Carrier Strike Group

A Carrier Strike Group (CSG) is the United States Navy term that replaces Carrier Battle Group. Carrier Strike Groups deploy on a regular basis for typically six months but, under the Fleet Response Plan (FRP), may deploy for shorter periods as needed by Combatant Commands. The CSG is centered on an Aircraft Carrier and its Carrier Air Wing and embarks a staff headed by an Admiral whose command comprises the aircraft carrier commanded by a captain, the carrier air wing also commanded by a captain and a Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) commanded by a captain as well. The DESRON typically includes at least one AEGIS Guided Missile Cruiser, and either one or two AEGIS Guided Missile Destroyers and an Attack Submarine (SSN) and is supported by a Fast Combat Supply Ship (AOE). The CSG is intended for employment in any of a variety of roles, all of which would involve the gaining and maintenance of sea control:

* Protection of economic or military shipping.
* Protection of a Marine amphibious force while enroute to, and upon arrival in, an amphibious objective area.
* Establishing a naval presence in support of national interests.
* Power Projection

Notional CSG Composition

* aircraft carrier (CV/CVN)
* one or two guided missile cruisers (CG)
* guided missile destroyer (DDG)
* guided missile frigate (FFG) (or a DDG instead)
* one or two attack submarines (SSN)
* combined ammunition, oiler, and supply ship

An Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) also uses the same escort construct, but is centered on 3 Amphibious Ships, LPH or LHA, LSD and LPD and an embarked Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU).