NCTAMS PAC Improve Warfighters' Comms

By MC2 John W. Ciccarelli

Sailors assigned to Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Pacific install the first of three new state-of-the-art Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) satellite dishes. The MUOS is a next-generation narrowband tactical satellite communications system intended to significantly improve ground communications for U.S. forces on the move. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John W Ciccarelli Jr.

WAHIAWA, Hawaii (NNS) -- Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station, Pacific (NCTAMS PAC), installed the first of three new state-of-the-art Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) satellite dishes.

The MUOS is a next-generation narrowband tactical satellite communications system intended to extensively improve ground communications for U.S. forces during operations on the move.

"MUOS is a Department of Defense (DOD) Ultra High Frequency Satellite Communications system(UHFSC) that provides the warfighter with modern worldwide mobile communication services," said James Cairns, NCTAMS PAC, project manager.

"MUOS adapts commercial cellular phone architecture for use in a military system using satellites in place of cell towers."

Technicians raised the 34-ton dish up over 80 feet to its permanent spot where it will point to one of the five highly sophisticated satellites scheduled to be deployed into space starting in 2012.

"The General Dynamics Satellite Communications (SATCOM) team doing the assembly of the MUOS antennas are true professionals," said Cairns. "There was lots of planning that went into this evolution behind the scenes, but once we got all the pieces in place everything went off like clockwork."

Construction on the site began July 5, 2007 and will change the way the Navy transmits information into the 21st Century.

"MUOS will use technological innovations to provide service to more military users and offer a truly effective communication capability tool in accomplishing the Navy's maritime strategy mission."

"The great thing about MUOS is that it's smart technology but from the user's perspective it's simple and just plain works. The network is being designed to handle lots of users so units that don't have a SATCOM capability today will be able to have it in the near future with MUOS."

Lockheed Martin Space Systems, Sunnyvale, Calif., is the prime contractor and systems integrator for the MUOS program. On Sept. 24, 2004, the company was awarded a $2.1 billion contract to build the first two satellites and associated ground control elements for the MUOS system. The contract also provides for options on three additional spacecraft. With all options exercised, the contract for up to five satellites has a total potential value of $3.26 billion.

Capt. Janet Stewart, commanding officer, NCTAMS PAC was thrilled about the installation of the MUOS system and all the hard work the Navy and its partners did.

"A lot of folks and a lot of parties have come together to be able to make this installation, and this capability come to fruition. We have folks around the world and around the United States that have worked together for years and who will continue to work together for years until all the MUOS satellites are in fact launched and fully operational."

Commander, Strike Force Training Atlantic Evaluates COMPTUEX Performance

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason Zalasky and Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW) Michael Starkey, Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group Public Affairs

The Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group steams through the Atlantic Ocean in formation during the strike group's composite unit training exercise (COMPTUEX). COMPTUEX provides a realistic training environment to ensure the strike group is capable and ready for its upcoming scheduled deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Fire Controlman 1st Class Nathan Rathjen

The Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) completed the blue phase of Composite Unit Training Exercise (COMPTUEX) July 17.

COMPTUEX is a series of graded exercise scenarios intended to evaluate and prepare the strike group for its upcoming deployment. Rear Adm. Donald P. Quinn, commander, Strike Force Training Atlantic, who led the exercise, toured the ships in the strike group and visited with Sailors who will deploy this fall.

"Its nice to see that an admiral is taking the time to come out to sea and look at what a hard job we are doing here on the ship," said Yeoman 3rd Class John Stevens, a Sailor assigned to USS Ramage (DDG 61).

"It makes me feel like we have a reason for working harder, knowing that the people in charge of the training missions are seeing our efforts."

This exercise is key in the strike group's work-up cycle.

"COMPTUEX is the last part of the integrated training for every strike group. In the case of ESGs, they get synthetic training pierside where they work up and develop some teamwork. They work on communications and information systems. We come to see and validate those procedures that we develop synthetically," said Quinn.

"The ESG is on track to qualify. Like every strike group, there are strengths and weaknesses. This group is doing very well. There are some things they'll want to work on or improve on before going on cruise, but in general they're doing very well in all of the seven primary mission areas."

Ramage's Command Master Chief (AW/SW) Gerald Coulson explained why the admiral took the time to visit the Sailors in the strike group.

"This was a chance for the Sailors to see that the leaders who conduct these training exercises care about them and know the long hours spent are for a greater cause. It has let the Sailors know that the leaders care about what they are doing and how they are doing."

Quinn attributed much of the success of COMPTUEX to the attitudes of Sailors.

"This ESG has been particularly strong in attitude when working through some tough problems. There are challenges always in the schedules and maintenance of the various ships and units that come here. Getting your people where they need to be in time and then getting all of the complex computers, radios and systems together, the group has been very good at working through this."

With the completion of the Blue Phase, the Iwo Jima ESG will now participate in the Green Phase of COMPTUEX, followed by participation in the USS Theodore Roosevelt's (CVN 71) upcoming Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) 08-4.

The Iwo Jima ESG consists of Ramage; the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) with the embarked 26 Marine Expeditionary Unit (26 MEU); the amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50); the amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17); the guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72); all homeported at Norfolk; the guided-missile destroyer USS Roosevelt (DDG 80), homeported at Mayport, Fla.; and the fast attack submarine USS Hartford (SSN 768), homeported at Groton, Conn.

USS De Wert and Colombian Navy Interdict Two Drug-Carrying Vessels

While on patrol in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, USS De Wert (FFG 45) with embarked detachments, Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light 46 Det. 1 (HSL-46 Det. 1), Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment (LEDET) 103, and Colombian Navy ship Buenaventura interdicted two go-fast vessels July 11, each carrying over one ton of cocaine.

The two suspect vessels were tracked and interdicted by the joint efforts of De Wert, HSL-46 Det. 1, LEDET 103, and Buenaventura. De Wert recovered several jettisoned bales from one of the suspect vessels. These bales were later confirmed to be cocaine. Five alleged traffickers from the second go-fast were detained on board De Wert by the crew and LEDET 103. The suspects were later transferred to another U.S. Naval vessel in the vicinity.

The six alleged traffickers from the first go-fast vessel, two tons of contraband, and both go-fast vessels were transferred to the Colombian Navy.

The coordinated actions of the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, Joint Interagency Task Force-South (JIATF-S) in partnership with the Colombian Navy were instrumental to the successful interdiction of over two tons of narcotics.

De Wert, homeported in Mayport, Fla., is currently deployed in Latin America under the operational control of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command (NAVSO)/U.S. 4th Fleet, conducting counter illicit trafficking operations in support of JIATF-South, U.S. law enforcement and U.S. and participating nations drug control policy.

De Wert is also supporting the U.S. Maritime Strategy by conducting Theater Security Cooperation events, such as community relations projects and Project Handclasp distributions, in the Caribbean and Latin America.

Pililaau Underway with 3rd Brigade-25th ID

The Military Sealift Command medium, large roll-on/roll-off ship USNS Pililaau (T-AKR 304) passes Diamond Head Crater in Honolulu, Hawaii. Pililaau is transporting the U.S. Army 3rd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division and 45th Sustainment Brigade, 8th Theater Sustainment Command equipment from Hawaii to Camp Pendleton, Calif. To support Joint Logistics Over the Shore (JLOTS) 2008 exercise Pacific Strike, a joint exercise of the U.S. military's ability to transfer war fighting and humanitarian equipment to shore from ships at sea. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Matthew C. Moeller

Hurricane Hunters deploy to U.S. Virgin Islands

Blog Editor Note: My monthly Milcom column in the August issue of Monitoring Times will feature an indepth article on monitoring the NOAA/USAF Hurricane Hunters. Loaded with the latest callsigns and frequencies, it hits the newstands and subscribers mailboxes just in time for the peak of the hurricane season in the next two months. If you aren't a subscriber and you read this blog, it is an issue you don't want to miss.



KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. (AFPN) -- Hurricane Hunters have deployed from the Air Force Reserve Command's 403rd Wing here to a forward operating location on St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands to be in position for storm flights.

After Citizen Airmen of the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron flew missions into Hurricane Bertha recently, the National Hurricane Center again has called on them to provide critical data on a new storm system brewing just east of the windward islands.

The C-130J Hercules aircrews are investigating the strong tropical wave which is a westward-moving disturbance gaining a significant amount of convection in the past 24 hours. Heavy showers and gusty winds are sweeping over Barbados as the system approaches. Other windward island locations can expect similar conditions soon.

Satellite images and surface data indicated that the area of low pressure located 225 miles east of the islands had become better organized and that it could become a tropical depression.

The Hurricane Hunters will be flying a mission into the disturbance to provide information to NHC forecasters. Data gathered through aerial reconnaissance is more accurate and gives forecasters a better picture of what is going in inside the disturbance.

Follow-on flights may be scheduled depending on the needs of the NHC.

Russian Submarine Raised

Military divers are working around the clock to bring a Russian submarine to the surface.

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Raptors set to deploy to Guam

F-22 Raptors from the 90th Fighter Squadron at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, will be deploying to Andersen AFB, Guam, July 18 - Aug. 2 to participate in Exercise Jungle Shield and to conduct additional training. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Mikal Canfield)

Six F-22 Raptors from the 90th Fighter Squadron at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, are set to deploy to Andersen AFB, Guam, July 18 to Aug. 2.

The F-22s, along with associated maintenance and support personnel, will deploy to Guam to participate in the Jungle Shield exercise and conduct Cope Thaw training.

Jungle Shield will exercise 13th Air Force's air defense mission in Guam and validate the area air defense commander's ability to command and control such missions from the 613th Air and Space Operations Center here.

Following the exercise, the F-22 personnel will take part in Cope Thaw, one in a series of regularly occurring training events in which aircraft and personnel have an opportunity to conduct training in environments different from those at their home station.

This is the first deployment of Pacific Air Forces-assigned F-22s. It also marks the second deployment of the F-22 to the Pacific theater. In February 2007, F-22s and personnel from the 27th FS at Langley AFB, Va., deployed to Kadena Air Base, Japan.

F-15E Strike Eagles and B-52 Stratofortresses and their aircrews already deployed to Andersen also will participate in Jungle Shield. Other participants include 13th AF and 613th AOC personnel here and 36th Wing personnel assigned to Andersen.

The United States routinely evaluates readiness and repositions forces as needed to ensure capabilities necessary to meet obligations in the Asia-Pacific region. These deployments demonstrate the continued U.S. commitment to fulfill security responsibilities throughout the Western Pacific and to maintain peace in the region.

Milcom Monitoring on the Florida Gulf Coast

T-2 Buckeye aircraft formation over Pensacola. (US Navy Photo)

Nashville area monitor Joe Cobb travelled down to the western Florida Gulf Coast last week and did quite a bit of Milcom monitoring. Joe posted has report to the Milcom newsgroup and has given the Milcom Monitoring Post permission to post his intercepts here on the MMP Blog.

Thanks Joe for sharing your intercepts with our readers here on MMP.

Monitored on the Florida Gulf Coast during the period 7/9/2008 to 7/12/2008

Pensacola Area Callsigns:

BUCK 1xx (T-1A, VT-4/TAW-6, Pensacola) USAF borrowed aircraft
BUCK 3xx (T-6A, VT-4/TAW-6, Pensacola)
KATT 1xx (T-1A, VT-10/TAW-6, Pensacola) USAF borrowed aircraft
KATT 6xx (T-6A, VT-10/TAW-6, Pensacola)
ROCKET 2xx (T-2C, VT-86/TAW-6, Pensacola) yup, they still use 'em
ROCKET 5xx (T-39N/G, VT-86/TAW-5, Pensacola)
BLACKBIRD xxx (T-34C, VT-2/TAW-5, Whiting Field)
RED KNIGHT xxx (T-34C, VT-3/TAW-5, Whiting Field)
SHOOTER xxx (T-34C, VT-6/TAW-5, Whiting Field)
ROCKET 404 x4 (T-45C, ???) lands NAS Pensacola, visual over the hotel
FOXY 48 (T-38C, 90th FTS/80th FTW, Sheppard) shoots app at NAS Pensacola then heads toward Eglin
BENGAL 41 x 3 (F/A-18D, VMFA(AW)-224, Beaufort) working offshore using SEABREEZE TAC freq of 275.600 then lands NAS Pensacola for RON then departs Saturday morning (A/A: 250.300)
RED DOG 31 (?AH-1W/UH-1N?, HMLA-773, Atlanta) lands NAS Pensacola
RED DOG 32 (AH-1W, HMLA-773, Atlanta) lands NAS Pensacola, visual as he flies down the beach enroute
RAVEN 21 "flight" (???) lands NAS Pensacola, calls helo pad 2 in sight

----------------------------------------

Eglin/Tyndall related callsigns (AWACS):

THUMPER (front end: SCOUT 12)
BANDSAW KILO
ALLEY CAT

----------------------------------------

Eglin/Tyndall related callsigns (tankers):

BOLT 04, 05 (KC-135R, 91st ARS/6th AMW, MacDill)
SODA 81, 82 (KC-135R, 151st ARS/134th ARW, Knoxville)
JAKE 11 (KC-135R, 153rd ARS/186th ARW, Meridian)

----------------------------------------

Eglin/Tyndall related callsigns (fighters):

HOSER 61 x 2 (F-15, 33rd FW, Eglin)
CLAW 01 x 3 (F-22A, 43rd FS/325th FW, Tyndall)
HOTDOG 01 x 3 (F-15E, 40th FLTS/46th TW, Eglin) HOTDOG 01 self id'd as an F-15E when he declared an IFE due to left engine overtemp. Passed tail number of 87-0180, 2 SOB on 7-11-08.
MOZAM 01 x 2 (F-15, 33rd FW, Eglin)
NITRO 01 x 2 (F-15, 33rd FW, Eglin)
BARON 31 x 3 (F-15, 33rd FW, Eglin)
RACER 01 x 2 (F-16, 113th FS/181st FW, Terra Haute) A/A: 142.95
RACER 03 x 2 (F-16, 113th FS/181st FW, Terra Haute) A/A: 142.275
SPOOKY 41 (AC-130U, 4th SOS/16th SOW, Hurlburt)
SUPER 01 (????)
NOMAD 61 x 2 (F-15, 33rd FW, Eglin)
RINGO 51 x 2 (F-15C, 33rd FW, Eglin) On 7-11-08 on the tanker RINGO 51 passed tail number of 82-0034 and RINGO 52 passed number of 82-0033
RINGO 71 x 2 (F-15, 33rd FW, Eglin)
GRIZZLY 51 x 2 (F-15, 33rd FW, Eglin)
CHECKER 01 x 2 (F-22A, 43rd FS/325th FW, Tyndall)
RAPTOR 01 x 2 (F-22A, 43rd FS/325th FW, Tyndall)
SPECTRE 61 (AC-130H, 16th SOS/16th SOW, Hurlburt)
SKYRAY 01 x 3 (????)
SPAD 78 (C-130 type, Hurlburt)
DISCO 21 x ? (F-15, 33rd FW, Eglin)
CHOSEN xx (????)
BURNER 01 (????)
SCARY xx (????)
VEGAS 11 (????)
SHADOW 92 (MC-130P, 9th SOS/16th SOW, Hurlburt)
SPUR 42 (C-130 type, ???, Hurlburt) Reported going hot in Alpha-78 on 259.2 (7-11-08)

----------------------------------------

Frequencies (Pensacola Area):

136.675------T-34 A/A
239.050------Pensacola A/D
251.300------Unknown user/usage
252.525------T-34 A/A
257.975------T-34 A/A
270.800------Pensacola A/D
274.200------Working TAC freq assigned by SEABREEZE
275.600------Working TAC freq assigned by SEABREEZE
280.700------Working TAC freq assigned by SEABREEZE
290.000------Unknown user/A/A (poss VMFA-251 F-18's)
291.625------Pensacola A/D
303.050------Local Common A/A
303.150------Gator MOA (used like an A/A common for position reporting)
303.400------SEABREEZE Controller
306.925------North Whiting Field Tower
309.800------Unknown user/A/A
318.800------Unknown user/A/A
340.200------Sherman Tower (KNPA)
351.825------Pensacola A/D

----------------------------------------

Frequencies (Eglin, Hurlburt, Tyndall area):

227.075-------Tyndall working freq (W-470?)
228.900-------BANDSAW KILO working HUNTRESS passing tracks (7-11-08)
251.250-------Hurlburt CP
257.500-------Tyndall working freq (HYDRA)
266.500-------Air Refueling
269.150-------Eglin Approach
281.450-------Eglin A/D
288.900-------Tyndall working freq
290.900-------Eglin Mission
292.700-------Hornet Ops (43rd FS/325th FW)
298.400-------CHOSEN "flight" A/A
320.950-------Unid Approach/Departure Control
341.700-------Tyndall A/D
342.500-------Eglin Metro (BANDSAW checking on approaching weather)
353.650-------Eglin Tower (KVPS)
357.500-------Air Refueling
360.600-------Eglin A/D
363.400-------Eglin Mission/Air Refueling
369.150-------CROW A/A
384.400-------Tyndall Tower (KPAM)
392.100-------Tyndall A/D

----------------------------------------

Frequencies (TAC working freqs assigned by Eglin Mission on 290.9):

245.450-------RACER working freq later in the week
258.100-------DARKSTAR (E-3) working RACERS (F-16)
259.200
259.750-------THUMPER (E-3) working CROWS (F-15) on 7-9-08 and NOMAD 01 x 2 (F-15) working DEMON on 7-10-08
273.250
288.300
316.450
320.950
322.900
326.800
338.350

----------------------------------------

Miscellaneous:

157.075-------US Coast Guard Ch 81A
157.100-------US Coast Guard Ch 22A
157.150-------US Coast Guard Ch 23A
276.800-------BAMA Ops (also BANDSAW checking status of PYTHON and VENOM flights)
280.100-------Pine Hill MOA (DIXIE Vipers playing)
288.150-------Houston Center
318.050-------SENTRY 50 (E-3) up with either RAYMOND 11 or RAVEN 11
323.050-------Jacksonville Center
345.000-------US Coast Guard Air (unid helo)
346.400-------Jacksonville Center
364.200-------AICC

----------------------------------------

I also tried some of the new 380MHz trunked freqs for the area and this is what i come up with.

Control Channel: 385.3125 (assigned to NAS Pensacola according to Radioreference.com)

Freqs asociated with the system:

388.8000 388.6000 388.0625 386.5125 386.2500 388.3375 388.2375

Talk groups that came up and i never identitified except maybe one.

29213
29445
29473 (they kept saying quarterdeck to so and so and responders came back with such and such secured)

Other control channels in the area i found in search mode:

386.2625 386.8500 386.8875 388.2375

End of report from Joe.

If you have a report like Joe's that you would like to share with the Milcom monitoring community, on the most read radio blog on the Internet, please email me at the email address in the masthead. person's wishing to remain anonymous may do so if indicated in the email message to me.

JTFEX 08-4 "Operation Brimstone" Flexes Allied Force Training

VRC-40 C-2A readies for launch onboard the Roosevelt. (U.S. Navy Photo)

Blog Editor Note: For east coast milcom monitors here is another chance for an excellent monitoring opportunity. I already have one report of 8204.0 kHz USB being used by the Iwo Jima ESG for CWC net comms.

More than 15,000 service members from four countries will participate in Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) 08-4 "Operation Brimstone", July 21-31 in North Carolina and off the eastern U.S. coast from Virginia to Florida.

JTFEX 08-4 serves as a ready-for-deployment certification event for the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group (TR CSG) and the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (IWO ESG). The exercise will also serve as a Joint Task Force Capable Headquarters sustainment event. In addition, JTFEX 08-4 will offer preliminary accreditation for 2nd Fleet's Maritime Headquarters with Maritime Operations Center (MHQ with MOC)). MHQ with MOC is a new approach to command and control for fleet commanders.

"This exercise is a tremendous opportunity to train; not only as the Navy and Marine Corps team, but with our joint and coalition partners as well," said Commander, 2nd Fleet Vice Adm. Marty Chanik.

"JTFEX 08-4 will flex our warfighting capabilities from the operational level through expeditionary strike force and strike group operations with several of our coalition partners – France, Brazil and the United Kingdom."

The exercise also marks the first time that forces from Navy Expeditionary Combat Command are participating in an East-Coast JTFEX. NECC forces operating in the littorals and riverine environment are supporting integrated operations.

"Navy Expeditionary Combat Command provides a self-contained adaptive force package with a command element tailored to support the full spectrum of operations from major combat operations to unconventional and irregular warfare," said NECC commander Rear Adm. Mike Tillotson.

U.S. and coalition naval assets underway for the exercise include the U.S. aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) with associated units including the British aircraft carrier HMS Ark Royal (RO 7), the Brazilian Navy frigate Greenhalgh (F-46) and the French submarine FS Amethyste (S 605). BNS Greenhalgh is the first Brazilian Navy ship to operate integrated in a U.S. strike group.

French Rafale fighter aircraft assigned to the 12th Squadron, and Hawkeye early warning aircraft assigned to the 4th Squadron will conduct carrier qualifications and cyclic flight operations with U.S. Carrier Air Wing 8 during Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group's Joint Task Force Exercise. This marks the first integrated U.S. and French carrier qualifications and cyclic flight operations aboard a U.S. aircraft carrier.

The TR CSG is made up of: USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71); Commander, Carrier Strike Group 2 (CCSG-2); Carrier Air Wing 8 (CVW-8); Commander, Destroyer Squadron 22 (CDS-22); the guided-missile cruiser USS Monterey (CG 61); the guided-missile destroyers USS Mason (DDG 87), and USS Nitze (DDG 94) homeported in Norfolk; the attack submarine USS Springfield (SSN 761) homeported in Groton, Conn.; and the guided-missile destroyer USS The Sullivans (DDG 68) homeported in Mayport, Fla.

The IWO ESG consists of USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), Commander, Amphibious Squadron Four (CPR-4) based at Little Creek, Va.; the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (26 MEU) based at Camp Lejune, N.C.; the amphibious transport dock ship San Antonio (LPD 17); guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72); and the guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61), homeported in Norfolk; the dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) homeported at Little Creek, Va.; the guided-missile destroyer USS Roosevelt (DDG 80) homeported in Mayport, Fla., and the attack submarine USS Hartford (SSN 768) homeported in Groton, Conn.

The Navy Expeditionary Combat Task Group (NECTG) is made up of: Riverine Group 1 staff augmented with personnel from throughout the NECC force, Riverine Squadron 1, Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron Ten, based in Jacksonville, Fla.; an air detachment from Naval Construction Forces Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 11 based in Gulfport, Miss.; Navy Cargo Handling Battalion 3, based in Alameda, Calif.), and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit 6 plus EOD Support Unit based at Little Creek, Va.

In addition, the following forces are participating in the exercise simulating opposition forces: the guided-missile destroyer USS Carney (DDG 64), homeported in Mayport, Fla.; the guided missile cruisers USS San Jacinto (CG 56), USS Anzio (CG 68) and USS Normandy (CG 60), the guided-missile destroyers USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79), USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81); and the guided-missile frigate USS Carr (FFG 52), all homeported in Norfolk.

Ships involved

Below are ships in the JTFX exercises. In parentheses are command units that will be embarked on board.

USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71);
Commander, Carrier Strike Group Two (CCSG-2);
Carrier Air Wing Eight (CVW-8);
Commander, Destroyer Squadron 22 (CDS-22);
Monterey (CG 61)
Mason (DDG 87)
Nitze (DDG 94).;
Springfield (SSN 761) homeported in Groton, Conn.;
The Sullivans (DDG 68) homeported in Mayport, Fla.;
Iwo Jima (LHD 7),
Commander, Amphibious Squadron Four (CPR-4) based at Little Creek, Va.; the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (26 MEU) based at Camp Lejeune, N.C.;
San Antonio (LPD 17);
Vella Gulf (CG 72);
Ramage (DDG 61);
Carter Hall (LSD 50);
Roosevelt (DDG 80) homeported in Mayport, Fla.;
Hartford (SSN 768) homeported in Groton, Conn.

In addition, the following forces are participating in the exercise simulating opposition forces:

San Jacinto (CG 56),
Anzio (CG 68)
Normandy (CG 60),
Oscar Austin (DDG 79),
Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81)
Carr (FFG 52), all homeported in Norfolk, Va.;
Carney (DDG 64), homeported in Mayport, Fla.

Lightning struck at the Blue Angel air show this weekend.

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Missile Defense Status

The director of the Missle Defense Agency says that the US is increasingly concerned about Iran's missile capabilities.



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Navy Warship Assist German Cargo Ship

ARABIAN SEA (July 14, 2008) An SH-60B Seahawk assigned to the "Saberhawks" of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 47, embarked aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Momsen (DDG 92), takes supplies to the German cargo ship MV Lehmann Timber after the ship suffered engine problems and became stranded in a storm. Momsen is providing food and water to the ship until a tug arrives. Pirates recently released the crew of the Lehmann Timber after the owners paid a $750,000 ransom. Momsen is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility supporting maritime security operations. (U.S. Navy photo)

Italian Submarine Visits Naval Station Mayport, Marks First U.S. Visit Since WWII

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Regina L. Brown, Fleet Public Affairs Center Det. Southeast

Crew members assigned to the Italian air-independent propulsion (AIP) equipped submarine ITS Salvatore Todaro (S-526) prepare to pull into port at Naval Station Mayport, which marks the first visit of an Italian submarine to the U.S. since World War II. Todaro's port visit is supporting the upcoming Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group joint task force exercise (JTFEX) and demonstrates the U.S. and Italian Navy's continued commitment to building a strong working relationship. JTFEX is designed to test and evaluate a battle group's reactions to multiple wartime scenarios and is the final certification for a battle group preparing to deploy. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Regina L. Brown

Italian submarine ITS Salvatore Todaro (S 526) pulled into Naval Station Mayport, July 11, the first visit by an Italian submarine to the United States since World War II.

Salvatore Todaro's visit is in support of their participation in an upcoming Joint Task Force Exercise with the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group. The exercise demonstrates the continued commitment of the U.S. and Italian navies to building stronger relationships.

Salvatore Todaro, with a 27-man crew, is the first Type U212A vessel and entered into service just over two years ago. Italy is gradually replacing the Sauro-class units with new Type U212A vessels which operate a fuel cell air-independent propulsion system.

"We are very happy that we're here to support this training," said Lt. Cmdr. Mauro Panebianco, commanding officer of Salvatore Todaro. "This is a historic visit and we're proud to be a part of it."

This visit also works to reinforce the Navy's new maritime strategy, which raises the importance of working with international partners as the basis for building trust and cooperation between nations.

"The U.S. has provided us with excellent support and a wonderful opportunity to train with them," said Capt. Maurizio Ertreo, an attaché working at the Italian embassy in Washington, D.C. "We wouldn't have been able to solve the few issues we had without all the help from the people here at Mayport, especially our sister ship, USS Klakring (FFG 42)."

These exchanges have been an important part in strengthening the foundation of maritime cooperation.

"Hopefully we can use this unique opportunity as a springboard for future relationships," said Cmdr. Ian Pollitt, Klakring commanding officer. "To be part of something like this, in even just a small logistical support way, means a lot to the crew, they've been talking about it for the past couple weeks."

The Klakring crew planned social activities for the Todaro crew, including a formal reception and a friendly soccer game.

"I figure with our crew size of 190 and their crew size of 27, it should be an even match," said Pollitt.

Navy Names Two Virginia Class Submarines

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy announced on July 15 that the next two Virginia-class attack submarines will be named the USS Minnesota and the USS North Dakota.

The selection of Minnesota, designated SSN 783, honors the state's citizens and their continued support to our nation's military. Minnesota has a long tradition of honoring its veterans of wars past and present. The state is proud to be home to 46 Medal of Honor recipients that span from the Civil War to the Vietnam War.

This will be the third ship to bear the state name. The first USS Minnesota, a sailing steam frigate, was commissioned in 1857 and served during the Civil War, remaining in service until her decommissioning in 1898. The second Minnesota was commissioned in 1907. On December 16, 1907 she departed Hampton Roads as one of the 16 battleships of the Great White Fleet sent by then-President Theodore Roosevelt on a voyage around the world. She continued her service through World War I, and was decommissioned in 1921.

The selection of the North Dakota, designated SSN 784, honors the state's citizens and veterans and their strong military support and heritage from the Frontier Wars through the Cold War and currently the war on terrorism. Seventeen North Dakotans have received the Medal of Honor for actions in combat, including Master Sgt. Woodrow W. Keeble who posthumously received the Medal of Honor during a White House ceremony on March 3, 2008. This is the second ship to bear the name North Dakota. The first ship, the Delaware-class USS North Dakota, was in service from 1910 through 1923.

These next-generation attack submarines will provide the Navy with the capabilities required to maintain the nation's undersea supremacy well into the 21st century. They will have improved stealth, sophisticated surveillance capabilities and special warfare enhancements that will enable them to meet the Navy's multi-mission requirements.

North Dakota and Minnesota will have the capability to attack targets ashore with highly accurate Tomahawk cruise missiles and conduct covert long-term surveillance of land areas, littoral waters or other sea-based forces. Other missions include anti-submarine and anti-ship warfare; special forces delivery and support; and mine delivery and minefield mapping.

The Virginia-class is 7,800-tons and 377 feet in length, has a beam of 34 feet, and can operate at more than 25 knots submerged. It is designed with a reactor plant that will not require refueling during the planned life of the ship reducing lifecycle costs while increasing underway time.

Multinational Exercise Sea Breeze 2008 Begins

ODESSA, Ukraine (NNS) -- Ships from numerous nations, including USS McFaul (DDG 74), have been arriving Odessa, Ukraine since July 11 as part of Combined Task Force (CTF) 367 in support of Exercise Sea Breeze.

The guided-missile destroyer is one of 14 ships participating in Sea Breeze, a joint invitational and combined maritime exercise involving 16 countries and held in the spirit of partnership for peace.

The exercise is an annual event which occurs in the Black Sea and at various land-based Ukrainian training facilities. The exercise includes enhancing multinational interoperability, developing Black Sea-nation maritime security capabilities and improving involvement in Navy Europe's larger Black Sea theater security cooperation strategy.

"This exercise is a key part of the U.S. Navy's strategy to enrich our partnerships in the region and work together to improve maritime safety and security," said Cmdr. Tim Schorr, commanding officer of McFaul. "Both myself and the entire crew are excited to work with our friends from all over the world."

The exercise, scheduled to continue through July 26, includes 14 ships, 17 aircraft and more than 2,200 personnel.

"Exercise Sea Breeze demonstrates U.S. and partner nation commitment to regional stability and maritime security," said U.S. Navy Capt. John Moore, exercise deputy commander and commodore of CTF 367.

"During this exercise, Sailors and Marines will work side-by-side with other personnel from partner ships while they are underway and ashore and will become familiar with the other militaries' operating procedures and practices."

Navy Helo Squadron Helps Tame Wildfires

By Lt. David Shark, 302nd Air Expeditionary Group

LEMOORE, Calif. (NNS) -- The "High Rollers" of Helicopter Sea Support Squadron 85 are currently supporting multiple operations around the globe, but members of the squadron are also working stateside to help tame raging fires in California.

Detachments of MH-60S helicopters and personnel from HSC-85 are in Hawaii supporting the Rim of the Pacific 2008 exercise, also known as RIMPAC, and flying air ambulance missions in Kuwait.

Another detachment is in California, helping the U.S. Forest Service and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) as they fight to contain wildfires across the state. The squadron, which rendered similar assistance in 2007, deployed to Naval Air Station Lemoore July 1 and began firefighting missions the following day.

Aircrews from HSC-85 completed annual firefighting training with CAL FIRE as recently as May 2008. Aircrews practice coordination with firefighting officials during such training, learning how military helicopters fit into the overall firefighting effort.

This year, crewmembers also practiced setting up fire shelters, in case a helicopter has to make an emergency landing in an active fire area.

"We have a great relationship with CAL FIRE," said Cmdr. Mike Newman, the executive officer of HSC-85. "Because of our annual training, we have built a lot of personal relationships, and we get along very well."

Close coordination is essential on firefighting missions. A military coordinator, known as a MILCO, in another aircraft leads the Navy helicopter to the area of the desired drop point. From there, the aircrew evaluates the wind, the terrain and the performance of the aircraft to develop a plan of attack.

Once the helicopter flies towards the drop point, it is up to the aircrewman in the back of the helicopter to release the water from the 420-gallon bucket hanging below.

"As a Reserve organization, we have a lot of folks who love to fly. That's what brought us back [to the Navy Reserve]," Newman said. "Firefighting missions are tremendously rewarding because you are protecting people and their property. You are helping people out."

As of July 11, the High Rollers have flown 38 firefighting sorties, making 104 drops and delivering approximately 40,000 gallons of water to critical fire areas to support ground firefighters. All firefighting missions have been flown on the basin fire near Big Sur.

HSC-85 is flying firefighting missions along with CH-53E helicopters from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 465 and CH-46E helicopters from Marine Medium Helicopter Training Squadron (HMMT) 164 and Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 268. Combined, the military helicopters have made 574 air drops, delivering more than 217,000 gallons of water on wildfires in California.

The Navy and Marine Corps helicopters are conducting firefighting missions as part of the 302nd Air Expeditionary Group, which also includes firefighting aircraft from the Air Force Reserve and various Air National Guard units. The 302nd AEG is part of a unified military support effort of U.S. Northern Command to provide assistance to the U.S. Forest Service, CAL FIRE and the National Interagency Fire Center.

Carrier Strike Group 7 Arrives in Republic of Korea

BUSAN, South Korea (NNS) -- Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 7, including four ships and more than 5,500 Sailors, arrived in Republic of Korea ports July 14 for routine port visits.

The strike group's flagship, the Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW 14), and the guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) docked in Busan, while the guided-missile destroyers USS Decatur (DDG 73) and USS Howard (DDG 83) moored in the port city of Chinhae.

This marks the third port visit for CSG-7 during its 2008 Western Pacific deployment and the second visit to Busan by Ronald Reagan. The carrier last visited in March 2007.

"I was fortunate enough to be here [as Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea] the last time Ronald Reagan came here, and they were talking about it for months," said Rear Adm. Phil Wisecup, commander of the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group.

"We're just as excited to be here as they are to host the ship. We are staunch allies and friends, and our Sailors are excited about the cultural exchange."

More than 240 strike group Sailors will volunteer their time and efforts to help make a difference in various South Korean communities, participating in community relations projects at local schools, elderly care centers and orphanages.

CSG-7 is currently in the U.S. 7th Fleet's area of responsibility as part of a scheduled deployment to promote cooperation, security and stability in the region.

Bonhomme Richard Back At Sea for RIMPAC

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Justin Webb, USS Bonhomme Richard Public Affairs



Following a 14-day port visit to Pearl Harbor, USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) (BHR) returned to sea July 11 to participate in the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise.

BHR will spend several days conducting flight deck and well deck operations as well as other drills and evolutions in preparation for the tactical phase of the exercise.

"This is an excellent opportunity to prepare us for what we do anyway," said Capt. Neil R. Parrott, BHR commanding officer. "The ship just emerged from three months of maintenance availability in San Diego, so this allows us to get our skills back up to speed. As expected, though, BHR's crew has picked right back up without missing a beat."

During RIMPAC, BHR is transporting a special marine air ground task force, consisting of Marines from the 3rd Marine Regiment and Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 362, as well as units from the Australian and Canadian Armies and three observers from the Republic of Korea.

This interaction with partner nations, in addition to a number of joint and combined evolutions throughout the week, enhances BHR's interoperability with the other participating nations.

"Our maritime strategy is all about doing things with our partner nations," Parrott explained. "They depend on what we're doing whether it's a response to a natural disaster or humanitarian assistance, and we depend on them. We're not going to go it alone; we'll always do it with coalition partners.

"RIMPAC really strengthens our bonds with the participating nations and teaches us how to work together with other armed forces."

RIMPAC Touted as Largest Maritime Exercise in World

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John Wallace Ciccarelli, Fleet Public Affairs Detachment Hawaii Public Affairs

Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet and Combined Task Force RIMPAC, Vice Adm. Samuel J. Locklear met with media at Naval Station Pearl Harbor to inform the public and to answer questions about this year's Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise.

RIMPAC, hosted by Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet every two years, demonstrates the Navy's dedication to working with global allies in the region, protecting maritime freedoms and ensuring stability throughout the Pacific Rim.

"RIMPAC is the largest maritime exercise in the world. This year we bring together ten countries, over 35 ships, six submarines, over 150 aircraft and their crews and over 20,000 of the finest men and women the world can produce," said Locklear.

RIMPAC allows the U.S. Navy to remain a powerful component of combined and joint warfare and exhibits close cooperation with other services and international partners.

"The RIMPAC exercise is recognition of the global security environment we are in. It's a recognition that no one county can maintain the global security environment, and it requires all of us to work together to acquire this goal," said Locklear.

This year's RIMPAC exercise kicked off June 29 and continues through July 31 in the Hawaiian Islands area of operations.

"I cannot thank the people of the great state of Hawaii enough on how they have opened their arms to us and making us feel welcome here," Locklear said.

This is the 21st in a series of RIMPAC exercises conducted periodically since 1971.

RIMPAC brings together maritime, air and land forces from Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan, Netherlands, Peru, Republic of Korea, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States. This multinational exercise aims to prepare forces to be ready for a wide range of potential combined and joint operations and missions.

Multinational Sea Breeze exercise begins in Ukraine

Ships from numerous nations, including the US Navy destroyer USS McFaul (DDG 74), have been arriving here since Friday as part of Combined Task Force (CTF) 367 for the multi-national exercise, Sea Breeze 2008.

The guided-missile destroyer is one of 14 ships participating in Sea Breeze, a joint invitational and combined maritime exercise involving 16 countries and held in the spirit of partnership for peace.

The exercise is an annual event which occurs in the Black Sea and at various land-based Ukrainian training facilities with the goals of enhancing multinational interoperability, developing Black Sea-nation maritime security capabilities, and improving involvement in Navy Europe's larger Black Sea Theater Security Cooperation (TSC) strategy.

"This exercise is a key part of the U.S. Navy's strategy to enrich our partnerships in the region and work together to improve maritime safety and security," said Navy Cdr. Tim Schorr, commanding officer of McFaul. "Both myself and the entire crew [of McFaul] are excited to work with our friends from all over the world."

Sea Breeze started today with an opening ceremony and comments from senior officers and government officials representing Ukraine, the host nation, and the commander of the U.S. Navy contingent. Participants from the 14 partner nations taking part in this partnership for peace (PfP) exercise were also in attendance.

"Exercise Sea Breeze demonstrates the United State's and partner nation's commitment to regional stability and maritime security," said U.S. Navy Capt. John Moore, exercise deputy commander and commodore of CTF-367. "During this exercise, Sailors and Marines will work side-by-side with other personnel from partner ships while they are underway and ashore and will become familiar with the other militaries'
operating procedures and practices."

The first of the exercise's events occurs today with the standing up of the Joint Operation Center (JOC) and a series of briefings directed toward the leadership of the participating nations. The exercise is scheduled to continue through July 26 and includes 14 ships, 17 aircraft and more than 2,200 personnel. During their stay, partner-nation personnel will also have opportunities to experience the rich history
and culture of Odessa.

U.S. 4th Fleet Officially Re-established

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Alan Gragg, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command Public Affairs

MAYPORT, Fla. (NNS) -- Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead officially re-established U.S. 4th Fleet and named Rear Adm. Joseph D. Kernan as its commander during a ceremony at Naval Station Mayport July 12.

The ceremony followed the U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command (NAVSO) change of command, during which Kernan relieved Rear Adm. James W. Stevenson Jr.

Kernan, the dual-hatted NAVSO and 4th Fleet commander, is responsible for U.S. Navy ships, aircraft and submarines assigned from east and west coast fleets to operate in the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) area of focus, which encompasses the Caribbean, Central and South America and surrounding waters.

"Re-establishing the Fourth Fleet affirms our support for, and our desire to, enhance cooperative relationships with the navies and maritime services in the Caribbean and Central and South America. It recognizes the immense importance of maritime security in the region," said Roughead.

"Our maritime strategy raises the importance of forming global maritime partnerships by working with international partners as the basis for global maritime security. Re-establishing Fourth Fleet allows us to more effectively employ naval forces to build confidence and trust among nations through collective maritime security efforts that focus on mutual interests."

Fourth Fleet was first established in 1943 as one of the original numbered fleets. During World War II, the United States needed a command in charge of protecting against raiders, blockade runners and enemy submarines in the South Atlantic. Fourth Fleet fulfilled that mission until it was disestablished in 1950, and U.S. 2nd Fleet took over its responsibilities.

The new 4th Fleet will be headquartered in Mayport and co-located with NAVSO, taking advantage of the existing infrastructure, communications support and personnel already in place. Fourth Fleet's re-establishment will not involve an increase in forces assigned in Mayport, or result in any permanently assigned ships or aircraft.

With a focus on strengthening friendships and partnerships, 4th Fleet will directly support the U.S. Maritime Strategy by conducting five ongoing missions: support for peacekeeping, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, traditional maritime exercises and counterdrug support operations.

"It is an honor to assume command of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and to be granted the privilege of reestablishing U.S. 4th Fleet," Kernan said. "I look forward to continuing the great work Rear Adm. Stevenson has accomplished in demonstrating the United States' commitment to our regional partners in this immensely important part of the world."

The re-establishment and change of command ceremony concluded with Stevenson's retirement after 32 years of naval service.

During Stevenson's tour as NAVSO commander, U.S. Navy's operational focus in the region was greatly increased resulting in enhanced partner nation cooperation and improved collective capabilities. Recent missions championed under Stevenson, such as USNS Comfort's (T-AH 20) 2007 humanitarian medical assistance deployment and the first Global Fleet Station deployment in 2007 with HSV Swift highlight this increased focus.

In 2008, Stevenson oversaw planning and execution of the third-annual Partnership of the Americas deployment, which included the George Washington Carrier Strike Group; as well as Continuing Promise humanitarian civil assistance deployments aboard USS Boxer (LHD 4) and USS Kearsarge (LHD 3). Currently, Military Sealift Command rescue and salvage ship USNS Grasp (T-ARS-51) is conducting Navy Diver – Global Fleet Station with Caribbean Island partner nations.

As the Navy component command of SOUTHCOM, NAVSO's mission is to direct U.S. Naval forces operating in the Caribbean, Central and South American regions and interact with partner nation navies within the maritime environment. Various operations include counter-illicit trafficking, theater security cooperation, military-to-military interaction and bilateral and multinational training.

Fourth Fleet is the numbered fleet assigned to NAVSO, exercising operational control of assigned forces. Fourth Fleet conducts the full spectrum of Maritime Security Operations in support of U.S. objectives and security cooperation activities that promote coalition building and deter aggression.

Iwo Jima ESG Participating in COMPTUEX

Blog Editor Note: Headups east coast monitors. We have a COMPTUEX off our coast line. Should result in at least some HF CWC activity.

A Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) assigned to Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4 approaches the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) during the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) Composite Unit Training Exercise (COMPTUEX). U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Michael Starkey

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW) Michael Starkey, Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group Public Affairs

The Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) is participating in a composite unit training exercise (COMPTUEX) July 8-Aug. 1 to prepare for deployment.

"COMPTUEX provides realistic training environments that closely replicate the operational challenges routinely encountered during military operations around the world," said Capt. Brian T. Smith, commander, Amphibious Squadron 4.

"We train the way we fight, and training opportunities such as this enhance the preparedness of all personnel to ensure our forces are interoperable, attain the greatest capability and are ready for deployment."

The Iwo Jima ESG consists of the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) with the embarked 26 Marine Expeditionary Unit; the amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50); the amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17); the guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72); the guided-missile destroyers USS Ramage (DDG 61) and USS Roosevelt (DDG 80) and the fast attack submarine USS Hartford (SSN 768).

COMPTUEX is a critical step in pre-deployment training.

"Participating in COMPTUEX is a great way for the entire ESG to interact in preparation for deployment," said Chief Operations Specialist Charles Blair, operations department leading chief petty officer. "It gives our ship the opportunity to work out any last-minute deficiencies."

Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet scheduled the exercise led by Commander, Strike Force Training Atlantic.

C-130s continue aerial firefighting operations in California

by Staff Sgt. Luke Johnson, 302nd Air Expeditionary Group Public Affairs
A C-130 Hercules from the Air Force Reserve Command's 302nd Airlift Wing at Peterson Air Force Base, Colo., equipped with the modular airborne firefighting system, taxies to the runway at McClellan Airfield, Calif., July 5 to begin firefighting operations. Aircraft from the 302nd AW are conducting firefighting support missions as part of the 302nd Air Expeditionary Group. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Hector Garcia)

Aircraft from the 302nd Air Expeditionary Group continued aerial firefighting support missions July 5 in a coordinated effort to control wildfires in California.

C-130 Hercules aircraft flew 25 sorties in approximately 50 flight hours. Twelve sorties flew to the Goleta, or Gap, fire located approximately six miles northwest of Santa Barbara and delivered approximately 33,000 gallons of fire retardant. Seven sorties flew to the Piute fire located in the Sequoia National Forest fire, delivering more than 19,500 gallons of retardant.

Finally, six sorties were flown to the Shasta Humbolt Complex located in northern California's Shasta and Trinity counties, delivering approximately 16,800 gallons of fire retardant.

The California Air National Guard's 146th Airlift Wing moved critical reloading supplies to the Channel Islands Air National Guard Station July 4 to increase modular airborne firefighting system-equipped C-130 efficiency in battling the fires in southern California, according to Tom Hoffman, the military liaison officer with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

For the C-130 aircraft operating out McClellan Airfield, Calif., but covering the fires in southern California, crews will reload fire retardant at Channel Islands ANGS in order to save time traveling to the Gap and Piute fires. The aircraft will then return to McClellan airfield at the end of the flying day for maintenance and the next day's launch.

The 302nd AEG aircraft units include three Air National Guard units -- the 145th Airlift Wing from Charlotte, N.C.; the 146th Airlift Wing from Channel Islands ANGS; and the 153rd Airlift Wing from Cheyenne, Wyo. -- and one Air Force Reserve unit -- the 302nd Airlift Wing from Peterson Air Force Base, Colo.

The 302nd AEG comprises eight Air Force MAFFS-capable C-130 aircraft operating out of McClellan Airfield, and Navy Reserve and Marine Corps helicopter units operating out of Naval Air Station Lemoore, Calif.

Three Marine helicopter units -- Medium Helicopter Training Squadron 164 and Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 268 based out of Camp Pendleton, Calif., and Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 465 based out of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego -- fly CH-46 Sea Knight and CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopters equipped with 2,000-gallon specialized fire fighting buckets.

U.S. Navy Reserve helicopters flying from NAS Lemoore are assigned to the Helicopter Sea Combat Support Squadron 85 based out of Naval Air Station North Island, Calif. The squadron is flying MH-60 Knighthawk helicopters with 420- and 360-gallon specialized fire fighting buckets.

The 302nd AEG military airborne assets flew a total of 55 missions July 4 and have flown approximately 270 missions and dropped nearly 600,000 gallons of fire retardant since June 26.

The 302nd AEG provides unique capabilities and is part of a unified military support effort of U.S. Northern Command to provide assistance to the U.S. Forest Service, CAL FIRE and the National Interagency Fire Center.

USNORTHCOM continues to closely monitor the California wildfires to anticipate additional requests for Department of Defense assistance to local, federal, and state civil authorities and will launch as many missions as officials require to battle the wildfires.

Norfolk Returns From Deployment

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Todd A. Schaffer, Commander, Submarine Force Public Affairs

The city of Norfolk's namesake submarine, USS Norfolk (SSN 714) returned to homeport June 28 following a six- month deployment.

Norfolk deployed December 28 independently, meaning they were not part of an expeditionary strike group or with an aircraft carrier. Norfolk deployed to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

Crew members served as ambassadors for the United States Navy during port visits to Rota, Spain; Bahrain; Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates; Aquaba, Jordan; Souda Bay, Crete; and Augusta Bay, Italy.

"This deployment began over a year ago. We had a great start, and the great successes are proof of the hard work of the crew," said Cmdr. Troy Jackson, Norfolk's commanding officer. "We're glad to be back in Norfolk and the Hampton Roads area. For every family on the pier, the homecoming was a joyful reunion after a long six months apart."

Fast-attack submarines like Norfolk are multi-mission capable, using stealth, persistence, agility and firepower to deploy and support special forces operations, disrupt and destroy an adversary's military and economic operations at sea, provide early strike from close proximity, and ensure undersea superiority.

Satellite’s instrumentation providing scintillation forecast data

By Michael Kleiman
377th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

Whether it’s static interrupting a radio station, or crackling noises interfering with a theater commander’s attempt to contact a deployed unit, scintillation can cause communication chaos.

Scintillation occasionally occurs when radio waves transiting an unstable ionosphere located 50 to 360 miles above the Earth become deformed, fragile, and/or misplaced. This results in transmission difficulties for communication or global positioning system satellites. Ultimately, it hampers the warfighter’s effectiveness.

Scientists examining the ionospheric aberrations have discovered these aberrations happen more closely in the equatorial and auroral areas between twilight and midnight. There also are seasonal fluctuations and a long-term variation corresponding to the solar cycle.

Within the Air Force, a six-instrument payload onboard the Communication/Navigation Outage Forecasting System spacecraft is helping researchers forecast when and where this natural phenomenon will occur.

transpires has been enhanced with the six-instrument payload onboard the Communication/Navigation Outage Forecasting System spacecraft, which began its 13-month mission on April 16.

“This is the first mission by any organization dedicated to ionospheric scintillation, “said Dr. Laila Jeong, Air Force Research Laboratory program manager for C/NOFS. “We’re going to collect a stellar database of ionospheric data.”

During the initial month of the C/NOFS flight – which began its 13-month mission in April -- program personnel evaluated the instrumentation suite to ensure expected performance. Since then, the payload package has functioned properly in responding to sent commands and tasks.

The six sensors installed on the satellite to monitor scintillation, along with their function, are:

> Planar langmuir probe -- calculates the amount of charged particles in the satellite’s course. When the material strikes the metal plate on the front of the device, they generate an electric signal, which if fluctuating, could indicate scintillation. Collected data can be employed in models to identify exactly where the ionospheric disturbances occurred during the computation and when they might transpire in the future. AFRL’s Space Vehicles Directorate constructed the probe.

> Ion velocity meter -- measures charged particles’ speed and direction, perpendicular to and in the same path, of the satellite’s orbital movement in a particular region of the ionosphere. Built by the University of Texas at Dallas, information compiled by the system contributes to physics software designed by the Space Vehicles Directorate to forecast scintillation.

> Neutral wind meter -- computes the pace and track of the gas (uncharged particles) travelling in the spacecraft’s route and in a vertical course to C/NOFS’ movement in the ionosphere. The University of Texas at Dallas also built this device.

> Vector electric field instrument -- gauges the existing force in a region between opposite-charged particles. This amount is referred to as the electric field and the instrument’s payload computes the power and direction of it. Over time, changes in the electric field serve as an indicator of upcoming scintillation. NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md., built the instrument.

> Coherent electromagnetic radio tomography -- evaluates the signals calculated by ground receivers to verify the quantity of scintillation along the course between the C/NOFS spacecraft and the planet’s surface. If the signals display distortion, scintillation is evident and vice versa. The U.S. Naval Research Laboratory’s system contains a beacon and antenna transmitting on three frequencies to Earth.

> C/NOFS occultation receiver for ionospheric sensing and specification -- measures signals originating from numerous global positioning system satellites orbiting the globe. The system examines these signals to determine the extent of charged matter between the GPS spacecraft and C/NOFS. The Aerospace Corp.-constructed payload features a specially-developed GPS receiver and antenna for remote sensing.

“Data collected by the six instruments is sent to a processing center at the Space Vehicles Directorate’s Battlespace Environment Division at Hanscom Air Force Base, Massachusetts, where project staff run forecasting models and create forecast products,” Dr. Jeong explained. “The information is made available to the scientific and military user community, and the program will continue to provide scintillation data as long as the C/NOFS satellite remains in orbit - it has a predicted lifetime of three to four years.

“The analysis done on the information compiled by the six instruments will pave the way for the next generation of scintillation forecasting models – improving upon the accuracy of forecasting and extending the forecasting time period further into the future,” Dr. Jeong said. “The benefits of the collected data from C/NOFS will ultimately impact the warfighter through improved communication and greater operational efficiency.”

Ronald Reagan Makes Guam Port Visit

The aircraft carrier USS Ronald Regan (CVN 76) and Carrier Air Wing 14 (CVW 14) begin their transit into Agana Harbor for a port call on Guam after working off the coast of the Philippines in the wake of Typhoon Fengshen. The Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group is on a routine deployment in the 7th Fleet area of responsibility. U.S. Navy photo by Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Spike Call

U.S., Latin American Navies Improve Ability to Communicate At Sea

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Alan Gragg, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command Public Affairs

MAYPORT, Fla. (NNS) -- The first tactical use of the Inter-American Naval Telecommunications Network's (IANTN) Combined Enterprise Regional Information Exchange System (CENTRIXS) will begin at the end of July, aboard Brazilian Navy ship (BNS) Greenhalgh (F-46) and USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) operating in support of multinational joint task force exercises off the coast of Virginia.

IANTN is a classified network supporting 16 member navies operating in Latin America. The network, established in 1962, provides those navies a means to exchange critical information. Since the 1980s, the network has been primarily a satellite communication system. Within the last year, IANTN participants have made CENTRIXS upgrades to begin using encrypted connections over the Internet to exchange information at sea.

"This provides a capability for all of the IANTN member countries to interoperate securely among themselves," said Cmdr. David Wirth, IANTN secretary. "This is not a network between the United States and an individual country, this is a collective, secure network that provides interoperability among its member countries and therefore, will be able to support the collective security of the region."

Greenhalgh will use CENTRIXS while participating in Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group's composite training unit exercise and joint task force exercise in July and August.

"Brazil already operates with many friendly navies at sea, but ship communications during such exercises rely heavily on clear voice nets and tactical link systems," said Cmdr. Claudio H. Mello, Greenhalgh's commanding officer. "Until the installation of CENTRIXS-IANTN, there had been no secure and fast means of communication, in either chat or e-mail, with U.S. ships at sea."

The upgrade of the IANTN network to a CENTRIXS network accessible by ships at sea is aligned with the U.S. Maritime Strategy, which emphasizes the importance of working with international partners as the basis for global maritime security.

"The Maritime Strategy specifically understands that the United States does not have the resources to police all the oceans," said Wirth. "It's going to take a collective desire for security within the region, and countries working together to that end, to actually be able to achieve what we're trying to do in the Maritime Strategy."

The IANTN upgrades have been very well received among our partner nations. They're very enthusiastic to do the secure collaboration and communication that IANTN will provide [through CENTRIXS]."

IANTN's 16 member countries include Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, México, Nicaragua, Panamá, Paraguay, Perú, United States and Uruguay.

"The more we are able to talk, the more we are able to understand each other, and the more we understand each other, the more we can build mutual trust," said Mello.

Another Spectrum Hole Falls

My good friend and neighbor here in North Carolina, Duke Rumley, has caught milair activity on one of my longtime spectrum holes -- 240.550 MHz. He has aircraft in the area using the Ripper callsign. So I have a tentative usage for this frequency as a VFA-11/CVW-3 Red Ripper air-to-air frequency. He also caught the flight calling any radio (FSS) on 255.4 MHz.

Way to go Duke. If you have IDed one of my spectrum holes, please drop me some email.

Aero Frequency Changes

Mil monitors in the area around Fort Polk have had a major frequency change of note:
Fort Polk Approach/Departure Control has moved from 226.500 MHz to 302.200 MHz.

Airports effected by this change include:
Alexandria International Airport (KAEX)
Bunkie Muni (2R6)
David G. Joyce (0R5)
Esler Regional Airport (Alexandria) (KESF)
Fort Polk Joint Readiness Training Center/Polk AAF
Marksville Muni (KMKV)
Natchitoches Regional Airport (KIER)

The ANG unit at Little Rock AFB has changed its Command Post frequencies.
They are now using 138.600 MHz (a new A/G/A nationwide) AM mode and 225.450 MHz.

Fort Sill/Henry Post AAF Metro has moved from 375.200 MHz to 306.500 MHz. This leaves only one military metro left on 375.200 MHz at McConnell AFB. I expect that this Metro will move as well. Based on what has been noted on other frequencies in this range it appears that 375.2 MHz will now be used for wideband comms nationwide instead of the Metro assignment that it has been iused for in the past. More field reports are needed to determine the exact nature of what 375.200 MHz will be used for in this regard. Needless to say, listeners in the McConnell area are asked to watch 375.2 MHz closely as I expect it to change soon as well.

Listeners are also reminded that Metro stations on 344.6 MHz are also on the move. This frequency is also being cleaned out for the same purpose as 375.200 MHz above and new wideband allocation (based on other reported activity on either side of this frequency)is being established.

Happy Birthday America!

July 4, 2008

Today is July 4 - the day America celebrates our independence. From coast to coast it's a day of celebration - when we gather with friends and family to enjoy spectacular fireworks, good food, parades, sporting events and even an antenna raising or two here on the radio ranch.

On this special day, Shortwave Central, Milcom Monitoring, and the BTown Monitoring Post wish all our blog readers a safe holiday. To our military troops serving throughout the world - we say thank you! May you stay safe and out of harm's way. Bless them and their families worldwide were ever they may be serving this country.


Gayle & Larry Van Horn Teak Publishing

Milcom Blog Logs - A Central Florida Edition

My good friend Jack NeSmith has forwarded his June intercept frequency list from his central Florida monitoring post. Thanks Jack and you have a truly impressive list of freqs this month.

Jack wrote: "Unusual band openings during June. ATIS and RCAG's from over 100 miles were loud and clear. I also tried a different technique searching the 225-400 MHz band. Using my BUTEL ARC-996 PRO, I set up systems and groups for freqs never monitored. This allowed me to skip all the wideband and ILS freqs. This also allowed me to lock out selected systems and groups that I wanted to."

225.1750 ATLANTIC STRIKE VII
225.3500 PINECASTLE RANGE
226.4250 ATLANTIC STRIKE VII
227.0750 ATLANTIC STRIKE VII
227.2000 MOODY AFB GA PTD
227.6750 ATLANTIC STRIKE VII
228.2250 MOODY AFB GA 347th RQW
228.5750 ATLANTIC STRIKE VII
229.1750 ATLANTIC STRIKE VII
229.4750 COLUMBUS AFB MS 14FTW "TROLL" INTERFLIGHT
233.7000 MOODY AFB GA APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL
234.8000 125th FW
235.1000 AR-200
235.5000 DOD
236.0750 MOODY AFB GA GRAND BAY RANGE
236.8500 A-10 DEMO TEAM
237.0250 2d TFTS INTERFLIGHT
237.7000 LANTCOM
237.8000 NAVY
238.8000 NAS KEY WEST FL. AF OPS
238.8250 ROBINS AFB GA 19th ARG "RHETT" INTERFLIGHT
238.9000 AR-620
239.0000 ORLANDO EXECURIVE TOWER
239.2250 UNKNOWN
239.2500 ZMA ALUTO
239.3000 NAS MAYPORT FL TOWER
239.3250 DOD
239.5500 NORTHCOM
240.4250 VMFA-112 NAS-JRB FT WORTH TX INTERFLIGHT
245.2500 ATLANTIC STRIKE VII
245.3000 ARMY
245.4500 ATLANTIC STRIKE VII
246.8000 HSL-44 INTERFLIGHT
250.3000 MCAS BEAUFORT SC VMFA(AW)-224 TAC-1
251.1500 JACKSONVILLE IAP APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL
251.2500 125th FW
251.9750 MOODY AFB GA
252.5250 VMFA-112 NAS-JRB FT WORTH TX
253.7000 125th FW
254.0000 UNKNOWN
254.2750 ZJX LIVE OAK MOA
254.3250 ZJX TAYLOR - LO w/125.375
255.3750 DOD
255.9000 CARABELLE MOA
256.7500 UNKNOWN
256.8750 ZMA AVON PARK
257.8000 DAYTONA BEACH IAP TOWER
263.0500 ZJX UNKNOWN
263.4500 MOODY AFB GA METRO
263.4750 UNKNOWN
263.5000 CECIL FIELD CNTRA T-45'S INTERFLIGHT
264.2000 NAS JAX
264.6500 CECIL FIELD BOEING OPERATIONS
264.7000 UNKNOWN
267.1000 DOD
267.2750 ARMY
267.5000 FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD"
269.2500 ZJX OCALA - LO w/133.325
269.3000 ZMA BAIRN
269.3250 JACKSONVILLE IAP APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL
269.4000 TAMPA IAP TOWER
269.5000 ZTL NEWPORT??
269.6000 ZJX LAWTEY - UH w/132.825
270.1000 MACDILL AFB FL ATIS
270.5000 NAVY
271.5750 UNKNOWN
273.3500 DOD
273.5250 ZJX METTA - LO/HI w/135.05
273.5500 ZJX ST JOHNS - LO w/134.0
273.7000 NAS KEY WEST FL TARPON RANGE
273.9000 125th FW
273.9500 HMX-1 AIR TO AIR ??
275.8000 GROUND CONTROL VARIOUS BASE'S
276.4000 ZJX UNKNOWN
277.4000 ZJX BRUNSWICK - LO w/126.75
278.8000 NAS JACKSONVILLE FL GROUND CONTROL APPROACH
279.6000 TAMPA IAP APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL
281.0000 NAS JACKSONVILLE ATIS
281.4250 PATRICK AFB APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL
281.5000 ZMA FT MEYERS LO 282.2000 ZJX JEKYLL - LO w/124.675
282.3000 ZJX ALMA - HI w/135.975
282.4250 CUSTOMS
283.7000 BUCCANEER OPS MACDILL AFB
284.5000 FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD"
284.7000 ORLANDO IAP APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL
285.5500 MACDILL AFB FL SINGLE FREQUENCY APPROACH
285.6500 ZJX STATES - HI w/126.125
285.7250 R-2901 AVON PARK RNG
288.3500 ZJX UNKNOWN
288.6250 UNKNOWN
289.2000 R-2910 PINECASTLE RNG
290.0000 NORTHCOM
290.2250 ZJX CHARLESTOWN
290.3000 TAMPA IAP APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL
290.3500 ZJX HUNTER - UH w/132.425
290.4000 ZJX WAYCROSS - LO w/132.3
290.9000 EGLIN AFB MISSION CONTROL
291.1000 ZTL STATHAM ??
291.6000 ZMA LABELLE LO
291.7000 ZJX ZEPHYR- UH w/128.425
292.2000 R-2901 AVON PARK RNG
293.2250 ZMA STOOP
293.6000 TYNDALL AFB FL 601st AIR OPERATIONS CENTER "HUNTRESS"
294.7000 MACDILL AFB TOWER
299.2000 ZTL CHATANOOGA ??
301.0000 MCAS BEAUFORT SC SOUTH TACTS RNF 4 X-RAY "WARLOCK"
303.0000 AIR REFUELING
306.0000 NAS JACKSONVILLE VP-30 OPEARTIONS
306.9000 ZMA MARATHON
307.0000 ORLANDO IAP APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL
307.1000 ZMA LABELLE HI
307.2000 ZJX SEMINOLE- HI w/128.075
307.2500 ZJX ST AUGUSTINE - LO/HI w/126.35
307.3000 ZMA CIGAR
308.4000 JACKSONVILLE IAP APPROACH-DEPARTURE
308.7500 AWACS
310.8250 MOODY AFB GA DIAMOND MOA
311.0000 6th ARW CMD POST MACDILL AFB
311.5000 NAS JACKSONVILLE FACSFAC JAX "BRISTOL" GCI
313.7000 MCAS BEAUFORT SC FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD"
314.2000 125th FW
316.0500 TAMPA IAP APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL
316.3000 TYNDALL AFB FL 601st AIR OPERATIONS CENTER "HUNTRESS"
317.4500 FAA UNKNOWN
317.5250 ZJX PERRY- HI w/135.625
317.6000 ZJX CEDAR KEY - LO w/135.75
317.6000 ZMA VERO BEACH
319.0000 ZMA BOYEL
320.5000 DOD
322.4000 JACKSONVILLE IAP APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL 322.4750
322.5000 ZMA JACKSONVILLE IAP FL APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL
323.0500 ZJX BREWTON - HI w/124.475
323.1000 ZMA KEY WEST
323.2000 ZMA BROOKSVILLE
323.2500 NAS MAYPORT FL RADAR
324.6000 AR-638
327.1000 ZJX TORRY - LO/HI w/134.85
327.6000 AR-202S
327.7000 EGLIN AFB
335.5500 ZJX DARBS - LO w/128.05
341.7500 AWACS
341.7000 TAMPA IAP APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL
343.0000 125th FW
346.2500 ZJX GREEN COVE - HI w/127.475
348.6000 DAYTONA BEACH IAP FL GROUND CONTROL
348.6500 ZMA CIGAR
348.7000 ZMA HOBEE
349.0000 ZMA LAKELAND HI
349.8000 NAS JACKSONVILLE FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD" W-157 DISCRETE
350.0000 MCAS BEAUFORT SC SOUTH TACTS RNG 4 X-RAY "WARLOCK"
350.0250 CUSTOMS
351.8000 JACKSONVILLE IAP APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL
351.9000 ORLANDO EXEC APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL
351.9500 DAYTONA BEACH IAP APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL
352.0000 ZMA TALLAHASSEE - LO (QPE) w/127.8
353.5750 TAMPA IAP APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL
353.6000 ZMA PALM BEACH LO
354.0000 TAMPA IAP APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL
360.2000 NAS JACKSONVILLE TOWER
360.7000 ZJX MAYO HI w/125.175
360.8000 ZJX GENEVA HI w/125.05
363.1000 ZMA SARASOTA LO
363.3000 NAVY
364.2000 NORAD AICC
372.2000 PTD
376.1250 J-STARS
376.9000 NAS JACKSONVILLE FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD" W-157 DISCRETE
377.0500 JACKSONVILLE IAP APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL
377.1000 ZJX GAINESVILLE (D)
379.2500 ZMA ADOOR
379.9000 JACKSONVILLE IAP FL TRACON
380.1500 ZTL HAMPTON
380.3000 ZMA FT MEYERS HI
381.3000 ACC CMD POST
381.5000 DAYTONA BEACH IAP APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL
381.6500 ORLANDO SANFORD IAP TOWER
385.4500 ZMA UNKNOWN
387.0000 DAYTONA BEACH IAP FL APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL
387.0250 MOODY AFB GA GROUND CONTROL APPROACH

Singaporean Ship Scores Direct Hit During CARAT Exercise

By Public Affairs Specialist 3rd Class Angela Henderson, U.S. Coast Guard, Commander Task Force 73 Public Affairs
As part of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) 2008, elements of the U.S. and Republic of Singapore (RSN) Navy perform a joint precision maneuvering exercise, led by an RSN submarine. CARAT is an annual series of bilateral military training exercises between the United States and several Southeast Asian nations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communications Specialist 1st Class Dan Meaney

RSS Endeavour (209) successfully struck down a drone missile during a training exercise as part of the Singapore phase of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) June 26.

The Singaporean landing ship tank fired a surface-to-air missile at a BQM 74 EI drone deployed from the flight deck of USS Tortuga (LSD 46).

Rear Adm. Ng Chee Peng, fleet commander of the Republic of Singapore Navy, explained this exercise was a key highlight of CARAT 2008's Singapore phase.

U.S. Navy Commander Fleet Activities Okinawa (CFAO) personnel aboard Tortuga launched the seven-foot drone 40,000 feet into the air to simulate a small plane attack on Endeavour. The CFAO CARAT detachment provides targets for the various gunnery exercises for all the at-sea phases of CARAT.

Aviation Ordnanceman 1st Class Michael Clossin noted that the drone was a successful target because CFAO personnel simply did what they are trained to do.

"Whether they are firing guns or missiles, our job is to help ensure all ships involved in CARAT have good targets to improve their skills," Clossin said.

CARAT is an annual series of bilateral military training exercises between the United States and Southeast Asian nations.

A drone is launched from the amphibious dock landing ship USS Tortuga (LSD 46) for a scheduled missile exercise of the Singapore phase of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) 2008. The drone was shot down with a missile launched from the Republic of Singapore ship RSS Endeavour. CARAT is an annual series of bilateral maritime training exercises between the United States and six Southeast Asian nations designed to build relationships and enhance the operational readiness of the participating forces. U.S. Navy photo by Cmdr. James Ridgway

Navy Names New Amphibious Assault Ship

The Navy's newest class of large-deck amphibious assault ship, LHA 6, will bear the name USS America, Secretary of the Navy Donald C. Winter announced June 27, while speaking at the USS America Carrier Veterans Association reunion in Jacksonville, Fla.

This ship will inherit a proud tradition, explained Winter. From the American Revolution through the first Gulf War, three warships have sailed with the name America.

"To serve in a ship named after our country adds to the pride one feels in being part of the Navy and adds to the feeling that when America pulls into port, there is no more powerful symbol of the power, the ideals, and the greatness of the United States of America," said Winter.

LHA 6 will be the fourth U.S. Navy ship to bear the name America. The first America, a 74-gun ship-of-the-line, was first built for use by the Continental Navy. However, before having a chance to serve the fledgling U.S. Navy, the ship was presented as a gift to the king of France to show appreciation for his country's service to the new nation.

The second USS America (ID-3006) was used to transport troops during World War I. The third ship to bear the name was a Kitty-Hawk class aircraft carrier (CV 66) in commission 1965-1996. Among other notable accomplishments, the carrier America made three deployments to Vietnam and launched air strikes on Iraq during the opening days of Operation Desert Storm.

The newest America will provide presence and power projection as an integral part of joint and multinational maritime expeditionary forces. The ship will support Marine Corps aviation requirements across a wide spectrum of operations, from small-scale contingency operations as the centerpiece of a forward-deployed expeditionary strike group, to forcible entry missions in a major theater war.

LHA 6 replaces the aging Tarawa-class and represents a conscious decision to increase the aviation capacity of future big deck amphibious ships in order to maximize the Navy's investment in future aircraft.

LHA 6 will have an extended hangar deck with two higher hangar bay areas, each fitted with an overhead crane for aircraft maintenance. LHA 6 will also provide increased aviation fuel capacity, stowage for aviation parts and support equipment. LHA 6 will be able to embark and launch the MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft, cargo and attack helicopters, the AV-8B Harrier and the short take-off vertical landing (STOVL) variant F-35B Lightning II Strike Fighter.

Winter explained the importance of the new America-class amphibious assault ship and the tremendous capability she will bring to the fleet.

"USS America is a wise investment in our nation's security," Winter said, "It will be a ship worthy of her illustrious namesake, and it will continue America's long tradition of peace through strength."

Winter also announced that the sponsor of the ship will be Lynne Pace, wife of former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Peter Pace.

America is currently under contract at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Miss., and is expected to be delivered to the Navy in 2012.

Third Reserve C-130 joins California wildfire fight

by Senior Airman Stephen Collier, 302nd Air Expeditionary Group Public Affairs

An Air Force Reserve Command C-130 Hercules taxies toward the runway as another C-130 launches for a firefighting mission June 29 at McClellan Airfield in Sacramento, Calif. The aircraft are deployed from the 302nd Airlift Wing, Peterson AFB, Colo., and assigned to the 302nd Air Expeditionary Group that is fighting the Corral and Piute fires in California. As of 2:30 p.m. June 29, aircrews launched eight missions against the fires, dropping 24,000 gallons of fire retardant. The 302nd AEG includes the 302nd AW, and two Air National Guard units from the 153rd Airlift Wing from Cheyenne, Wyo., and the 145th Airlift Wing from Charlotte, N.C. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Stephen Collier)

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AFPN) -- A third Air Force Reserve Command C-130H Hercules was dispatched June 27 to help fight raging wild fires in California.

Officials from the 302nd Airlift Wing from Peterson Air Force Base, Colo., sent the additional airplane and crews to join the 302nd Air Expeditionary Group at McClellan Airfield in Sacramento to help battle the northern California Corral and Piute fires.

As of June 29, Airmen at McClellan Airfield launched their fourth day of missions in support of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection's war against California wildfires. The fires are the result of lightning strikes that blanketed most of the state June 21.

The Corral fire, located about 200 miles north of Sacramento, is more than 10,000 acres wide and is 5 percent contained with some structures are threatened. The Piute fire, which started June 28, is more than 260 miles south of Sacramento. That fire is uncontrolled, raging throughout the Sequoia National Forest near Lake Isabella. Fire officials are reporting that structures are being threatened by this fire.

More than 5,400 lives are being threatened by both fires. Fire information is current as of 2 p.m. June 29.

The C-130s carry the Modular Airborne Firefighting System, known as MAFFS, and are capable of dropping up to 3,000 gallons of fire retardant per mission. The 302nd AEG has eight C-130s under its command and will launch as many missions as California officials require to contain the wildfires.

Aircrews have dropped approximately 117,000 gallons of fire retardant since airborne missions began June 26. Members and aircraft of the 302nd AEG are based at the Sacramento-area airfield, which allows these military transport aircraft to fly with maximum fuel loads and MAFFS to operate with full fire retardant capability. Aircrews and C-130 support members come from Charlotte, N.C., Cheyenne, Wyo., Colorado Springs, Colo.

Airmen are deployed here in support of California firefighters and the National Interagency Fire Center to battle wildfires in the state. For more information on fires throughout California, visit www.nifc.gov or www.fire.ca.gov.