USS Nimitz, The US Navy’s Oldest Carrier, Is Back In American Waters

Aerospace & Defense USS Nimitz, The US Navy’s Oldest Carrier, Is Back In American Waters By Peter Suciu,

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Peter Suciu covers trends in the world of aerospace and defense.Follow Author Jun 16, 2026, 06:29pm EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.Summary The USS Nimitz, the US Navy's oldest active nuclear-powered supercarrier and longest-serving aircraft carrier, recently arrived at Naval Station Mayport, Florida. This marks its first US stop since departing San Diego in March, following its final overseas deployment. The Nimitz is en route to its new homeport in Norfolk, Virginia, expected June 25, where it will help celebrate America's 250th birthday. Its service was extended beyond its planned spring decommissioning due to delays with the future USS John F. Kennedy, ensuring the Navy maintains its required 11 carriers. The Nimitz, which recently surpassed USS Enterprise in service length, embarked on a farewell/goodwill tour around South America from Naval Base Kitsap, conducting joint operations and hosting dignitaries. It will remain officially active until next March, with decommissioning and recycling taking several years.

Navy Quartermaster Senior Chief Benjamin Richards shifts colors on the mast of Nimitz-class aircraft USS Nimitz (CVN 68) after pulling pierside at Naval Station Mayport in Jacksonville, Florida, June 16, 2026.(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jaron Wills)The United States oldest active nuclear-powered supercarrier, and the longest-serving aircraft carrier in American history, arrived at Naval Station Mayport, Florida, on Tuesday afternoon. It is the first stop in the United States for the USS Nimitz (CVN-68) since the warship departed San Diego in March.