COMPTUEX integrates all elements of a carrier strike group to operate as a coordinated, multi-domain force. The training combines simulated scenarios with live, virtual and constructive exercises to test operational readiness.
Rear Adm. Alexis Walker, commander of Carrier Strike Group 10, said the exercise confirms the group’s readiness for major combat operations. He stated: “COMPTUEX is the certification event for the strike group to let us know we are ready for major combat operations around the world.”
Walker added that the exercise brings the entire formation together in preparation for deployment. He said: “It brings the entire strike group team together and enables us to operate as we would when we’re forward deployed.”
Over several weeks, participating units were tested across air, surface, subsurface and cyber warfare domains. The scenarios increased in complexity to evaluate command and control, logistical endurance and combat integration.
Carrier Air Wing 7 played a central role in the training activities. The air wing consists of nine squadrons and approximately 2,400 Sailors and naval aviators.
Capt. Martin Fentress Jr., commander of Carrier Air Wing 7, said the unit demonstrated its operational capability throughout the exercise. He stated: “Carrier Wing 7, the ‘Freedom Fighters’, remain credible, relevant and lethal.”
Fentress said the air wing proved its ability to maintain combat power during demanding training events. He added: “Through each training evolution, we demonstrated the ability to overcome challenges and sustain combat power.”
He also noted the logistical complexity of bringing personnel and equipment together for the exercise. Fentress said: “One of the biggest challenges is the tyranny of distance.”
He explained that assembling personnel from across the country requires coordination and preparation. Fentress stated: “Bringing thousands of Sailors in nine squadrons from across the nation together – focused on one mission – is a real hurdle.”
He added that overcoming such challenges strengthens cooperation within the unit. Fentress said: “But the work required to overcome that tension builds the camaraderie we need and will help sustain us through deployment.”
During the 28-day exercise, Carrier Air Wing 7 conducted 1,586 sorties. Pilots completed 693 arrested landings during the day and 682 at night.
Fentress emphasized the importance of carrier aviation for U.S. military operations. He said: “To put it simply, the Carrier Airwing is the business end.”
He explained that the air wing provides the strike capability of the formation. Fentress stated: “We are the ‘strike’ in Carrier Strike Group 10.”
According to Fentress, carrier aviation enables a level of combat power projection unique to the United States. He added: “We provide the combat power projection that no one else can.”
Fentress also referred to the long-standing role of carriers in U.S. strategy. He said: “We are the reason that presidents for generations have asked – when there’s an issue or problem over the horizon – ‘Where are my carriers?’”
Capt. Robert Bibeau, commanding officer of USS George H.W. Bush, said the completion of COMPTUEX demonstrates the crew’s readiness for operational missions. He stated: “This ship exists for one purpose: to project decisive combat power wherever our nation requires it.”
Bibeau said the crew had prepared extensively for potential operations. He added: “Our Sailors have trained to the highest standards, and they have shown the flexibility and the adaptability that’s necessary to be successful in our mission.”
As a former F/A-18 pilot, Bibeau also highlighted the importance of readiness during ongoing global operations. He said: “We know our fellow service members are operating in harm’s way right now.”
He emphasized the importance of being prepared to respond quickly to operational requirements. Bibeau stated: “Our job is to ensure that when they need us – whether for air superiority, strike, electronic warfare, or presence – we are ready to deliver immediately and without hesitation.”
During the exercise, the strike group also trained alongside allied forces. According to the Navy, this cooperation strengthened interoperability with NATO allies.
Fentress said joint operations with allies are a regular feature of deployments. He stated: “Almost every deployment we operate with our NATO allies.”
He added that coordination with partners is a routine part of naval operations. Fentress said: “Interoperability is a constant wherever we go.”
Fentress expressed confidence that Carrier Air Wing 7 is ready to deploy if required. He stated: “Carrier Airwing 7 stands ready today to deploy if called upon.”
He said the unit demonstrated both operational capability and physical endurance during the training period. Fentress added: “We have demonstrated through each of the training evolutions that not only are we trained mentally to overcome any issue, but that we also have the stamina physically and that our machines are ready.”
Rear Adm. Walker also expressed confidence in the strike group’s readiness. He said: “I believe the members of the George H.W. Bush are ready to deploy today.”
Walker added that the group had successfully integrated its capabilities during the exercise. He stated: “I’ve been very pleased with the way we’ve come together.”
Capt. Bibeau also reflected on the ship’s motto and what it represents for the crew. He said: “’Freedom at Work’ is more than a motto.”
He explained that the phrase reflects the professionalism required for complex naval operations. Bibeau added: “It represents disciplined Sailors executing complex missions under pressure, day and night.”
He said the motto also reflects the crew’s readiness to support national objectives and allied partners. Bibeau stated: “It represents a mindset that we are ready to serve our nation and support our allies around the world.”
Bibeau concluded by highlighting the significance of the strike group reaching deployment readiness. He said: “History does not remember those who hoped they were ready – it remembers those who actually were.”
He added that the crew had achieved certification through teamwork and preparation. Bibeau stated: “This crew has earned its certification through discipline, sacrifice, and unwavering teamwork.”
He expressed confidence in the group’s future operations. Bibeau said: “I have no doubt in the coming months we will be tested and I have every confidence our efforts will result in a successful mission and a safe return home.”
