On December 20, 1963, the U.S. Navy’s Carrier Air Wing 11 (CVW-11) was established, tracing its roots back to its original designation as CVG-11. Over the decades, CVW-11 has evolved into a key component of America’s naval power, representing a rich legacy of aviation excellence, innovation, and global reach. Its roots lie in the dramatic transformation of naval warfare, a transformation that saw air wings becoming not just components of a fleet, but integral to projecting force and diplomacy.
The air wing’s story began with its homebase at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, where it trained and prepared for its pivotal role aboard aircraft carriers. Throughout the years, CVW-11 has been stationed on numerous ships, with its most enduring association being with the mighty USS Nimitz (CVN 68). This nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, one of the largest and most powerful ships in the world, became a symbol of the United States Navy’s global reach and power projection.
Flying the distinctive tailcode NH, CVW-11’s aviators and maintainers form the backbone of the USS Nimitz’s operations, ensuring that this floating airfield can deliver both air superiority and precision strikes at any moment. Its aircraft, from fighter jets to reconnaissance planes, play a pivotal role in maintaining peace, deterring aggression, and delivering aid when necessary.
With a legacy steeped in history, CVW-11 remains active today, standing ready for missions around the globe. As the USS Nimitz sails into the horizon, CVW-11’s aircraft soar in its wake, a testament to the power and dedication of the sailors who serve within it. In the story of naval aviation, few units have matched CVW-11’s legacy of unwavering service and strength.
