High seas, cold temperatures, strong winds, and corrosive salt spray create a harsh environment for humans and machines at sea. ... The ability of an aircraft to operate effectively in these rigorous environments is called carrier suitability.

The school is attached to the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, which is located on over 6,000 acres of land adjacent to the Patuxent River and Chesapeake Bay. ... Some of the most highly qualified and respected aviators, naval flight officers, and engineers come through the school's doors every year.

Carrier-based aviation is a key to the forward presence and crisis response of the US military. ... In the coming years, carrier aviation’s capabilities will increase as the composition of the air wings evolve. The Navy is moving to a smaller, more capable, and more lethal multimission aircraft.