Baltops 2009 Photoex

The amphibious command ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC/JCC 20) leads an international formation of ships from 12 nations during the first day of the Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) exercise. This is the 37th iteration of BALTOPS and is intended to improve interoperability with partner nations by conducting realistic training at sea with the 12 participating nations. (U.S. Navy photo by Michael Rumbach/Released)

Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group 7 Enters 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility

USS RONALD REAGAN, At Sea (NNS) -- The six ships of the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group crossed the international date line June 9, entering the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility.

The strike group is made up of the flagship, the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76); embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14; the guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62); and the ships of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7--the guided missile destroyers USS Decatur (DDG 73), USS Gridley (DDG 101) and USS Howard (DDG 83) and the guided missile frigate USS Thach (FFG 43). The strike group entered the theatre after successful training in the 3rd Fleet (Eastern Pacific) area of responsibility.

"We are ready for any mission, any tasking," said Capt. Kenneth Norton, Ronald Reagan's commanding officer. "Our Sailors are prepared to carry out any mission in this region."

During their last visit to the 7th Fleet AOR, in 2008, the ships and aircraft of the Ronald Reagan Strike Group conducted an eight-day humanitarian assistance mission for the victims of Typhoon Fengshen in the Republic of the Philippines.

The squadrons of CVW-14 include the "Redcocks" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 22, the "Fist of the Fleet" of VFA-25, the "Stingers" of VFA-113, the "Eagles" of VFA-115, the "Black Eagles" of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 113, the "Cougars" of Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (VAQ) 139, the "Providers" of Carrier Logistics Support (VRC) 30, and the "Black Knights" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 4.

USS Ronald Reagan was commissioned in July 2003, making it the ninth and newest Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. The ship is named after the 40th U.S. president, and carries the motto of "Peace through Strength," a recurrent theme during Reagan's presidency.

George Washington CSG Departs Japan on First Summer Deployment

USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, At Sea (NNS) -- The Carrier Strike Group centered around the Navy's only permanently forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS George Washington (CVN 73), departed Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan for its first annual summer deployment June 10.

Commanded by Rear Adm. Kevin Donegan, the George Washington Carrier Strike Group with more than 5,000 Sailors, is also comprised of 7th Fleet's Forward Deployed Naval Forces veterans: Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5; Destroyer Squadron 15 and the guided-missile cruisers USS Shiloh (CG 67) and USS Cowpens (CG 63).

George Washington, commanded by Capt. David A. Lausman, replaced the USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) last September as the flagship for the permanently forward deployed carrier strike group.

"This deployment is the culmination of a tremendous team effort that first executed the historic transition to Yokosuka, and then flawlessly completed the four-month selective restricted availability," said Lausman.

George Washington Carrier Strike Group has been underway for most of the past month, completing sea trials, carrier qualifications, and a Combat Operations Efficiency evaluation with embarked CVW 5 following the conclusion of the George Washington's first Japan-based Selective Restricted Availability earlier this year.

The ship and crew returned to its forward-deployed port of Yokosuka June 5 for a few days of rest after a 17-day at-sea period, and are now operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility.

"Our main focus for this deployment is enhancing stability throughout the region by our underway presence," said Lausman. "The cornerstone of this is the CNO's [chief of naval operations] Global Maritime Partnerships; throughout this deployment we have the unique opportunity to work closely with many of our Pacific Rim coalition partners where we will put this theory into practice."

CVW 5, commanded by Capt. Michael S. White, includes four F/A-18 Strike Fighter squadrons (VFA): the "Royal Maces" of VFA-27, the "Diamondbacks of VFA-102, the "Golden Dragons" of VFA-192 and the "Dambusters" of VFA-195. It also features Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 115 "Liberty Bells," Carrier Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (VAQ) 136 "Gauntlets," Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron (HS) 14 "Chargers," as well as detachments from Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 30 "Providers" and Light Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HSL) 51 "Warlords."

Nimitz and CVW-11 Prepare for WESTPAC Deployment

Sailors scrub the flight deck during a fresh water scrub down aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) after completing flight operations. Nimitz and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11 are conducting a Composite Training Unit Exercise off the coast of Southern California in preparation for a scheduled deployment to the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Amara R. Timberlake/Released)

Joint Crew Aboard Stiletto Deploys to the Caribbean

The Department of Defense high-speed experimental boat Stiletto is shown pierside in Mayport before deploying to the Caribbean basin through the summer. The 88-foot long, 60-ton vessel will deploy under the operational control of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet under the tactical control of Joint Interagency Task Force-South (JIATF-S) to conduct counter illicit trafficking operations. Stiletto is manned by a joint Army and Navy crew and includes an embarked U.S. Coast Guard Law Enforcement Det. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Alan Gragg/Released)

From Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command, Commander, U.S. 4th Fleet Public Affairs

MAYPORT, Fla. (NNS) -- The Department of Defense's high-speed experimental boat Stiletto will depart from Key West, Fla., June 13 to the Caribbean where it will support U.S. and multinational counter-illicit trafficking (CIT) operations and conduct operational testing.

The 88-foot long, 60-ton Stiletto will deploy to the Caribbean basin through the summer under the operational control of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command (USNAVSO) and U.S. 4th Fleet and tactical control of Joint Interagency Task Force-South (JIATF-S). Stiletto is manned by a joint U.S. Army and U.S. Navy crew and includes an embarked U.S. Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment.

"A unique aspect of the region, with its proximity to the United States, is our ability to support the testing and evaluation of select new and developing programs and concepts," said Rear Adm. Joseph D. Kernan, commander, NAVSO and U.S. 4th Fleet. "Stiletto is a great example of employing innovative technologies while also executing an important mission. It is manned by a joint and interagency crew, and we work with some of our partners in the Caribbean to counter-illicit trafficking."

Stiletto's innovative hull construction and M-shaped design make it lightweight and easy to maintain, allowing Stiletto to reach speeds of up to 50 knots under calm sea conditions and operate in shallow waters. It is also equipped with state-of-the-art navigation, communications and network interface capabilities, allowing its crew to support a wide range of missions, ranging from mine clearing operations to the rapid delivery of humanitarian aid following natural disasters.

This is Stiletto's second deployment to the USSOUTHCOM's area of focus and the second deployment in direct support of U.S. and international CIT operations.

Stiletto was designed and built under a contract by the Pentagon's Office of Force Transformation (OFT). OFT accepted delivery of Stiletto in May 2006, and Stiletto has undergone testing by the Department of Defense for its usefulness in littoral operations and interoperable environments.

USNAVSO is the U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) naval component command. U.S. 4th Fleet is the numbered fleet assigned to USNAVSO.

JIATF-S is the USSOUTHCOM component that oversees U.S. military support to regional CIT operations.

Space Shuttle Milsat Launch Support Net Up

Nils in Germany has reported via the Hearsat newsgroup that the NASA Space Shuttle Launch Support Net is up on Milsat on 261.700 MHz getting ready to support the STS-127 (Endeavor) launch on Saturday. They are using the same frequency that was used during the last mission to service the Hubble telescope.

Herky 251/252 have been heard working Wolf Den (JPRC Ramstein, Germany). JPRC stands for Joint Personnel Recovery Center.

You can read more about this group and their operations in an article that appeared back on May 12 regarding their support of the Atlantis mission to work on Hubble.

See http://www.ang.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123149326

Navy Makes Decision on Cherry Point Range Complex

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The assistant secretary of the Navy for installations and environment has signed the record of decision (ROD) for the Navy Cherry Point Range Complex Environmental Impact Statement/Overseas Environmental Impact Statement (EIS/OEIS), which evaluated potential environmental effects associated with training and research, development, test and evaluation (RDT&E) activities.

The Navy Cherry Point Range Complex is one of several range complexes on the east coast.

Signing of the ROD marks the Navy's completion of the Navy Cherry Point EIS/OEIS process. The Navy Cherry Point Range Complex Final EIS/OEIS provides the results of environmental analysis associated with Navy's Atlantic Fleet and U.S. Marine Corps training; RDT&E activities; and associated range capabilities enhancements (including infrastructure improvements) within the existing Navy Cherry Point Range Complex.

The EIS/OEIS evaluated the potential environmental impacts of three alternatives. The ROD reflects the Navy's decision to implement Alternative 2, which will increase operational training, expand warfare missions, accommodate force structure changes (including training resulting from the introduction of new platforms) and implement enhancements.

Alternative 2 also includes the designation of two mine warfare training areas in Onslow Bay for enhanced mine countermeasures and neutralization training.

In addition, the Navy will eliminate the use of bombs with explosive (live) warheads during at-sea bombing exercise training events.

The Navy Cherry Point Range Complex Final EIS/OEIS is one of the environmental documents the Navy has prepared for its range complexes. These documents are part of a $100 million environmental compliance effort begun in 2004 to ensure the Navy has the training ranges it needs to provide combat-capable forces ready to deploy worldwide in America's defense and that the valuable natural resources on these ranges are afforded protection.

The Navy trains its deploying forces in the most realistic manner possible. This record of decision will allow the Navy to continue giving Sailors the skills they need to be effective in combat.

The ROD, as well as the EIS/OEIS and supporting documents, are available to the public online at http://www.navycherrypointrangecomplexeis.com.

Red Arrows Airshow Freq Confirmed

I have received a report that the UK Red Arrows used 243.450 MHz for their team communications in the last few days in the UK. This confirms a frequency that I had posted in my annual airshow guide. Thanks to my anonymous source for passing that along.

USS Ohio Crew Readies for Multimission Deployment

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Chantel M. Clayton, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West Det. Northwest

SILVERDALE, Wash. (NNS) -- With a major maintenance period completed, the men of the guided-missile submarine USS Ohio (SSGN 726) (Blue) crew are ready to take their boat, June 9, and head back out to sea later this month.

Ohio class guided-missile submarines (SSGN) provide the Navy with an unprecedented combination of strike and special operation mission capability within a stealthy, clandestine platform. Armed with tactical missiles and equipped with superior communications capabilities, SSGNs are capable of directly supporting dozens of special operations forces (SOF).

According to Capt. Murray Gero, Ohio Blue crew commanding officer, the crew is ready to get the boat out to sea and complete missions that she is capable of doing.

"They're excited," said Gero, of the 160-man crew. "The missions that we do are very exciting and challenging. They are very complex, and they involve very close coordination with several outside agencies, including SEALS. They've been home from deployment for almost ten months now, and I think most of us have sea legs that have been screaming to get back to sea."

Ohio has the capability of performing multiple missions, making it a valuable asset to the Navy.

"The ship is capable of as many as five different submarine war missions simultaneously, including surveillance and reconnaissance, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship undersea warfare, and we also do strike missions and special operations," said Gero.

"We carry the capability of carrying two dry deck shelters, which house the SEAL delivery vehicles, and they enable us to deploy and retrieve special ops forces from off-shore."

The boat's capability to carry a heavy load of missiles also makes them a go-to asset for fleet commanders.

"We typically go to sea with over 100 tomahawk missiles, and that basically replaces a tomahawk missile inventory of three surface warships," added Gero.

"This increases the flexibility of the surface fleet, because we basically allow them to reassign those three ships as soon as we get into our operating theater."

Adm. Robert F. Willard, commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, said in a recent podcast that the silent service is a method of leveraging the undersea domain.

"We pride ourselves in having the quietest, most efficient, most technologically advanced submarines anywhere; they're expensive, and we never have enough of them," said Willard. "So we in the Pacific Fleet strategically emplace our submarine forces in order to maintain a continuum of operations and give us the capability to surge those submarine forces forward whenever we need them."

Ohio recently completed a major maintenance period (MMP), one month ahead of schedule. Ohio's Gold crew, commanded by Capt. Dennis Carpenter, leveraged the early completion to conduct training out at sea, which was welcomed by the crew.

"The ship has been out of the yards for over a month. Working closely with Captain Carpenter and the Gold crew, we were able to complete the MMP, and that enabled the Gold crew to have the ship and conduct training and midshipmen operations in San Diego for about three weeks," said Gero.

Both the Gold and Blue Ohio crews worked together to ensure the ship successfully completed the MMP, while ensuring the work being done to the ship was completed successfully and correctly.

"We (the Blue crew) took the boat out for about six days in late December so we could get some proficiency and make sure we were able to operate the boat safely," explained Gero. "We started the MMP and spent about seven or eight weeks there, taking apart some of the systems, making some of the repairs and generally trying to oversee the shipyard's repair and installation processes.

"Once we identified that all of the equipment was operating normally, the Gold crew was able to take about two and a half weeks of additional operational time, which is a great training opportunity for them, as well as a great show and tell opportunity for us during the midshipmen training period."

While the Gold crew utilized underway training time, the Blue crew also took advantage of the time available to ensure they were trained by honing in on the skills they need.

"While the Gold crew was working hard to get the ship ready for sea again at the end of MMP, and during midshipmen operations in San Diego the last three weeks, my crew was hard at work here," said Gero. "We just finished a very comprehensive and very challenging command training exercise, or CTE, which is overseen by Submarine Squadron 19 and [Trident Training Facility], where they observed us go through our paces, and our crew came out with flying colors."

Romanian Forces End Mission in Iraq

By Army Sgt. Mark Miranda, Special to American Forces Press Service

CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE ADDER, Iraq - Military operations in Iraq formally ended for Romanian forces June 4, as one of America's coalition allies prepared to ship out some of its remaining troops with an end-of-mission ceremony held by Romania's 26th Infantry "Red Scorpions" Battalion.

The Romanian flag was lowered over the 26th's compound here, affectionately known as "Camp Dracula," in a ceremony following a memorial for the Romanian military personnel who died in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The ceremony was held just an hour before the U.S. Army 1st Armored Division's 4th Brigade Combat Team conducted a relief-in-place, transfer-of-authority ceremony with the outgoing 4th Brigade Combat Team of the 1st Cavalry Division.

Romanian President Traian Basescu, who is the supreme commander of Romanian armed forces during wartime, was on hand.

Romanian Lt. Col. Gabriel Toma, commander of the 26th Infantry Battalion, received the U.S. Bronze Star Medal from Army Lt. Gen. Charles H. Jacoby Jr., commander of Multinational Corps Iraq.

"It's hard to say farewell to a trusted partner," Jacoby said. "Few have been as committed to freedom of the Iraqi people as the Romanians, and I extend my thanks, as it's been an honor to serve with them here in Iraq."

Jacoby praised the Romanians as a dedicated and capable force, and expressed condolences for their lost soldiers.

Since August 2003, Romania has deployed more than 5,200 troops to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Assigned to two different multinational divisions, Romanian forces have provided intelligence support to Multinational Division South by conducting reconnaissance and surveillance missions and operating unmanned aerial vehicle platforms. Romanian forces also provided base security, supply-route security and quick-reaction forces in Basra, and conducted training and monitoring of Iraqi army units, culminating with the May 23 graduation of Iraqi commandos on Camp Ur.

FEMA National Level Exercise 2009 (NLE 09)

A big U.S. federal government exercise sponsored by FEMA is scheduled for the end of July. It may offer some interesting monitoring opportunties nationwide throughout the radio spectrum. I have complete details on our sister blog, the BTown Monitoring Post at
http://monitor-post.blogspot.com/2009/06/fema-national-level-exercise-2009-nle.html.

Baltops 09 Kicks Off Today

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael T. Rumbach, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Africa/Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs

KARLSKRONA, Sweden (NNS) -- Maritime forces from 12 countries will participate in the largest multinational naval exercise this year in the Baltic Sea June 8-19.

The Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) exercise is an annual event aimed at improving interoperability and cooperation among regional allies.

"During the exercise, Sailors will work side-by-side with other personnel from partner nations while they are in port and underway," said Rear Adm. John N. Christenson, commander, Carrier Strike Group 12, embarked aboard USS Mount Whitney (LCC/JCC 20) during a press conference on board the ship.

"They will become familiar with the other militaries' operations, procedures and practices."

Christenson, the officer in tactical command for the exercise, was joined Swedish Rear Adm. Anders Grenstad at the press conference. Grenstad is the Royal Swedish Navy chief of staff and commander, Maritime Component Command. He is the Swedish equivalent of the U.S. Navy's chief of naval operations.

"BALTOPS provides the opportunity for personnel of all participating nations to engage in realistic and challenging maritime training to build experience, cooperation and teamwork," said Christenson.

Sweden is hosting the in-port final planning phase and has organized various official and unofficial activities ranging from a harbor celebration to sporting events. The goal is to get Sailors from different nations together to form strong bonds before the exercise begins.

"The interaction of our forces recreationally is essential for interaction professionally, tearing down barriers between cultures," Grenstad said. "The personal relationships developed at these events allow our Sailors to really understand one another. This translates directly to our operational capability when we are underway together."

Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States are participating in the exercise. The U.S. participants believe this is an example of how teamwork among different nations helps to increase stability, diminish threats to peace and strengthens relationships between nations.

"The Baltic Sea provides a unique training opportunity due to heavy commercial shipping traffic and the inherently unpredictable nature of the sea itself," Grenstad said.

"It's vital for our Sailors to conduct realistic training in unfamiliar waters, and it provides an important opportunity for them to see the world. This greatly affects their quality of life," Christenson added.

This is the 37th iteration of BALTOPS, intended to improve interoperability with partner nations by conducting peace support operations at sea, including gunnery exercises, replenishments at sea, undersea warfare, radar tracking, mine countermeasures, seamanship, search and rescue, maritime interdiction operations and scenarios dealing with potential real-world crises and maritime security.

MILITARY EXERCISE BALTOPS 09

Exercise areas. Exercise areas.
Area A Area A
543000N 0155000E-543000N 0154000E-543702N 0141906E- 543000N 0155000E-543000N 0154000E-543702N 0141906E -
545000N 0134000E-551200N 0134000E-553000N 0144500E- 545000N 0134000E-551200N 0134000E-553000N 0144500E -
553000N 0151500E-560000N 0170000E-560000N 0183000E- 553000N 0151500E-560000N 0170000E-560000N 0183000E -
550500N 0183000E-550500N 0162000E-545000N 0155000E- 550500N 0183000E-550500N 0162000E-545000N 0155000E -
543000N 0155000E 543000N 0155000E 543000N 0155000E 543000N 0155000E
Vertical limits FL195 Vertical limits FL195

Area B Area B
562100N 0150734E-561332N 0150552E-560716N 0150654E- 562100N 0150734E-561332N 0150552E-560716N 0150654E -
560617N 0151955E-561208N 0152453E-562016N 0153755E- 560617N 0151955E-561208N 0152453E-562016N 0153755E -
561000N 0163000E-560000N 0170000E-553000N 0151500E- 561000N 0163000E-560000N 0170000E-553000N 0151500E -
553000N 0144500E-553000N 0143000E-554350N 0140830E- 553000N 0144500E-553000N 0143000E-554350N 0140830E -
555438N 0141600E-560730N 0141435E-561255N 0142349E- 555438N 0141600E-560730N 0141435E-561255N 0142349E -
562100N 0150734E 562100N 0150734E 562100N 0150734E 562100N 0150734E
Vertical limits FL95 Vertical limits FL95

Area C Area C
545000N 0134000E-545000N 0132000E-544000N 0125000E- 545000N 0134000E-545000N 0132000E-544000N 0125000E -
544000N 0123000E-550000N 0124000E-551000N 0131000E- 544000N 0123000E-550000N 0124000E-551000N 0131000E -
551200N 0134000E-54500N 0134000E 551200N 0134000E-54500N 0134000E

Participants in the exercise:

SNMCMG1
HDMS Thetis F 357
HNLMS Makkum M 857
HMS Brocklesby M 33
BNS Bellis M 916
FGS Sulzbach-Rosenber M 1062

USS Mount Whitney LCC 20
USS Forrest Sherman DDG 98

FGS Karlsruhe F 212
FGS Hameln M 1092
FGS Seehund 01
FGS Seehund 03
FGS Puma P 6122
FGS Nerz P 6124
FGS Zobel P 6125
FGS Elbe A 511

HMS St Albans

HNLMS Mercuur A 900
HNLMS Maasluis M 856
HNLMS Haarlem M 853
HNLMS Van Kinsbergen A 902

HDMS Ebsern Snare L 17
HDMS Peter Tordenskhold F 356
HDMS Havkatten P 552
HDMS Makrelen P 554
HDMS Glenten P 557

BALTRON BALTRON
LVS Virsaitis A 53
LTNS ???
ENS ???

H(SW)MS Visborg M 03
H(SW)MS Vinga M 75
H(SW)MS Sturkö M 14

FS Pegase M 644
FS Sagittaire M 650

FNS Hamina 80
FNS Hanko 82

Frequencies:

2273.2 kHz Link 11
5102.5 kHz Baltops 2009 Network Coordination

Net Calls:

S=STA
K=KAR
E=ESB

BF - USS Mount Whitney CP Management Link 11
KAR - Karlsruhe
PUM - Puma
ESB - Esbern Snare
ELB - Elbe
ZOB - Zobel
FSH - USS Forrest Sherman
HAM - Hamelin
PET or PTR - Peter Tordenskiold
MAK or MKR - Makrelen
STA - ST Albans
MTW - Mount Whitney
THS - Thetis
NER - Nerz

Oak Hill Begins Deployment With Partner Nation Liaison Officers

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Hendrick L. Dickson, Oak Hill Southern Partnership Station ‘09 Public Affairs

ATLANTIC OCEAN (NNS) -- USS Oak Hill departed her homeport at the Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek Va., June 3, for Southern Partnership Station (SPS) '09, with nearly 20 foreign liaison naval officers (LNOs) embarked with its crew.

The officers are embarked in support of the Navy's effort to engage with partner nations to create and maintain a safe maritime environment for use by all nations.

The LNOs represent maritime forces from the countries of Brazil, Peru and Uruguay and are working side-by-side with Oak Hill crew members seeing firsthand how U.S. Sailors operate and sharing their own ideas and experiences.

"One of the goals for this deployment is to bolster regional maritime safety and security," said Capt. Brad Williamson, Commander, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 2 and Oak Hill – SPS '09 mission commander.

"The cooperation and collaboration we build with our partner nations will help serve to strengthen our ties and improve our ability to work together in the future. Having our Sailors and partner nations here in a joint environment where they can train and operate together is beneficial for all."

The goals expressed by Williamson are shared by many of the LNOs as well.

"We get to find out how to work toward common goals and how each other operate in real world situations," said Uruguayan Navy Lt. Gabriel Calimaris. "We learn to communicate with each other better and are building camaraderie through partnership."

The LNOs have been given tours throughout the ship and have participated and observed various ship evolutions, including landing craft unit (LCU) and amphibious assault vehicle (AAV) operations and fire drills.

"We need to know how to work together so if anything happens, we can reduce mistakes. Partnership, cooperation, sharing -- those words require a joint effort from all involved," said Peruvian Navy 1st Lt. Patricio Negron.

Oak Hill–SPS '09 is scheduled to continue throughout July, which gives participants time to build upon the early success and further enhance the partnerships between the nations.

NORAD Flight Exercises Planned for Washington Area

WASHINGTON - The Defense Department will conduct two training exercises involving aircraft here tomorrow.

The first exercise by the North American Aerospace Defense Command and its regional component will occur between midnight and 6 a.m. EDT, followed by another exercise between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

The exercises comprise a series of training flights held in coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration, the National Capital Region Command Center, the Joint Air Defense Operations Center, the Continental U.S. NORAD Region, Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Coast Guard and CONR's Northeast Air Defense Sector.

Both the early morning exercise Falcon Virgo and the daytime Amalgam Arrow are designed to hone NORAD's intercept and identification operations, as well as procedural tests of the NCR Visual Warning System, officials said.

Exercise Falcon Virgo will include two Civil Air Patrol Cessna aircraft, two Air Force F-16s and a Coast Guard HH-65 Dolphin helicopter. Residents may see these aircraft approaching and flying in the vicinity during the late-night and early morning hours.

Aircraft participating in Exercise Amalgam Arrow include a C-21 Lear 35, a C-172 Cessna and an Air Force F-16. Residents may also see these aircraft approaching and flying in the vicinity of the nation's capital.

FEMA Chief, Northcom General Cite Military's Hurricane Response Role

By Army Staff Sgt. Jim Greenhill, Special to American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON - The National Guard is essential to hurricane response, the head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency told lawmakers here last week.

W. Craig Fugate, FEMA administrator, and Army Maj. Gen. Frank Grass, U.S. Northern Command's director of operations, testified June 4 before an ad hoc disaster-response subcommittee of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.

"The National Guard is a key component of any state governor's ability to respond to a variety of disasters," Fugate said. "They are a force multiplier for the ... state responders. [The National Guard] is a key component of our national defense strategy."

Fugate said one of the first things he did after he was sworn in May 19 was to meet with Air Force Gen. Craig R. McKinley, chief of the National Guard Bureau.

"We have a very strong statewide mutual aid system under [the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, and] we leverage that with the National Guard," Fugate said.

The National Guard and Northcom stand ready to support civil authorities in the 2009 hurricane season, which began June 1, Grass said.

The National Guard is "the first responders in support of [civil authorities] and the governor, so they're going to be there first," Grass told the subcommittee. "It behooves us at Northcom to understand their capability and look at their response times, because if they're successful at the local level, that's less federal assets we have to put forward."

National Guard, Northcom and FEMA leaders were joined by state and county officials at a hurricane workshop in South Carolina earlier this year, Grass told lawmakers.

"We walked through ... how the locals would be responding, how the state would respond [and] then the National Guard gave us a lay-down by state of where their shortfalls were," Grass said. "Then FEMA came in and explained what capabilities it may be requesting.

"The biggest shortfall this current hurricane season," he continued, "probably is in the brigade structure of the National Guard, because of the number of brigades deployed [overseas]. Even though it's a shortfall in certain regions, it's not a shortfall across the nation. It's a matter of reallocating forces, and the National Guard is working very closely ... with the state adjutants general to identify those forces that can fill those shortfalls."

Grass said a similar situation exists with helicopters, and that equipment from other regions can relieve a shortage in a particular state.

A third challenge is aeromedical evacuation, Grass said.

"We've improved greatly since last hurricane season on the ability to identify patients, ... move [them], how to receive them," he said. Defense and federal coordinating officers are working with local officials to improve communication before a storm.

Any hurricane response will be a joint effort by military forces supporting civilian authorities, Grass said.

"We've looked closely at the active component – Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard – ... to see where their assets would be available," Grass said.

National Guard Bureau and Northcom leaders talk daily to coordinate efforts, Grass said in an interview after his testimony.

"Between Northern Command and NGB, we're all watching the continental United States and the states and territories," Grass said. "If we see something out there, ... we immediately make contact with each other."

NGB's command center and the North American Aerospace Defense Command and Northcom command center work together closely, and whenever National Guard forces are deployed domestically, "we're prepared to back them up," Grass said.

"The key point in this response – whether it's a local Guard unit or it's a federal force being called in because the governor said he has a shortfall – is that we're always in support of a civilian agency on the ground that needs help, and we owe it to the taxpayers – to our citizens – to use the best asset that we have the quickest."

During Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Grass was deputy director of the Army National Guard. He then served abroad in U.S. European Command, returning last year to take up his position at Northcom. That previous hurricane experience, plus his time abroad, has given him a perspective on the nation's current hurricane preparedness, he said.

"To see the changes, it's night and day," Grass said. "Northcom has matured. The Guard has matured in their relationships with the states and with Northern Command. Just the fact that today there are five reserve component general officers serving full time at Northern Command and there are three traditional Army Reserve and Air Guard and Army Guard generals serving at Northern Command – we have a much closer relationship than we have ever had. The FEMA administration has reached out to the interagency and to the Department of Defense.

"When you look at a total reserve force of over a million, and the National Guard at over 460,000 Army and Air Guardsmen," he continued, "there's no reason the National Guard Bureau can't make that response happen through [emergency management assistance compacts] – and we would be prepared from Northern Command to step in and help if there were gaps."

As is increasingly the case throughout the Defense Department, Northcom is a truly joint environment, Grass said.

"I don't care what uniform you wear or what component you're with," Grass said, "your No. 1 mission should be defense of the homeland and providing response capability to the citizens of the United States."

Milair Frequency Changes - 6/8/2009

Time again for some more aero frequency changes, updates and corrections from the Milcom MP Quik-Stop . . .

118.4250 Dayton OH Approach/Departure Control

122.7250 Peter O Knight Airport (Tampa) FL CTAF freq

123.0500 McCreary County Airport (Pine Knot) KY CTAF freq

124.5000 Albuquerque ARTCC (ZAB) Winslow AZ RCAG, ex-124.4500

127.0500 Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County MI (KDTW) PRM Runway 4L/22R

128.3500 Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County MI (KDTW) PRM Runway 3R/21L

135.7750 Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County MI (KDTW) PRM Runway 4R/22L

225.4000 Oakland ARTCC (ZOA) Half Moon Bay CA RCAG Low Altitude, ex-380.3000

273.4500 Cleveland-Hopkins International OH (KCLE) Tower/Ground Control/Clearance Delivery

291.1000 Santa Barbara CA Approach/Departure Control, ex-397.9000

307.1250 Northern California Tracon Approach/Departure Control (151-359), ex-387.0000

346.3250 Cleveland OH Departure Control, ex A/D Control

352.0500 Dayton OH Approach/Departure Control

354.0250 Cleveland OH Approach Control, ex-346.325

355.6000 Oakland ARTCC (ZOA) Ferndale CA RCAG and Half Moon Bay CA RCAGLow/High Altitude, ex-387.1000. This also moves the ARCP freqs for the following Aerial Refueling Tracks: AR-005L (East/West) and AR-255L (East/West).

Defender Arrives in Sasebo

The mine warfare ship USS Defender (MCM 2) enters the submerged deck of the Military Sealift Command heavy-lift vessel Condock IV during a float-on/float-off evolution in Sasebo basin. Defender will be joined in Sasebo by USS Avenger (MCM 1), expected to arrive later in the month. Both avenger-class mine warfare ships will conduct an extended deployment in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joshua J. Wahl/Released)

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joshua J. Wahl, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West, Det., Japan

SASEBO, Japan (NNS) -- The Avenger-class mine countermeasures ship USS Defender (MCM 2) was off-loaded from heavy lift ship, Condock IV, at Fleet Activities Sasebo's India basin during a float-on/float-off operation June 3.

The Navy does not possess the capability provided by the specialized heavy-lift ships, also known as semisubmersible ships.

"Operation meetings, safety checks and coordination between representatives from Navy Sea Systems Command, Military Sealift Command, Mine Countermeasures Squadron One and Sasebo-based COMCMDIV 11 all went into getting Defender moored here for her visit," said Lt. j.g. Richard S. Ray, chief staff officer at Mine Countermeasures Division (COMCMDIV) 11.

"We have done heavy lift ship movement before, but this is the first time we have done this evolution here in Sasebo. For the local representatives it is a great experience we are all excited to be a part of," said Ray.

Defender, the first of two mine ships that will conduct a Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployment, arrived ahead of the lead ship of the Avenger-class mine ships, USS Avenger (MCM 1), expected to arrive toward the end of June.

The ships are 224 feet long with a beam of 39 feet and a draft of 15 feet. There are eight officers and 76 enlisted personnel on each ship. The commanding officer of Defender is Lt. Cmdr. Patrick O'Mahoney. The commanding officer of USS Avenger is Lt. Cmdr. Steve Johnson.

Both ships recently shifted their homeport from Ingleside, Texas, to San Diego, where they conducted pre-overseas movement training and a maintenance period dedicated to elevating readiness and support of the Sailors and the WESTPAC deployment.

Ensign Christopher B. Cupp from Sulphr, La., said the transit from Ingleside took approximately 45 days with six crew members riding aboard to keep watch and provide general maintenance to the ship while conducting the transit.

"Being a smaller ship, our design is tailored for the coastal mission and can only maintain stores and supplies long enough for a shorter time," said Cupp.

"This has been a terrific opportunity to get more experience and see how the Navy operates in other areas of the world. I have heard so many good things about Sasebo, and Japan is someplace I have always wanted to visit. I am really looking forward to getting out and exploring the rich culture while we are here."

CTF 151, USS Gettysburg Help Keep Waterways Safe for All

Members of a visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team from the guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64) and U.S. Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment (LEDET) 409 respond to a Yemeni dhow that had been drifting at sea for two days due to engine problems. Gettysburg is part of Combined Task Force (CTF) 151, a multinational task force established to conduct counter-piracy operations under a mission-based mandate throughout the CMF area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Eric L. Beauregard/Released)

By Lt. John Fage, Combined Task Force 151 Public Affairs

USS GETTYSBURG, At Sea (NNS) -- Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 and its flagship, the guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG-64), helped keep the sea lines of communication open and waterways clear of criminal activity when they boarded a suspect skiff June 2.

At approximately 11 a.m., members of the Gettysburg's visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team and the U.S. Coast Guard's Maritime Safety and Security Team (MSST) 91112 inspected a small dhow and its accompanying skiff after it was spotted by a helicopter assigned to Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 46, Detachment 9 while patrolling the Gulf of Aden.

Gettysburg's boarding team found no suspicious materials or pirate paraphernalia aboard the dhow but used the opportunity to speak with the dhow's passengers, letting them know that coalition warships are patrolling the area to keep them safe and out of harm's way.

"Our job as Sailors, no matter what country we are from or what mission we are assigned to, is to protect all people at sea," said Turkish Rear Adm. Caner Bener, commander, CTF 151. "It is our duty and our privilege to keep the world's waterways safe for all those who travel on the sea."

CTF 151 is a Turkish-led multinational task force established to conduct counterpiracy operations under a mission-based mandate throughout the Combined Maritime Forces Area of Responsibility to actively deter, disrupt and suppress piracy in order to protect global maritime security and secure freedom of navigation for the benefit of all nations.

NAVMARCORMARS Status

I first revealed on this blog, that the Navy was thinking of disestablishing the Navy-Marine Corps MARS radio service. See my post of May 22, 2009 at
http://mt-milcom.blogspot.com/2009/05/nnwc-proposes-to-disestablish-navy-mc.html



Now this official update from the Chief, Navy-Marine Corps MARS:

CHNAVMARCORMARS INFO BCST 20-091.

NAVMARCORMARS STATUS: OPNAV AND DOD HAVE YET TO RESOLVE WHETHER THE NAVY WILL BE ALLOWED TO 'SUNSET' THE MARS MISSION. I UNDERSTAND THAT SOME MEMBERS OF OTHER MARS SERVICES ARE MISINTERPRETING THE WORDS OF THEIR RESPECTIVE MARS CHIEFS AND ARE PRESSURING OUR MEMBERS TO JOIN THEIR SERVICE. THIS IS TOTALLY OUT OF LINE AND SHOULD NOT BE OCCURING. IF, I REPEAT IF, DOD ALLOWS NAVY TO TERMINATE NAVMARCORMARS, WE WILL ADDRESS THIS IN AN OFFICIAL MANNER. OTHERWISE CONTINUE NAVMARCORMARS OPERATIONS AS NORMAL.

Army Announces Decision To Delay Inactivation of V Corps Headquarters

The Department of the Army announced today that Secretary of the Army Pete Geren has delayed the inactivation of the V Corps Headquarters and the conversion of U.S. Army Europe Headquarters into a deployable field army headquarters. A corps headquarters is the primary organization that synchronizes the operations of Army, joint, and coalition forces within its designated area of responsibility. This decision will allow time for the Army to assess its overall command and control requirements.

The decision is not tied to any other force structure or stationing issues. The one-year retention of V Corps Headquarters in Germany does not fall under the 2005 Base Closure and Realignment Commission, nor will it have any impact on the two heavy brigade combat teams currently stationed in Europe.

This action is part of a larger effort to relieve the extraordinary demands that are being placed on the Army’s corps headquarters and that have reduced ‘dwell time’ to unacceptably low levels. Geren’s decision calls for the delay of force structure actions for the V Corps and U.S. Army Europe Headquarters for a period of one year, from July 2009 to July 2010. Under this directive, both organizations will remain in their current approved designs and at current resourcing levels. V Corps

Headquarters will maintain its current military authorization of 411 personnel, and U.S. Army Europe Headquarters will retain its current military authorization of 377 personnel.

When the inactivation of V Corps was announced last year, certain staff sections were merged to create efficiencies as the inactivation date approached. The inactivation delay does not affect those mergers.

At this point, V Corps Headquarters will continue to provide oversight of its subordinate units, and will continue to report to the commanding general, U.S. Army Europe. V Corps’ priority function will be to ensure units that deploy from Europe for operational missions are trained and ready. Both V Corps and U.S. Army Europe Headquarters will continue to operate under their current structures.

The Army leadership is committed to informing all members of the U.S. Army Europe family (soldiers, family members, civilian employees, and the public) as developments occur.

Navy Carriers to Conduct FACSFAC Jax Ops

For my southeast US readers, the USS George H.W. Bush CVN-77 will be in the FACSFAC Jax opareas on June 6 with CQ (carrier quals) for CNATRA. Monitor reports are requested especially any GB tac calls.

Looking ahead the USS Harry S. Truman will be operating in the central Florida area (Pinecastle R2910, Lake George R2907A/B, and Rodman R2906). They are probably in the area conducting air wing ops.

82nd Airborne Assumes Command in Eastern Afghanistan

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, June 3, 2009 - Fifteen months after transferring authority of Regional Command East in Afghanistan to the 101st Airborne Division, the 82nd Airborne Division reassumed command during a ceremony here yerterday.

The ceremony marks the official transition from Combined Joint Task Force 101 to Combined Joint Task Force 82, with the new unit assuming responsibility for 14 provinces in eastern Afghanistan along the Pakistan border.

Army Maj. Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti, commander of the 82nd Airborne Division and CJTF 82, praised 101st Airborne Division soldiers for their 15 months of service working to enhance the lives of the Afghan people.

"The leadership of the 101st forged an exceptional team that has proven an unparalleled understanding of, and performance in, this complex environment," Scaparrotti said. "In partnership with the people of Afghanistan, they have taken the fight to our common enemy and improved the lives of thousands of Afghan citizens."

Army Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Schloesser, commander of the 101st Airborne Division and CJTF 101, reflected on the accomplishments made by the soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, civilians and coalition partners in his task force during past 15 months while also looking to the future with CJTF 82.

"You can hold your head high at what you were able to accomplish," he said. "History will record your accomplishments here fighting those who would terrorize the world. While we say farewell to Afghanistan, another great task force returns to take our place.

"The 82nd Airborne Division -- no strangers to Afghanistan -- led by Major General Scaparrotti, will continue to assist the government, the Afghan national security forces, and the people of Afghanistan," he continued, "increasing security, improving governance and developing Afghanistan."

Regional Command East's mission is to bring development, governance and security to Afghanistan and ultimately to deny terrorists safe haven to launch attacks against the United States and its allies. CJTF 82 will work directly with NATO's International Security Assistance Force, U.S. Forces Afghanistan and the Afghan government to maintain security and development for the region.

The 82nd Airborne Division, deployed here from Fort Bragg, N.C., will maintain control of Regional Command East for about a year. The 101st Airborne Division, based out of Fort Campbell, Ky., has been deployed to Afghanistan since April 2008.

VP-8 Crew Comes Home to Jacksonville

By Aviation In-Flight Technician Airman Scott Beach, Naval Air Station Jacksonville Public Affairs

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- Families gathered at Naval Air Station (NAS)Jacksonville May 27 to welcome the first crew of the Patrol Squadron (VP) 8 to its new duty station when it returned from deployment.

Six months ago, the "Fighting Tigers" of VP-8 bid farewell to their families at NAS Brunswick, Maine as they deployed to the Middle East and Japan.

Friends and families awaiting the afternoon arrival found it difficult to contain their anticipation. Every P-3 flying over the base excited them as they hoped it was "their crew." Then, precisely at 1 p.m.– VP-8 Orion number 295 landed and taxied down the ramp with an American flag flying from the overhead hatch of the cockpit.

After cutting engines and securing the aircraft, VP-8 Executive Officer Cmdr. Jiancarlo Villa led his crew down the ladder to a historic homecoming.

"This is exciting," said Villa after he greeted his family. "We're just trying to get everyone settled into the routine of a new duty station. The families sacrificed greatly to move from Maine to Florida during deployment. For us, it's exciting to be some of the first to get down here. We're all really looking forward to integrating with the other squadrons and becoming part of the Jacksonville community."

After Naval Air Crewman 2nd Class Scott Wagner hugged and kissed his wife, Stephanie, she introduced him to their daughter, Grace, who was born during his deployment.

"I've never felt like this – it is an amazing feeling to come home from a successful deployment and finally see my daughter," said Wagner. "Maine is a beautiful place, but I'll take warmth over snow any time. It's definitely going to be a great lifestyle down here."

The Fighting Tigers are in the process of moving into their new spaces at Hangar 511, a home it will share with VP-5, VP-16, VP-62 and VPU-1.

"In the first two weeks of June, we'll be welcoming our maintainers' airlift, plus, three more P-3s," said Villa.

As part of the BRAC 2005 realignment, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing 11 will assume the administration, operations and oversight for three squadrons - VP-8, VP-10, VP-26 - moving to NAS Jacksonville. NAS Brunswick is scheduled for closure in May 2011.

13th MEU Completes ARG/MEU Exercise

By Cpl. Robert C. Medina, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs

DJIBOUTI (NNS) -- The Boxer Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) completed the weeklong ARG/ MEU Exercise near Camp Lemonier Djibouti May 26.

The exercise was a ship-to-shore training evolution designed to strengthen Navy and Marine Corps amphibious capabilities and involved service members from the USS New Orleans (LPD 18), USS Comstock (LSD 45) and 13th MEU.

"As the MEU, we are the floating reserve for U.S. Central Command," said Lt. Col. Tye R. Wallace, commanding officer, Battalion Landing Team 1/1. "In that capacity, we have to be ready to go anywhere in the area of operations and perform any of our standard MEU missions."

Marines were joined by the French Foreign Legion throughout the exercise, giving both military forces a chance to learn from each other.

"We mainly paired the French Foreign Legion with Alpha Company to do combined exercises," said Wallace. "They did some small unit infantry training and practiced room search operations to help train French forces."

Wallace said Alpha Company conducted other training with amphibious assault vehicles and tanks to familiarize the French with U.S. Marine Corps operations.

"We also brought some of the French officers and Legionnaires aboard the ship to give them a tour," said Wallace. "This was to build relationships between the two companies and to show them how we live out [at] sea."

Wallace said he hopes this exercise will be a stepping stone for follow-on MEUs to do something similar and continue to build working relationships.

"I think we came out of the exercise stronger than when we came in," he said. "We have identified any issues and taken corrective action to bring ourselves back up to our full capabilities."

Weapons Company, BLT 1/1, also tested some of their equipment ashore while conducting field operations.

Staff Sgt. Steven E. Williams, platoon sergeant for Weapons Company, said they wanted to put some rounds down range to keep up to date on marksmanship skills.

This gave Weapons Company an opportunity to get some time out in the field to build unit cohesion.

"I know it was really hot out here, but both new Marines and those who have been with us for awhile learned something," he said. "It was good to get off the ship and get some training in. I think the Marines really enjoyed themselves; I know the French did as well."

The 13th MEU and Boxer Amphibious Ready Group are currently on a deployment in support of regional and maritime security operations.

In addition to BLT 1/1, the MEU is composed of its Command Element, Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 163 (Reinforced) and Combat Logistics Battalion 13.

U.S. 3rd Fleet Joins Global Operations Network

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Krishna Jackson, Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet received official notification of its preliminary accreditation as a maritime operations center (MOC) by U.S. Fleet Forces Command June 1 after successfully completing its accreditation exercise, Terminal Fury May 21.

"Each and every one of you, from the most junior Sailor to the top of the MOC echelon played a key role in the success of Third Fleet achieving its accreditation and I'm proud of all of you for your professionalism and dedication," said Vice Adm. Samuel J. Locklear, 3rd Fleet commander, during a post-exercise commander's call.

The accreditation took place in two phases. The first phase consisted of the accreditation team observing how the staff operates on a day-to-day basis and comparing 3rd Fleet's organizational elements, equipment and training to established MOC requirements when not responding to contingencies.

Terminal Fury was the second phase and tested the 3rd Fleet staff's ability to execute core tasks during a major exercise designed to test their ability to respond and successfully manage multiple simultaneous events.

"We can now conduct centralized planning and decentralized execution and the last time we did that was when Admiral Halsey was here. We're more focused now on the operational level of war," said 3rd Fleet MOC Deputy Director, Capt. Kevin J. Baum.

"This is a big step toward completing a globally networked Navy that now has the ability to decisively and expeditiously respond to disaster relief, contingencies and operations around the world."

Third Fleet is now aligned with already accredited MOCs at Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet; 2nd Fleet; 5th Fleet; 6th Fleet and 7th Fleet. Commander, 4th Fleet will be the last of the numbered fleets to be accredited during the annual multinational exercise PANAMAX 09 in August.

The MOC concept establishes an integrated global network of operations centers that are designed to deliver widespread maritime capability to a broad spectrum of operations. They enhance the Navy's command and control of forces at the operational level via headquarters manned by qualified personnel who specialize in global interoperability and the systems necessary to conduct those operations.

For example, collaboration as a MOC would enable 3rd Fleet to request and receive augmentation from 2nd Fleet if a natural disaster such as an earthquake were to hit Southern California. In such a situation, 3rd Fleet could then coordinate disaster relief efforts and still be able to support operations off the coast and in forward deployed areas of operation.

The accreditation team reported 3rd Fleet's ability to operate as a MOC including planning processes and coordination was the best observed, so far.

"Just a couple years ago we were not prepared to operate as a maritime operations center, and now we are recognized as the top performing maritime operation center in the Navy, so far, and it's because of people like you who are experts at what you do that made this possible," said Locklear while addressing his staff at an awards ceremony.

While following standardized processes, MOCs are flexible, scalable and can be tailored to support the execution of core capabilities of the maritime strategy.

GW, CVW-5 Finish COE, Ready for Summer Deployment

An F/A-18F Super Hornet from the "Diamondbacks" assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 102 launches from the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). George Washington, the Navy's only permanently forward deployed aircraft carrier, is underway conducting a combat operations efficiency evaluation in the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Rachel N. Clayton/Released)

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class John J. Mike, USS George Washington Public Affairs

ABOARD USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (NNS) -- USS George Washington (CVN 73) and embarked Carrier Airwing (CVW) 5 successfully completed a combat operations efficiency (COE) evaluation June 2.

The COE certification, sometimes called a "blue-water certification," allows the ship and airwing team to launch and recover aircraft without the requirement for a divert airfield if operationally necessary.

"The Airwing 5, George Washington team came together to complete this evaluation better and sooner than anyone expected following our extended maintenance period," said GW Commanding Officer Capt. David A Lausman. "That success is truly a testament to the hard work and professionalism of all of the 5,000 Sailors on board, from the aircraft directors on the flight deck to the helmsmen steering the ship and from the maintainers keeping our aircraft flying to the culinary specialists preparing our food in our galleys.

"That teamwork is what makes us America's 911 strike group, fully ready to go anywhere in the world to execute the orders of the president of the United States."

The certification process began May 23, with the evaluation phase beginning May 31, according to GW Air Officer Cmdr. Mark Stoops. The GW/CVW-5 team was required to meet established criteria of efficiency and safety during aircraft launch and recovery operations throughout two consecutive days.

Stoops said the two major criteria involved in a successful COE evaluation are event factors and combat boarding rates. Event factor represents the average amount of time it takes GW to launch and recover aircraft per cycle, and combat boarding rate is the average amount of attempts it takes an aircraft to land on board.

"We did very well in both of those areas, which are hard to meet," Stoops said. "It's a big hurdle — a fun hurdle to face and a good hurdle to get over."

Cmdr. Steve Blasch, GW's assistant air officer, pointed out that the safe and efficient launch and recovery of aircraft requires teamwork at every level.

"The guys on the deck are phenomenal, and the work they do on a daily basis is amazing," he said. "But you can't overlook all the other Sailors, from those in the superstructure navigating the ship to the engineers below decks making us steam and getting wind over the deck."

The qualification is the last test for GW and CVW-5 before their upcoming deployment.

"This initial qualification gets us started as we begin our exercises through the summer on deployment," said CVW-5 Commander, Capt. Michael S. White.

"The real element we've been working for is to build the CVW-5 and GW team," White said. "The good part is everyone is very professional. They know what they're doing in their jobs, and it's just a matter of building communication lines so we work better together."

GW is the flagship of the George Washington Carrier Strike Group, commanded by Rear Adm. Kevin M. Donegan and comprised of CVW 5, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, and guided missile cruisers USS Shiloh (CG 67) and USS Cowpens (CG 63).

Following COE, GW will continue this underway in the western Pacific Ocean conducting advanced cyclic flight operations in preparation for its first summer deployment from Fleet Activities Yokosuka since becoming the Navy's only permanently forward deployed aircraft carrier.

Navy Aircraft Joins Search For Missing Air France Aircraft

A U.S. Navy aircrew yesterday joined the international search for survivors and debris from an Air France aircraft that went missing yesterday off the Brazilian coast, U.S. Southern Command officials announced.

A U.S. Navy P-3C Orion and its 21 crewmembers reported to Augusto Severo Airfield in Natal, Brazil, yesterday and joined search operations for Air France Flight 447 today, officials said.

The crew deployed from its forward operating location in Comalapa Air Base, El Salvador, where it was supporting regional illicit trafficking detection and reporting operations, officials said.

U.S. Southern Command dispatched the aircraft and crew after Brazilian officials accepted the command's offer to assist with the search.

Southcom also directed a combat rescue officer from Joint Task Force-Bravo, located at Soto Cano Air Base in Honduras, to Recife, Brazil. There, he will help the Brazilian Rescue Coordination Center coordinate rescue assets, officials said.

Air traffic controllers lost contact with the Air France Airbus A330-200 aircraft during a severe lightning storm after takeoff from Rio de Janiero. The aircraft, bound for Paris, disappeared with 228 passengers aboard.

A Brazilian air force crew reported today that they had spotted debris floating in the South Atlantic that could have come from the aircraft.

Army Announces BCT Stationing Decision

The secretary of the Army announced yesterday that in accordance with the President’s budget, the Army has halted the plan to build three additional brigade combat teams (BCTs) at Fort Bliss, Texas, Fort Carson, Colo., and Fort Stewart, Ga. This decision will not affect the Army’s authorized end strength of 547,400. The Army will reach its target of 45 BCTs in fiscal 2010 with the activation of the 2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division at Fort Bliss.

Today’s announcement does not involve the restationing of the two heavy BCTs scheduled to return from Europe in fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2013, which is being examined as part of the ongoing Quadrennial Defense Review. The Army also announced today that White Sands Missile Range, N.M., will no longer receive a BCT from Europe in ficsal 2013 as originally planned.

Halting the three additional BCTs ensures that the Army retains its ability to support future requirements and maximizes:

· the ability of brigades to deploy for contingency operations and major exercises;

· opportunities and access to training facilities, battle command centers, and training support centers to provide ready units to meet Army Campaign Plan missions; and

· quality of life for soldiers and families.

Additionally, this course of action is the least disruptive to affected communities and facilitates the best use of taxpayer dollars and current and planned fiscal 2009 and fiscal 2010 military construction projects. These projects play an essential role in supporting the growth to 547,400 and ensuring our Army soldiers and families have the quality facilities they deserve.

Today’s announcement will allow Congress to make time-sensitive and important authorization and appropriations decisions. The Army will provide Congress shortly a detailed, project-by-project list that specifies which facility requirements have changed and which remain valid.

“I understand the tough economic impact this decision will have on the communities that have worked so hard to prepare for the arrival of the three brigades,” said Secretary of the Army Pete Geren. “They are great partners with the Army, and we will need their continued support as we work on the growth that is underway at these locations.”

With this announced change, the population at Fort Bliss is projected to grow from 13,742 in 2003 to 36,069 in 2013; Fort Carson from 15,199 to 25,003; and Fort Stewart from 20,512 to 24,970.

Weapons of Mass Destruction-Civil Support Team Certified For Guam and the United States Virgin Islands

The Department of Defense (DoD) notified Congress Monday that the Weapons of Mass Destruction Civil Support Teams (WMD-CST) of the Guam and U.S. Virgin Islands National Guard are now certified.

The 94th WMD-CST of Barrigada, Guam, and the 23rd WMD-CST of Saint Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, are fully ready to assist civil authorities in responding to a domestic weapon of mass destruction incident, and possesses the requisite skills, training, and equipment to be proficient in all mission requirements.

The teams certified today bring the total number of teams certified by DoD to 55, which completes the 55 authorized by Congress to ensures one team is fielded in every state, territory, and the District of Columbia.

Navy Terminates Contract For VH-71 Presidential Helicopter

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy announced June 1 that it will terminate the VH-71 System Development and Demonstration (SDD) program contract. The announcement follows a Department of Defense (DoD) decision to cancel the existing presidential helicopter replacement program.

The VH-71 was intended to replace both the VH-3D and VH-60N aircraft currently used to conduct presidential support missions.

Navy contract N00019-05-C-0030 and associated work with Lockheed Martin Systems Integration – Owego (LMSI-O), Owego, N.Y., awarded Jan. 28, 2005, for the SDD of the VH-71 program, has been terminated for the convenience of the government.

The under secretary of defense for acquisition, technology and logistics issued a VH-71 program acquisition decision memorandum May 15, 2009, which directed the program be cancelled, to include both Increment 1 and Increment 2.

Spectres begin their journey to a new home

One of two 16th Special Operations Squadron AC-130H Spectre gunships taxis onto the flightline at Cannon AFB May 19. The 16 SOS formerly transfers from the 1st Special Operations Wing at Hulburt Field, Fla., to the 27th Special Operations Wing at the end of June. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class James Bell)

by 2nd Lt. Mark Lazane, 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- Seeing a C-130 Spectre gunship rolling down the strip is a common occurrence here.

So common, in fact, that often the sight of the aircraft taking off does not draw the attention of most personnel on base. To many, it is just another routine training exercise in progress for one of the busiest squadrons in the Air Force.

True to form, on Tuesday, May 19, a pair of Spectre gunships took off in what may have appeared to be yet another normal training flight.

However, this particular take off meant something truly special to all Hurlburt Field personnel, whether they realized it or not.

On this particular takeoff, members of the 16th Special Operations Squadron, the men and women who fly the Spectre gunship, rolled down Hurlburt Field's runway, marking the beginning of the end of a decorated combat squadron located on Hurlburt Field.

The planes reached the end of the runway, climbed into the sky, then quickly headed due west, becoming the first airplanes from Hurlburt Field headed to the squadron's new home awaiting them at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M.

"It was satisfying to see the big pieces of the move getting prepped and ready for their formation departure," said Lt. Col. Sean Farrell, 16th SOS commander. "It marked another milestone [in the move] as it was one of first tangible things to demonstrate that yes, we are actually moving."

Upon landing at Cannon AFB, the two aircraft and their crew members were greeted with a warm reception. Then, with as much simplicity as they had left Hurlburt Field, the crew members got to work. They knew that the gunship's operational tempo does not allow the aircraft or its crew to sit idle for a long period of time, even during historic moments.

"We have to continue to replace and train our guys," said Farrell. "We have to train them to ensure we continue to have the best gunship crews Air Force Special Operations Command's got."

Cannon AFB, formerly a fighter wing base, was named as a new AFSOC base. The addition of a second base dedicated to special operations missions helps alleviate some of the log jam that currently exists for some aircraft at Hurlburt Field who use the Eglin Range for training, said Farrell.

Moving an entire squadron has the potential to cause some headaches.
Col. Farrell, however, believes that a well-developed plan coupled with expert personnel have helped to lessen the impact and shock that could have risen.

"Our maintenance folks have really come through for us," Farrell said. "They have managed to provide us with planes to do the mission. With their help, we have been able to provide training and combat sorties in three different locations. They have done a great job."

"I'm proud of how we have accomplished the move thus far," Farrell said. "We haven't interrupted schoolhouse operations or operational requirements. In addition, despite the move, we have been able to meet the obligations to the combatant commanders down range, while working with reduced operations here."

The move will help the aircraft train more often, which allows them to continue to improve their tactics and techniques to become an increasingly lethal force, said Farrell.

The expansive Melrose Range, located just outside of Cannon AFB, is a range that provides the operators with realistic practice areas. It has similarities to the Eglin Range already in use by the squadron, which helps eliminate much of the lag time for personnel as they get used to their new surroundings, said Farrell.

"The training opportunities will get better every year," Farrell said. "We plan on taking advantage of that. There are some aspects of training that may in fact eventually be a better fit for the squadron [at Cannon]."

The AC-130H Spectre gunship is a modified Lockheed airplane configured with several side-firing weapons, including a 105 mm Howlitzer and a 40 mm Bofors cannon. The aircraft is used for close air support, armed reconnaissance, interdiction, night search and rescue, and airborne command and control.

There will be several events taking place to highlight the squadron's change of location. On June 18, there will be a barbecue organized by the 16th SOS as an opportunity for the squadron to thank the wing for the memories.

The following day, there will be a flag transfer, when the 16th SOS's guidon will be loaded onto a gunship and flown to Cannon to signify the transfer of location. On that day, the detachment currently operating at Cannon AFB will officially become the 16th SOS, and the remaining individuals who are finishing up the move at Hurlburt Field will operate as a detachment here until all aspects of the move are complete.

Though manpower, equipment and aircraft will still be at Hurlburt Field through the end of October, the transformation of the new location will take another step on July 30, when Farrell relinquishes command of the squadron to the current Squadron Operations Officer, Lt. Col. Jason Miller.

The manner in which the 16th SOS is moving is unique, said Farrell. Usually, a squadron will go on inactive status in order to move their people all at once to a new location.

Due to the operational requirements of the aircraft, however, the 16th SOS was not afforded that luxury, as they have had personnel continuously deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom since 2001.

The 16th SOS became operational in October of 1968 at Ubon Royal Thai Air Force Base in Thailand. They moved to Hurlburt Field in December 1975, where they have been ever since.

Despite over 30 years at Hurlburt Field, Farrell does not feel that people should be saddened by the move.

"The 16th SOS is not going away, we will still be the 16th SOS no matter where we go," Farrell said. "I understand for former active duty gunship guys, it's bittersweet because we're leaving, but it's not as sad for guys in our unit, though they will miss their friends and family that they have here. It's beneficial to spread units and capabilities around and not hold them in one spot."

Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors to conduct air defense exercise

TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (AFNS) -- An Oregon National Guard base will host nearly 200 Soldiers and Airmen, and a U.S. Navy destroyer will patrol coastal waters while participating in a major U.S. Northern Command air defense exercise in mid-June.

Exercise Amalgam Dart '09 will take place at Camp Rilea and nearby Warrenton, Ore., June 18 to 20. It is one of several exercises under the Ardent Sentry '09 exercise series.

Local residents will see a minor influx of people and equipment moving into and out of the Warrenton and Camp Rilea areas a few days before and after the actual exercise starts and ends.

As the continental U.S. geographical component of the bi-national North American Aerospace Defense Command, Continental U.S. NORAD Region personnel provide airspace surveillance and control and direct all air sovereignty activities.

From their Air and Space Operations Center here, the CONR commander and his staff will direct Air Force, Army and Navy assets, ensuring the air sovereignty and air defense of the continental United States.

During Amalgam Dart '09, CONR participants will demonstrate a rapidly deployable air defense system that could protect high-profile national targets against cruise missiles and other low-flying threats.

Deployable-Homeland Air and Cruise Missile Defense assets will be brought from South Carolina to Camp Rilea and Warrenton where they will remain for the duration of the exercise.

"Exercise Amalgam Dart '09 provides us with the opportunity to train and for potential scenarios that could affect the continental U.S.," said Maj. Gen. Hank Morrow, CONR commander. "Exercises like this allow us to review processes and procedures and focus our future training efforts to identifying areas that may need attention. "

Participants in Amalgam Dart '09:

-- The Oregon National Guard's Camp Rilea will provide logistical support, including lodging and meals.

-- F-15 Eagles from the Oregon Air National Guard's 142nd Fighter Wing in Portland and F-16 Fighting Falcons from the California Air National Guard's 144th FW in Fresno will serve as interceptors during the exercise. They will operate out of the Portland airport and from McChord Air Force Base, Wash., respectively.

-- South Carolina National Guard's 263rd Army Air and Missile Defense Command from Anderson will deploy the Avenger short-range air defense system.

-- U.S. Navy Aegis-equipped destroyer which uses computers and radars to track and destroy enemy targets will patrol off the Oregon coast.

-- An E-3 Sentry from the Air Force's 552nd Air Control Wing at Tinker AFB, Okla., will provide all-weather surveillance, command, control and communications needed by air defense forces.

-- Rhode Island ANG's 282nd Combat Communications Squadron and Georgia ANG's 283rd Combat Communications Squadron will deploy communication teams to provide secure data and voice networks for the exercise.

-- The Western Air Defense Sector, based at McChord AFB, Wash., will detect, identify, track and scramble fighters if need be to intercept unknown or threatening airborne objects.

-- C-21s from the 311th Airlift Squadron at Peterson AFB, Colo., and the Air Force Flights Standards Agency in Oklahoma City , and Oregon Wing of the Civil Air Patrol Cessna 172s will serve as high and low-level "targets'" for the exercise participants.

There will be no night flying by Air Force and Air National Guard aircraft, while there will be some night flying by the Civil Air Patrol.

Additionally, there will be no live munitions involved in the exercise.

Officials activate 617th Air and Space Operations Center

by Master Sgt. Jim Fisher, 17th Air Force Public Affairs

RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany (AFNS) -- Officials at 17th Air Force took another big step toward full operational capability May 29 with the activation of the 617th Air and Space Operations Center here.

The new AOC gives leaders at 17th AF, also known as Air Forces Africa, an increased command and control capability integral to their function as the air component for U.S. Africa Command. Since 17th AF officials declared initial operational capability Oct. 1, 2008, command and control has been conducted by Airmen in the Command and Control Center, or "C2C," a precursor to the AOC.

Col. Andy Redmond, who led the C2C, became the 617th AOC commander during the activation ceremony. He said that while funding and resources are a challenge, the group of people running the new unit will make sure of its success.

"We are looking for ways to get what we need to make sure our capabilities are state of the art, and that we have access to all the tools necessary to execute command and control of the air domain for U.S. Africa Command," Colonel Redmond said. "We have an excellent group of people, and they've done a great job making our C2C run, and they'll do a great job to make our Air and Space Operations Center run."

The colonel explained that while about 60 people are now on-station in the AOC, 17th AF officials expect to have about 130 on board around Oct. 1, when plans call for them to declare full operational capability. The expanding team not only will execute overall command and control for 17th AF, but will flight-follow and support U.S. air operations within the African area of activity. A combination of Air Force specialties comprises the center, including but not limited to command and control, communications, and intelligence.

"We are building a complete air picture for Africa, which includes acquiring new systems, training and continuing to build on relationships with partner units," Colonel Redmond said.

As the AOC team continues to build and expand in personnel and capacity, Colonel Redmond said they will continue to rely on partners like the 603rd Air and Space Operations Center. The 603rd AOC has a similar role for 3rd Air Force under U.S. Air Forces in Europe and U.S. European Command. Before 17th AF stood up, they were also responsible for operations in Africa.

"The 603rd has been outstanding since 17th Air Force stood up last October, and we couldn't have arrived where we are without their support," Colonel Redmond said.

He also lauded 17th AF leadership, and the other leadership in the C2C for working together to on the execution and progression of command and control.

Superintendant Senior Master Sgt Mike Topps, who also participated in the activation ceremony, received praise from the colonel for his leadership and hard work.

Maj. Gen. Ron Ladnier, 17th AF commander and presiding official at the activation, said support from senior leaders in USAFE and by both the former and current Air Force chiefs of staff also has been crucial.

"We really have to thank General (Roger) Brady, General (Michael) Mosley, and General (Norton) Schwartz for their support in building 17th Air Force," Gen. Ladnier said. "They really care about making us the best we can be."

Colonel Redmond and his team at the 617th are focused on the same objective, the general added.

"We are very fortunate to have a leader like Colonel Redmond and a group of professionals who are focused on building a team of experts to make sure that we are providing U.S. Africa Command with complete expertise and robust support in the air domain," General Ladnier said.

The 617th AOC is collocated with 17th AF headquarters at Ramstein.

U.S. Military Spacecraft Aid Search For Missing Airbus

U.S. Air Force Defense Support Program missile warning satellite data collected early Monday over the central Atlantic, is being examined to see if it captured a possibly fiery breakup or impact of the Air France Airbus A330 that disappeared en route to Paris from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

More at http://spaceflightnow.com/news/n0906/01crash/

NorthCom Exercise

Courtesy of Jack NeSmith and the Milcom newsgroup:

Charleston County's Radio Communications is participating in "DICE" (Department of Defense Interoperability Communications Exercise) from 1-5 June at the Mt Pleasant Army National Guard Armory.

The DICE is part of a multi-state communications exercise coordinated by DHS and USNORTHCOM (United States Northern Command, a joint military.[Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Marine Corp] command responsible for North America).

Texas, Arizona and New Jersey are also participating.

Charleston County's Sheriff's Office Command Post and Air Support Unit will also be participating. We will have our Amateur Radio folks working out of the EOC. They will be passing info to the state EOC, FEMA, local hospitals, etc.

The main objective is to test communications. radio, data (internet) and satellite. We will have our communications trailer, Sheriff's Office command post, state command post and several SCARNG communications vehicles at the armory.

We will be testing FMV (Full Motion Video) from F-16's out of McEntire Air National Guard Base in Columbia and the Sheriffs Office Helicopter The F-16's will be high enough to where it will not be noticeable. The F-16's will be flying on June 2 and June 4.

Air Force Academy Graduation Demo Report -Update

Adam, out in the Colorado Springs area, monitored the US Air Force Academy graduation on Tuesday and confirmed that the Thunderbirds used their 141.0750 MHz (designated Victor-1) during their demonstration.

Dale, W5ACP, also attended the event and reported the solos using their normal 235.2500 MHz.

Thanks to Adam and Dale for their reports, and remember if you have a report from one of the airshows, we can use your help. Remember, even if we have a freq you heard, pass it along as that verifies and keeps our list up-to-date. Please pass your report along to the email address above and you can remain anonymous if you want or need to.

If you need frequencies remember the 2009 MT Airshow Guide has been posted to the net at http://www.monitoringtimes.com/MT_Air_Show_Guide_2009.pdf.

Also remember to check out the links on the Milcom Blog Guide to Airshows in the strip to the right of this post for late breaking info and frequency updates.

And this weekend the flight demo teams will be performing at the following shows:

AF Thunderbirds: Ellsworth AFB, SD - Dakota Thunder http://www.ellsworth.af.mil/ and http://www.dakotathunder.com/index.html

Navy Blue Angels: Janesville, WI - Southern Wisconsin AirFEST http://www.swairfest.org/

Golden Knights: Janesville, WI - Southern Wisconsin AirFEST http://www.swairfest.org/ and Rochester, NY - Rochester International Air Show

Canadian Snowbirds: Rochester, NY - Rochester International Air Show

Milair Frequency Changes - 6/1/2009

Time again for some more aero frequency changes, updates and corrections from the Milcom MP Quik-Stop . . .

118.4250 Dayton Approach/Departure Control - James M. Cox Dayton International OH (KDAY), ex-127.6500

119.3000 Columbia AFSS MO (KCOU) Advisory

119.7750 Horseshoe Bay Airpark TX (KDZB) AWOS-3

120.1000 Offutt NE Approach/Departure Control

120.4000 Savannah Approach/Departure Control (effective 2 Jul 2009)

125.1500 Atlanta ARTCC (ZTL) Hickory NC RCAG (Sector 48/Wilkes Sector) Low Altitude Discrete: Approach/Departure services for various small airports via this RCAG

125.3000 Savannah Approach/Departure Control (effective 2 Jul 2009)

125.3500 Cleveland ON Approach/Departure Control, ex-126.5500

127.2250 Dayton OH Approach/Departure Control

127.6500 Dayton Approach/Departure Control - Delete Bellefontaine Regional OH (KEDJ), Sidney Muni (I12), Grimes Field (I74)

128.3500 Kansas City ARTCC (ZKC) Richland MO RCAG

132.1000 Memphis ARTCC (ZME) - Nashville/Joelton TN RCAG Low Altitude Discrete: Approach/Departure services for various small airports via this RCAG

133.5000 Miami ARTCC (ZMA) - Key West FL RCAG

134.3000 Jacksonville ARTCC (ZJX) - Dothan AL Low Altitude Discrete - Ashburn Sector (Sector 13): Approach/Departure services for various small airports via this RCAG.

134.4250 Tri City TN Approach/Departure Control

251.2000 Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst NJ 108ARW Command Post "Torch Control" Primary

254.2500 Stillwater Regional OK (KSWO) Tower Primary (Delete)

263.0000 Atlanta ARTCC (ZTL) Hickory NC RCAG (Sector 48/Wilkes Sector) Low Altitude Discrete: Approach/Departure services for various small airports via this RCAG

263.1000 Memphis ARTCC (ZME) - Nashville/Joelton TN RCAG Low Altitude Discrete: Approach/Departure services for various small airports via this RCAG

269.0750 Boston Consolidated TRACON Approach/Departure Control, ex-385.4500

279.5750 Southern California (SoCal) Tracon Approach/Departure Control (SCT) ex-380.2000

279.6250 Southern California (SoCal) Tracon Approach/Departure Control (SCT) ex-381.5000

284.6750 Kansas City ARTCC (ZKC) Richland MO RCAG

306.9000 Miami ARTCC (ZMA) - Key West FL RCAG

306.9250 Potomac TRACON Approach/Departure Class B IC

307.3750 Laughlin AFB TX (KDLF) Tower Primary, ex-279.5750

321.0000 Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst NJ 108ARW Command Post "Torch Control" Secondary

323.2750 Southern California (SoCal) Tracon Approach/Departure Control - Catalina (KAVX), ex-387.0250

346.3250 Cleveland ON Approach/Departure Control, ex-354.0500

349.0000 Tri City TN Approach/Departure Control

352.0500 Dayton OH Approach/Departure Control, ex-291.1000 316.7000

353.5000 Jacksonville ARTCC (ZJX) - Dothan AL Low Altitude Discrete - Ashburn Sector (Sector 13): Approach/Departure services for various small airports via this RCAG.

353.7750 Savannah Approach/Departure Control (effective 2 Jul 2009)

354.0500 Offutt NE Approach/Departure Control

371.8750 Savannah Approach/Departure Control (effective 2 Jul 2009)

Barrow AK FSS HF frequencies 2866.0 and 5631.0 kHz have been removed from service.

Milcom Blog Logs - May 2009 - Central Florida

Jack, a member of the MMP team, has passed along his Milcom blog log freqs monitored during the month of May from his central Florida location. Thanks Jack.

Air-Ground-Air
138.3750 138.6000 138.6250 140.2500 140.2750 141.3000 141.5500 143.6000 143.7500 149.0000
225.3500 R-2910 PINECASTLE RNG
225.4500 MOODY AFB GA RESCUE OPS
225.6250 UNKNOWN
226.5000 EXERCISE/TRAINING
226.8250 EXERCISE/TRAINING
227.0750 W-470 INTERFLIGHT
228.4750 EXERCISE/TRAINING
228.9000 NORAD
228.9750 EXERCISE/TRAINING
229.2250 CCAFS
229.6750 EXERCISE/TRAINING
233.7000 MOODY AFB GA A/D
234.2250 EXERCISE/TRAINING
234.8750 CARABELLE RNG
234.9500 EXERCISE/TRAINING
235.4000 NASA INTERFLIGHT
235.5000 EXERCISE/TRAINING
236.2000 NAVY
236.2750 EXERCISE/TRAINING
236.8500 A-10 DEMO TEAM
237.0250 2d FS INTERFLIGHT
237.2000 ARMY
237.5750 EXERCISE/TRAINING
237.7000 LANTCOM
237.8000 VFA-106 TAC 1 "ROMAN" NAS OCEANA VA
238.1000 NAVY
239.0000 ORLANDO EXEC TOWER
239.3500 EXERCISE/TRAINING
239.4750 EXERCISE/TRAINING
239.9000 AR-620
240.1000 UNKNOWN
241.9250 EXERCISE/TRAINING
242.2000 ARMY
244.4000 EXERCISE/TRAINING
247.0000 ARMY
248.6000 UNKNOWN
250.0250 NAVY
250.9000 NAS MAYPORT AIRWOLF BASE
251.2500 159FS/125FW
252.1000 USAFR
253.6000 NASA INTERFLIGHT
253.7000 159FS/125FW
253.8000 AWACS
254.3250 KZJX TAYLOR - LO w/125.375
255.4000 FSS
256.3000 UNKNOWN
257.5750 EXERCISE/TRAINING
257.7000 KZMA LAKELAND-LO
257.8000 DAYTONA IAP TOWER
260.9000 NORAD
261.4000 W-470A
262.0000 95FS
264.8000 KSC VARIETY NET
265.2250 UNKNOWN
265.9000 FACSFAC JAX
267.5000 FACSFAC JAX
268.7500 NAVY
269.2500 KZJX OCALA - LO w/133.325
269.3000 KZMA BAIRN
269.4000 TAMPA IAP TOWER
269.9000 FAA
270.1500 NORTHCOM
271.1000 J-STARS
271.3000 UNKNOWN
271.8000 95FS INTERFLIGHT
272.0000 EXERCISE/TRAINING
273.5500 KZJX ST JOHNS - LO w/134.0
275.2000 GRUMMAN FLIGHT TEST
277.2000 UNKNOWN
277.4000 KZJX BRUNSWICK - LO w/126.75
277.8000 FLEET COMMON
279.0500 EXERCISE TRAINING
279.2750 NAVY
279.6000 TAMPA IAP A/D
281.4500 EGLIN AFB A/D
281.5000 KZMA FT MEYERS-LO
282.2000 KZJX JEKYLL - LO w/124.675
282.3000 KZJX ALMA - HI w/135.975
283.5500 USCG
283.8500 EXERCISE/TRAINING
284.0000 KSC TOWER
284.5000 FACSFAC JAX
284.7000 ORLANDO IAP A/D
285.5000 KZMA AVON
285.6500 KZJX STATES - HI w/126.125
289.2000 R-2910 PINECASTLE RNG
290.0000 NORTHCOM
290.4000 KZJX WAYCROSS - LO w/132.3
291.2000 NAVY
291.7000 KZJX ZEPHYR- UH w/128.425
292.5500 EXERCISE/TRAINING
293.2250 KZMA STOOP
301.0000 SOUTH TACTS RNG 4 X-RAY "WARLOCK"
307.0000 ORLANDO IAP A/D
307.2000 KZJX SEMINOLE- HI w/128.075
307.3000 KZMA CIGAR
308.4500 EXERCISE/TRAINING
308.5000 NAS MAYPORT BASE OPS
311.0000 6ARW COMMAND POST "LIGHTING OPS"
312.2500 EXERCISE/TRAINING
313.7000 FACSFAC JAX
314.2000 159FS/125FW
316.3000 NORAD
317.5250 KZJX PERRY- HI w/135.625
317.6000 KZMA VERO BEACH
319.0000 KZMA BOYEL
320.5000 FACSFAC JAX GCI BRISTOL
322.4000 JAX IAP A/D
322.4750 KZJX LAKE CITY - HI w/133.875
324.8000 NAS JAX
327.1000 KZJX TORRY - LO/HI w/134.85
328.1750 EXERCISE/TRAINING
335.5500 KZJX DARBS - LO w/128.05
335.9250 EXERCISE/TRAINING
337.2000 TACAMO WB
340.2000 NAS JAX TOWER
342.5000 EGLIN AFB METRO
343.0000 159FS/125FW
346.2500 KZJX GREEN COVE - HI w/127.475
348.7000 KZMA HOBEE
349.0000 KZMA LAKELAND-HI
350.0000 SOUTH TACTS RNG 4 X-RAY "WARLOCK"
350.3750 EXERCISE/TRAINING
351.8000 JAX IAP A/D
351.9500 DAYTONA IAP A/D
353.5750 TAMPA IAP A/D
360.7000 KZJX MAYO- HI w/125.175
360.8000 KZJX GENEVA- HI w/125.05
361.0000 EXERCISE/TRAINING
363.3000 NAVY
364.2000 NORAD AICC
376.9000 FACSFAC JAX
377.0500 JAX IAP A/D
377.1000 KZJX RCAG GAINESVILLE
379.9500 DAYTONA IAP A/D
381.3000 ACC
381.5000 DAYTONA IAP A/D
387.0000 DAYTONA IAP A/D