Minding the gap: USN balances aircraft carrier presence, readiness demands

摘要

To support increased demand during the last decade for naval air power in the Middle East, the US Navy (USN) has rotated its nuclear-powered aircraft carriers (CVNs) and associated strike groups through a rigorous deployment schedule in order to provide a continuous presence in the region. However, it was revealed in mid-2015 that navy officials were planning to adjust the schedule due to maintenance requirements and budgetary challenges resulting from spending restrictions. The revised schedule would induce a strike carrier gap in the region in late 2015.