The Largest Airplanes that Can be Carried on U.S. Navy Aircraft Carriers

When discussing the largest airplanes that the U.S. Navy can carry aboard its aircraft carriers, the answer is not as straightforward as one might think. The context of 'carried' is crucial – are we referring to operation, deployment, or just being physically moved?

Largest Airplanes Deployed Aboard Carriers

The largest and heaviest plane that was deployed aboard U.S. Navy carriers is the Grumman A-3 Skywarrior. Nicknamed 'The Whale', this 2-engine attack bomber was designed for carrier operations. While it was deployed, the largest and heaviest plane to ever land on and take off from a carrier is the C-130 Hercules. This occurred during a test program in 1963, and the plane managed to land and take off entirely on its own with no mechanical assistance from the carrier.

Grumman E-2 Hawkeye: The Largest Airborne Early Warning Plane

The Grumman E-2 Hawkeye is the largest aircraft that can be carried on an U.S. Navy aircraft carrier. This airborne early warning and control aircraft weighs over 43,000 pounds (19,500 kilograms) and measures 57 feet (17.4 meters) in length and 80 feet (24.4 meters) in wingspan. The E-2 Hawkeye is a vital asset for radar surveillance and air traffic control, making it a crucial element in carrier-based operations.

The C-2 Greyhound and Its Future Replacement: V-22 Osprey

The C-2 Greyhound is the largest cargo plane that routinely operates on a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier. However, it is due to be replaced by the V-22 Osprey. Back in the mid-1960s, the U.S. Navy conducted trials with a Navy C-130 on the USS Forrestal. The C-130 was successful in multiple takeoffs and landings, but due to its large wingspan, the entire flight deck had to be clear for it to land and take off. This posed logistical challenges and led to the eventual discontinuation of such operations.

Challenges and Limitations

As mentioned, the process of 'carrying' an aircraft does not align with 'flying' aircraft off an aircraft carrier. Smaller planes like the C-2 Greyhound and the C-130 have wingspans that necessitates a clear flight deck, which poses significant operational challenges. The A-3 Skywarrior, although large, was designed with carrier operations in mind and did not face the same limitations as the C-130.

Conclusion

When considering what the largest airplane the U.S. Navy can carry aboard its aircraft carriers is, the answer depends on the specific context of 'carried.' Whether it's the A-3 Skywarrior for operational purposes, the C-130 for test programs, or the E-2 Hawkeye for routine missions, the options vary. The C-2 Greyhound, while the largest plane that routinely operates, is destined for replacement by the V-22 Osprey, showcasing the evolving needs and technologies of naval aviation.