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The US Navy is the branch of the United States Armed Forces responsible for operations on water. They can launch attacks from sea and ocean waters on targets on both land and water. They use different types of ships, submarines and aircrafts in their operations. Besides taking part in war, the US Navy also transports weapons and personnel for other branches of the US military. The ballistic missile submarines of the US Navy form a vital part of the American nuclear forces.

The control of the US Navy is under the Department of the Navy. The United States Marine Corps is also under this department. More than 300 ships and over 4,000 operational aircrafts shape the US Navy. The armory includes ballistic missile submarines, aircraft carriers, surface warships, attack submarines, land-based aircraft and amphibious vessels.

Including officers and enlisted personnel, the US Navy had around 380,000 active-duty sailors in 2003. This force has about 185,000 civilian employees also. The Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) commands the US Navy. Under him is the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO). These two persons are responsible for organizing, recruiting, training, and equipping the Navy.

During the American Revolutionary war, the Continental Congress established a force called the Continental Navy. The US Navy has its origin in the Continental Navy. The constitution of the United States, ratified in 1789, gave Congress the responsibility "to provide and maintain a navy." Accordingly, Congress ordered the formation of a naval force with six frigates and Sailors. Until that year, the naval affairs remained under the War Department until April 30, 1798. The Department of the Navy took the charge afterward. The US Navy came under the Department of Defense in 1947.

The ocean water has a vital effect on American security and economic interests. It makes the role of the US Navy strategically important. The US Navy has four critical military functions. The first is to control the seas. Then it uses that control to project American power abroad. Transportation of troops, supplies, and equipment by sea is another prime function. The last but not the least is to provide deterrence against a nuclear attack.