Carrier Air Wing 7 (CVW-7) serves as the offensive air and strike component of Carrier Strike Group 10, deployed aboard USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77).

Homeported at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, CVW-7 operates over 70 aircraft across six airframes, providing a versatile tactical aviation capability tailored for modern naval warfare.

Known by its tail code "AG," CVW-7 includes nine squadrons, with four flying F/A-18E/F Super Hornets, including the "Jolly Rogers" and "Pukin' Dogs."

Support squadrons operate EA-18G Growlers for electronic attack, E-2D Hawkeyes for early warning and MH-60 helicopters for search-and-rescue and anti-submarine missions.

A legacy of operational excellence

The CVW-7 boasts a rich operational history, supporting US Naval Forces across key regions.

During its 2022–2023 deployment aboard George H.W. Bush, CVW-7 supported European Command with an eight-month mission in the Mediterranean under 6th and 5th Fleets.

The deployment ensured maritime security in the region while fostering strengthened collaborations with NATO allies and partner nations.

Previously, in 2014, CVW-7 played a pivotal role in Operation Inherent Resolve, launching the Navy's first strikes against ISIS to secure strategic objectives.

CVW-7 has deployed aboard carriers like USS John F. Kennedy and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, supporting major operations including Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.

These deployments have cemented CVW-7's reputation as a combat-tested unit ready to deliver air power wherever required.

Tactical prowess and modern capabilities

Equipped with the latest technology, CVW-7 aircraft execute diverse missions, including air superiority, precision strike, surveillance, electronic attack and anti-submarine warfare.

F/A-18E/F Super Hornets deliver precision strikes using laser-guided bombs and Joint Direct Attack Munitions, while maintaining air superiority with AIM-120 AMRAAMs and AIM-9X Sidewinders.

The EA-18G Growlers enhance mission efficacy by suppressing enemy air defenses with cutting-edge AN/ALQ-99 and Next-Generation Jammer systems.

The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye provides battle management and surveillance with the AN/APY-9 radar, tracking hundreds of targets simultaneously.

MH-60R helicopters conduct anti-submarine warfare with dipping sonars and Mk54 torpedoes, while MH-60S handles vertical replenishment, armed support and search-and-rescue missions.

CVW-7's high operational tempo during recent deployments reflects its readiness and effectiveness in executing sustained combat and support missions.

The air wing's extensive collaboration with NATO allies during training exercises further underlines its role in promoting global maritime security.

As of February 2026, CVW-7 is completing rigorous pre-deployment training during its Composite Unit Training Exercise.

Prepared as a fully integrated, combat-ready force, CVW-7 stands at the forefront of projecting American air power and ensuring maritime dominance around the globe.