If memory serves, the story I read regarding this pic on some naval aviation forum (not sure which one; it's been awhile) was that
this was taken during a 'show of force', which is - as I understand it - basically an airshow for the crews of the carrier group, generally
done mid-tour. Sort of a part-training, part-entertainment opportunity - firing live artilery rounds, supersonic passes, etc. No way to
verify this or not (the pic, not the SoF).