This will be the second time the Nimitz and its crew has visited Phuket; the last time was in 2010.
The Nimitz is currently in the seas off the Korean peninsula, stationed there in response to North Korean posturing and war threats against its neighbours and American interests – which now appear to have abated.
The nuclear-powered Nimitz is celebrating its 38th year in service. It was commissioned on May 3, 1975. It is one of the largest warships in the world, and all the numbers related to it are huge.
It displaces 100,020 tonnes, is 332.8 metres long by 76.8 metres wide, has a maximum speed of 31.5 knots (58.3 km/h), and can keep going for 20 to 25 years on one charge of nuclear fuel.
On board the ship, and getting ready to enjoy Phuket’s hospitality, are 3,200 sailors and 2,480 air wing personnel to fly and manage the 90 fixed wing aircraft and helicopters carried on board.