USS ENTERPRISE LANDS 400,000TH AIRCRAFT

USA-(IDB) : An F/A-18F Super Hornet from the Red Rippers of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11 became the 400,000th aircraft to land on USS Enterprise's (CVN 65) flight deck May 24.

Lt. Matthew L. Enos and Weapon System Officer Lt. Cmdr. Jonathan Welsh manned the Super Hornet for the historic landing. Enos said he is honored he was the pilot to put Enterprise on the short list of aircraft carriers with 400,000 landings.

Enterprise's achievement falls on a historic year for naval aviation. One hundred years ago marks the birth of naval aviation, only eight years after the Wright brothers flew their historic flight.

"U.S. naval aviation has been at the forefront of our national destiny, and has become an unrivaled maritime force," said Rear Adm. Ted Branch, commander, Naval Air Forces Atlantic. "Our forces are doing amazing work every day, around the world, and they are making a crucial difference in the ongoing operations."

USS Enterprise

U.S. Navy aircraft operate from nearly every ship in the fleet, as well as from bases around the world, providing uniquely capable, forward presence and giving naval air assets access nearly anywhere in the world.

"One of the greatest strengths that carrier aviation brings to the table is 'presence,'" said Capt. Gregory C. Huffman, Enterprise's executive officer. "Simply by moving into an area of operation, we play a part in shaping world events and defining national strategy.

In her 50 years of service, Enterprise has wowed many people and set many records. She is the first nuclear-powered carrier and the first nuclear carrier to transit the Suez Canal. Enterprise was the first carrier to fly F-14 Tomcats and is the longest warship in the world. This achievement of 400,000 landings is one more record added to the list.

The other three carriers with more than 400,000 traps are USS Lexington (CV 16), USS Independence (CV 62) and USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63).

Enterprise and Carrier Air Wing 1 are in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting close-air support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Source: AsiaMilitary