air wing (Carrier Air Wing)

An air wing, or carrier air wing, is a specialized group of aircraft and their crews assigned to a naval aircraft carrier. It functions as a floating air force capable of conducting a variety of missions, including defense, surveillance, strike operations, and reconnaissance, while at sea. Comprising different types of aircraft such as fighters, bombers, early-warning planes, and helicopters, the air wing supports the carrier's role as a mobile military base. It operates together with the carrier’s crew to project power, defend naval assets, and achieve strategic objectives during maritime operations.