Update:
Since the video of the HST CSG’s departure is still not available, here is a photo of the carrier’s departure. Some more photos here. In the meantime, the Navy ‘Livestream’ below is still interesting to watch.
Families of Sailors assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) watch as the ship departs its homeport of Naval Station Norfolk. Truman is deployed as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Eric S. Garst
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Original post:
As an Air Force person, I have never seen a Carrier Strike Group live.
Actually, I did not know exactly what a carrier strike group consists of. I had to look it up (see below). It is quite impressive.
Today, if I am fast to put this up and you are quick to read and click, you and I will have the opportunity to watch the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HST CSG) sail from port for an eight- to nine-month deployment in support of 5th and 6th Fleet operations.
Live video of the deployment from Norfolk, Va., is scheduled to begin 11 a.m. EDT, and you can watch it here:
The Navy says:
HST CSG consists of approximately 6,000 Sailors and Marines, including coalition sailors. Deploying units include Commander, Carrier Strike Group (CCSG) 10; USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), USS Bulkeley (DDG 84), USS Gettysburg (CG 64), USS Mason (DDG 87), USS San Jacinto (CG 56) and 1st Combined Destroyer Squadron, a combined U.K. and U.S. staff.
Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 3 is also embarked on board Harry S. Truman with its associated squadrons – Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 32 “Swordsmen,” VFA-37 “Ragin’ Bulls,” and VFA-105 “Gunslingers;” Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 312 “Checkerboards;” Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 126 “Seahawks;” Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 130 “Zappers;” Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 7 “Dusty Dogs;” and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 74 “Swamp Foxes.”
HST CSG will operate with allied and partner maritime forces, focusing on maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts.
Should be quite a sight. Don’t miss it.
A Carrier Strike Group, according to the U.S. Navy:
First, it is important to note that there really is no real definition of a strike group. Strike groups are formed and disestablished on an as-needed basis, and one may be different from another. However, they all are comprised of similar types of ships. Typically a carrier strike group might have:
Nimitz-class carrier
Ticonderoga-class cruiser
Arleigh Burke-class destroyer
Los Angeles-class attack submarine
Supply-class replenishment ship
• The carrier provides a wide range of options to the U.S. government from simply showing the flag to attacks on airborne, afloat and ashore targets. Because carriers operate in international waters, its aircraft do not need to secure landing rights on foreign soil. These ships also engage in sustained operations in support of other forces.
• A guided missile cruiser multi-mission surface combatant. Equipped with Tomahawks for long-range strike capability.
• two guided missile destroyers multi-mission surface combatants, used primarily for anti-air warfare (AAW)
• an attack submarine in a direct support role seeking out and destroying hostile surface ships and submarines
• a combined ammunition, oiler, and supply ship provides logistic support enabling the Navy’s forward presence; on station, ready to respond
The Carrier Strike Group (CSG) could be employed in a variety of roles, all of which would involve the gaining and maintenance of sea control:
• Protection of economic and/or military shipping.
• Protection of a Marine amphibious force while enroute to, and upon arrival in, an amphibious objective area.
• Establishing a naval presence in support of national interests.
Photo: U.S. Navy
