By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Rosa A. Arzola, USS Carl Vinson Public Affairs
USS CARL VINSON, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) reached an historic milestone July 24 following the successful launch of 12 missiles within a seven-day period.
The ship launched 11 Evolved Sea Sparrow Missiles (ESSM) and one Rolling Airframe Missiles (RAM) as part of the Combat System's Ship Qualification Trial.
"It's unique that a ship can accomplish such a task as shooting 12 missiles," said Richard Dodson, Operational Test and Evaluation Force Test Team analyst. "We rarely have an opportunity to bring this many missiles on board and shoot this many targets in such a short window [of time]."
The missile launch was not only a significant milestone for Carl Vinson. The evolution set a new Navywide standard.
"This is the biggest test that we have done in a long time, not only aboard Vinson but aboard any other ship," said Lt. Gregory McLean, operational test director of Commander Operational Test and Evaluation Force. "It took a lot of assets, a lot of coordination, and three years of planning to accomplish twelve missile shoots."
Vinson launched the missiles to see how effective and suitable the ESSM and RAM are for Vinson's Self Defense System in a combat situation.
"This mission was something stressful but at the end this is the most realistic training Sailors are going to get while underway," said Dodson.
Both Dodson and McLean said this mission was successful because of Carl Vinson Sailors.
"The successful missile launch was a really great accomplishment. Everybody on board Carl Vinson did exactly what they needed to do," said Dodson. "We got a lot of support and help from the ship."
"I feel privileged to be part of this milestone," said McLean. "But this wouldn't have been possible to accomplish without the help and hard work of Operations and Combat Systems Sailors."
"I feel really good of being part of this milestone. It's gratifying. All the guys worked hard to accomplish this missile shoot," said Fire Controlman 2nd Class (SW/AW) James Worley, the ship's Combat Systems assistant leading petty officer. "I feel proud to be able to show how well we can defend our ship."
Dodson noticed how Vinson's Sailors are always ready and have a great work ethic.
"I wish I could do more missile shoots on board. Vinson has a great impressive crew with a superb attitude. They are always willing to get things done," said Dodson. "I have been on a lot of Navy ships and I am impressed with the Sailors here."
