PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- Navy officials said on March 11 they're pleased that Chief U.S. District Judge David Ezra recognizes the Navy's need for realistic antisubmarine warfare training and its contribution to national security.
The Navy, however, is asking him to clarify and modify some of the restrictions he placed on mid-frequency active sonar use during an upcoming undersea warfare training exercise (USWEX).
On Feb. 29, Ezra issued a preliminary injunction that places certain restrictions on the Navy's use of MFA sonar in a USWEX. The restrictions include reducing or halting sonar transmissions when marine mammals are seen within specific distances or when certain environmental factors are present. Attorneys for the Navy filed a motion for clarification and modification of the injunction in federal court in Honolulu today.
"We appreciate Judge Ezra's thoughtful consideration of the Navy's concerns and the importance of these undersea warfare exercises," said Capt. Scott Gureck, spokesman for the U.S. Pacific Fleet.
"Judge Ezra specifically noted the necessity to assess how the conditions he imposed will affect the realism of antisubmarine training in USWEX. In accordance with his order, we will proceed with the next USWEX later this month and determine whether to seek additional modifications or clarifications," said Gureck. "If we determine the restrictions impede our ability to conduct realistic training and assessment, the Navy will report these concerns back to Judge Ezra and ask for necessary relief."
The next USWEX will be held in late March. It is Navy policy not to discuss specific dates and details of such exercises before they occur.
