SOLOMON SEA (NNS) -- Thirty-six aircraft from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5 conducted navigation training in the Solomon Islands, July 31, flying near historic naval aviation sites.

The flights, organized as overland navigation training, provided a unique opportunity for the crews of CVW-5 to learn about the World War II operations in the Solomon Islands and the history still held there.

Two waves of 11 aircraft each conducted training along a course that runs from the southern end of Blanche Channel through Blackett Strait and past Gizo. Prior to departing on the flights, Cmdr. Ryan Jackson, commanding officer of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195, delivered a lesson on the battles that occurred and history of the region in preparation for the once-in-a-lifetime experience.

"The aircraft will be flying at lower altitudes to practice their navigation based on land features," said Lt. Cmdr. Aaron Kakiel, public affairs officer for Task Force 70. "We regret any concern this may cause the residents of the Solomon Islands and appreciate the opportunity for some of our aviators to gain a better understanding of their naval heritage."

CVW-5 is forward deployed to Atsugi and Iwakuni, Japan, and assigned to Carrier Strike Group 5 supporting security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.