Amphib Squadron's Deployment Includes Space Ops

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Michael Starkey, Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group Public Affairs

USS IWO JIMA, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors from Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 4, embarked aboard the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), are nearing the end of a seven-month deployment - which included integrated space operations - to the Navy's 5th and 6th Fleet Areas of Operation.

Under the leadership of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) commander, Capt. Brian Smith, the PHIBRON 4 staff planned and executed the operations of six Iwo Jima ARG ships: USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), USS San Antonio (LPD 17), USS Carter Hall (LSD 50), USS Vella Gulf (CG 72), USS Ramage (DDG 61) and USS Roosevelt (DDG 80).

"My staff effectively led the Iwo Jima ARG in executing maritime security operations and theater security cooperation in support of the Navy's maritime strategy," said Smith. "We executed a wide variety of operations with our ships and provided critical capabilities to Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet."

Managing such a large and diverse number of ships required skillful planning and execution.

"Our operations team planned, coordinated and executed all the operational matters for our ARG ships," said Lt. j.g. Benjamin Pearlswig, PHIBRON 4's operations officer. "One of our biggest successes was the flawless execution of three theater security cooperation exercises. It was great to work with our coalition partners, demonstrate our interoperability and really push towards expanding our global maritime partnerships."

In addition to managing the six ARG ships, PHIBRON 4 headed up several unique initiatives. One of the most significant involved the integration of space operations. Space operations remain a relatively new field for the Navy but are vital in providing a wide variety of warfighting capabilities.

"Our objective was to further 'operationalize' the Navy Space Campaign Plan and to develop the tactics, techniques and procedures to make space operations relevant and effective to the expeditionary warfighter," said Smith.

PHIBRON 4 was the first afloat staff to produce detailed space operations tactical guidance and to incorporate space operations into its daily operational planning cycle.

PHIBRON 4 also served as a launch area coordinator (LAC), an assignment that involves the mission planning to support the employment, if tasked, of Tomahawk cruise missiles.

PHIBRON 4 Sailors met all challenges head-on and led the Iwo Jima ARG assets through a successful and historic deployment.

"The PHIBRON 4 staff and the Iwo Jima ARG ships did an exceptional job this deployment," said Smith. "I'm extremely proud of all our accomplishments."

PHIBRON 4 is deployed as part of the Iwo Jima ARG supporting maritime security operations (MSO). MSO help develop security in the maritime environment. From security arises stability that results in global economic prosperity. MSO complements the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seek to disrupt violent extremists' use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

Blue-Green Team Approaches Final Stages of Seven-Month Deployment

Foreign Navy ships participate in a photo exercise with ships from the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) during a bilateral exercise in the Persian Gulf. The Iwo Jima ESG is supporting maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Chad R. Erdmann/Released)

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Michael Starkey, Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group Public Affairs

USS IWO JIMA, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors aboard the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) and embarked Marines of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (26 MEU) make the final preparations to return to homeport as their seven-month deployment to the Navy's 5th and 6th Fleet Areas of Operation comes to a close.

Iwo Jima began its deployment Aug. 26, 2008 as the flagship of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) and had several achievements that made the deployment a success.

"Two words sum up every successful deployment – 'team work'," said Iwo Jima's Command Master Chief (SW/AW) Don Stoddard. "The Sailors of Iwo Jima, including her embarked Navy elements and the Marines of 26 MEU, integrated into a cohesive unit very early in the training cycle. That early integration was critical to the many successes of the Iwo Jima [ESG] while deployed to 5th and 6th Fleet."

"It is simply amazing to watch the blue and green team work side-by-side in virtually every mission area aboard this great ship, and I thank them for their many sacrifices and dedication," continued Stoddard. "Our goal when we sailed out of Norfolk on 26 August, 2008 was to bring every Sailor and Marine back home safely. We accomplished that goal."

As with any amphibious operation, ship-to-shore movement of troops and equipment is key to the success and accomplishment of the mission. Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4 and its three landing craft air cushion (LCAC) played a major role in the embarkation and debarkation of more than 2,000 Marines and their vehicles, equipment and supplies.

"Our detachment supported the Iwo Jima [ESG] by moving 6,298 tons of vehicles and equipment, while also transporting 5,123 passengers in support of the 26 MEU during exercises in cooperation with multi-national forces from four countries," said Quartermaster Chief (SW) Jerrod Morgan, senior navigator for ACU 4.

"The success of our detachment is a direct reflection of our personnel and leadership who have always ensured that we are a team first and foremost. We also accomplished more with less and supported each other to the fullest. We couldn't have accomplished all of our work without the full support of Iwo Jima and its crew."

Air operations also played a major role with ship-to-shore movement and 26 MEU support.

"Air department executed 15,565 flight deck evolutions and 3,850 flight deck moves during 1,419.11 hours of mishap-free flight operations supporting exercises with foreign navies and other operations," said Cmdr. Frank Dowd, Iwo Jima's air boss. "Also, air department issued 1,580,283 gallons of JP-5 during 3,789 aircraft and 81 LCAC refueling evolutions. Air department's V-4 division conducted and coordinated the mishap-free receipt of 1,391,116 gallons of JP-5 during 12 mishap-free replenishment at sea (RAS) evolutions."

During deployment, the ship broke up the underway working routine with port visits to Haifa, Israel; Manama, Bahrain; Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Sicily, Italy; and Rota, Spain. Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) offered tours at each port to give Sailors and Marines a unique opportunity to get off the ship and explore the sights at a greatly-reduced cost.

"Approximately 700 Sailors and Marines took advantage of the tours offered during liberty ports," said Elaine-Jane Mitchell, Iwo Jima's fun Boss/MWR representative. "MWR subsidized approximately $90,000 of the cost of tours. We only have one lifetime to see the world in all its greatness, so this was our chance to live our dreams."

Capt. Jeffery Amick, Iwo Jima's commanding officer, attributes the success of the deployment to each and every Sailor and Marine aboard the ship.

"I would say that the greatest factor that contributed to our successful deployment was our Sailors and Marines; they did it all," said Amick. "The equipment is important, but they kept the equipment running; they performed the missions, and their pride and enthusiasm made it a success.

"I've enjoyed working with all the Sailors and Marines, and I'm really proud of each and every one of them. It's a great crew, and I hope they all leave with a tremendous sense of pride in what they've accomplished for themselves and for their country."

Iwo Jima is deployed as part of the Iwo Jima ESG supporting maritime security operations (MSO). MSO help develop security in the maritime environment. From security arises stability that results in global economic prosperity. MSO complements the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seek to disrupt violent extremists' use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

Ramage Proves Multi-Mission Capability During Deployment

By Ensign Patrick Whitmore, USS Ramage Public Affairs

USS RAMAGE, At Sea (NNS) -- The guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61) is wrapping up its seven-month deployment to the Navy's 5th and 6th Fleet Areas of Operation as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) and is making preparations to return to homeport at Naval Station Norfolk, Va.

Ramage's deployment marked the first east coast U.S. Navy ship to deploy equipped with ballistic missile defense (BMD) capabilities. This pivotal defensive capability gives Ramage the unique ability to intercept short and medium range ballistic missiles and provide crucial missile defense to America's interests and allies.

"Ballistic missile defense has become a core mission of the Navy and a key element of [the] maritime strategy and will continue to be well into the future," said Ramage's Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Pete Galluch. "Ramage did an exceptional job in setting the standard for future BMD success."

During the deployment, Ramage was called upon to support a wide range of missions. From fulfilling duties as a strategic BMD asset within 5th and 6th Fleet, to conducting more than 100 approach-and-assist visits in the Central Arabian Gulf, to defending Iraq's maritime oil infrastructure – all skill sets of Ramage's crew were called upon to complete these missions.

"Our deployment has been a testament to the dedication and commitment that is required to complete such a broad range of tasks," Galluch said. "That Ramage was able to respond quickly and effectively to any mission given is a direct reflection of the continual vigilance and professionalism that our Sailors maintain. By their flexibility and perseverance, they have earned a very well-deserved return home."

Ramage also conducted counterpiracy operations, cooperative training with foreign navies, air defense operations with U.S. aircraft carriers, and other critical missions while maintaining a safe and professional work environment.

"This deployment clearly shows just how challenging and flexible the crew can be in flawlessly accomplishing multi-faceted missions and at many times conducting the missions simultaneously," said Ramage's Executive Officer Lt. Cmdr. Jack Killman. "From the moment we entered 5th Fleet, our taskings drew national attention, and Ramage quickly earned the reputation of being the 'go-to ship' to get the job done. I am very proud of the crew and our many accomplishments executed safely and professionally on deployment."

Junior and senior Sailors achieved numerous qualifications and professional achievements while deployed. A large portion of their successes was attributed to the experience and leadership aboard Ramage.

"Deployment is a time to use and show off the skills and training that the crew developed throughout the year leading up to a deployment," said Command Master Chief (SW/AW) Gerald Coulson. "During our deployment, Ramage Sailors were challenged with many operational tasks. The crew met and excelled in all warfare areas."

"Likewise, they improved themselves personally by completing numerous college-level courses, surface warfare officer (SWO) and enlisted surface warfare specialist (ESWS) qualifications, along with many watch station qualifications," continued Coulson. "We held two advancement exams during this deployment, and our Sailors once again excelled by achieving a 38.5 percent advancement rate -- well above the 25 percent national rate."

By committing themselves early in the deployment, Ramage leadership ensured success for the entire crew.

"Many of their successes were products of the guidance offered by their chain of command and leading chief petty officers," said Coulson. "These efforts were a direct result of Ramage's new dedication towards the mentorship program. Ramage Sailors know that operational excellence is an all-hands effort."

Ramage is deployed as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditonary Strike Group supporting maritime security operations (MSO). MSO help develop security in the maritime environment. From security arises stability that results in global economic prosperity. MSO complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seek to disrupt violent extremists' use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

Vella Gulf Wrapping Up Rewarding Seven-Month Deployment

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason R. Zalasky, Iwo Jima Amphibious Expeditionary Strike Public Affairs

USS VELLA GULF, At Sea (NNS) -- The guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72) is nearing the end of a successful seven-month deployment to the Navy's 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG).

Throughout the deployment, Vella Gulf played a significant role in counterpiracy operations.

Early in the deployment, Vella Gulf assumed duties as the on scene commander (OSC) of the pirated Motor Vessel (M/V) Faina crisis.

"Our successful mission as the OSC of the M/V Faina crisis was the longest and most challenging," said Capt. Mark Genung, Vella Gulf's commanding officer. "My watch team's out-of-the-box thinking immediately shaped the tactical situation. In the course of more than 100 days on station, Vella Gulf maintained vigilant situational awareness throughout in what became a highly-complex ransom negotiation process."

"We de-escalated several tense situations when the pirates made credible threats to the Faina hostages and Vella Gulf," Genung continued. "We ensured Faina's significant military cargo was not imported into Somalia, prevented terrorists from capturing or damaging Faina and, most importantly, ensured the negotiations resulted in the safe release of the hostages."

Vella Gulf's involvement in counterpiracy operations continued for the duration of the ship's time in 5th Fleet. Following the M/V Faina crisis, Vella Gulf served as the flagship for Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 counterpiracy operations.

"Our mission as the flagship of CTF 151 was extremely satisfying," said Genung. "We captured 16 suspected pirates that attempted to pirate the M/V Polaris and M/V Prem Divya. Despite the high risks associated with small boat operations and helicopter warning shots, we captured these heavily-armed suspected pirates without any injuries or inadvertent discharges."

Genung is proud of his crew's accomplishments and the impact they've made.

"Vella Gulf proved that we are good world neighbors and are working together to improve maritime security and safety," said Genung. "The success of our ship and crew contributed significantly to Iwo Jima ARG's overall mission, and I am proud of the job we've done."

Vella Gulf is deployed as part of the Iwo Jima ESG supporting maritime security operations (MSO). MSO help develop security in the maritime environment. From security arises stability that results in global economic prosperity. MSO complements the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seeks to disrupt violent extremists' use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

San Antonio Demonstrates Capabilities During Maiden Deployment

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW) Brian Goodwin, Iwo Jima Amphibious Expeditionary Strike Public Affairs

USS SAN ANTONIO, At Sea (NNS) -- The amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17) readies to return to its homeport in Norfolk after completing a seven-month deployment as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG).

The homecoming will mark the end of the maiden deployment for the first San Antonio-class warship, which brought new warfighting capabilities to the stike group.

"We've demonstrated that the LPD 17 platform is very robust with its new features," said Cmdr. Eric Cash, San Antonio's commanding officer. "If you look at the lift capability, command and control, and capacity and facilities to embark a multitude of detachments, you can see how amphibious ships can be utilized from low to high intensity operations."

Thanks to San Antonio's design, embarked Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (26 MEU) were able to carry out their daily routine and shore operations in an efficient manner.

"We were a complete unit, capable of any tasking because of the capacity that San Antonio has for our operations," said Lt. Col. John Giltz, Combat Logistics Battalion 26 commanding officer. "The passageways are much wider for a large number of Marines to move throughout the ship and for transporting vehicles. The flight deck is capable of having multiple aircraft, which makes loading and offloading much faster."

"This deployment has taught us a great deal on how to carry out MEU operations," Giltz added. "From what we've learned on San Antonio's maiden cruise, the LPD-class ships are very capable in independent ship missions."

A number of functions are monitored through the ship's latest feature, the shipwide area network (SWAN).

"SWAN has been a godsend for this ship on this deployment," said Information Systems Technician 2nd Class Wendall Bates.

"It has enabled us to man less spaces, and it's a constant watchdog for our systems should anything go wrong, such as broken consoles at an engineering station, navigation issues or problems with the ship's control system."

At the start of the new year, San Antonio was selected to serve as the flagship for the newly-established Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 counter-piracy mission. Fleet Surgical Team 8, from the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), and Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron 3, from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), embarked San Antonio to enhance CTF-151's capabilities.

"By bringing such a diverse group of forces together, we were able to capitalize on each other's experiences and training, and that allowed us to better prepare for future missions," said Lt. Cmdr. Sean Kearns, San Antonio's executive officer.

"San Antonio surpassed all expectations made by the Iwo Jima ARG," said Lt. Richard Knutson, San Antonio's operations officer. "We demonstrated that this platform is versatile in carrying out operations such as visit, board, search and seizure operations, damage control training and simulated warfare."

Cmdr. Kurt Kastner, San Antonio's former commanding officer, led the ship and its crew out on the maiden deployment and is proud of the crew's accomplishments.

"The crew and embarked Marines faced every challenge and mission head-on," said Kastner. "I think their efforts will go a long way in defining future LPD 17 class deployments."

San Antonio is deployed as part of the Iwo Jima ARG supporting maritime security operations (MSO). MSO help develop security in the maritime environment. From security arises stability that results in global economic prosperity. MSO complements the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seek to disrupt violent extremists' use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

Carter Hall Prepares for Return Home After Successful Deployment

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Katrina Parker, Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group Public Affairs

USS CARTER HALL, At Sea (NNS) -- The amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) has reached the final stages of its seven-month deployment to the Navy's 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation and is making preparations to return to her homeport at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek, Va.

While deployed, Carter Hall served as an Afloat Forward Staging Base (AFSB) in the North Arabian Gulf as part of Combined Task Force (CTF) 158, acting as a support platform for both helicopters and small boats, which allowed coalition forces to conduct interaction patrols with local dhows. Carter Hall also contributed to the security of oil platforms, supported other warships in the area, and served as a training platform for dozens of Iraqi Sailors and Marines.

"Carter Hall's success as an AFSB was only possible through the combined efforts of the crew's hard work and the ship's versatility," said Carter Hall's commanding officer Cmdr. Jeff Sinclair. "I am proud of how well the crew attacked each new challenge head on as we continued to operate while expanding our role daily in that unique environment."

During the deployment, Carter Hall was recognized for its superior performance by winning the Battle Effectiveness (Battle "E"), Golden Anchor, and Commander, Navy Exchange Command Best in Class Ship's Retail and Services Excellence awards.

"Carter Hall was an excellent example of the surface fleet pushing the envelope and taking the fight to the enemy," Sinclair said. "The crew's around-the-clock performance was above and beyond the call of duty during all operations, exercises, drills and day-to-day conduct."

Carter Hall also conducted antipiracy operations and other critical missions while maintaining a safe and professional work environment.

"The crew did an outstanding job, and I am extremely proud to have led them," said Carter Hall's executive officer Lt. Cmdr. Nathan Strandquist. "They demonstrated excellence and professionalism in every operation we were tasked with."

Deployment was also an opportunity for Sailors to hone their skills and job specialties. Junior Sailors were able to benefit from the guidance of their chain of command and leading chief petty officers.

"It is the Sailors on the deck plates who deserve the credit and recognition for a job well done," said Carter Hall's Command Master Chief (SW/AW) Don Ouellette. "The Chief's Mess had an incredibly successful seven-month deployment because we have seen the crew answer every call for tasking with pride, dedication and professionalism. We bring home a much more mature and cohesive group of warriors than what we left home with."

Ouellette hopes that Sailors deploying for the first time have learned to appreciate all the facets of life and freedoms they left behind at home.

"As Sailors, we offer up our lives in service to our great nation in order to protect our way of life for our family and friends at home," Ouellette said. "It is an honor and a privilege to go out and defend the freedoms of American citizens."

Carter Hall is deployed as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) supporting maritime security operations (MSO). MSO help develop security in the maritime environment. From security arises stability that results in global economic prosperity. MSO complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seek to disrupt violent extremists' use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

Amphibs Operating in the 5th Fleet

Sailors aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) watch the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) breakaway from the Military Sealift Command dry cargo/ammunition ship USNS Lewis and Clark (T-AKE 1) after a replenishment at sea. Carter Hall and Iwo Jima are deployed as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group supporting maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Katrina Parker/Released)

Iwo Jima Floats New Technology While Deployed

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Zane Ecklund, USS Iwo Jima Public Affairs

USS IWO JIMA, At Sea (NNS) -- Airmen and Marines aboard multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) launched a weather balloon, outfitted with new technology, from the ship Jan. 19.

The weather balloon, in conjunction with a Combat SkySat High Altitude Radio Relay Package launched by Airmen from the Arizona Air National Guard, demonstrated the capabilities of this new technology to Marines of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (26 MEU). Current technology allows Marines in the field to boost a signal approximately 60 miles. The SkySat package boosts the signal of radio equipment up to 600 miles.

"The radio relay package rises to an altitude between 60 to 90 thousand feet and enhances warfighter capabilities," said Lt. Col. Patty Tuttle, commander, Arizona Air National Guard Detachment 2.

The signals received and re-transmitted by SkySat can be picked up by ground units and pilots immediately after the launch.

"The Marines were pleased with the result," said Tuttle. "At one point during long-range helicopter operations, SkySat was the only communications they had. They were talking from ship to helicopter to Yuma and Camp Pendleton."

"The equipment is safer and more cost effective than using personnel and aircraft to do the same job," said Tech. Sgt. Craig Armstrong, Arizona Air National Guard Detachment 2 ground radio non-commissioned officer in charge. "It drastically reduces the amount of personnel going into harm's way."

The technology is used at sea as well. Chief Aerographer's Mate (AW/SW) Burt Crapo sees weather balloons as being practical in the Navy since an intelligence surveillance reconnaissance package could replace the balloon ballast, which could track boats, troop movements and traffic lanes.

"Because of the size of the balloon, there is a weight restraint; so there is only so much you can put on it," said Crapo.

Crapo also suggested adding a meteorological/oceanographic device, which would improve meteorological models available to the ship.

He said the models help with the navigation of the ship, mission planning, Marine support and aiding communications for other ships in the strike group.

Iwo Jima is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Operations with the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group to conduct maritime security operations (MSO). MSO help develop security in the maritime environment. From security arises stability that results in global economic prosperity. MSO complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seek to disrupt violent extremists' use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

Space Operations a Key Focus for the Iwo Jima ESG

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

An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 26 conducts a vertical replenishment with the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7). Iwo Jima is deployed as the flagship of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group and is supporting maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Katrina Parker/Released)

The Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) is blazing trails in the area of space operations and taking advantage of every opportunity to employ this concept.

Space operations integrates space-based capabilities to build situational awareness and enhance communications capabilities, navigation, defense, and weather information, which are all vital to a ship at sea.

Modern-day naval warships rely on space operations for five vital areas: satellite communications; navigation and timing; intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; meteorology and oceanography; and missile warning.

"In order to get information on and off the ship, we rely heavily on satellite communications," said Wheaton. "To drive a ship, we need systems to help navigate and we rely on external communications, which is heavily satellite-based or space-based."

"Much of the intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance, capabilities are also space based," he continued. "Additionally, there are space systems that forecast the weather, which supports our meteorology and oceanography missions."

Missile warning is one of the most critical areas supported by space operations, which is mutually supportive with ballistic missile defense (BMD) capabilities.

"From a force protection point of view, missile warning is important for any strike group; especially when we operate in potentially hostile areas of the world," said Wheaton. "Anything that helps us maintain our situational awareness and keep our ships safe is very, very important."

Since its inception, space operations has been an asset for day-to-day underway operations.

"The ability to operationalize information that we get from space operations is very meaningful," said Wheaton. "Having been a communications officer and a surface warfare officer, I see the value in being able to forecast potential problem areas. The whole reason I'm here as the space operations officer is to bring knowledge and understanding of the space environment to operational planners within the strike group so they can factor it into their combat plans and other operations."

The Iwo Jima ESG consists of the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7); the amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50); the amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17); the guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72); the guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61); all homeported at Norfolk; the guided-missile destroyer USS Roosevelt (DDG 80), homeported at Mayport, Fla.; and the fast attack submarine USS Hartford (SSN 768), homeported at Groton, Conn.; and a Marine landing force from the 26 Marine Expeditionary Unit.

The strike group is deployed to the Navy's 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO helps set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations.

While in theater, the strike group will also support the other tenets of the Navy's Maritime Strategy, which include forward presence, deterrence, sea control, power projection, and humanitarian assistance/disaster response. The Maritime Strategy represents a new vision for the 21st century and establishes new capabilities to codify longstanding challenges, while maintaining the focus on enduring missions.

1st East Coast DDG With BMDS Deploys as Part of ESG

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW) Michael Starkey, Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group Public Affairs
The guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61) transits the Atlantic Ocean. Ramage is deployed as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group supporting maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Flordeliz Valerio)

The Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) is underway in the Navy's 5th and 6th fleet area of operations with new technology added to its arsenal. The guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61), part of the Iwo Jima ESG, is the first East Coast ship equipped with a Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) system.

The new BMD system not only allows the strike group to defend themselves against missile attacks, but other areas as well.

"This contributes greatly to the ESG operations," said Cmdr. Peter Galluch, Ramage's commanding officer. "It gives our ESG commander and theater commander another capability that's never been deployed from the East Coast. We can detect and identify, track and engage short-range and medium-range ballistic missiles. So whatever theater we go in, we can defend population centers, or assets from attacks from aggressive nations with ballistic missiles. That's never been the case before."

Although there are numerous DDG's homeported on the East Coast, Ramage was specifically selected to be the first to receive the BMD system.

"Ramage, with our base-line Aegis load, makes us eligible to have the BMD software," said Lt. Cmdr. Harry Marsh, Ramage's Combat Systems officer. "With our timeline, the timing of our yard period, and when our deployment was scheduled, we were in the right place at the right time. Our crew has proven that it was also the right ship, we've met all of the requirements and expect to continue to do so."

A vast amount of time was spent in training Ramage's Sailors on the operation of the BMD system.

"The crew underwent very intensive training," said Galluch. "Their rates got them in the ballpark; working on Aegis, working in the combat information center, and their 'A schools' had a lot of it, but then they had a month of specific technical & tactical training on the system."

The training hasn't stopped.

"After the certification we've been running scenarios and drills and technical training to keep up the proficiency and build our operational excellence," Galluch continued. "The Ramage has a great reputation, so they knew what ship to put it on."

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