Nimitz Class Carriers are among the largest vessels in the world. They have a crew (including air wing) of over 5,000. They can carry nearly 100 aircraft, including 2 squadrons of F-14s, 2 squadrons of F/A-18s, and 2 squadrons of A-6Es. The rest of the aircraft are used in a variety of utility roles including early warning, antisubmarine warfare, and electronic warfare.

The purpose of these warships is to protect carrier forces against air attack. They are armed with several 20mm guns, and can be equipped with a wide variety of missiles, including Harpoon antiship missiles, and the potent Tomahawk cruise missile.