The USS Nimitz aircraft carrier, first commissioned in 1975, was told this week it will spend more time in the Middle East than initially planned as United States and coalition forces battle the Islamic State (ISIS).
The Navy Times reports that the Nimitz got word that its stay in the waters near Syria has been extended for at least nine days.
"Due to our enduring commitment to supporting Operation Inherent Resolve in the Arabian Gulf, we've been called upon to extend here for approximately nine days," public affairs officer Lt. Cmdr. Theresa Donnelly told the Times. "These dates are estimates and could change, but this is where we stand today."
The Nimitz first deployed from its home port of Bremerton, Wash. on June 1. It traveled to San Diego before heading into the Western Pacific Ocean. It sailed into the Persian Gulf at the end of July and has been in the area since.
Donnelly told the Times the ship and its strike group are "conducting maritime security operations" to keep shipping lanes clear in the volatile region.
Earlier this week, an F/A-18E Super Hornet attempting to land on the deck of the Nimitz had to make evasive moves to avoid an Iranian drone that was flying near the ship. Officials on the Nimitz issued an order on an emergency radio frequency for the drone to be steered out of the area, which it eventually was.
UPI reported that the Nimitz is the oldest carrier in the U.S. Naval fleet that's currently in service.
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