Stock Photo - ARABIAN GULF (March 28, 2007) - An F/A-18C Hornet, assigned to the ´Blue Diamonds´ of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 146, launches from the flight deck as an F/A-18F Super Hornet, assigned to the ´Black Knights´ of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 154, prepares for launch from catapult two aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). The John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 are conducting a dual-carrier exercise with the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7. This marks the first time the Stennis and Eisenhower strike groups have operated together in a joint exercise while deployed to 5th Fleet. This exercise demonstrates the importance of the ability for both strike groups to plan and conduct dual task force operations as part of the Navyís commitment to maintaining maritime security and stability in the region. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Kyle Steckler. (RELEASED).