A carrier strike group (CSG) is a type of carrier battle group of the United States Navy. It is an operational formation composed of roughly 7,500 personnel, usually an aircraft carrier, at least one cruiser, a destroyer squadron of at least two, and a carrier air wing of 65 to 70 aircraft. The principal role of the carrier and its air wing within the carrier strike group is to provide the primary offensive firepower, while the other ships provide defense and support. However, other ships in the strike group sometimes undertake offensive operations, and the carriers air wing contributes to the strike groups defense. Carrier strike groups are combat organized by mission rather than by platform. The mission of a carrier strike group is to achieve and sustain air, sea, and undersea control, respond to crises, and protect United States interests anywhere, anytime. Carrier strike groups can strike targets from 1,000 miles away and can defend against air, missile, and submarine attack, and can maintain maritime security over an area of hundreds of square miles. As of March 2023, there are 11 carrier strike groups in the U.S. Navy, and they are often referred to by the carrier they are associated with.