USS Nimitz Carrier Strike Group UAP Encounters

Executive Summary

The USS Nimitz Carrier Strike Group encounters represent the most well-documented military UAP case in modern history. Over two weeks in November 2004, multiple state-of-the-art sensor systems and trained military personnel observed, tracked, and attempted to intercept objects demonstrating capabilities far exceeding known aerospace technology.

Background

During scheduled training exercises (COMPTUEX) off the coast of Southern California, the USS Princeton’s advanced SPY-1 radar began detecting anomalous aerial contacts on November 10, 2004.

Initial Detections

Objects appeared at 80,000+ feet altitude
Descended to sea level in less than one second
Hovered at 50 feet before ascending rapidly
No sonic booms despite hypersonic velocities

The November 14 Intercept

Personnel Involved

Primary Witnesses:

CDR David Fravor (VFA-41 Squadron Commander)
Lt. CDR Jim Slaight (Pilot)
Lt. CDR Alex Dietrich (Pilot)
Lt. (unnamed) (Weapon Systems Officer)
Multiple Princeton radar operators
E-2 Hawkeye aircrew

Encounter Timeline

12:00 PST: USS Princeton vectors two F/A-18F Super Hornets to investigate radar contact

12:05 PST: Pilots observe white “Tic Tac” shaped object

Estimated 40 feet long
No wings, rotors, or exhaust plumes
No visible propulsion system

12:06 PST: Object demonstrates impossible maneuvers

Instantaneous acceleration
Right-angle turns at high speed
“Ping-pong ball in a cup” movements

12:08 PST: CDR Fravor attempts intercept

Object mirrors his descent
Accelerates from hover to beyond visual range in <2 seconds
Reappears at CAP point 60 miles away instantaneously

Physical Evidence

AN/SPY-1 Radar Data
- Tracked objects for two weeks
- Recorded impossible flight characteristics
- Data confiscated by unknown officials
FLIR Video
- Captured by Lt. Chad Underwood
- Shows object with no exhaust plume
- Demonstrates rotation while maintaining trajectory
E-2 Hawkeye Confirmation
- Independent radar verification
- Tracked object’s instantaneous position changes

Technical Analysis

Observed Capabilities

The object demonstrated all five observables:

Anti-gravity lift: Hovering with no visible propulsion
Instantaneous acceleration: 0 to hypersonic in seconds
Hypersonic velocity: No sonic boom or heat signature
Low observability: Intermittent radar returns
Trans-medium travel: Descended to sea level (possible water entry)

Performance Estimates

Speed: Exceeded 24,000 mph
G-forces: 100+ G maneuvers (would destroy conventional aircraft)
Energy: No thermal signature despite extreme performance

Official Response

Immediate Actions

Debrief classified at highest levels
Data removed from ships
Crews told not to discuss

Long-term Impact

Case studied by AATIP
Videos declassified in 2020
Congressional briefings conducted
Inspired UAP Task Force creation

Corroborating Evidence

Additional Encounters

Multiple pilots had similar experiences
Submarine reportedly tracked underwater objects
Similar objects detected in following days

Witness Credibility

Top Gun graduate pilots
Experienced radar operators
Multiple independent observations
Consistent testimonies after 20 years

Analysis and Implications

Prosaic Explanations Eliminated

❌ Weather phenomenon: Controlled flight patterns ❌ Conventional aircraft: Impossible performance ❌ Electronic warfare: Physical object observed ❌ Sensor malfunction: Multiple system confirmation ❌ Black project: Violated safety protocols

Scientific Significance

The Nimitz encounters provide:

Multi-sensor data correlation
Expert military witnesses
Extended observation period
Government acknowledgment

Current Status

Videos officially authenticated by Pentagon
Case remains unexplained
Ongoing Congressional investigation
Data analysis continues

FLIR1 Video (UNCLASSIFIED)
Executive Summary (UNCLASSIFIED//FOUO)
Pilot testimony transcripts
Radar operator statements

This report compiled from declassified sources, FOIA releases, and public testimony. Classification markings reflect original document status.