During its first underway period since completing a homeport shift to Norfolk in July, Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) conducted certification of its precision approach landing systems (PALS).
PALS, supported by the ship's combat systems department and Carrier Air Traffic Controller Center (CATCC), aids pilots as they execute night or bad weather landings, guiding pilots to a good starting position for approaches, and is a requirement for ships to conduct flight operations.
In addition to certifying Nimitz’ PALS equipment, Sailors used the underway period to train for future at-sea operations, including aircraft recovery, damage control, propulsion, and other drills.
This certification and training readies Nimitz for future underway periods such as those in support of East Coast carrier qualifications (CQ). CQ’s are an important milestone in the training of student naval aviators, serving as their first opportunity to land on the flight deck of an operational aircraft carrier.
USS Nimitz is scheduled to conduct multiple upcoming CQ's in support of Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic. The vessel is currently homeported at Naval Station Norfolk as part of Carrier Strike Group 8.
USS Nimitz is the lead ship of the US Navy’s Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carriers. Commissioned on May 3, 1975, the carrier is named after Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, who commanded US Pacific forces during World War II. The ship measures 1,092 feet (333 meters) in length and has a full-load displacement of approximately 97,000 tons.
Powered by two nuclear reactors, USS Nimitz supports sustained flight operations and the deployment of carrier-based aircraft. Its capabilities include launching and recovering aircraft, supporting maritime security operations, and providing a platform for combat operations and humanitarian assistance.
Throughout its service, the carrier has deployed to multiple regions, including the Mediterranean Sea, the Arabian Gulf and the Western Pacific. In 2026, it completed a deployment to the US Southern Command area of responsibility as part of the Southern Seas 2026 deployment, which included engagements with regional naval forces and other partners.