New technology proves to be dynamite during JEFX 08

An F-22 Raptor refuels behind a KC-10 Extender April 17 while at 26,000 feet above Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. The F-22 is assigned to Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska. (U.S. Air Force Photo/Airman 1st Class Jonathan Snyder)

LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. (ACCNS) -- F-22 Raptor pilots using an experimental version of a Tactical Targeting Network Technology, or TTNT, were able to send and receive information such as command and control messaging, imagery, airspace updates and even free text messages using a cockpit touch-screen color display during the Air Force Joint Expeditionary Force Experiment 2008, at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., held April 15 to 25.

Although the download methods are not operational nor planned for operational use, the test demonstrated the F-22's utility for potential information-sharing technologies.

The JEFX 08-3 combined real-world air and ground forces, simulation and technology insertions as a venue for meeting command and control objectives. The transferring of real-time intelligence data between other aircraft and the air operations center was part of the joint experiment in a warfighting environment.

Numerous Army, Navy and Air Force weapon systems participated along with the F-22s.

"JEFX gave us a chance to show we can offload information from the F-22 and how it can enhance the coalition and joint forces," said Col. James Firth, the deputy director of requirements for Air Combat Command.

While the primary mission for the F-22 is to project air dominance, rapidly and at great distances, JEFX highlighted the potential for it to be used to connect all aircraft together to provide the best air picture to ground stations using the TTNT.

TTNT is part of a wider Department of Defense technology effort to find, fix, track, target, engage and assess surface targets using a network-centric capability. The system made it possible for the F-22 to share imagery and information to other aircraft and people on the ground in real time.

TTNT is "a higher capacity and more rapid information tool, basically a wireless Internet," said Col. Jim Firth, the ACC deputy director of requirements. "We were able to essentially strap that on in a way that we probably wouldn't do operationally, but it still was a great stepping stone to show how we could off board information."

The system is only one of several potential systems the Air Force is considering for a new offloading information capability, Colonel Firth said. The new capability, which is anticipated to be in use regularly by 2015, won't be limited to just the F-22.

The Air Force is already using fighters and bombers for providing some level of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance purpose, but such platforms currently lack the ability to send certain information, such as large images, back to a base from the aircraft.

In fact, every fighter and bomber aircraft in the Air Force inventory is an ISR platform, said Lt. Col. Daryl Sassaman, the Global Cyberspace Integration Center Modernization and Innovation division chief.

"Fighters and bombers are closer to the fight," he said. Such aircraft are typically in a position to take an image of an emerging target.

Fighters and bombers used for non-traditional ISR, or NTISR, include the B-52 Stratofortress, B-1B Lancer, F-16 Fighting Falcon and A-10 Thunderbolt II.

Although such aircraft should remain focused on their primary missions, "if they are in an area of opportunity where they can take an image or relay information (sensor data)," they are a great enabler, Colonel Sassaman said.

Traditional ISR platforms don't necessarily operate in threatening environments, an area where NTISR can be most valuable, he said The F-22's combination of stealth, supercruise, maneuverability and integrated avionics, can provide an additional level of ISR capabilities in an environment where U.S. armed forces are denied access.

"There are environments where there's advanced defensive systems that the enemy has where (only) the F-22 can go in and operate," Colonel Firth said. "And, by virtue of being there, it can collect information that's of great value to a lot of other users."

That makes the F-22 not just an air-to-air platform but an air-to-air platform that can also conduct a vast array of ISR and attack capabilities, he said.

However, the focus for future technologies is not just on any single aircraft but rather on combining the information sharing capabilities from multiple platforms to create an overall perspective, Colonel Firth said.

"Nowadays a lot of platforms have great sensors that have the ability to pick up good information in the battle space," he said, "and we really want all those platforms to be able to share so that you basically collect and combine the best information that everybody has to offer."

Because this technology is emerging, DOD leaders are working with the Air Force and other services to determine the best and most cost-effective way to meet airborne networking future requirements.

New wings to secure A-10 longevity

by Tech. Sgt. Russell Wicke, Air Combat Command Public Affairs

A-10 Thunderbolt IIs from the 354th Fighter Squadron at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., fly a training mission over the Barry Goldwater Range in Arizona. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jesse Shipps)

LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. (AFPN) -- New wings are the answer to Air Force concerns on the aging A-10 Thunderbolt II, an airframe flying since 1975.

Air Force officials awarded a contract to Boeing last year requiring 242 new A-10 wings constructed and delivered to depots for installment on the thin-skinned airframes by 2011.

Not all 356 of the Air Force's A-10s require new wings because more than 100 airframes were constructed in the 1980s with "thick skin," giving them a stronger structure, said Master Sgt. Steven Grimes, A-10 maintenance liaison for Air Combat Command.

Those aircraft are rated for 16,000 flying hours, which is estimated to keep them airworthy sometime into 2030, according to Sergeant Grimes. The original thin-skinned A-10s were designed for 8,000 hours and were extended beyond that in the 1990s with depot repairs.

Based on the rate flying hours accumulate, the extension is expected to expire in 2011, which is when the new wings are scheduled to be installed. The new wings will extend the thin-skinned A-10 fleet to 16,000 hours, keeping them flying until about 2030.

Replacing the wings saves the Air Force "a great deal of money over a long period of time," said Lt. Col. Ralph Hansen, ACC A-10 program element monitor and pilot. The value of the Boeing contract is more than $1 billion between 2007 and 2018. Colonel Hansen said that equates to about $4 million per aircraft, a price far below what it would cost to recapitalize the A-10.

"You can't buy a business jet for that price," he said.

Maintaining the old wings would require repeated removal, inspection and installation of beef-up straps at A-10 depots, said Tony Mizar, an A-10 depot mechanic and maintenance scheduler.

According to Sergeant Grimes, continually repairing old wings, as opposed to replacing them, would cost approximately $1.3 billion more than the Boeing contract.

The A-10 was designed and produced by Fairchild Republic, which discontinued aircraft production in 1984. This created complications in reproduction of the wings because there are limited extant engineer drawings, said Sergeant Grimes.

For this reason Boeing engineers have developed a three-phase process for the contract, said Jennifer Hogan, Boeing spokeswoman. The first phase is in progress now. It involves modeling the wing and scanning it to duplicate the 3-D model of existing wings. Colonel Hansen said the new wing will be no different from the current wings and will be transparent to pilots and maintainers. The one exception is "incorporation of reliability, maintainability and (production) improvements learned over the years," said Ms. Hogan.

The second phase is manufacture and assembly, and the third phase, set for 2011, is full-rate production and installation on the aircraft.

Wing installations will occur during regularly scheduled depot inductions which will preserve the mission capable rates, said 1st Lt. Nancy Dias, A-10 wing replacement program manager. The wings will fly 10,000 hours, or approximately 25 years, without inspection.

The A-10 is a valuable asset to the Air Force and Army because of its unique capabilities, said Colonel Hansen. It can deliver precision guided weapons at high altitudes, as well as surgical close air support at low altitudes. It's also the only fighter wielding the renowned 30mm cannon, capable of firing about 65 rounds a second. Colonel Hansen said the 30mm Gatling gun is the commanders' weapon of choice because it can be used much closer to friendly forces than bombs, and it is four times more powerful than the 20mm cannon (on other fighters).

A-10s also are undergoing modernization. The old airframe is midway through a major upgrade to a more capable A-10C by loading it with newer capabilities. It boasts the latest technology of smart weapons: GPS guided bombs, and all weather capability.

Furthermore, the sturdy airframe design enables the A-10 to operate from austere airfields and take battle damage without degrading capability.

Examples of its survivability include self-sealing fuel cells protected by foam, manual flight control systems that back up hydraulic controls, armor and a ballistic tub surrounding the cockpit.

"I've seen A-10s with very large holes in them that have survived just fine," said Colonel Hansen.

New tower freq at Pease - Reader Update

A NOTAM has been issued for KPSM - Portsmouth International at Pease (M0023/08)This NOTAM changed the tower frequency from 239.050 to 269.000 as of 5/1/2008 at 1300 UTC.

And don't forget that the 157ARW/133ARS ANG unit has an operations freq of 321.000, callsign Pack Ops.

Other frequencies for this base include:

Portsmouth International at Pease (KPSM)

120.950 Ground Control
122.950 Unicom
125.050 Approach/Departure Control (Boston)
125.825 Approach/Departure Control (Boston)
127.050 Ground Controlled Approach
128.400 Tower
132.050 ATIS
134.100 157ARW/133ARS Operations
236.800 Ground Controlled Approach
269.000 Tower
269.400 Approach/Departure Control (Boston)
273.500 ATIS
275.800 Ground Control
291.000 Departure Control
321.000 157ARW/133ARS Operations
335.800 Clearance Delivery
353.500 Approach/Departure Control (Boston)
395.800 Departure Control

And John FB passes along these additional frequencies:

148.200 NFM HAMMER [an Ops channel that co-ordinates aircraft status with PACK]
[My notes show 157ARW/133ARS Supervisor of Flying]

150.200 NFM Aircraft maintenance/support - a MOC [Maintenance ops center]

134.750 AM Boston/Manchester TRACON used by Pease tankers particularly when transitioning into local airspace from the south & west.

Thanks John for sharing with my readers.

Carrier Strike Group Commander Stresses Interoperability, Partnerships

By Navy Lt. Jennifer Cragg, Special to American Forces Press Service

While transiting through the Strait of Magellan on board USS George Washington today, the commander of Carrier Strike Group 8 explained the importance of interoperability and partnership building in the Southern Hemisphere.
The Strait of Magellan is located along the southern edges of the South American continent.

"Because the world is mainly ocean [and] no one nation and really no one navy can meet all of the world's maritime challenges, we simply have to work together," Navy Rear Adm. Philip Hart Cullom said during a teleconference with online journalists and "bloggers".

He added that is the overarching reason why the strike group is participating in U.S. Southern Command's "Partnership for the Americas" program.

Cullom noted that Portuguese adventurer Ferdinand Magellan, the first explorer to circumnavigate the globe, was on a voyage of discovery when he accomplished the feat in 1520.

"He found a path between the Atlantic and the Pacific, much like we're duplicating once again 488 years later," the admiral said. "We're on our own voyage of discovery, but this one's different. It's about hemispheric partnership."

Cullom stressed the importance of achieving three goals while the strike group transits around South America.

"We want a hemisphere that is secure for all. The threats to our security from the maritime are real, such as criminal organizations, violations of the fishing grounds, pandemic diseases and piracy," he said. "We all suffer devastating natural disasters ... [and the] threat that earthquakes, storms, floods and mudslides may impact us."

Cullom added that two other important goals of the strike group are fostering equal and cooperative relationships with the other nations in the hemisphere and supporting prosperity for the hemisphere and the world.

"We care greatly about those relationships, and this is the third year that the U.S. surface units have participated in Partnership for the Americas," he said. "This represents our ongoing commitment to building partnerships with other nations in the hemisphere."

Every day, hundreds of container ships, such as the ones that were transiting through the Strait of Magellan as Cullom spoke, rely on the open shipping lanes for worldwide trade purposes, he said.

"They transit the globe for specific purposes, for worldwide trade that directly promotes prosperity for all nations," he said. "As long as the shipping lanes are open for trade, commerce can flourish.

"When commerce is strong, economies are robust," he continued. "And a rising tide of commerce is what floats all boats."

He added that building partnerships with nations in the southern hemisphere is a key way to promote successful commerce.

"Seventy percent of the world is covered by water, 80 percent of the population lives probably within about 100 miles of a coastline, and finally, 90 percent of the world's trade directly depends on the oceans, the seas, bays, inlands, islands, coastal areas, rivers and even the airspace above them," Cullom said.

He added that even though 90 percent of the world's trade already travels through the ocean, that percentage will only increase over the next 10 to 20 years. "The maritime matters; the maritime is important. In a globalizing world, it's more important than ever."

He noted that the strike group's recent participation in UNITAS 49, a multinational naval exercise that promotes interoperability, contributed to the hemispheric partnership, providing valuable training with regional partners.

"We've conducted flight ops with Brazilian naval and air force units for combined air defense and strike group training, and we've tested our interoperability, and we're learning from each other's capabilities and experiences," Cullom said.

The strike group conducted training not only with Brazil, but also with the Argentine navy, participating in a series of anti-submarine warfare, air defense and surface exercises.

After transiting through the Strait of Magellan, the strike group will participate in bilateral task group exercises with Chilean and air and surface units.

(Navy Lt. Jennifer Cragg works for the New Media branch of American Forces Information Service.)

Eye on the Fleet - USS Essex

A Marine MH-53 helicopter, assigned to Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 265 (HMM-265), takes off May 8, 2008 from the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). Essex is the lead ship of the only forward-deployed U.S. expeditionary strike group and is participating in Cobra Gold 2008, a joint military exercise sponsored by the United States and Thailand designed to enhance interoperability between joint U.S. forces and the combined forces of the Thai, Singaporean, Japanese and Indonesian militaries. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class David Didier

Eye on the Fleet - USS Farragut

The guided-missile destroyer USS Farragut (DDG 99) approaches along side the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) in preparation for a refueling at sea. GW is undergoing carrier qualifications and flight deck certification in preparation for its homeport change to Yokosuka, Japan. GW will relieve USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) as the Navy's only forward deployed aircraft carrier. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Luis Ramirez

USS North Carolina Departs Namesake State

By Lt. James Stockman, Submarine Group 2 Public Affairs



WILMINGTON, N.C. (NNS) -- The Navy's newest nuclear-powered submarine, USS North Carolina (SSN 777), bid farewell to her namesake state May 5, during a departure ceremony at the Port of Wilmington.

Wilmington Mayor Bill Saffo, city officials and commissioning committee members waved good-bye to North Carolina and her crew as the boat slipped away from the pier and transited down the Cape Fear River toward open ocean.

"I told the captain and the crew that I was going to be a little depressed with them leaving, but it's been exciting for the city of Wilmington and we've made long lasting friends," said Saffo.

The crew of North Carolina enjoyed a week of celebrations and festivities culminating in her commissioning ceremony May 3, when she became the fourth submarine of the Virginia-class and the first submarine named after the "Tar Heel" state.

"They (North Carolina crew) were touched by the warmth and hospitality of Wilmington, but as much fun as this past week has been, we're submariners and look forward to getting back to sea," said Capt. Mark Davis, USS North Carolina commanding officer.

North Carolina will initially return to Norfolk, Va. before joining her sister ships USS Virginia (SSN 774), USS Texas (SSN 775) and USS Hawaii (SSN 776) at Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton, Conn.

With stealth, persistence, agility and firepower, fast-attack submarines like North Carolina are multi-mission capable--able to deploy and support special force operations, disrupt and destroy an adversary's military and economic operations at sea, provide early strike from close proximity and ensure undersea superiority.

SECNAV Names New Guided-Missile Destroyer USS Michael Murphy

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (AW) Kevin S. O’Brien, Office of the Secretary of the Navy, Public Affairs



LAKE RONKONKOMA, N.Y. (NNS) -- Secretary of the Navy, Donald C. Winter announced on May 7 at a ceremony in Lake Ronkonkoma, N.Y., the name of the newest Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer will be USS Michael Murphy. Designated as DDG 112, the name honors Lt. Michael Murphy who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during Operation Red Wing, in Afghanistan on June 28, 2005.

"Michael Murphy's name which will be forever synonymous with astonishing courage under fire will now be associated with one of the U.S. Navy's most technologically advanced, most powerful and most capable warships," Winter said.

Michael Murphy's hometown of Patchogue, N.Y. held a dedication ceremony memorializing a park bearing Murphy's name. Michael P. Murphy Memorial Park contains a black granite wall dedicated to the men lost in Operation Red Wing with each member's name inscribed. In the center of the memorial, a black granite stone is embedded into the floor of the plaza bearing the picture of Murphy and his Medal of Honor.

A Navy SEAL, Murphy lead a four-man team tasked with finding a key Taliban leader in the mountainous terrain near Asadabad, Afghanistan, when they came under fire from a much larger enemy force with superior tactical position.

Mortally wounded while exposing himself to enemy fire, Murphy knowingly left his position of cover to get a clear signal in order to communicate with his headquarters. While being shot at repeatedly, Murphy calmly provided his unit's location and requested immediate support for his element. He returned to his cover position to continue the fight until finally succumbing to his wounds.

"Every Sailor who crosses the brow, every Sailor who hears the officer of the deck announce the arrival of the commanding officer, and every Sailor who enters a foreign land representing our great nation will do so as an honored member of USS Michael Murphy," Winter said.

USS Michael Murphy will be one of the U.S. Navy's most advanced, state-of-the-art warships in the fleet. With the combination of Aegis, the vertical launching system, and advanced anti-submarine warfare system, advanced anti-aircraft missiles and Tomahawk cruise missiles, the Arleigh Burke-class continues the revolution at sea.

Utilizing a gas turbine propulsion system, USS Michael Murphy will be able to operate independently or as part of carrier strike groups, surface action groups, amphibious ready groups, and underway replenishment groups.

USS Michael Murphy will be the 62nd Arleigh Burke-class destroyer. She is 509.5 feet in length, has a waterline beam of 59 feet, displaces approximately 9,200 tons, has a crew size of 323 (23 officers and 300 enlisted) and she will make speed in excess of 30 knots.

Raptors conduct Hellfire missile fining

An MH-60R Seahawk assigned to the "Raptors" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71 fires the first of four live Hellfire missiles fired by aircraft assigned to a deployable squadron. The first MH-60R squadron aircraft is replacing the SH-60B and SH-60F aircraft to combine the capabilities of the two aircraft and has the capability to deploy the AGM-114 series Hellfire missile laser-guided precision air-to-surface missile. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Mark A. Leonesio)

Hopper, Port Royal Return to Pearl Harbor

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael A. Lantron, Commander, Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs

USS Port Royal CG-73. US Navy File Photo

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- Sailors of USS Port Royal (CG 73) and USS Hopper (DDG 70) returned to their homeport of Naval Station (NAVSTA) Pearl Harbor May 2 following a six-month deployment to the Western Pacific as part of the Tarawa Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) in support of the war on terrorism.

"It's fantastic to be home with the family and be able to take some time to relax," said Navy Counselor 1st Class (SW/AW/NAC) Rex Farmley, assigned to Port Royal. "The deployment was amazing, the ship did a lot of wonderful things and it was very well-executed."

As the two ships approached the pier, Hopper was greeted with hula dancers and Port Royal listened to the sounds of the Army 25th Infantry Division Band. Family and friends of the two crews lined the pier waving 'welcome home' signs and cheering the Sailors.

"It's been a long six months, but it's a great feeling to know they're finally home," said the wife of a Port Royal Sailor.

After the ships moored and the brows were in place, the two ships each held "first kiss" ceremonies and Sailors rushed to greet their loved ones waiting on the pier.

"This deployment has proven that our ship is capable of successfully completing any mission it's tasked with," said Cmdr. Jeffrey James, commanding officer of Hopper. "Our crew has risen to the challenge of every task and performed superbly throughout our underway time. Now we are all eager to return to our Ohana and enjoy the beauty of the Hawaiian Islands."

Both ships departed NAVSTA Pearl Harbor Nov. 12, 2007 to join the Tarawa ESG. While on deployment, Port Royal and Hopper provided support to Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, provided disaster relief and humanitarian assistance in Bangladesh after Tropical Cyclone Sidr, took part in operations in the Horn of Africa, and conducted maritime security operations in the Persian Gulf.

Combined, the two ships made port visits to Singapore; Penang, Malaysia; Bahrain; Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates; Phuket, Thailand; Palau; and Guam during the deployment. While on liberty, Sailors took in the culture and customs the areas had to offer.

USS Hopper DDG-70. US Navy File Photo.

USS Stephen W. Groves Returns Home from Counter-Drug Deployment

MAYPORT, Fla. (NNS) -- USS Stephen W. Groves (FFG 29) and embarked Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light 44 Detachment 5 returned to homeport in Mayport May 2 from a six-month Counter-Illicit Trafficking deployment to the Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific Ocean.

Groves also embarked Miami-based U.S. Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachments (LEDET) 409 and 404 while operating in the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) area of focus under the operational control of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command (NAVSO) and tactical control of Joint Inter-Agency Task Force South (JIATF-S). Counter-Illicit Trafficking operations are joint efforts designed to support participating nation's drug control programs.

The deployment began last October with Cmdr. Jon Kreitz commanding the ship. Kreitz's 18-month tour as commanding officer ended midway through the deployment, when Cmdr. Dan Starling assumed command before the ship made its way through the Panama Canal and into the Eastern Pacific.

"I continue to be amazed at the broad level of cooperation and coordination required to successfully combat Narco-terrorism," said Starling. "JIATF-S does a terrific job at tying all these diverse assets together, and the foreign navies and coast guards we've had the opportunity to work with exhibit tremendous professionalism."

Groves' counter-illicit trafficking mission quickly began when the crew discovered a "go-fast" boat, believed to be loaded with narcotics. "Go-fast" vessels are small, multi-engine speedboats commonly used to transport narcotics and contraband.

The ship pursued the suspect vessel and caught up to it. LEDET 409 conducted a boarding and seizure operation, resulting in the confiscation of 2,500 pounds of cocaine. Two days later, the ship responded to another "go-fast" threat and seized 1,300 pounds of narcotics.

In February, the ship was tasked to search for a stealthy self-propelled semi-submersible (SPSS) vessel, suspected of trafficking illegal drugs. LEDET 404 rapidly responded to the situation and boarded the SPSS, detaining several suspected traffickers from the scuttled, sinking vessel. An extensive search, using the ship's SH-60B helicopter and Rigid-Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB), resulted in the recovery of 59 bales of cocaine. This was only the second successful SPSS bust ever performed by the U.S. Navy, and the largest SPSS contraband recovery to date.

Two weeks later, Groves intercepted a fishing vessel and recovered 39 bales of cocaine. This was the final bust of the deployment.

The deployment's early months included other types of events as well. During port visits to Roatan, Honduras; Panama City, Panama; and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Sailors engaged with local citizens by participating in volunteer community relations (COMREL) projects to renovate senior citizen homes, paint school buildings, and teach children about the core values of the U.S. Navy.

The ship's religious lay leader, Culinary Specialist 1st Class (SW) Marvincent Williams enjoyed having the chance to work with the locals.

"I just thank God for this opportunity to help and share our talents with the people in the ports we visit," he said. "I feel like we profit even more than they do from our experiences in their schools and communities."

Groves extended the U. S. Navy's international presence by participating in a community outreach program called Project Handclasp. The San Diego-based organization collects donated hygiene items, medical supplies, learning materials and toys, so ships can distribute them to hospitals, schools, and orphanages around the world. Groves' Sailors donated Project Handclasp materials to a local children's hospital in Panama City, and worked with the Colombian Navy to paint an elementary school in Cartagena, Colombia, also giving out Project Handclasp gifts to the students there.

Many of Groves crew members were recognized for their performances and vital contributions to the ship's operational success. Two sailors were awarded Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, while 27 earned Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals.

"This crew is the pinnacle of Navy professionalism," said Groves' Command Master Chief (SW/AW) Brad Shepherd. "They are young, energetic and forthright in all endeavors of the mission—a hallmark of eagerness and the premier crew to orchestrate and execute the war on Narco-terrorism."

Peleliu Strike Group Deploys

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Jason McKnight, USS Peleliu Public Affairs

Amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5) conducts local operations near the Southern California coast. Peleliu is a member of Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 3, homeported in San Diego. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kerryl Cacho)

USS Peleliu (LHA 5) deployed May 4 in support of the war on terrorism as part of the Peleliu Expeditionary Strike Group's (PELESG) regular deployment rotation.

The PELESG is led by Commander, Amphibious Squadron (COMPHIBRON) 3 and includes the flag ship, Peleliu, amphibious ships USS Dubuque (LPD 8) and USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52), the guided-missile cruiser USS Cape St. George (CG 71) and the guided-missile destroyers USS Halsey (DDG 97) and USS Benfold (DDG 65).

"This strike group provides fleet and theater commanders with an assortment of options depending on the needs of any situation they may face," said COMPHIBRON 3, Capt. Jon Padfield. "Be it delivery of combat forces, humanitarian assistance, non-combatant evacuations, or maritime security, Peleliu ESG's assets are ready to provide the right support at the right place at the right time."

Peleliu's Commanding Officer, Capt. Marcus Hitchcock, said the PELESG is an integrated Navy and Marine Corps asset which can reach deep into the shore environment without requiring permanent, fixed land bases.

"Because we bring so many different organizations and capabilities to the area and don't need shore infrastructure, we provide a sea base from which theater commanders can draw exactly the type of support they need," said Hitchcock. "Our embarked Marines can be put on shore via helicopter, hovercraft, or boats to conduct combat operations, or those same platforms can be used to ferry doctors and critical supplies to natural disaster sites to render aid almost immediately."

Medical facilities aboard Tarawa-class amphibious ships such as Peleliu are second only to dedicated hospital ships in the Navy's inventory.

With the addition of cruisers and destroyers, the strike group's ability to conduct maritime interdiction operations ensures vital sea lanes for the world's economies remain free from piracy.

The 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) under the command of Col. Brian Beaudreault will be deploying with COMPHIBRON 3, as well as naval supporting units including the "Surfriders" of Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 1, the "Swift Intruders" of ACU-5, Beach Master Unit 1, and Fleet Surgical Team 1.

Tactical Air Control Squadron 11 Det. 3, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 21, and Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light 45 Dets. 3 and 5 are providing air support for the deployment.

Bataan Departs Norfolk Naval Shipyard, Returns to Sea

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Pedro A. Rodríguez, USS Bataan Public Affairs

Amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) transits the Elizabeth River on her way to the Norfolk Naval Ship Yard, for a nine-month dry-dock phased maintenance availability. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Pedro A. Rodriguez)

USS Bataan (LHD 5) left the Norfolk Naval Shipyard after an eight month dry-docked planned maintenance availability (DPMA), May 5.

Some major jobs completed aboard Bataan were completion of a seawater compensated fuel system modification and upgrades to support the newest vertical/short take off and landing Marine Corps aircraft, the MV-22 Osprey.

The fuel compensation modification changes the way the fuel tanks aboard the ship are emptied. As fuel is used, the emptying tanks fill with seawater, so the ship's stability is not reduced as fuel is burned while underway.

"The biggest thing with this modification is stability, but it also requires less manpower to operate, and to some extent, reduces the risk of fuel spills," said Chief Machinist's Mate (SW) Donald Woodard.

The upgrades for the MV-22 Osprey aircraft were made in the hangar bay, flight deck, Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department, and supply aviation storage spaces.

"We got a new avionics work center and two metal bending shops specifically for the MV-22," said Chief Aviation Electrician's Mate (AW/SW) Chad A. Vance. "We can now meet the operational requirements of the aircraft."

During the DPMA, many members of Bataan's crew worked on other needed repairs. The paint team, directed by Chief Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) (AW/SW) Hector M. Arroyo, expended thousands of man hours to paint more than 250 spaces, saving thousands of dollars.

"We had two shifts; the main job of the day shift was to prepare the spaces for the night shift, who came in at night to get the spaces painted," said Arroyo.

Other jobs aboard included repairs to the crew living spaces, enhancing the quality of life for crew members who live aboard the ship. Crew members fixed more than 2,000 racks in 17 living spaces throughout the ship.

"We prepared all living spaces so the paint team could save time painting the spaces," said Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Alexander N. Pisanello, assigned to the rehab team. "We also installed toilets, shower heads, sinks and mirrors."

The main machinery rooms also received repairs and upgrades. Bataan had four fuel oil manifolds removed; many fuel tanks were combined into four groups and are now compensated with sea water.

"There were hundreds of feet of new piping installed, and old-style tank level indicators were removed and replaced with radar indicators," said Woodard.

During the eight months the ship was in the yards, Bataan's Sailors never lost ownership of their ship. The Sailors stood duty aboard, manning some of the critical spaces, which required a lot of flexibility.

During the DPMA final phase, Bataan conducted her light off assessment, which ensures engineers can safely light off and steam the plant. The events conducted include a management program review to ensure the ship is in accordance with all governing documents and a safety walk-through is done to make sure the material readiness of the main spaces can support the safe light-off.

"The preparations started the day we entered the shipyard," said Woodard. "We had to clean, paint and preserve the engineering spaces."

All equipment is checked using the preventive maintenance system or master light off checks.

"All checks are followed up by a main space fire drill to ensure the ship's fire party can properly fight a main space fire," said Woodard.

"It was eight months of hard work," said Capt. Rick Snyder, Bataan's commanding officer. "We were faced with a lot of challenges in different areas, and we are ready to get back to sea and our nation's tasking."

San Diego's Fleet Week Showcases Parade of Ships

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Leticia Fritzsche, Naval Reserve Fleet Public Affairs Center San Diego

The Landing Craft Air Cushioned 42 (LCAC 42) maneuvers in the San Diego Bay to start the annual San Diego Fleet Week activities including a parade of ships, flyovers by Navy and Coast Guard aircraft, and a Red Bull air race in the harbor. (U.S. Navy photo by Mahlon K. Miller)

During Fleet Week San Diego, the Navy offered an alluring spectacle of ships and aircraft throughout San Diego Bay on May 3.

An estimated 100,000 visitors and residents observed the parade of ships.

"I wish my husband could be here with me to watch the parade," said the wife of Electronic Technician 3rd Class Joshua Jensen, who was aboard USS Lake Champlain (CG 57), as it navigated through the bay.

A mock smoke-filled gun battle between tall ships California, known as the "official tall ship ambassador for the State of California," and HMS Surprise, a replica of the HMS Rose, a frigate built in 1857 took place.

John Sable a former Aviation Electronics Technician (radar and navigation) 1st Class, awaited the much favored Red Bull Air Race World Series, featuring pilots flying 30 feet off the deck and reaching speeds of 400 kilometers per hour while withstanding forces of up to 10 Gs.

Also featured were air demonstrations by an EA-6B Prowler from Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 129, two MH-60s Knighthawks from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron(HSC) 23, a C-2 Greyound from Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 30 and an HH-60J Seahawk from Coast Guard Search and Rescue.

USS Fort McHenry Returns From Africa Partnership Station Maiden Deployment

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class(AW/SW) RJ Stratchko, Africa Partnership Station Public Affairs
Official US Navy File Photo.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va (NNS) -- USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) returned to its homeport, Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek, May 4 after a seven-month deployment as the first platform for Africa Partnership Station (APS), an initiative working with countries from West and Central Africa promoting maritime safety and security.

APS is a concept designed to increase maritime safety and security through regional partnerships using an at-sea platform like Fort McHenry, which produces maximum results while leaving a minimal footprint ashore.

"I think the amphibious platform ships are great because they bring a shallow draft, berthing for housing students and portable classrooms," said Lt. Cmdr. Thomas C. Kait, executive officer aboard Fort McHenry. "These ships have a lot of flexibility to be able to help in many ways, in an area of the world that has not had much attention in awhile. I think we are heading in the right direction because a safe maritime environment is good for everyone."

Over the course of seven months, Fort McHenry visited 18 ports of call in 10 countries and trained more than 1,700 maritime professionals in skills ranging from small boat handling, port security, and martial arts to non-commissioned officer leadership, damage control, and maritime law.

"Fort McHenry worked with non-governmental organizations such as Project Hope, USAID (Agency for International Development) and the U.S. Navy program, Project Handclasp, to bring relief and aid to many people in need," said Cmdr. Daniel P. Shaw, commanding officer aboard Fort McHenry. "With the help of Fort McHenry, Project Handclasp was able to donate more than 1 million high nutritional meals, 25 pallets of medical, hygiene and educational supplies along with hospital beds and medical equipment valued at over $100,000."

While in port, numerous Sailors from Fort McHenry, HSV-2 Swift and APS staff gave of their liberty time to participate in 23 community relations projects. More than $65,000 was spent on various projects ranging from building picnic tables for the Gamboa School in Sao Tome and Principe to completely replacing the roof of the Matanda School in Port Gentil, Gabon.

"Any commanding officer of any ship would be proud of this crew and what they did as far as their primary mission to help build the foundation for maritime safety and security in the Gulf of Guinea. That sounds so small, but in the end, you look at what they accomplished and it is phenomenal," said Shaw.

Fort McHenry had more than 250 members from the ship participate in community relations projects (COMRELs)throughout the deployment. The crew restored the material condition of dozens of school classrooms and hallways, maternity clinics, orphanages, and wildlife preservation parks. The crew also sent out special teams to address specific needs requested by the host nation. By actively engaging the local community in each port, the Fort McHenry Sailors built strong partnerships that made a positive impact which helped form the foundation for future engagements.

"I went to more than 20 COMRELs, but the most memorable one that I did was at a rescue shelter called Empire, which was for children who lost contact from their families and stay there until their families are found," said Operations Specialist Seaman, Cody Thompson. "It made me feel good being able to do so many COMRELs. When I found out that we were doing COMRELs, I could not wait to go to as many as I could."

Being a concept, it is not necessary for APS to be led by the U.S. from a large ship such as Fort McHenry. APS can continue with small mobile training teams, aircraft detachments, or a ship from one of the partner nations. APS will continue to deliver the right training based on the needs of the host nations in the region.

"One of the things that we have promised and put our prestige on the line with the African countries is that we will be persistent in our presence here off of West and Central Africa," said Rear Adm. Anthony M. Kurta, U.S. Naval Forces Europe. "So while we've had ships deployed here over the last couple of months, we need to keep that presence going for the next many years."

Fort McHenry was part of the premiere overseas trial of a new technology. Working with the HSV-2 Swift, USNS 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo (T-AK 3008) and USNS Lance Cpl. Roy M. Wheat (T-AK 3016), the Fort McHenry crew helped exercise a new capability where a floating platform was built eight miles off the coast of Liberia. The Roll On-Roll Off Rapid Discharge Facility and the Improved Navy Lighterage System had previously only been tested under limited conditions. The open ocean test and evaluation of the concept was key to building new capabilities for Navy Sea Basing efforts.

"A ship does not go to sea alone. The real burden of a deployment rests with families who watch their loved ones leave on a mission, that there is not much knowledge about, is an extended surge deployment for us. Our friends and family who support us carry an enormous burden. Without the support from them, I don't think that anybody could do without that kind of support, so I say thank you all for your support," said Shaw.

Part of the U.S. Navy's Global Fleet Station, APS provides a platform with the capacity and persistent presence to support sustained, focused training and collaboration on a regional scale to maritime partners in West and Central Africa.

Commander Task Force 365 and training teams from various U.S. and European military commands, as well as governmental and non-governmental organizations were embarked aboard Fort McHenry to enhance cooperative partnerships.

USNS Mercy Deploys for Pacific Partnership 2008

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Damien Horvath, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Pacific
Military Sealift Command (MSC) hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) departs San Diego Bay to begin a humanitarian mission to the Western Pacific and Southeast Asia. Pacific Partnership 2008 is designed to strengthen the goodwill developed during previous humanitarian civic assistance missions. Mercy is scheduled to visit the Republic of Philippines, Vietnam, Timor Leste, Papua New Guinea and the Federated States of Micronesia. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Don Bray)

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The Military Sealift Command (MCS) hospital ship, USNS Mercy (T-AH 19), departed from its homeport of San Diego for Pacific Partnership 2008 on May 1.

Pacific Partnership 2008 will bring together host and partner nation civilian medical personnel, as well as military medical and construction personnel. The four-month humanitarian and civic deployment is intended to strengthen relations in Southeast Asia and Oceania.

"I have gone on other more traditional Navy deployments, but this is my first humanitarian mission," said Operations Specialist 2nd Class Dung Pham. "I was elated to know that I was deploying on the Mercy. It will give me an opportunity to reach out to those in more impoverished regions of the world and let them know that we are here for them, and we offer our hands in friendship."

The staff and crew of the MSC-operated Mercy is comprised of Navy medical personnel, members of the U.S. Public Health Service, public health and preventive medicine personnel, Seabees and members of the Air Force and Army.

"It's great to be working in a joint military environment," said Lt. Lori Thompson. "Every member of the Mercy team, regardless of what branch of service, brings their own experience and expertise to the table and makes significant contributions to mission accomplishment."

Mercy is scheduled to visit the Republic of the Philippines, Vietnam, the Federated States of Micronesia, Timor-Leste and Papua New Guinea.

Partner nations participating in the mission include Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan, the Republic of Korea and New Zealand.

Also participating in the deployment are several non-governmental organizations that provide medical, dental, construction and other humanitarian services ashore and afloat in Southeast Asia and Oceania.

"We are very fortunate as a military and civilian staff and crew to be assisted in our mission by gracious host nations and significantly contributing partner nations," said Command Master Chief (SW/AW) Mike Smith. "It is with great pride that we set sail, knowing that we will not be going at this alone, through selfless acts of friendship and relationships forged during previous deployments."

Commanding Pacific Partnership 2008 is Capt. W.A. Kearns III, commander, Destroyer Squadron 31. The ship's Master is Civil Service Capt. Robert T. Wiley, and the commanding officer of Mercy Military Treatment Facility is Capt. James P. Rice.

USS North Carolina Joins the Fleet

By Lt. Jennifer Zeldis, Fleet Public Affairs Center Atlantic
Submarine veterans, retired Battleship North Carolina Alumni and some 6,000 attendees witness the commissioning of the newest Virginia-class nuclear attack submarine USS North Carolina (SSN 777). North Carolina is the fourth Virginia-class submarine to be commissioned and the first major U.S. Navy combatant vessel class designed with the post-Cold War security environment in mind. North Carolina will be homeported in Groton, Conn., as a member of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2ND Class Roadell Hickman.

WILMINGTON, N.C. (NNS) -- The Navy's newest nuclear-powered submarine, USS North Carolina (SSN 777), was brought to life May 3 during a commissioning ceremony held in its namesake state at the Port of Wilmington.

More than 6,500 guests, including submarine veterans and battleship North Carolina alumni, attended the ceremony welcoming the submarine as the fourth naval vessel named after the "Tarheel State."

The ship's sponsor, Mrs. Linda Anne Rich Bowman, wife of Admiral Frank L. "Skip" Bowman, retired U.S. Navy Admiral and former Director, Naval Nuclear Reactors, gave the order, "Officers and crew of the USS North Carolina, man your ship, and bring her to life!"

"You're a team and ready to go forth and defend this country," said Bowman. "My hope is that she (USS North Carolina) will sail in peace to keep us free. My assurance is that she will always be ready to defend that freedom whenever necessary."

The ceremony included speeches made by local and congressional politicians as well as flag officers of the submarine force. The Secretary of the Navy Donald C. Winter was the principal speaker at the ceremony.

"As the fourth ship to carry the name North Carolina, this boat will bear an illustrious name, and follow in North Carolina's long and honored tradition as the home of military heroes," said Winter. "She now joins the world's greatest Navy, and will be tasked with a wide range of missions in support of battle groups, in reconnaissance and surveillance missions, in special operations, and as part of the submarine force that continues to deter aggression from every potential foe."

North Carolina arrived in Wilmington on Apr. 28 and participated in more than 50 community events to celebrate the state's first namesake vessel since 1947, when battleship North Carolina was decommissioned.

"The local community embraced us with open arms and we will not only continue to foster our namesake relationship with the residents of Wilmington, but also the great state on North Carolina," said Capt. Mark Davis, USS North Carolina commanding officer.

The Navy's newest class of submarine, the Virginia-Class, is the first designed and built post Cold War in order to meet the challenges of the 21st century. The USS North Carolina is the fourth submarine of the Virginia-Class and has improved stealth, sophisticated surveillance capabilities and special warfare enhancements that will enable it to meet the Navy's multi-mission requirements.

Airmen set up communication lines for exercise in Croatia

by Staff Sgt. Tammie Moore, Medical Central and Eastern Europe Exercise Public Affairs
Tech. Sgt. Brett Olsen adjusts a modem April 29 at Divulje Training Base, Croatia. He is part of the forward team supporting Medical Central and Eastern Europe Exercise 2008, which 17 nations are participating in that runs May 2 through 15. The exercise focuses on mass-casualty training scenarios and humanitarian aid in response to crises situations. More than 400 multinationals are attending the exercise in support of the Partnership for Peace initiative. Sergeant Olsen is assigned to the 1st Combat Communications Squadron from Ramstein Air Base, Germany. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Kristin Ruleau)

DIVULJE TRAINING BASE, Croatia (AFPN) -- Members of the 1st Combat Communications Squadron based out of Ramstein Air Base, Germany, began arriving in late April into Croatia to prepare network and phone systems for participants of the Medical Training Exercise in Central and Eastern Europe 2008 here.

The 1st CBCS Airmen linked the more than 400 multinational participants to the rest of the world for the U.S. European Command-sponsored exercise.

Croatian officials welcomed exercise participants and support members from 15 nations who began arriving here April 21 in preparation for the Medical Training Exercise in Central and Eastern Europe 2008. The exercise is a U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff regional/multilateral exercise sponsored by USEUCOM and hosted by Croatia this year in the spirit of NATO's Partnership for Peace program.

Medical Training Exercise in Central and Eastern Europe 2008 brings participants together in a joint training and validation medical exercise aimed at the interoperability of multinational disaster response, humanitarian and peacekeeping missions.

"We're here to provide communication support to the participants of MEDCEUR," said 2nd Lt. Dan Casey, the 1st CBCS communications officer in charge of Medical Training Exercise in Central and Eastern Europe 2008. His 15-man communication team brought all of the equipment they would need to set up services for a small base including an initial communications package and a satellite.

"When we arrived here, commercial Internet and Croatian phone lines were already in place," Lieutenant Casey said. "We had to establish a nonsecure Internet protocol routing network, a secure Internet protocol routing network and a defense switched network. You don't get those services through what was already here. The communications systems that were already in place would have had a hard time supporting the hundreds of exercise participants who will be arriving here."

The locally established systems provided a starting point for the 1st CBCS Airmen, but more communication infrastructure was needed to support the exercises.

"One really unique thing we are doing here is utilizing radio frequency to span more than six miles of airspace to (nearby) Laura Naval Air Station in order to provide nonsecure voice and data SIPRNET," said Staff Sgt. J.C. Rainey, a 1st CBCS systems integrator supervisor.

This achievement was done using the theater deployable communication suite.

Normally one RF module is used at a location. To provide the communications needed here; however, five RF "mods" were linked together, Sergeant Rainey said. "Linking together five at one time is not typical but was required in this situation since we have to provide services over such a long distance."

Providing this distance support has caused challenges to members of the 1st CBCS.

"The most challenging part is the six-and-a-half mile microwave link between the two points," Lieutenant Casey said. "As far as I know, we have never done this before in this type of environment. It took some time, but we made it work."

Despite the challenges the communications squadron Airmen had to overcome, they seem to have found this experience rewarding.

"It has been very rewarding to provide communication out here during this exercise to the different nations," the lieutenant said. "It has been a great experience."

Sergeant Rainey agreed, "I have enjoyed watching the camaraderie that happens in this type of environment. I've seen squadrons start integrating together, multinational relationships form and the export of good will."

Holloman prepares for Raptor

Milcom blog editor note: Selected frequencies for the base posted after the story.

by Airman 1st Class Rachel Kocin, 49th Fighter Wing Public Affairs


HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. (AFPN) -- After retiring the F-117A Nighthawk, officials here are now preparing for the arrival of the F-22A Raptor.

With the new aircraft come many transition projects.

"One of the projects we have going on is phasing out tools used exclusively for the F-117," said Chief Master Sgt. James Harris, chief of the 9th Aircraft Maintenance Unit. "Then phasing in, getting our support section spun up with the F-22 equipment and tools,"

To help with the transition, a self help project called the West Area Revitalization Team is currently performing numerous upgrades to the base's infrastructure, said Maj. Bryan Bobeck, 49th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron maintenance operations officer. These upgrades include replacing floors, painting, building offices and completing roofing jobs.

"There is a lot of work that has to be done and it's kept our folks employed and has actually helped the 49th Civil Engineering Squadron with taking some of the burden of all the work orders," said Major Bobeck. "That has been a huge effort that has saved thousands of dollars and has helped the MXG improve not only the appearance of its facilities but its functionality as well."

Since there are no jets on Holloman, officials said the maintainers will fill their time training while they wait for the F-22 to arrive.

"There will be formal training, computer based training, and on the job training," said Chief Harris. "The biggest portion will be on the job training."

Initially an F-22A Cadre from Langley Air Force Base, Va., and other bases will conduct the training. The goal is for the cadre to train future F-22 trainers at Holloman AFB.

Holloman AFB, NM KHMN

Aero Comms (AM mode)
119.300 Holloman Tower
120.600 Approach Control/Radar Service
125.700 Ground Controlled Approach Radar
126.700 Clearance Delivery
126.900 Mission Communications "Cherokee"
127.050 Holloman Ground
128.100 Departure Control
132.650 Approach/Departure Control - Albuquerque ARTCC (Roswell RCAG)
229.300 Army Aviation Operations
255.900 Holloman Tower
257.600 Approach/Departure Control - Albuquerque ARTCC (Roswell RCAG)
269.225 Approach Control/Radar Service
271.300 Ground Controlled Approach Radar
273.500 ATIS
275.800 Holloman Ground
284.00 Departure Control
289.400 Clearance Delivery
305.500 Mission Communications "Cherokee"
320.100 Ground Controlled Approach Radar
339.300 Ground Controlled Approach Radar
346.500 Metro
351.100 Ground Controlled Approach Radar
372.200 Pilot to Dispatch (PTD)
372.900 Ground Controlled Approach Radar
381.300 ACC Command Post
392.000 Ground Controlled Approach Radar
396.000 Ground Controlled Approach Radar
398.200 Ground Controlled Approach Radar

Air Force officials suspend training flights of T-38C aircraft

A T-38C Talon similar to this one crashed May 1 at Sheppard Air Base, Texas. The T-38 Talon is a twin-engine, high-altitude, supersonic jet trainer used in a variety of roles because of its design, economy of operations, ease of maintenance, high performance and exceptional safety record. It is used primarily by Air Education and Training Command for undergraduate pilot and pilot instructor training. Air Combat Command, Air Mobility Command and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration also use the T-38 in various roles. (U.S. Air Force photo)

RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas (AFPN) -- Air Education and Training Command officials suspended flights of T-38C Talon aircraft May 1 following a fatal crash at Sheppard AFB, Texas.

The crash was the second in two weeks involving a T-38, following an April 23 accident in which two pilots were killed when their T-38 crashed at Columbus AFB, Miss.

General William R. Looney III, AETC commander, directed the stand-down.

"We have no evidence that these incidents are related," General Looney said. "But until we have a more complete understanding of the causes of both accidents, it's prudent to stand down the T-38's."

The causes of both crashes are under investigation.

The Air Force has approximately 500 T-38 aircraft in its inventory. The T-38 is used in AETC to prepare student pilots for future training in fighter and bomber aircraft.