So why do you think the Russians would go for a pre-emptive nuclear attack?
Anyway, I stumbled upon
this from the US Navy whilst looking for carrier related stuff:
The Carrier Strike Group is a flexible naval force that can operate in confined waters or in the open ocean, during day and night, in all weather conditions. The principal role of the carrier and her air wing within the Carrier Strike Group is to provide the primary offensive firepower, while the other ships provide defense and support. These roles are not exclusive, however. Other ships in the strike group sometimes undertake offensive operations (launching cruise missiles, for instance) and the carrier's air wing contributes to the strike group's defense (through combat air patrols and airborne anti-submarine efforts).
Does a one of the escorts acting as Red Crown, carrying out interdiction operations with merchant shipping, or naval gunfire support count as offensive? The Strike Group could act as escort for a convoy or an amphibious force.....