The USS Coral Sea (CV-43) was a Midway-class aircraft carrier commissioned in 1947, notable for its extensive service history and technological evolution. Constructed by Newport News Shipbuilding, her keel was laid on 10 July 1944, and she was launched on 2 April 1946. Initially classified as CV-43, she was later reclassified as CVB-43, and finally as CVA-43. She was one of the last U.S. carriers built with a straight flight deck, though she was later modernized with an angled deck during her extensive service. The vessel measured approximately 1,046 feet in length and featured a displacement of around 70,000 tons. Her early operational milestones included launching the first jet-assisted takeoff of large aircraft in 1948 and conducting carrier-based atomic bomb tests in 1949, demonstrating her role in advancing naval aviation capabilities. Throughout the 1950s, she participated in numerous Mediterranean and NATO exercises, often serving as flagship for Sixth Fleet operations, and was reclassified as an Attack Aircraft Carrier (CVA-43) in 1952. In the 1960s, Coral Sea underwent a significant modernization, receiving an angled flight deck and other enhancements, including new steam catapults and hull modifications. She became the first carrier to install the Pilot Landing Aid Television (PLAT) system in 1961, improving landing safety. Her combat history includes participation in Vietnam War operations, such as Operation Flaming Dart and Operation Rolling Thunder, and she witnessed the first aerial combat of the conflict in 1965. Coral Sea played a critical role in the Mayaguez incident in 1975, supporting the rescue of the ship’s crew and earning the Meritorious Unit Commendation. She also contributed to operations during the Iran hostage crisis and the Gulf War, including participation in strikes against Libya in 1986. After nearly 43 years of service, she was decommissioned in 1990, sold for scrap in 1993, and scrapped by 2000. Her legacy includes her technological innovations, combat contributions, and her nickname “Ageless Warrior,” reflecting her long and distinguished career.

This description has been generated using GPT-4.1-NANO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.