Friday, November 16, 2007

Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Performs Anti-Sub Warfare Exercise

The Los Angeles-class nuclear-powered fast-attack submarine USS Miami (SSN 755) surfaces in the North Arabian Sea during an anti-submarine warfare (ASW) exercise with the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group. 9U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jhi L. Scott)

The Enterprise Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 12 concluded a three-day, multi-unit exercise Nov. 13 aimed at sharpening its anti-submarine warfare (ASW) skills.

This exercise was geared toward maintaining security and stability in the region and is one of several exercises taking place in the 5th Fleet area of responsibility ensuring the U.S. Navy maintains the highest state of readiness and is capable of executing a broad range of operations, focusing on maintaining regional security and stability.

The ASW training ranged from practicing individual technician skills to coordinating multi-platform deterrent measures. Carrier strike groups hold these exercises routinely to maintain proficiency and demonstrate anti-submarine capabilities.

"This was a routine training exercise to help our forces maintain a full-range of readiness," said Rear Adm. Dan Holloway, commander, CSG 12. "These exercises also help reassure regional countries of our ability to maintain security for lawful use of the sea."

"The value of conducting an anti-submarine warfare exercise during deployment cannot be understated," said Cmdr. Rich Bryant, USS Miami's (SSN 755) commanding officer. "We get the best training when we break out the play book and ensure we are ready for anything we're tasked to do."

"Our efforts are geared toward maintaining regional security, which helps build regional stability and global economic prosperity," said Holloway.

The exercise included participation from CSG 12, USS Enterprise (CVN 65), Destroyer Squadron 2, Carrier Air Wing 1, USS Gettysburg (CG 64), USNS Supply (T-AOE 6), USS Philadelphia (SSN 690) and Miami.

CSG 12 is operating in the North Arabian Sea in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) and Operation Enduring Freedom.

MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations seek to disrupt violent extremists' use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.