By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Lorenzo J. Burleson, USS Harry S. Truman Public Affairs
USS HARRY S. TRUMAN, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors and Marines from pilot training squadrons (VT) embarked the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) to begin carrier qualifications Aug. 3.
Junior pilots from the Eagles of VT-7, the Tigers of VT-9, Redhawks of VT-21 and the Golden Eagles of VT-22 are required to complete four touch-and-gos and 10 arrested landings in the T-45C Goshawk, a Navy tactical jet trainer.
"This is the final step for the student pilots before they are fleet-ready aviators," said Lt. Cody A. Dowd, instructor in VT-22. "In this testing phase, we grade the young pilots' abilities to take-off, land and maneuver around an aircraft carrier."
Dowd said the pilots must prove they are proficient in performing flight and landing procedures.
"Instructors will also train pilots to respond to signals, identify errors, and taxi aircraft. The pilots are closer to flying more advanced aircraft once they have shown the ability to perform the requirements."
Dowd said these are the training pilots' first carrier landings. Prior to embarking Truman, all the pilots' aviation training has been land-based.
"Landing on an aircraft carrier in the middle of the ocean is difficult to replicate when ashore," said Dowd. "The most challenging aspect is keeping your nerve. It is important for the pilots to trust their abilities and remember they have to train for this their entire careers."
Approximately 550 total arrested landings must be achieved during the training pilots' qualification, said Cmdr. Paul Crump, Truman's air officer. With so many, keeping the pilots and flight deck crew safe is a major focus.
"Safety is always the number one priority," said Crump. "To ensure safe practices, the students will only perform daytime flight operations."
Truman is doing its part to help qualify Sailors, said Crump.
"Truman is making sure we add 38 new qualified aviators to the fleet," said Crump. "It's all about providing services to the training command and ensuring they complete their mission."
Showing posts with label CQ Ops. Show all posts
Showing posts with label CQ Ops. Show all posts
Sunday, August 05, 2012
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Enterprise Works Up to Deployment
The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94) is alongside the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise is underway conducting flight deck qualifications and seamanship training in preparation for its 22nd and final deployment. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Scott Pittman/Released)
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kristin L. Grover, USS Enterprise Public Affairs
USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS) -- Aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) wrapped up a two-week underway in the Atlantic Ocean Dec. 16, completing many qualifications needed for its upcoming deployment.
During the underway period, Enterprise tested the crew in all areas including engineering, damage control, deck, navigation and flight operations.
"We've truly put the crew to the test," said Cmdr. Ed Galvin, USS Enterprise operations officer. "Every training evolution, every launch, every trap, every general quarters drill was invaluable in preparing Enterprise for our upcoming deployment."
Pilots from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) One refreshed their skills and 92 Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) pilots learned how to land and safely operate aircraft aboard an aircraft carrier through 997 arrested landings, 614 during the day and 315 during the night.
In addition to the FRS carrier qualifications, Enterprise steamed 2,650 nautical miles and moved 713 passengers and 31,000 lbs. of cargo via carrier on board delivery. Enterprise also conducted two replenishments at sea and ammunition loads, tested the close-in-weapons system, conducted 16 propulsion plant drills and conducted five general quarters drills.
Sailors new to Enterprise completed personal qualifications during these drills, ensuring all watch teams are fully proficient on their equipment and watchstations.
"I'm impressed with the crew," said Capt. Greg C. Huffman, Enterprise executive officer. "They proved themselves during this underway and are well prepared for the remainder of workups and deployment."
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Pilots Qualify Aboard USS Enterprise
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jeff Atherton, USS Enterprise Public Affairs
USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS) -- New pilots assigned to the "Gladiators" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106 and the "Greyhawks" of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 120 conducted their first flight deck qualifications aboard aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) Dec. 6-14.
After several years of classroom instruction and training, the pilots made their first approaches to Enterprise during Fleet Replacement Squadron carrier qualifications while underway in the Atlantic Ocean.
"The training starts with six weeks of aviation preflight indoctrination training followed by six to eight months of primary flight training," said Lt. David Eshelman, an F-18E Super Hornet pilot.
Following this training, the Navy will assess its needs, and the pilots will be placed in programs for further training to fly jets, helicopters or propeller-powered aircraft.
After many hours of training and practice, the pilots are ready to land their aircraft on board Enterprise for the first time.
"Just being on [Enterprise] is a great experience," said Eshelman. "The legacy of this ship is awesome. Guys launched from here and flew combat missions into Vietnam. That is our history."
The qualification requires 10 daytime carrier landings, six nighttime landings, two "touch-and-go" approaches during the day and two at night.
"The hardest part about landing on an aircraft carrier is... everything," said Marine 1st Lt. Derek Heinz, an F-18C Hornet pilot.
"You don't realize you are landing until you are stopped on the wire," said Heinz.
Both Eshelman and Heinz said they were awestruck the first time they approached a carrier at sea.
"When I came though the clouds, the first thing I saw was the huge wake the ship was leaving," Eschelman said.
"I saw the ship and said 'I can't believe I'm going to land on that,'" said Heinz. "It's smaller than they said it would be."
Heinz said in all of the chaos of landing on a carrier, he relied on his training to succeed.
"Training is hard," said Heinz. "I just let the training take over when I get out here."
Both pilots have been pleased with their experience aboard the Enterprise.
"I have been really impressed with the ship," said Eshelman. "It is awe inspiring to see this massive aircraft carrier with a crew of professionals working toward the same goal."
"It is a really rewarding experience to be on the Enterprise," said Heinz. "After all of the training, it is great to be on the boat. I can't wait to come back out here."
The Greyhawks, flying the E-2C Hawkeye and the C-2A Greyhound, are required to complete a process similar to the Gladiators in order to qualify.
The qualifications for the F-18E, E-2C and C-2 are similar, but the C-2 is only a daytime flight aircraft and only has to satisfy the daytime requirements.
Qualifying in an E-2 or C-2 requires exact precision.
"The wings are so big, you have to make sure you are on the center line," said Lt. Chuck Cline, a pilot with VAW-120. "You only have about five feet of space on either side of the wings."
Flying the E-2 at night adds another degree of difficulty.
"Night qualifications are the most difficult," said Lt. Thomas Clark, a naval flight officer with the Greyhawks. "It is like trying to hit a moving target that only has a few lights on it."
The Greyhawk crew is proud to be able to qualify aboard the Enterprise.
"It's like coming back home," said Clark, who has served on the Enterprise before.
"It is fun to say that we carrier qualified on the Enterprise, because we know the history of the ship," said Cline. "There is a bit of pride to say we carrier qualified on this ship."
During the course of the underway training period, Enterprise conducted 997 arrested landings, qualified 92 pilots and certified the flight deck.
USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS) -- New pilots assigned to the "Gladiators" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106 and the "Greyhawks" of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 120 conducted their first flight deck qualifications aboard aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) Dec. 6-14.
After several years of classroom instruction and training, the pilots made their first approaches to Enterprise during Fleet Replacement Squadron carrier qualifications while underway in the Atlantic Ocean.
"The training starts with six weeks of aviation preflight indoctrination training followed by six to eight months of primary flight training," said Lt. David Eshelman, an F-18E Super Hornet pilot.
Following this training, the Navy will assess its needs, and the pilots will be placed in programs for further training to fly jets, helicopters or propeller-powered aircraft.
After many hours of training and practice, the pilots are ready to land their aircraft on board Enterprise for the first time.
"Just being on [Enterprise] is a great experience," said Eshelman. "The legacy of this ship is awesome. Guys launched from here and flew combat missions into Vietnam. That is our history."
The qualification requires 10 daytime carrier landings, six nighttime landings, two "touch-and-go" approaches during the day and two at night.
"The hardest part about landing on an aircraft carrier is... everything," said Marine 1st Lt. Derek Heinz, an F-18C Hornet pilot.
"You don't realize you are landing until you are stopped on the wire," said Heinz.
Both Eshelman and Heinz said they were awestruck the first time they approached a carrier at sea.
"When I came though the clouds, the first thing I saw was the huge wake the ship was leaving," Eschelman said.
"I saw the ship and said 'I can't believe I'm going to land on that,'" said Heinz. "It's smaller than they said it would be."
Heinz said in all of the chaos of landing on a carrier, he relied on his training to succeed.
"Training is hard," said Heinz. "I just let the training take over when I get out here."
Both pilots have been pleased with their experience aboard the Enterprise.
"I have been really impressed with the ship," said Eshelman. "It is awe inspiring to see this massive aircraft carrier with a crew of professionals working toward the same goal."
"It is a really rewarding experience to be on the Enterprise," said Heinz. "After all of the training, it is great to be on the boat. I can't wait to come back out here."
The Greyhawks, flying the E-2C Hawkeye and the C-2A Greyhound, are required to complete a process similar to the Gladiators in order to qualify.
The qualifications for the F-18E, E-2C and C-2 are similar, but the C-2 is only a daytime flight aircraft and only has to satisfy the daytime requirements.
Qualifying in an E-2 or C-2 requires exact precision.
"The wings are so big, you have to make sure you are on the center line," said Lt. Chuck Cline, a pilot with VAW-120. "You only have about five feet of space on either side of the wings."
Flying the E-2 at night adds another degree of difficulty.
"Night qualifications are the most difficult," said Lt. Thomas Clark, a naval flight officer with the Greyhawks. "It is like trying to hit a moving target that only has a few lights on it."
The Greyhawk crew is proud to be able to qualify aboard the Enterprise.
"It's like coming back home," said Clark, who has served on the Enterprise before.
"It is fun to say that we carrier qualified on the Enterprise, because we know the history of the ship," said Cline. "There is a bit of pride to say we carrier qualified on this ship."
During the course of the underway training period, Enterprise conducted 997 arrested landings, qualified 92 pilots and certified the flight deck.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Foreign Pilots Train Aboard Enterprise
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Alex R. Forster, USS Enterprise (CVN 65) Public Affairs
ATLANTIC OCEAN (NNS) -- Three foreign pilots with the "Gladiators" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106 landed aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) July 15 as part of a pilot exchange program during the ship's fleet replacement squadron carrier qualifications.
The Navy has long been a forward-deployed presence throughout the world, providing unique opportunities to work closely with, and learn from, military personnel from other countries.
The opportunity for these pilots to embark and train aboard Enterprise provides them with the chance to gain valuable experience and insight into carrier operations.
"I'm here in the U.S. as part of a pilot exchange program between the Swiss Air Force and the U.S. Navy," said Capt. Ralph Iseli, a native of Beringen, Kt. Schaffhausen, Switzerland. "When I heard I was coming here, I was really excited.
"It's an amazing opportunity to come to a carrier - the Swiss Navy does not have them," said Iseli. "I get to watch the ship perform carrier qualifications and tactics, something I would never have the opportunity to see in the Swiss Air Force."
Iseli explained that there is always an exchange of pilots taking place between countries, ensuring the U.S. and its allies are trained in as many different skills as possible.
In Switzerland, Iseli said that some of his duties included training new pilots as well. "There are three squadrons in Switzerland, and because of that it means all the pilots must train the newer ones to become fully qualified," said Iseli. "I think the more experience I gain here, the better I can train those young pilots."
Iseli is gaining valuable experience to take back to Switzerland and pass on.
"Trapping [aircraft] on an aircraft carrier never gets old," said Iseli. "It's truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience to train on an aircraft carrier." Also training with the "Gladiators" are Lt. Ben Hullah and Lt. Stephan Collins of Great Britain.
The "Gladiators" welcome the rare occasion to work with pilots from other militaries. "I'm thrilled we get to work with pilots from foreign nations because it gives us insight as to how other countries train,," said Lieutenant Matthew B. Rhodes. "This opportunity allows us a chance to work with pilots with a completely different skill set."
The pilot exchange program is just one tactic in the Department of Defense's overall strategy to maximize interoperability in a global war fighting environment.
Today, more than ever, the United States and its allies train and fight together in a multinational environment. The pilot exchange program is a critical part of ensuring that everyone can communicate effectively and execute the mission, no matter where the battlefield is or where the war fighters come from.
Enterprise is at sea preparing for work-ups leading to its 21st deployment.
ATLANTIC OCEAN (NNS) -- Three foreign pilots with the "Gladiators" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106 landed aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) July 15 as part of a pilot exchange program during the ship's fleet replacement squadron carrier qualifications.
The Navy has long been a forward-deployed presence throughout the world, providing unique opportunities to work closely with, and learn from, military personnel from other countries.
The opportunity for these pilots to embark and train aboard Enterprise provides them with the chance to gain valuable experience and insight into carrier operations.
"I'm here in the U.S. as part of a pilot exchange program between the Swiss Air Force and the U.S. Navy," said Capt. Ralph Iseli, a native of Beringen, Kt. Schaffhausen, Switzerland. "When I heard I was coming here, I was really excited.
"It's an amazing opportunity to come to a carrier - the Swiss Navy does not have them," said Iseli. "I get to watch the ship perform carrier qualifications and tactics, something I would never have the opportunity to see in the Swiss Air Force."
Iseli explained that there is always an exchange of pilots taking place between countries, ensuring the U.S. and its allies are trained in as many different skills as possible.
In Switzerland, Iseli said that some of his duties included training new pilots as well. "There are three squadrons in Switzerland, and because of that it means all the pilots must train the newer ones to become fully qualified," said Iseli. "I think the more experience I gain here, the better I can train those young pilots."
Iseli is gaining valuable experience to take back to Switzerland and pass on.
"Trapping [aircraft] on an aircraft carrier never gets old," said Iseli. "It's truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience to train on an aircraft carrier." Also training with the "Gladiators" are Lt. Ben Hullah and Lt. Stephan Collins of Great Britain.
The "Gladiators" welcome the rare occasion to work with pilots from other militaries. "I'm thrilled we get to work with pilots from foreign nations because it gives us insight as to how other countries train,," said Lieutenant Matthew B. Rhodes. "This opportunity allows us a chance to work with pilots with a completely different skill set."
The pilot exchange program is just one tactic in the Department of Defense's overall strategy to maximize interoperability in a global war fighting environment.
Today, more than ever, the United States and its allies train and fight together in a multinational environment. The pilot exchange program is a critical part of ensuring that everyone can communicate effectively and execute the mission, no matter where the battlefield is or where the war fighters come from.
Enterprise is at sea preparing for work-ups leading to its 21st deployment.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
USS Nimitz, Carrier Air Wing 11 Underway for Carrier Quals
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Peter Merrill and Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Andrew Jandik, USS Nimitz (CVN 68) Public Affairs
USS NIMITZ, At Sea (NNS) -- The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11 began carrier qualifications July 12 off the coast of Southern California.
Carrier qualifications test both CVW 11 and the Nimitz crew.
"The Nimitz and Air Wing 11 team did a great job of refreshing flight deck currency," said Capt. Eric Wright, Nimitz's air department head. "These operations aren't always fast or error-free, but we operated deliberately and safely. It was a great first day back."
Nimitz and CVW-11 will continue to launch and recover aircraft throughout the week of July 12 to qualify and re-qualify pilots, extending Nimitz's flight deck certification.
According to Aviation Boatswains Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Marc Nielsen of air department's V-2 division, it is good for the crew to get back into a routine.
"Our job really only exists out to sea. This is where the action is," said Nielsen.
This is the first time aircraft have touched down on Nimitz's flight deck since returning from an eight-month deployment in March 2010.
"This is a good chance to knock the rust off." said Intelligence Specialist 1st Class (SW) Brandon Soileau, operations department division leading petty officer.
Both Soileau and Nielsen said conducting carrier qualifications also allows everyone on the ship to stay current with personal qualifications.
"A lot of people are getting a good chance to go do their jobs," said Soileau.
Nimitz is the flagship for Carrier Strike Group 11. Nimitz returned home to San Diego March 26 after completing a successful eight-month Western Pacific deployment.
USS NIMITZ, At Sea (NNS) -- The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11 began carrier qualifications July 12 off the coast of Southern California.
Carrier qualifications test both CVW 11 and the Nimitz crew.
"The Nimitz and Air Wing 11 team did a great job of refreshing flight deck currency," said Capt. Eric Wright, Nimitz's air department head. "These operations aren't always fast or error-free, but we operated deliberately and safely. It was a great first day back."
Nimitz and CVW-11 will continue to launch and recover aircraft throughout the week of July 12 to qualify and re-qualify pilots, extending Nimitz's flight deck certification.
According to Aviation Boatswains Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Marc Nielsen of air department's V-2 division, it is good for the crew to get back into a routine.
"Our job really only exists out to sea. This is where the action is," said Nielsen.
This is the first time aircraft have touched down on Nimitz's flight deck since returning from an eight-month deployment in March 2010.
"This is a good chance to knock the rust off." said Intelligence Specialist 1st Class (SW) Brandon Soileau, operations department division leading petty officer.
Both Soileau and Nielsen said conducting carrier qualifications also allows everyone on the ship to stay current with personal qualifications.
"A lot of people are getting a good chance to go do their jobs," said Soileau.
Nimitz is the flagship for Carrier Strike Group 11. Nimitz returned home to San Diego March 26 after completing a successful eight-month Western Pacific deployment.
Friday, June 04, 2010
Ronald Reagan Begins Flight Deck Certification
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Torrey W. Lee, USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs
USS RONALD REAGAN, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14 Sailors departed Naval Air Station North Island (NASNI) in San Diego June 2 to get underway to conduct carrier flight deck certification.
The first CVW 14 aircraft to land on Ronald Reagan's flight deck were the "Black Knights" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 4.
Other embarked squadrons include the "Blue Diamonds" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 146, the "Argonauts" of VFA 147, the "Black Knights" of VFA 154, the "Black Eagles" of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 113 and the "Providers" of Fleet Logistics Squadron (VRC) 30. The squadrons' arrival marked the first flight operation since Ronald Reagan returned to NASNI following its 2009 deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
"It's good to walk before you run," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 1st Class Daniel Estrada, a member of Ronald Reagan's flight deck crew. "We haven't had any aircraft on board since the October (2009) time frame. In order to get through flight deck certifications, we have to get back into the swing of things. This certification allows us to get back to the basics and get our minds set right for sea."
As part of the ship's final assessment for carrier qualifications, flight deck certifications are required for the ship to deploy. Evaluators from Naval Air Forces Pacific came aboard to review and evaluate the ship's ability to perform flight operations safely. The review includes tests on the arresting gear systems used for aircraft recovery as well as catapult systems that launch aircraft.
The certification will include a full evaluation of both the arresting gear, catapults and flight deck personnel. Ronald Reagan's air department Sailors will be assessed on their ability to maintain a fully operational flight deck and respond to simulated mishaps.
Experience is the key to success, said Lt. David Martinez, Ronald Reagan's flight deck officer. The challenge for Ronald Reagan is to successfully incorporate more than 250 new Sailors into the air department who were not aboard the last time aircraft were launched from the ship's flight deck.
"We're always prepared for success; we're true professionals," said Lt. David Martinez. "We have a core group of seasoned veterans. We've added more experience to our team; even our new guys came from USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and USS Kitty Hawk (CVN 63). So we think our team is even stronger."
Upon completion of the certification, Ronald Reagan and other 3rd Fleet ships will participate in the International Canadian Fleet Review commemorating the 100th birthday of the Canadian Navy in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.
USS RONALD REAGAN, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14 Sailors departed Naval Air Station North Island (NASNI) in San Diego June 2 to get underway to conduct carrier flight deck certification.
The first CVW 14 aircraft to land on Ronald Reagan's flight deck were the "Black Knights" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 4.
Other embarked squadrons include the "Blue Diamonds" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 146, the "Argonauts" of VFA 147, the "Black Knights" of VFA 154, the "Black Eagles" of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 113 and the "Providers" of Fleet Logistics Squadron (VRC) 30. The squadrons' arrival marked the first flight operation since Ronald Reagan returned to NASNI following its 2009 deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
"It's good to walk before you run," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 1st Class Daniel Estrada, a member of Ronald Reagan's flight deck crew. "We haven't had any aircraft on board since the October (2009) time frame. In order to get through flight deck certifications, we have to get back into the swing of things. This certification allows us to get back to the basics and get our minds set right for sea."
As part of the ship's final assessment for carrier qualifications, flight deck certifications are required for the ship to deploy. Evaluators from Naval Air Forces Pacific came aboard to review and evaluate the ship's ability to perform flight operations safely. The review includes tests on the arresting gear systems used for aircraft recovery as well as catapult systems that launch aircraft.
The certification will include a full evaluation of both the arresting gear, catapults and flight deck personnel. Ronald Reagan's air department Sailors will be assessed on their ability to maintain a fully operational flight deck and respond to simulated mishaps.
Experience is the key to success, said Lt. David Martinez, Ronald Reagan's flight deck officer. The challenge for Ronald Reagan is to successfully incorporate more than 250 new Sailors into the air department who were not aboard the last time aircraft were launched from the ship's flight deck.
"We're always prepared for success; we're true professionals," said Lt. David Martinez. "We have a core group of seasoned veterans. We've added more experience to our team; even our new guys came from USS Nimitz (CVN 68) and USS Kitty Hawk (CVN 63). So we think our team is even stronger."
Upon completion of the certification, Ronald Reagan and other 3rd Fleet ships will participate in the International Canadian Fleet Review commemorating the 100th birthday of the Canadian Navy in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
GW Carrier Strike Group Departs for Carrier Qualifications
YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- The George Washington Carrier Strike Group centered on the Navy's only permanently forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS George Washington (CVN 73), departed Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan May 18 to conduct carrier qualifications in preparation for its upcoming annual deployment cycle.
George Washington is conducting equipment testing and carrier landing qualifications with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, following a 121-day Selective Restricted Availability (SRA) period and four-day sea trials.
During the SRA, multiple repairs and upgrades were made to operational systems and GW's 3,360 spaces. These renovations required more than 213,000 man-days of work. Specific repairs included upgrades, corrective and preventative maintenance to air-conditioning units, fire fighting systems, aircraft elevators, navigation systems, and crew habitability spaces.
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: CVW-5; Destroyer Squadron 15 (DESRON 15) and the guided missile cruisers USS Shiloh (CG 67) and USS Cowpens (CG 63). Commanded by Capt. David A. Lausman, the USS George Washington (CVN 73) replaced the USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) last September as the flagship for the permanently forward-deployed carrier strike group.
George Washington is conducting equipment testing and carrier landing qualifications with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, following a 121-day Selective Restricted Availability (SRA) period and four-day sea trials.
During the SRA, multiple repairs and upgrades were made to operational systems and GW's 3,360 spaces. These renovations required more than 213,000 man-days of work. Specific repairs included upgrades, corrective and preventative maintenance to air-conditioning units, fire fighting systems, aircraft elevators, navigation systems, and crew habitability spaces.
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: CVW-5; Destroyer Squadron 15 (DESRON 15) and the guided missile cruisers USS Shiloh (CG 67) and USS Cowpens (CG 63). Commanded by Capt. David A. Lausman, the USS George Washington (CVN 73) replaced the USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) last September as the flagship for the permanently forward-deployed carrier strike group.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Milcom Blog Logs - 25 Jan 2010 - Spacecoast
We have received some additional reports from Florida on the USS Truman/CVW-3 Carrier Quals being conducted in the Jax FACSFAC area of operation.
229.350 Unknown user/usage
231.600 Unknown user/usage
237.175 Unknown user/usage
237.700 Unknown user/usage
262.900 Possible VRC-40 Rawhide A2A
269.200 Jacksonville ARTCC, Unknown RCAG
270.500 Possible Truman, this has been used before, US Navy C2 freq nationwide
292.225 Unknown user/usage (Ike used this for Strike 11/2009)
298.475 Unknown user/usage (Ike used this for FAD in 11/2009)
299.500 Unknown user/usage
310.675 Possible REP
312.250 Unknown user/usage (Ike used this in 1/2009)
314.450 Unknown user/usage (A Roosevelt HQ 4/2008)
314.500 Unknown user/usage
316.850 Unknown user/usage
320.925 Unknown user/usage (Ike used this 1/2009)
322.975 Unknown user/usage
323.950 Unknown user/usage
324.825 VFA-105/CVW-3 CANYON Tac
327.175 Possible VAW-126/CVW-3 CLOSEOUT Tac
328.425 Unknown user/usage (Ike used this as a Marshal 11/2009)
333.300 CHIEFTAIN FAC-A
335.925 "up your tac"
340.125 VAW-126/CVW-3 CLOSEOUT (Used by Ike as a FAD 11/2009)
342.250 Jax JTAC Urban CAS
346.750 AR Boom / OMEGA; BOLT
363.325 STRIKE
370.750 Unknown user/usage
371.050 Positive Identification and Radar Advisory Zone (PIRAZ) RED CROWN (Button 4)
374.000 Possible VAW-126/CVW-3 CLOSEOUT Tac
Thursday, September 24, 2009
USS Stennis Conducting CQ Ops in the SoCal Opareas
An EA-6B Prowler assigned to the Eagles of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 129 prepares to launch from the flight deck aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is underway conducting fleet replacement squadron carrier qualifications off the coast of Southern California. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Walter M. Wayman/Released)
Thursday, August 27, 2009
T-45 Pilots Make First Carrier Landings on Truman
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman David Finley, USS Harry S. Truman Public Affairs
USS HARRY S. TRUMAN, At Sea (NNS) -- Aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) recently got underway conducting training carrier qualifications for 40 student pilots, who are making their first landings on an aircraft carrier.
Operating out of Jacksonville, Fla., pilots participated in the evolution in groups of four planes at a time, as they look to complete this phase of training.
According to Cmdr. Bob Cady, Truman's air boss, the qualification requires that the pilots successfully complete 10 arrested landings and four touch-and-go's.
"The first landing wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be," said Marine 1st Lt. Seth Schurtz from the "Eagles" of Training Squadron 7. "The ship looked really small, but it was running so well that you guys made it easy on me."
"This is one of the last things that they do before they are winged," said Cady. "After they get their wings, they will be ready to go out into the fleet."
When a pilot gets winged, they are designated naval aviators and will no longer be considered students.
This training is the culmination of two years of intense training at flight school said Cady.
"This is a very hard job," said Schurtz. "There is a lot of hard work and studying in becoming a pilot, so I take a lot of pride in this."
The pilots were not the only ones who worked hard to conduct these qualifications. Truman's crew on the flight deck had to put in the hours as well.
"What is important here is that these guys complete their qualifications," said Cady. "Our ability to do this safely and efficiently is a direct reflection on the crew and our training on board Truman."
"The Truman crew was very professional," said Schurtz. "I have no complaints with the crew on the ship."
Because these pilots are landing on a carrier for the first time, the pace of recoveries was slowed somewhat.
"We do everything at about 75 percent of the speed that would be expected with fleet pilots," said Cady. "The slower pace allows for the trainees to get a feel for landing on an aircraft carrier."
Big swells as a result of Hurricane Bill have impacted the evolution.
"The first day was a real challenge with the sea state from Hurricane Bill," said Cady. "We did not get as much as we wanted to get done, because the [flight deck] was moving up and down."
Landing on an aircraft carrier provides the students with a firsthand experience of what they have been training to do.
"It was definitely more challenging than something back home, because the winds were different and obviously the ship is moving," said Schurtz.
This qualification provides the pilots with an experience they can take with them for the rest of their Navy career.
"It is a pretty awesome experience," said Cady. "Every naval aviator that flies off a carrier has to go through this process. Guys like the XO [Executive Officer], CO [Commanding Officer] and me, did this 20 years ago. We remember exactly what it is like being in these guys' shoes and landing on an aircraft carrier for the very first time."
USS HARRY S. TRUMAN, At Sea (NNS) -- Aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) recently got underway conducting training carrier qualifications for 40 student pilots, who are making their first landings on an aircraft carrier.
Operating out of Jacksonville, Fla., pilots participated in the evolution in groups of four planes at a time, as they look to complete this phase of training.
According to Cmdr. Bob Cady, Truman's air boss, the qualification requires that the pilots successfully complete 10 arrested landings and four touch-and-go's.
"The first landing wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be," said Marine 1st Lt. Seth Schurtz from the "Eagles" of Training Squadron 7. "The ship looked really small, but it was running so well that you guys made it easy on me."
"This is one of the last things that they do before they are winged," said Cady. "After they get their wings, they will be ready to go out into the fleet."
When a pilot gets winged, they are designated naval aviators and will no longer be considered students.
This training is the culmination of two years of intense training at flight school said Cady.
"This is a very hard job," said Schurtz. "There is a lot of hard work and studying in becoming a pilot, so I take a lot of pride in this."
The pilots were not the only ones who worked hard to conduct these qualifications. Truman's crew on the flight deck had to put in the hours as well.
"What is important here is that these guys complete their qualifications," said Cady. "Our ability to do this safely and efficiently is a direct reflection on the crew and our training on board Truman."
"The Truman crew was very professional," said Schurtz. "I have no complaints with the crew on the ship."
Because these pilots are landing on a carrier for the first time, the pace of recoveries was slowed somewhat.
"We do everything at about 75 percent of the speed that would be expected with fleet pilots," said Cady. "The slower pace allows for the trainees to get a feel for landing on an aircraft carrier."
Big swells as a result of Hurricane Bill have impacted the evolution.
"The first day was a real challenge with the sea state from Hurricane Bill," said Cady. "We did not get as much as we wanted to get done, because the [flight deck] was moving up and down."
Landing on an aircraft carrier provides the students with a firsthand experience of what they have been training to do.
"It was definitely more challenging than something back home, because the winds were different and obviously the ship is moving," said Schurtz.
This qualification provides the pilots with an experience they can take with them for the rest of their Navy career.
"It is a pretty awesome experience," said Cady. "Every naval aviator that flies off a carrier has to go through this process. Guys like the XO [Executive Officer], CO [Commanding Officer] and me, did this 20 years ago. We remember exactly what it is like being in these guys' shoes and landing on an aircraft carrier for the very first time."
Thursday, February 19, 2009
USS Ronald Reagan Underway for CQs, First Growler Lands Aboard
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Alexander Tidd, USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs
An EA-18G Growler assigned to the "Vikings" of Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (VAQ) 129 aligns itself for an at sea landing aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). The Growler is the replacement for the EA-6B Prowler, which will be replaced in the 2010 timeframe. Ronald Reagan is underway performing Fleet Replacement Squadron Carrier Qualifications in the Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Torrey W. Lee/Released)
See a video report on this story at http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=12252
USS RONALD REAGAN, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Ronald Reagan departed Naval Air Station North Island in Coronado, Calif. Feb. 17, getting underway to help train pilots from the Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS).
Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 129 is also training instructor pilots to aid the transition from EA-6B Prowler to EA-18G Growler while underway with Ronald Reagan. This marks the first landing of VAQ 129's Growlers aboard an aircraft carrier.
The Navy's newest aircraft, the Growler, is gradually replacing the Prowler airborne electronic attack aircraft, which has been in service since 1971. With the speed and agility of the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet that it is based on, the Growler, according to Boeing, will be effective in an escort role as well as its primary role of electronic attack warfare.
The Growler features fly-by-wire technology as opposed to the Prowler's hydraulic system, as well as a host of new and updated computer aids for stand-off and escort radar jamming.
Along with the major upgrades in performance, the Growler also has shown a serious reduction in maintenance time.
"The Prowler averaged about 60 man-hours in the hangar every time it came in for maintenance," said Chief Warrant Officer John Covar, maintenance material control officer for VAQ 129. "The Growler gets it done in less than 11 hours."
The Growlers have been turning heads all over Ronald Reagan, with Sailors lining the catwalks of the ship's superstructure to watch flight operations. "It's really cool," said Interior Communications Electrician 3rd Class Joshua Smiley of Ronald Reagan's Air Department. "It's awesome how we're using the F/A-18 platform to its full capabilities. It's amazing how they do so much with it."
"I like the aircraft," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate 1st Class (Equipment) Lawrence Haley, leading petty officer for Ronald Reagan's bow catapults. "It looks like a Rhino (F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet) but sounds like a Prowler. It's a beast."
Information Systems Technician 2nd Class Erica Gomes, assistant satellite communications manager for Carrier Strike Group Seven said, "I'm proud to be making history on the Ronald Reagan by hosting the first Growlers. It just sounds like one mean bird."
The Growler is expected to be combat operational in early 2010.
Ronald Reagan is the flagship of Carrier Strike Group Seven and the ninth of ten Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carriers. The ship is named for the 40th U.S. president; its motto, "Peace through Strength," was a recurring theme during the Reagan presidency.
An EA-6B Prowler assigned to the "Vikings" of Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (VAQ) 129 lands aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). The prowler is a carrier-based jet aircraft, providing protection against hostile surface combatants. Ronald Reagan is underway performing Fleet Replacement Squadron Carrier Qualifications in the Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Third Class Rosalie Garcia/Released)
Sunday, August 12, 2007
USS Eisenhower to conduct CQ Ops
The USS Eisenhower (CVN-69) will be underway August 15-19, 2007 in the FACSFAC Jax Operating Areas. Looks like they will be conducting CQ Quals for the CNATRA student pilots. Look for the Charlie Delta tails on the following freqs while working with the Ike off the Florida east coast:
227.875 236.450 237.800 257.000 260.325 261.350 279.450 290.550 316.400 336.500 336.550 357.000 362.425 362.475 377.250 MHz.
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