How many stars are represented in the insignia of a Vice Admiral?

The insignia of a Vice Admiral in the U.S. Navy is represented by three 5-point stars. This designation signifies the rank and seniority of the officer; in the Navy's ranking system, each star corresponds to a specific level of authority and responsibility.

The Vice Admiral rank is a three-star rank, falling below the rank of Admiral, which has four stars. This hierarchical structure within military ranks allows for clear identification of an officer's standing and responsibilities. Thus, the presence of three stars in the insignia distinctly indicates the Vice Admiral's position within the Navy's ranking system and emphasizes their experience and leadership role.