TEL AVIV – The mammoth warship USS George H.W. Bush, used for launching airstrikes against the Islamic State, docked at Israel’s Haifa port Saturday where it will remain during American Independence Day.
The aircraft supercarrier, which operates primarily in the Persian Gulf, is named for the 41st president of the United States. Built in 2009, the ship has a crew of over 6,000 and carries close to 100 fighter jets and helicopters, making it the largest warship in the world. Powered by two nuclear reactors, the $4.5 billion ship can sail for more than 20 years without needing to refuel.
According to Channel 2 news, Israeli and American officials have not disclosed the exact nature of the visit but said the U.S. Navy is cooperating closely with Israel’s.
Crew members will be given the chance to tour Israel and celebrate July 4.
Accompanied by Mayor of Haifa Yona Yahav, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Avigdor Liberman will visit the ship on Monday.
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