Thunderbolt Hornet about to touch down

Buzzing the carrier

F/A-18C of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 251 (VMFA) 251 blasts away from the Big E in the Arabian Sea during operation Operation Iraqi Freedom (March 2003 - August 2010).

On its way to the catapult on board the USS Enterprise (CVN-65) in the Persian Gulf. The Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 123 Screwtops Hawkeye is equipped with the eight-bladed propeller system named NP2000 that replaced the old four-bladed design. The modern propeller reduced vibrations in the aircraft and is more easy to maintain as a result of the ability to remove prop blades individually instead of having to remove the entire prop and hub assembly.

Lockheed S-3B Viking of Sea Control Squadron (VS) 32 "Maulers" is seen here catching the planned number three wire on board the USS Enterprise (CVN-65) while sailing through the Arabian/Persian Gulf. This photo was made during the sundown cruise (the very final deployment) of the S-3B.

Lockheed S-3B Viking of Sea Control Squadron (VS) 32 "Maulers" manoeuvring over the USS Enterprise (CVN-65) while sailing through the Arabian/Persian Gulf. Yellow shirts are worn by aircraft handlers and aircraft directors that shuttle aircraft around the carrier's tight and chaotic deck. Catapult Officers and Arresting Gear Officers also wear yellow shirts. Because yellow shirts are so involved with taxiing aircraft, they are often featured prominently in dramatic photos depicting carrier deck operations. This photo was made during the sundown cruise (the very final deployment) of the S-3B.

Lockheed S-3B Viking of Sea Control Squadron (VS) 32 "Maulers" at the cat of the USS Enterprise (CVN-65) while sailing through the Arabian/Persian Gulf. Carrier aviation is great, so much action, colors and photographic opportunities. This photo was made during the sundown cruise (the very final deployment) of the S-3B.

Lockheed S-3B Viking of Sea Control Squadron (VS) 32 "Maulers" is seen here scratching its tailhook over the deck of the USS Enterprise (CVN-65). Next step of this manoeuvre is catching the cable and come to a brute stop. The Big E was sailing through the Arabian/Persian Gulf when taking this picture. This photo was made during the sundown cruise (the very final deployment) of the S-3B.