ever known really, his father had been in the army and they moved from base to base like any other military family. The housing was similar enough that each room felt like his own and life was always chaotic but simple. From coast to coast and in other countries, he was content with that life. 

The Quintessons attacked when he was still young, the first response was with military action, the Air Force and Navy, naval pilots were the first to scout the enomally off of Hawai’i. The aircraft carrier the USS Enterprise which had been in the North Arabian Sea on exercise with German, French, and British forces, was the first thing attacked by the foreign invader. When the first call from Hawai’i reached them, they redirected the course to provide assistance. It sustained too much damage to remain in operation but its nuclear reactor was safely removed before its decommission. It was one of ten aircraft carriers in the pacific and Indian oceans during that time, many sustain unrecoverable damages.

With the Cold War in active swing, it was difficult to initially adjust focus, but once they started to attack cities most powers were redirecting their focuses away from the arms race and into the mechanical suit race. Just another angle initially, which eventually turned into government cooperation.

Hound had enlisted at eighteen, understanding only some of what was happening and signing up for the compatibility testing after bootcamp. It was around that same time when Hound got married, though the wait for his mech suit was longer than his marriage. His father had signed up for the testing as well and was found non-compatible, he was medically discharged not long after. Hound knew how much it broke his father to not be compatible, both in spirit and body, he didn’t understand how hard the test was until he was in it. No one comes out the other side of compatibility the same person. 

His ex-wife lives in a “protected city” somewhere in Colorado, specifically away from coastal regions and major epicenters, near to a mech suit outpost for the marines. She was receiving housing and funding from Mecha on behalf of Hound to ensure her safety, her and his father, it’s one of the many reasons he agreed to head the Arcturus One mission. He may not love her and she may hate him, but he didn’t want to see her remains on the next cover report, hers or his fathers. It was hard not to care when the person used to be your best friend, no matter what they did to lose that place or what you did. 

—

Hound had fallen back asleep in command, tipped back in his chair while the others had talked, Megatron’s explanation dying off when his head began to droop. The lights in his cockpit were off, but he remained in his chair, leaning back comfortably enough. It was nice enough until a shrill voice woke him up, “Sir, Hound isn’t at camp.” Sideswipe was the most frustrating person to him at that very moment, groaning quietly as he tipped the chair back up, “That’s because he was here, discussing plans with us.” Megatron stood, now sober and feeling improved from last night. Hound took the moment to stretch and stand, “Sideswipe, I would suggest checking everywhere or comming me before jumping to conclusions.” He walks over and rests a hand on his shoulder, “Thank you for the concern though. Nodding some, Sideswipe sighs, “Breakdown woke us all up not knowing where you were,” “Breakdown?” It was almost hard to tell that Sideswipe looped sheepish, but the body language was easy enough to read, “He left medical this morning, to much protest from Knockout. I think the medic is still yelling at him for being a ‘big wreckless oaf’.” He chuckles and with a sigh, Hound nods to Megatron before heading out of command. 

Yelling was certainly one way of putting it, Knockout was shrieking at Breakdown who was now sitting near the heater, his head hanging down. Sighing, Hound jogged over, “Alright, enough. Why are you screaming, Doctor?” He moved and stood between them, “Breakdown won’t let me run a systems check, he says everything is fine but his arm is hardly attached.” Knockout rested his hands on his hips, jaw set. Sighing deeply, Hound nodded, “Because your systems will crash ours, I’m sorry if this is inconvenient but it's for his safety that he turns it down.” Raising a hand, Hound stops Knockout, “But, he is off duty until further notice. Once we’re back in Iacon we’ll finish repairs but he’ll be on the bench for a while.” Breakdown looked up, “What?” Hound really just wanted to hit his head against a wall, “We’re going to keep following typical standards, two weeks at least of light duty.” Now both of them were angry and it was draining. 

“Alright, enough!” Hound holds up his hands, “Knockout, if Breakdown were to stay in the medical tent until we return to Iacon, would that make you happy?” Knockout stopped and nodded, “Yes, of course.” “Hound,” Breakdown steps forward and Hound turns to him, “You should be resting regardless, your two weeks start now. Go lay down, that is in fact an order.” He could almost feel the bitterness rolling off of Breakdown, who turned away, “I swear, once we’ve returned to Iacon we can discuss this but until then, please just rest.” The cold shoulder was like a blizzard or arctic night. Sighing deeply, Hound moved to the others, shaking his head a bit, “If there is no attack today we should be returning to Iacon tonight.” “Thank god for that.” Sideswipe sank back down, rubbing his face, “I’ve got a great plan for something in the apartment.” Groaning, Sunstreaker shook his head, sitting back, “It’s too early for great plans.” “Yeah, well it’s too early to sneak off to talk to the guy who almost killed you.” Hound hits the heater, “Enough arguing! Enough. Just, spread out and take some time away from each other. Please. Let’s wait and see what the projection looks like before we try and kill each other.” He had a headache that was getting worse with every moment of arguing.

Slowly, Sunstreaker walked off, Sideswipe followed though at a distance. Breakdown was back to medical, and Jazz was sitting on the ground near the heater. Sighing, Hound joined him, rubbing his face, “How did you get used to working with other pilots? Or, mechs?” They were all, mostly, used to working solo. The suits were big enough to level a city block at times and more than one was hardly ever needed. Jazz chuckled slightly, “Well, I worked with Prowl solo for about the first six months or so. Not with other strong willed pilots, but still someone with experience.” Nodding a bit, Jazz leans back to stare at the sky, “I also didn’t have a unit of people from diverse backgrounds to command, all I had to do was adjust to one culture. I also didn’t have two pilots who had never been in the military to watch over,” the look almost makes Hound groan, “Their great pilots, but we both know that this is something that’ll take plans they aren’t used to and a lot more orders.” Also looking at the sky, Hound groaned, “I was worried you’d say that.” Jazz snorts, grinning, “Yeah well, you all have a lot of adjustments to make still.” With a hum, Hound threw his arm back over his eyes, still so tired. Yawning, he turns off the lights in his cockpit and turns down his visual feed, “Adjustments I'll start making, after I get some more sleep.” It didn’t take Hound long to fall back asleep, not long at all.

Jazz sat there, smiling a bit, “You’ve already made some Hound.” He glances over towards command where Red Alert and Mirage were talking, Mirage leaning against the wall comfortably, “You just can’t see it yet.” He smiles and moves to be able to watch their surroundings so his friend could sleep easier. Sometimes, the cluelessness of the other pilots drove him mad and sometimes he wondered if they were all just more nearsighted than they looked. 

—

Sunstreaker went and sat with Bluestreak, glancing back over his shoulder at Sideswipe who diverted to sit with a few other mechs, he breathed a sigh of relief. The other mecha sitting with Blue glanced at each other before standing, “Hey, we’re going to go eat. See ya Blue.” One patted him on the shoulder and the other gave him a thumbs up before heading off towards food, talking quietly to each other. Sunstreaker paused, frowning a bit, “Uh, sorry. I didn't mean to chase off your friends.” “What? Oh, no you’re fine!” Bluestreak leans forward some, smiling nervously, he clears his throat a bit, “They’ve been waiting for an excuse to get away.” Sunstreaker chuckled slightly, “I doubt that.” Bluestreak smiled and glanced over towards Sideswipe, frowning, “Look,” “We’re not going to talk about that here.’ Sunny rested his hand over Blue’s, visor brightening, “Later, so, um.” He clears his throat and pulls his hand back, glancing up and away, “Have you ever been to this planet before?” Bluestreak smiled, “Yeah, but it was just for a different fight.” He tries to wave it off, but Sunstreaker turns to him, “Tell me about it.” Bluestreak chuckles lightly, “Uh, why?” The smile couldn’t be kept from Sunstreaker’s face, “The longer I sit here and you don’t try to kill me, the more likely it’ll be that Sides will eventually forgive you.” “Oh.” Nodding slowly, Bluestreak frowned, “You or—humans, are very strange.” Sunstreaker laughed.

Shaking his head a bit, Sunstreaker rubs at his chest, “Oh Blue, you don’t know the half of it. So, what was the last fight here like for you?” Bluestreak’s face lit up, “Well it was back during the last war, primus, you would have thought we were insane back then. Fighting after the fall of the system we were fighting over,” Sunstreaker stares and chuckles slightly, “You really don’t know anything about Earth, do you?” Bluestreak looks at him and shakes his head a bit, “Uh, no, not really. Jazz doesn’t talk about it much and Prowl said to not bother him with it.” Nodding a bit, Sunstreaker shrugged slightly, “Well, I’ll tell you more about it after your story. So, this last war, you were here,” he prompts lightly, Bluestreak nods and starts talking, smiling brightly. Sunstreaker smiled and just listened, glad to listen to someone who wasn’t giving him orders or was his brother. 

—

The shuttle that evening was not sentient and Hound was still never sure to be relieved or not. It always took Sideswipe the longest to figure out if they were on a shuttle he knew personally or not, Sunstreaker always had the easiest time with it. For the moment, Breakdown was not speaking to Hound which was understandable, typically they were on equal footing but having to pull rank always left others feeling ruffled. Jazz was up towards the front talking with the pilot, but the entire shuttle was full of mechs. Each seat was filled and there was limited walking space since it was filled with the construction materials, plus the heaters. The twins were pretending to be asleep, really they were out of their chairs and talking over comms in English. Just because they had the translator doesn’t mean they wanted to use it all the time. 

Sitting back, Hound was almost asleep himself when the second ring of his comm drew his attention. He paused for a moment before adjusting his setting to answer, “Hello?” There was a brief sigh on the other side of the line, “I wasn’t sure if you were going to answer, most mechs answer as soon as it pings.” Mirage sounded like he was smiling, “You doing alright after last night?” Hound smiles a bit, “Yes, thank you for your concern Mirage.” He thought for a moment that that’s where the conversation would end, “I saw what happened this morning, uh, is that normal for you all?” Sighing, Hound scratches at his jaw and chuckles, “Kind of, pilots back home, we’re not used to working with other pilots.” 

“Why not?” Hound opened his mouth and stopped, tilting his head a bit before biting back a swear, “We’re spread out across the planet to protect as many civilians as we can. The five of us being in one place at once, it’s not typical and certainly not what we were trained for.” Mirage hums, “So, the tension is growing.” “Exactly.” Sighing, Hound rubbed his face, “Only ones who are used to working with each other are Sunstreaker and Sideswipe, and even then they only did when in the same region during an attack. Most of us had never worked together before this mission.” He swore he could hear a pin drop over that line before Mirage took a breath, “They sent you, on a death mission, with people who you’d never worked with?” Shaking his head a bit, Hound sighs, “No, not quite. For around six months, uh, half a stellar cycle, we were together preparing for this mission. Isolated together, mostly.” Mirage made an indignant noise. 

Chuckling lightly, Hound scratched at his jaw, “Don’t like that either, huh?” “I just don’t understand your people, redesigning and reprogramming you all for this.” Hound hummed, leaning his head back comfortably, “Someone has to do the work that no one else wants to do.” There was another long pause, before Mirage spoke up again, “Prowl says the same thing, Megatron says the same thing.” Grinning, he shrugged lightly, “There are some things that almost transcend culture.” Mirage hummed lightly, then cleared his throat, “So, we will be in Iacon by morning,” “Will we?” Hound’s internal clock was shot, both his internal clock and the one in his suit, Mirage’s smile was even evident through the comm, “Yes, and I understand you’ll want some time to rest and repair Breakdown of course, but I was wondering when we’d be able to have that, uh, talk.” It took him a second to remember what Mirage was talking about, “Oh, the one about where Breakdown is from?” Mirage and his pauses, “Yes,” Nodding a bit, Hound leaned forward and glanced over to Jazz, gesturing towards his head lightly.

It was several longer seconds of silence before the click of someone joining the comm came through, “Yo.” Hound leaned back, “Jazz, how much free time do you think we will have when we get to Iacon?” Jazz popped up in the corner of Hound’s visual feed, he responded with his own internal camera but ensuring both were kept from Mirage’s view, “Uh, I don’t know. Depends on how long Joan is in his meeting,” “Joan?” The confusion in Mirage’s voice almost made Hound double over, even as Jazz’s face turned dark with blush, “Hound! You could warn a mech when having them enter a comm,” Still laughing, Hound sits up and wipes at his eyes, “Sorry Jazz, Mirage and I were discussing when’s we would be able to meet up to talk about the Soviet Union, in turn I added you to ask what Prowl’s plan looked like. Mirage, Joan is what we’ve taken to call your boss over private comms. She was a figure not dissimilar to your Prime.” Both men sat in silence, as if waiting for the other to break it. 

Hound cleared his throat a bit, “Regardless, do you think a meeting with the Prime will be possible once we get there or will we have a while?” Jazz sighed and leaned forward, looking at Hound, “After we’ve had time to repair Breakdown, I think we’re going to have some time before we’ll get an audience with the Prime. Why?” He shifted a bit uncomfortably on his own seat, sitting back and away from Jazz’s prying eyes the best he could other than for the camera, “Well, Mirage wanted to learn a bit about the Iron Curtain,” “And other things about you— and Earth. Your planet seems so interesting.” Hound smiled a bit, “It is, or it can be.” Jazz was smirking, leaning back and shaking his head, “It’s almost cute how you all are skating around other mecha. Trying to make friends.” Mirage made a noise, and suddenly Hound wasn’t sure if Jazz was talking to him or Mirage. It took only a second for an answer, “Your species of mechanicals are so different from ours, your way of life, your relationships. None of you have mentioned being conjuxed and yet have split sparks, things that seem so familiar yet there are things that are… missing.” Hound cleared his throat a bit, “I’m sorry, the translator didn’t take to that word. What does being conjuxed mean?” Jazz stayed silent, though his hand was covering his mouth as he held back laughter and Mirage was painfully silent. 

After nearly a minute ticked by, Hound sighed, “Is it something incredibly private or?” Weak laughter filled the line, “No, Primus no, it’s just your translator makes you sound strange for some words when they don’t translate.” It was another second before Mirage sighed, “Conjux is short for Conjux Endura, it’s a committed relationship between two mecha, for the rest of your life.” Hound paused and nodded slowly, “So like being married.” “I suppose, though that is not translating either.” Hound chuckled slightly, “Marriage is a committed relationship between two, uh, mecha for the rest of your life. Unless you get divorced like I did.” Mirage made an ear piercing sound and Jazz choked, nearly shooting out of his seat while leaning forward, “What the hell?” “What?” There was a click for a moment, as Mirage left the comm, “What? What did I say?” Then there was another click as Jazz left for a second. He was left in the quiet for a moment before two clicks notified him that they were back on the line.

Jazz sat there, staring at him and shook his head, “No, no, I need you to say that without the translator on. That can’t be right.” Mirage was making the slightest of choking sounds still, so adjusting his setting Hound sighed, “I’m talking about my divorce Jazz.” Several seconds went by, “Oh, oh! I didn’t think that would translate like that.” He pauses, “Damn, uh,” There was a click and he went silent, then a second click as Mirage went silent as well. Setting his jaw, Hound leaned his head back and picked at his fingers. It wasn’t a topic he even remotely enjoyed talking about, two clicks showed they re-entered the comm line, “It is much more normal on Earth Mirage, it’s not a bad thing and certainly not.. that.” He could hear the mech breath out a sigh of relief, “You can understand my concern Jazz,” Mirage clears his throat, “I apologize Hound, your ‘divorce’ translates as something rather drastic in our language. Not a separation of legally binding relations.” Opening his mouth, Hound tried to say something before shaking his head, “You know what, I don’t want to know. My divorce isn’t anyone’s business but mine.” “Of course, I apologize.” Jazz hums lightly, “I knew some things would never translate but that was just something else. No word for divorce is nuts.” Nodding a bit, Hound folds his arms before sighing, “Yes, very odd.” It was uncomfortable, so Hound disconnects from the line, dimming his visor to ensure he wasn’t disturbed before deactivating his comm. 

No word for divorce and whatever it translated into seemed like murder, setting his jaw, he leaned back and closed his eyes. It wasn’t anyone’s business but his, no one needed to know he was divorced. Pausing, he sighed, he hadn’t set up the time to talk to Mirage about Earth properly. Sparing a glance towards where Breakdown was sitting, it would have to wait. His systems were shut down quickly so he was able to throw his arm over his eyes, removing the helmet and visor. Sometimes, the differences felt greater than they probably were. 

———

A/N

I think I am finally recovering from being sick, but we will see. Next part will hopefully be out Monday and I’ll actually get to that schedule that I was talking about before.

Tags!

@lunarlei68 @whirlywhirlygig @loop-hole-319 @pixillandjester @alek-the-witch @not-a-moose-in-disguise @goddessofwind8water @neurologicalglitch @dersereblogger @pixel-transformers @mrcrayonofdoom @wireplaces @twilightfreefaller @original-blog-name-2 @devilangel657 @robbin-u @childofprimus @miniartistme @starwold @tea-enthusiasm @valeexpris606 @celticdoggo @bird599 @agentsquirrelsgotrobots @aquaioart @dimencreasatlas @thatwandercat @artdagz @seisha974 @starscreamloverfr @halenhusky309 @leethepiper @cat-cassette @blue-wrens @sirassban @astridkolch @cosmique-oddity

And once again thank you to @keferon for this amazing AU

[backside-into-the-heavenly]

How Tall is the USS Gerald R.Ford Largest Aircraft Carrier in the world?

- Length 1,092 ft (333 m) - 1,106 ft (337 m)

- Beam 134 ft (41 m) (waterline) 256 ft (78 m) (flight deck)

- Height 250 ft (76 m)

-Installed power Two Bechtel A1B PWR nuclear reactors, HEU 93.5%

The USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) is the lead ship of the Gerald R. Ford class of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers operated by the United States Navy. It is the largest aircraft carrier in the world in terms of displacement and overall length.

[planesawesome]

(10/25/1992) A formation of aircraft assigned to the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN-73) flies over the ship. The aircraft are an E-2C Hawkeye, an EA-6B Prowler, an A-6E Intruder, an S-3 Viking, two F/A-18C Hornets and two F-14 Tomcats USN CMDR. John Leenhouts Nara Image

[planetearthtimetravelread]

[usafphantom2]

The AD-5N ‘Skyraider’ and Its Little-Known Nuclear Role in the Cold War

David Cenciotti

AD-5N

In late 1958, during heightened tensions in the Taiwan Strait, Skyraider pilots were prepped for nuclear strike missions. They spent tense hours at night, seated in their aircraft and ready for catapult launch with nuke bombs, before the mission was ultimately called off…

The Douglas A-1 Skyraider, also known as the “Spad,” was a legendary single-engine aircraft, as well as the last propeller U.S. Navy attack aircraft to disappear from the decks of the Navy’s aircraft carriers.

In late 1958, during heightened tensions in the Taiwan Strait, Skyraider pilots were prepped for nuclear strike missions. They spent tense hours at night, seated in their aircraft and ready for catapult launch with nuke bombs, before the mission was ultimately called off…Nuclear attack Skyraider

Renowned for its rugged design and long endurance, the Skyraider had an exceptional payload capacity: even when it carried its full internal fuel of 2,280 pounds, a 2,200-lb torpedo, two 2,000-lb bombs, 12,5 inch rockets, two 20 mm guns and 240 pounds of ammunition, the Skyraider was still under its maximum gross weight of 25,000 pounds.

Conceived during World War II, the Skyraider saw extensive service during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, excelling in close air support, search and rescue, and interdiction roles. However, its ability to carry a diverse array of munitions, including conventional bombs, rockets, and even torpedoes, made it a versatile platform.

AD-5N

Douglas AD-5N Skyraider of VA(AW)-33 Det.42 circa in 1958 (Image credit: U.S. Navy)

Among its variants, the AD-5N was a specialized version of the Skyraider, featuring a widened fuselage to accommodate a crew of four and advanced avionics for precision operations in challenging conditions.

Nuclear attack Skyraider

At the end of the 1950s, pilots of VA(AW)-33 flew AD-5N aircraft off the USS Essex, primarily training for nuclear strike missions. They specialized in low-level, long-range operations, using tech like the Bureau of Ordnance Atomic Rocket (BOAR) rocket and the Low Altitude Bombing System (LABS) bombing system.

Flying just 50 feet above water or skimming treetops on land, missions were top-secret, with each pilot assigned a unique target. Crews of three or four included electronics techs, practicing whenever budget allowed, both in the U.S. and Europe. Real missions were essentially one-way, though their rocket-powered weapon offered a slight survival edge.

The pilot’s side panel on the AD-5N aircraft. The LABS timer light can be seen on top of the panel on the right side and the NAV/LABS cross pointer instrument is also on the right side, about half way down. (Image via Stephen Miller)

Stephen Miller is a retired electrical engineer, lifelong aviator who spent some time as a Naval Aviator. After flight training, he was assigned to VA(AW)33 in Atlantic City, NJ, flying AD-5N. Here’s what he wrote to us about his time flying the low level long range nuclear weapon delivery mission with the Skyraider.

I joined the Navy right after graduating from Miami of Ohio with a BS in business and was just a few hours short of a commercial certificate at that time. After flight training, I was assigned to VA(AW)33 flying AD-5N in 1956.

In 1957-1958 various detachments consisting of four aircraft were assigned to their respective carriers and were involved in the attendant cruises from time to time. Ours was the USS ESSEX, CVA9. This was strictly during the cold war, between the Korean war and Vietnam.

Our primary mission was low level long range nuclear weapon delivery. This consisted of 50 ft over water and about 150 ft over land (treetop level). All navigation was done using pilotage/dead reckoning and was practised both here and in Europe. There were no radars at that time that could detect a low flying aircraft, due to ground clutter. Our long range cruise airspeed was 160 kts and we’d wait for the engine to sputter before switching back from an empty drop tank to the main. We typically used one or two crewmen to help with the navigation, the same guys (ET’s, Electronic Technicians) who maintained the equipment.

We also had a ground mapping radar, the APS-31, a pod-mounted wing unit.

In mid 1957 we attended a special weapons school in Norfolk VA which covered the operation of the weapon, the Bureau of Ordnance Atomic Rocket (BOAR) and the Low Altitude Bombing System (LABS). They had a working BOAR in the classroom, minus the warhead and we learned how to connect and use the test box to check it out. I was scheduled to make a test run to a simulated target with a live BOAR which had the 1000 lbs of HE (high explosive) used to detonate the nuclear core, but without the core installed. This was ultimately cancelled, but the exercise proceeded without employing the BOAR.

The delivery sequence worked as follows: The LABS contained a timer, accelerometer and a precise gyro heading reference. Just before reaching the IP (initial position for starting the final run toward the release point), the aircraft had to be at max speed (about 240 kts), full or “military” power, limited to five minutes, on heading and maintaining a stable treetop altitude, with the weapon armed.

Upon passing the IP a button on the stick was pressed and the timer would start for the 2-3 minute run. Simultaneously, the vertical nav indicator normally used for VOR/TACAN/ILS LOCALIZER was switched to provide the precise heading reference. At the same time a short panel light and headset tone were activated as well.

When the timer ran out, another short light/tone indicated the aircraft had reached the point to start the launch maneuver. The pilot would then pull and hold the trigger while pulling the nose up in a precise manner using the accelerometer. The horizontal nav indicator normally used for the ILS GLIDESLOPE would switch to this function and initially drop down; it was up to the pilot to raise the nose smoothly to bring the indicator to the center (horizontal) position. This would insure the right amount of “g’s” to produce the desired weapon trajectory upon release, which was automatic when the release attitude was reached.

The BOAR was blown away from the aircraft by the equivalent of four shotgun shells and had a pigtail attached to the airframe which would stretch out and then pull out of the back of the weapon, starting the rocket motor. This weapon had a top speed in the 400kt range and covered a distance of about 7.5 miles.

At this point the AD-5N was entering the initial entry into a loop but was too slow to make it over the top, requiring a wing over to end the maneuver, pickup speed and reverse direction. This was a modified version of a maneuver called a “half Cuban 8”, in this case known as the “idiot loop”.

For propeller driven aircraft the completion of the loop was only possible by a more capable airplane like the single seat AD6, for example. Use of a rocket powered weapon would allow the aircraft to escape the blast zone but the enormous shock wave would have unpredictable results. Some nuclear weapons were unpowered bombs, such that no escape from the blast was possible if delivered in this manner by a propeller driven aircraft. No one was expected back from these missions. Fortunately it never became necessary.

On a Mediterranean cruise during the 1957-58 period we did have a night drill to get a live BOAR ready for launch, but that’s as far as it went, at least for our squadron. At one point we were each assigned top secret targets following background checks for this purpose. These targets were planned and the charts supplied by some unknown source, at least to us, and the zig-zag routes highlighted as well. My best guess is this came from the Pentagon. They were kept in a locked safe with individual combinations. We were required to study our respective routes in our spare time and no one knew what anyone else’s target was. These were strictly visual day missions, though we would probably launch at night in time to reach the beach by daylight. We did have the advantage of radar assist, at least to pick out prominent features like lakes/rivers etc, as well as crewmen to help look for check points. The biggest problem we faced was the fact that the charts over enemy territory were known to contain errors. This only added to the difficulty of attempting to navigate using pilotage/dead reckoning at treetop level in the first place!

In late 1958 during the Quemoy/Matsu island crisis, we were in that area and a friend of mine was there as well with a Pacific fleet squadron flying AD6’s. He sat for two hours on a dark night in his aircraft, hooked up to the catapult, ready to launch with a nuke until they finally called it off. I doubt that this is widely known. That nuclear bomb was a Mark 7 unpowered device. It was a standard nuclear bomb of that time, the yield determined by the size of the nuclear core. A typical mid range core was 18-22 kilotons, about the same as the one dropped on Nagasaki.

Other Navy/Air Force squadrons flying various types of aircraft (primarily jets) had other delivery methods as well. This was our particular experience.

LTJG Miller (via Stephen Miller)

After his tour as a naval aviator Stephen spent a few years in aviation doing charter and flight instructor work flying all the usual single/multi engine aircraft, a stint with Mohawk Airlines flying Convair 240/440 aircraft and ultimately had his own business as an FBO.

I eventually left the aviation industry to pursue a degree in electrical engineering, though I continued flying part time, graduating from Umass Dartmouth in 1967. My career as an engineer subsequently encompassed working for a variety of employers in both design and management, commercial and military and for both large and small firms. My duties often included serving as company pilot as well. One such firm was an autopilot manufacturer which introduced me to that particular industry as well.

In later life I spent some time with the CAP, but now at age 90 I haven’t been current for about 20 years. Hopefully, the information I’ve submitted will be of some historical value to those interested in the Cold War period of the 1950s.

@The Aviationist.com

[enriquemzn262]

Chinese Type 003 aircraft carrier Fujian (福建舰) in sea trials.

She’s the first supercarrier built outside the United States, and the first nom-nuclear powered vessel of this kind built since USS John F. Kennedy.

[jenniferlinda76]

Nuclear-Powered Aircraft Carriers and Their Role in Modern Naval Warfare

Introduction

Nuclear-powered aircraft carriers represent the pinnacle of modern naval engineering and military strategy. Among these giants of the sea, the USS Nimitz (CVN 68) stands out as a quintessential example of American naval power. Alongside it, aircraft like the F/A-18 Hornet play a crucial role in maintaining air superiority and providing versatile combat capabilities. This essay explores the design, capabilities, and strategic importance of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, with a focus on the USS Nimitz and its accompanying fleet of F/A-18 Hornets.

The Evolution of Nuclear-Powered Aircraft Carriers

Nuclear power revolutionized naval engineering by providing ships with an almost unlimited range and endurance. Unlike conventional diesel or gas-turbine engines, nuclear reactors do not require refueling for many years, allowing aircraft carriers to stay at sea for extended periods. This capability is critical for maintaining a persistent military presence and quick response capability anywhere in the world.

The introduction of nuclear power to aircraft carriers began with the USS Enterprise (CVN 65) in the 1960s. This technological leap forward set the stage for the subsequent Nimitz-class carriers, which would become the backbone of the U.S. Navy's carrier strike groups. The USS Nimitz, commissioned in 1975, was the first of its class and remains a formidable asset in the Navy's arsenal.

Design and Capabilities of the USS Nimitz

The USS Nimitz is a marvel of engineering, measuring approximately 1,092 feet in length and displacing over 100,000 tons. It can accommodate a crew of over 5,000 personnel, including air wing and support staff. Its flight deck spans around 4.5 acres, providing ample space for the launch and recovery of various aircraft.

The ship's propulsion system consists of two A4W nuclear reactors, which drive four propeller shafts. This setup allows the USS Nimitz to achieve speeds in excess of 30 knots. The nuclear reactors provide the ship with virtually unlimited operational endurance, limited only by the need for resupply of food and other consumables.

The carrier's defensive capabilities are formidable, featuring multiple layers of protection against air, surface, and underwater threats. These include the RIM-7 Sea Sparrow and RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missiles, as well as the Phalanx Close-In Weapon System (CIWS) for close-range defense.

The Role of F/A-18 Hornets

Fighters like the F/A-18 Hornet is a twin-engine, multirole combat aircraft capable of performing a wide range of missions, including air superiority, ground attack, and reconnaissance. The Hornet is highly versatile, making it an ideal aircraft for carrier-based operations. It has been a staple of the U.S. Navy's air wings since the 1980s and continues to be a critical component of carrier strike groups.

The F/A-18 Hornet's design emphasizes survivability, with features such as reduced radar cross-section, advanced avionics, and electronic warfare capabilities. Its twin-engine configuration provides redundancy and improved performance, allowing it to operate effectively from the cramped and sometimes harsh environments of aircraft carriers.

One of the key advantages of the F/A-18 is its ability to switch roles rapidly. For instance, it can carry a variety of ordnance, from air-to-air missiles to precision-guided bombs, enabling it to engage both aerial and ground targets with equal efficacy. This flexibility is crucial for modern naval operations, where threats can emerge from multiple domains simultaneously.

The Strategic Importance of the USS Nimitz

The USS Nimitz serves as a floating airbase, projecting power and deterrence far beyond the territorial waters of the United States. Its presence in a region can significantly alter the strategic calculus of potential adversaries. The carrier's ability to deploy a wide array of aircraft, including the F/A-18 Hornet, allows it to conduct sustained air operations over a prolonged period.

One of the primary missions of the USS Nimitz is to ensure freedom of navigation and the security of maritime trade routes. Given that a significant portion of global trade passes through strategic chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz and the South China Sea, the ability of the Nimitz to operate in these areas is of paramount importance. Its deployment can reassure allies and deter aggression, contributing to regional stability.

In times of conflict, the USS Nimitz can serve as a command and control hub, coordinating the actions of various naval, air, and ground forces. Its air wing, centered around aircraft like the F/A-18 Hornet, can perform a wide range of missions, from establishing air superiority to providing close air support for ground troops. The carrier's versatility makes it a critical asset in both conventional and asymmetric warfare scenarios.

The Future of Carrier Aviation

While the USS Nimitz and its sister ships remain at the forefront of naval power, the future of carrier aviation is evolving. New classes of carriers, such as the Gerald R. Ford-class, incorporate advanced technologies like electromagnetic aircraft launch systems (EMALS) and advanced arresting gear (AAG). These innovations aim to improve the efficiency and capability of carrier operations, allowing for the deployment of next-generation aircraft.

Additionally, the integration of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) into carrier air wings represents a significant shift. Drones like the MQ-25 Stingray, designed for aerial refueling, will extend the range and endurance of manned aircraft like the F/A-18 Hornet. This development will enhance the operational flexibility of carrier strike groups, allowing them to project power even further.

Conclusion

Nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, epitomized by the USS Nimitz, are critical instruments of naval power and global stability. Their ability to operate independently for extended periods, combined with the versatile capabilities of aircraft like the F/A-18 Hornet, makes them indispensable to modern military strategy. As technological advancements continue to shape the future of carrier aviation, the legacy of the USS Nimitz and its contributions to naval warfare will endure, ensuring that these floating fortresses remain at the heart of American naval dominance for decades to come.

[hazel-of-sodor]

Day 10 A-The Grey Ghost

Day 10 A-Great

Other Stories

Other Days

USCG Enterprise WCV-6 sat outside the Newport Shipyard, fighting off the urge to doze. It was a beautiful day, the sky was clear, with just enough of an ocean breeze to keep her cool. It wasn't often she could truly relax outside of port. Even now that she was in service with the Coast Guard, she almost always had aircraft aloft, patrolling the surrounding waters. She would launch her aircraft soon enough, but for now she was waiting.

The Navy had finally finished her successor. CVN-65, the first nuclear powered aircraft carrier. Enterprise didn't quite understand the concept, something about radioactive rocks making steam, but those in charge believed it was the future. CVN-65 was not only supposed to be the largest carrier afloat, but the fastest. Enterprise had been shown the stats for the new ship to bear her name, and she had to admit they were impressive.

A horn sounded, and she glanced up as a large bow rounded the corner. The ship that was revealed was nearly half again as long as her, over twice as wide at her widest point, and nearly three times her displacement. She was also brand new.

CVN-65 U.S.S Enterprise, eighth of her name was untested, had never seen combat, not even war games…but WCV-6 had a good feeling about her.

“Hello little sister, I've been ordered to oversee your sea trials.”

“Little sister?” CVN-65 glanced down at the lead tug guiding her curiously. “Aren't I the only member of my class so far?

The tug chuckled and spoke to WCV-6, “We hadn't told her about you yet, we wanted to surprise her.”

Enterprise chuckled, “Of course. CVN-65, has anyone told you the significance of the name you have been christened with?”

“The name Enterprise is one of the United States longest legacys,” CVN-65 recited dutifully, “from the first ship to bear the name serving in the revolutionary war,  to the latest and most famous of the line, the recently retired Yorktown class U.S.S. Enterprise CV-6, which served with distinction in the Pacific theater of the Second World War, becoming the most decorated American vessel of the war.”

The new supercarrier tilted her head curiously at the smaller carrier. “If it's not rude, may I ask what class you are? I don't recognize it, but you're oddly familiar…”

The tugboats and WCV-6 chuckled. “I've been refit since my Navy days,” the Carrier explained, “I am a Yorktown class.”

CVN-65’s eyes shot wide, “But that means…”

A whistle sounded and her Coast Guard Flag was lowered and replaced with the Flag of the United States Navy.

The Carrier smirked, “I was transferred, not retired.” She corrected, “and I’ve been temporarily given back to oversee your Trials. For the duration of your trials, I am once again, CV-6 U.S.S. Enterprise.”