On-going Fatigue Study Leads Navy to Ground Some P-3Cs

PATUXENT RIVER, Md. (NNS) -- The Naval Air Systems Command issued an Air Frame Bulletin Dec. 17 announcing the grounding of 39 P-3C Orion aircraft due to structural fatigue concerns.

The concerns are the result of continuing P-3 fatigue life analysis and validation by physical findings.

Program officials determined that these aircraft are beyond known structural limits on the lower section of the P-3 wing. Analysis and corrective measures are expected to take between 18 to 24 months per aircraft to complete.

The Navy has a total of 161 P-3C aircraft in its inventory. Of the 39 aircraft being grounded, ten are currently deployed. A plan is being developed to address operational impacts.

The Navy's goal is to ensure that its aircrews operate aircraft that are structurally sound and safe for operational flight. In the interest of safety, the grounded aircraft will either return to safe operation after replacement of critical structural components or will be removed from service.

Program officials are currently evaluating available resources, industrial capacity, and will coordinate with the Fleet regarding the disposition of these aircraft.

Joint Ops at Top of World

by 1st Lt. Nicole Langley, 821st Air Base Group

The biannual resupply of Canadian Forces Station Alert and Eureka, known as Operation Boxtop, came to a close Sept. 28 after nearly three weeks of round-the-clock missions originating from Thule Air Base, Greenland.

With approximately 200 Canadian servicemembers involved in each operation, Boxtop is Canada's largest resupply operation and occurs each spring and fall. "Boxtop is a model multi-national operation demonstrating the dependence and interoperability of U.S. and Canadian forces ensuring security in the remote arctic region," said Col. Lee-Volker Cox, 821st Air Base Group commander. "Supporting the world's northernmost inhabited locations from Thule exhibits NATO's global reach capabilities. No matter how difficult the weather, terrain or remote the location, we can deliver."

During the fall operation, the annual bulk replenishment of dried, non-perishable goods are delivered, said George Stewart, G4 for the Department of National Defence/Canadian Forces Chief Information Management Group.

CFS Alert is located approximately 420 miles north-northeast of Thule AB and has about 70 Canadians assigned. It is the northernmost permanently inhabited settlement in the world. CFS Eureka, located about 340 miles north-northwest of Thule, has only about 17 Canadian servicemembers assigned there.

The dried goods that were transported to Alert from Thule were delivered to the U.S. Air Base by Canadian-contracted sea carrier this summer near the end of Thule's port season, Mr. Stewart explained.

Thule AB has been providing support for these resupply operations since the early 1950s. While the Canadian Forces conducted direct operations, Thule's Operation Boxtop team consisted of individuals from airfield operations, logistics and communications.

Additionally, the base supported the Canadians with lodging and access to the dining facility and morale, welfare and recreation services. Base personnel also provided medical and security forces support.

While the Canadians did face some challenges during the operation, primarily due to weather and aircraft serviceability, the overall operation was considered a success.

According to Capt. Marie Meihls, 821st Support Squadron's Logistics Flight commander, with more than 160 missions flown, this fall's operation exceeded the goals.

As the primary contact for Thule support to CFS Alert and the detachment at Eureka, Mr. Stewart described Thule's support as outstanding in all areas. "Without support from Thule Air Base, the survivability of CFS Alert would be in serious question," said Mr. Stewart.

While the Canadian Forces benefit from Thule's support, the U.S. Air Base also benefits from the additional training. "The entire operation provides Team Thule a superb opportunity to train and operate at an operations tempo that is 500 percent higher than normal. It takes a tremendous effort to maneuver, service, repair, load and launch aircraft 24/7," explained Colonel Cox.

In addition to providing daily support for the operation, many Team Thule members got the opportunity to have an up close and personal look at the flying missions to Alert and Eureka by participating in orientation flights as space was available.

The operation wouldn't be complete without the traditional Boxtop Olympics - a competition of international proportion that occurs during each biannual resupply operation. The Canadian Forces competes in activities including volleyball, floor hockey, badminton and bowling against Team Thule, and the winner is awarded the coveted traveling trophy until the next matchup.

"Unfortunately for Team Thule, Boxtop Olympics II 2007 ended in a draw, with Alert keeping the trophy," explained Master Sgt. Chester Spires, 821st Air Base Group first sergeant.

At the end of the operation and the athletic competition, it was obvious that the time spent together was mutually beneficial for the Canadian servicemembers and Team Thule.

"Everyone comes together for Boxtop and the Thule family grows with an additional 200 members," said Colonel Cox. "No matter where I went and no matter who I saw, you could tell their was genuine friendship and mutual admiration. Everyone was working together as one team focused on the mission.

"That doesn't surprise me, because when you're on top of the world, you can't just get support with a phone call. If we can't get it done, it's not going to get done and Team Thule always gets the job done!"

DMSP Flight-18 spacecraft Shipped to Vandenberg

Officials at the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program Systems Group announced today they have successfully shipped the DMSP Flight -18 spacecraft from a Lockheed Martin Space Systems facility in Sunnyvale, Calif., to Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif.

The spacecraft was shipped aboard a C17 Globemaster III assigned to the 21st Airlift Squadron at Travis Air Force Base and departed Moffett Field, Calif., early this morning.

"Shipment of F-18 from the factory to VAFB is a significant milestone in the launch preparation process," said Col. Bradley Smith, commander, Defense Meteorological Systems Group. "F-18 has completed several retrofits, modifications, sensor integrations and a full gambit of mechanical, electrical and environmental testing over the past 18 months at Lockheed Martin Space Systems."

The successful shipment and placement of the spacecraft into the Payload Integration and Testing Facility at VAFB signifies completion of all environmental testing. The spacecraft will continue to undergo final preparation for launch processing.

The 30th Launch Support Squadron is responsible for the care and handling of the vehicle from the moment it arrives at VAFB to launch. At VAFB, F-18 will undergo routine integration and testing, including integration of the ultraviolet sensor from Northrop Grumman and flight battery integration and checkout.

Then it will be transported to an encapsulation facility where it will be mated with the Atlas V booster. F-18 is scheduled to be launched next summer and will replace DMSP F-16 which was launched in 2003.

11th SWS reactivated as Buckley plays host

by Staff Sgt. Sanjay Allen, 460th Space Wing Public Affairs



BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- The 460th Space Wing designated a new space warning squadron Dec. 3 that will reside at Schriever AFB near Colorado Springs,Colo.

The 460th Operations Group, Detachment 1, stood down and stood up as the 11th Space Warning Squadron during the ceremony.

"It's an amazing thing to witness," said Lt. Col. Holly Weik, 11th SWS commander. "It's not that often you get to witness history."

The new 11th SWS will operate the latest Space-Based Infrared Systems satellite payload, using a new sensor in a highly elliptical orbit to provide a tremendouds increase in warning time and accuracy.

"The activation of this unit demonstrates that the Air Force is committed to bringing everything to bear to protect all warriors," said Col. Christopher Ayres, 460th Operations Group commander. "Lt. Col. Weik and her space warriors will provide national decision makers and combatant commanders timely, critical information on what we see through infrared eyes for missile warning, missile defense, technical intelligence, and battlespace awareness.

The detachment maximized the 460th Operations Group's mission readiness by training space operators and intelligence situation analysts. They developed and maintained operations plans, tactics and procedures for primary and alternate space operations center activities in support of U.S. Strategic Command's global warning network. Additionally, they produced crew schedules maintaining documentation for 200-plus space crew members and furnished mission-critical intelligence support.

The 11th SWS was originally activated in 1994 and used infrared data from the constellation of Defense Support Program satellites to warn deployed troops in theater of short-range missile launches, as well as significant other events around the globe.

The 11th SWS formerly operated and maintained the Attack and Launch Early Reporting to Theater, or ALERT, system. That system provided continuous surveillance and early warning of theater missiles and other threats in direct support of theater warfighters worldwide.

When the Mission Control Station was completed at Buckley late in 2001, the 11th SWS was deactivated as part of the transition to the DSP follow-on, SBIRS. The 11th SWS was deactivated on Dec. 31, 2002.

DSP, which is still operational, uses satellites operating in geosynchronous equatorial orbit more than 22,000 miles above the earth. The system was designed to detect intercontinental ballistic missiles, space launches and nuclear detonations in near-real time.

As the nation's newest space-based missile warning system, SBIRS will feature both geostationary and HEO satellites to create a synergy that significantly enhances both the strategic and theater warning missions. The system was designed to perform the additional missions of technical intelligence, national missile defense and battle-space characterization.

The mission of the 460th Space Wing is to provide combatant commanders with expeditionary warrior Airmen and deliver global infrared surveillance, tracking and missile warning for theater and homeland defense.

Completing the mission requires everyone working together, Colonel Weik said.

"We can't do this by ourselves," she said. "We have to count on our Reservists and civilians. It is a team effort."

The reactivation of the 11 SWS represents the latest technological leap in the Air Force's ability to protect the United States.

Navy grounds 39 P-3s over faulty wings

News reports just monitored here at the Milcom blog indicate that the U.S. Navy is grounding 39 of 161 P-3 Orion patrol aircraft due to a wing stress issue.

According to a Navy Times report by Chris Amos, nearly one quarter of the fleet was grounded "because of concerns that a structural defect could cause either of the aircraft’s wings to break off in flight."

"The grounding was the result of engineering analysis and computer modeling and was not caused by any actual structural failures, said John Milliman, spokesman for Naval Air Systems Command. He said he didn’t initially know how the grounded planes were singled out from the rest of the fleet as being vulnerable to wing failures.

"Milliman said each grounded aircraft will be flown to a repair depot in Jacksonville, Fla. Those that can be repaired will be out of service for between 18 and 24 months. Those that can’t will be retired."

More details have been found on the Navy Times website at: http://www.navytimes.com/news/2007/12/navy_orion_grounding_071217w/

Airshow/Flyby Schedule - December 2007

Radio hobbyists who want to monitor these events should download the latest copy of the Monitoring Times Airshow Guide from the magazine website. The 2007 guide is available at http://www.monitoringtimes.com/mtairshow07.pdf.

The new 2008 airshow guide will be presented in the March issue of Monitoring Times magazine. The web version of our March guide won't be posted to the MT website until mid to late April. This is done as a courtesy to our subscribers and readers who pay the freight. So get your copy of the March issue before it sells out when it is released in the last week of February. Better yet, get a subscription and don't miss a single exciting issue of Monitoring Times magazine.

December 2007

Date Location - Event
15 TPC Tampa Bay, Florida - America Supports You PGA Tour Golf Tournament -- USN FlyOver

15 East Tennessee State Cemetary, Knoxville - Wreaths Across America -- USN Fly Over

16 Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, California - Chargers vs. Lions NFL Game -- USN Flyover

17 Wright Brothers Memorial, Kitty Hawk, North Carolina - Annual Wright Brothers Memorial Celebration-First flight society -- USN FlyOver

21 Pea Ridge Elementary School, Milton, Florida - HT -18/ Pea Ridge Elementary School Santa Clause Fly-in -- USN FlyOver

23 Jacksonville Municipal Stadium, Jacksonville, Florida - NFL Game (Jacksonville Jaguars vs Oakland Raiders) -- USN Flyover

23 Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois - Chicago Bears vs Green Bay Packers -- USN FlyOver

23 Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati, Ohio - NFL Football Game -- USN Flyover

27 Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, California - Pacific Life Holiday Bowl -- USN Flyover/Navy Leap Frogs Parachute Team

30 Lambeau Field, Green Bay, Wisconsin - Green Bay Packers Football -- USN FlyOver

Note: Due to inclement weather and other unforeseen problems, events may be cancelled or rescheduled without notice.

NROL-24/USA-198 Kep/Freq Update 12-15-2007

A National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) payload was successfully launched aboard a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle (EELV) from Space Launch Complex 41, Cape Canaveral, Florida, on December 10, 2007 at 5:05 p.m. EST. This is the second Atlas V launch of an NRO payload.

“Today’s launch culminates many years of hard work and is a tribute to our dedicated government and industry team,” said Col James Norman, Mission Director.

The NRO is a joint organization engaged in the research and development, acquisition, launch and operation of overhead reconnaissance systems necessary to meet the needs of the Intelligence Community and the Department of Defense. This launch directly supports NRO’s goals of being the foundation for global situational awareness and for providing intelligence information on timelines responsive to user needs.

Following the tradition of NRO launches on Atlas rockets, the mission was given a name - Scorpius. The mission logo was displayed on the rocket's nose cone featuring a scorpion, a saying translated to "Beware Our Sting" and satellites flying in different types of orbits around Earth.

Ted Molczan on the SEESAT newsgroup posted the following Kep element sets for the USA 198 payload and Centaur rocket body based on recent visual observations.

USA 198 259 X 16774 km
1 32378U 07060A 07347.70298699 .00000273 00000-0 27163-4 0 05
2 32378 60.0102 316.7088 5544157 287.2561 21.4044 4.77576618 05
Arc 2007 Dec 11.01 - 13.81, WRMS residuals = 0.012 deg

Centaur 224 X 16299 km
1 32379U 07060B 07347.83811522 .00041920 00000-0 19103-2 0 03
2 32379 60.7629 317.4582 5490058 285.5459 22.5500 4.90095032 01
Arc 2007 Dec 11.01 - 13.87, WRMS residuals = 0.022 deg

And Greg Roberts in South Africa reported via the Harsat newsgroup a S-band frequency for USA 198 of 2242.500 MHz.

Rawhides Home in Time for Holidays

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Christopher Hall, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Atlantic

NORFOLK (NNS) -- Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40 Detachment (Det.) 4 returned to Naval Station Norfolk Dec. 14 after a six-month deployment aboard USS Enterprise (CVN 65) in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.

The "Rawhides" provided carrier onboard delivery, transporting cargo, mail and passengers to support the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group in maintaining around–the–clock air operations.

"You can't put it into words," said Lt. James Allenburg, "We actually weren't gone that long but given the months we were gone it is great to be back especially for the holidays."

VRC 40 Det. 4 deployed with Enterprise, as part of Carrier Air Wing 1, July 7. The "Rawhides" transported more than 700,000 pounds of cargo, nearly 250,000 pounds of mail, and 3,600 passengers. This deployment was their second in two years.

Blue Angels Knighted With Sword of Excellence

The Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, received the International Council of Air Shows' (ICAS) Sword of Excellence Dec. 13.

The team received the award for its outstanding service and contributions to the air show industry during the 2007 air show season.

ICAS President John Cudahy presented Blue Angels Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Kevin Mannix with the award during a ceremony at the annual ICAS convention in Las Vegas.

Mannix said the team is more than honored to receive the award and to be considered in the same class as previous recipients.

"We're proud to be part of such a professional industry," he said. "Not only do I consider my fellow Blue Angels family, but I also consider each and every performer, organizer and volunteer as such. The air show industry and its members are crucial to our existence."

Cudahy said he has often worked with the Pensacola-based Blue Angels during his 10 years as ICAS president and finds the team to be the epitome of professionalism and the standard by which all other air show professionals are measured.

"The U.S. Navy Blue Angels are an American icon," said Cudahy. "Our organization is proud to recognize them with the air show industry's single-most prestigious award."

This is the first year ICAS has recognized an organization rather than an individual performer with the award since its inception in 1981. This also makes the Blue Angels the only military entity to gain such recognition.

Cudahy said he believes the Blue Angels well-deserved selection could open the door for future military organizations, such as the Army's Golden Knights and the Air Force Thunderbirds, but, they have big shoes to fill. "They will first have to make the same kind of contributions to the air show community that the Blue Angels have made during the last 61 years," he said.

The anonymous nomination of the Blues deemed the organization to be a "household name." Other points in the nomination included the team's hectic training and travel schedules as well as the economic impact the team has on any air show where it performs. Driving the point home, the nomination stated, "The Blue Angels ARE the air show industry."

Following the nomination of a performer, a selection committee consisting of long-standing ICAS members, board members and past recipients confer and evaluate the merits of nominees. According to Cudahy, recipients must have the unanimous support of the selection committee.

The Blue Angels represent Sailors and Marines serving around the globe and embody the core values of honor, courage and commitment. Such principles are key to earning the Sword of Excellence, which is considered to be the highest award air show professionals can receive. The award, like the Navy and Marine Corps, also recognizes leadership, innovation, vision and community involvement.

The Blue Angels began training for the 2008 season in Pensacola and following the new year, will transit to El Centro, Calif., for winter training.

Raduga/Globus mil communication satellite launched

Information courtesy of the RussianForces.org Blog

On December 9, 2007 Russia successfully launched a Proton-M rocket from the launch pad No. 24 of the launch complex No. 81 of the Baykonur launch site. The launch took place at 03:16 MSK (00:16 UTC). The rocket, which was equipped with a Briz-M upper stage, deployed the satellite on an intermediate orbit with inclination of about 49 degrees. The satellite, which has not yet received official designation, appears to be a military communication relay satellite of the Globus-1/Raduga-1 class that will be eventually moved to a geosynchronous orbit. The satellite was given an international designation 2007-058A and the NORAD number 32373.

Satellites of this class normally receive a Raduga designation, so it is expected to become Raduga 1-8 (although it still may get "Cosmos" designation - in 2004 its predecessor, Raduga 1-7, was briefly designated as Cosmos).

The satellite will join two other active Raduga/Globus satellites - Raduga 1-5 (26477, launched on 28 August 2000, deployed in 45E) and Raduga 1-7 (28194, 27 March 2004, 85E). Raduga 1-4 (25642, 28 February 1999, 35E) ended its operations in November 2005, and Raduga 1-6 (26936, 6 October 2001, 70E) – in February 2006.

It should be noted that although it was officially announced that this launch was carried out “in the interest of the Ministry of Defense”, it was not included in the list of military launches for 2007 that were discussed in December 2006 and January 2007. Information about the launch became public only in October 2007. UPDATE 09/12/07: Space Forces representative was quoted as saying that the satelltie was given an official designation Cosmos-2434. According to the Space Forces, the launch is part of a flight test program of a new type of satellites.

Lobo's Home by Christmas

A UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter from the 2nd "Lobo" Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, departs after dropping off Soldiers at Camp Virginia, Kuwait, Dec. 6. The 1st ACB troopers are in the process of redeploying after a 15-month deployment to Camp Taji, Iraq. The majority of them will make it home for Christmas.

High-tech communications aid warfighter

BY Jacqueline R Boucher



For three years, Tobyhanna field technicians have helped improve battlefield communications by transforming Army helicopters into high-tech command and control platforms.

The Army Airborne Command and Control System (A2C2S) installed on select UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters uses command, control, communications, and computers (C4) systems to gather data while flying over combat zones. Eight depot field service representatives (FSR) maintain and support the system.

The command and control platform is a self-contained airborne command post that consists of two major components; the A- and B-kits. Depot employees started working on the B-kits in 2003.

A-kits are permanently affixed to the platforms and include antennas, power cables and attachment points for the B-kits. B-kits are removable and house a selection of voice and digital data communications package, software applications, reconfigurable and removable user stations and large common displays, intercom and encryption equipment.

While deployed to Balad Air Base, Iraq, the product manager for the A2C2S spoke highly of the field service representatives supporting the mission.

"Tobyhanna provides my product with outstanding field service representatives," Lt. Col. Charles Carter wrote to Col. Ron Alberto in October. "Last night General [David H.] Petraeus flew on one of his new A2C2S aircraft and absolutely loved it. Petraeus is the commander of the Multinational Force Iraq.

"Team A2C2S is very proud of this first flight and I wanted to let you know that your folks are doing a great job," the colonel said.

The FSRs provide maintenance, training and logistics support to deployed Army units.

Ralph John has worked with A2C2S since the program began. What he likes most about his job is working with the pilots, crew chiefs and system operators.

"I provide over-the-shoulder operator and maintainer sustainment training to unit and division personnel," said John, who deployed to Iraq with the 1st Cavalry Division. He explained that FSRs also serve as one of the principal advisors to the commander on all A2C2S issues.

The FSRs agree that their job is rewarding and they enjoy working side-by-side with the men and women serving in the U.S. Army.

"I enjoy working in the field with the Soldiers," said Thomas Devine, who deployed to Iraq with the 3rd Infantry Division.

He admits that he likes the challenge of making the system work. "There is nothing like finding a problem and fixing it," he said.

Devine works on two racks that house computers, power supplies, radios and various components that make up the A2C2S system along with three monitors. All the components can be removed from the aircraft.

"Though the system was fielded with some engineering issues, Tom excelled and continues to work them out, and has the aircraft at a 90 percent mission-capable status," said Thomas Yanochko, Tactical Operations Center (TOC) project officer here.

As the FSR in Afghanistan, Daniel Morgan provides depot-level maintenance and support while deployed with the 82nd Airborne Division.

"It's nice to hear my work helps save lives and that maybe one more Soldier will go home." Morgan said. "I try to do everything I can to support the mission."

To date Morgan's systems have had the highest operational tempo of any unit, according to Yanochko.

Participating in his second deployment this year, Jabari Grant feels Tobyhanna is supporting the A2C2S program to the fullest extent possible. He described his job as "vast levels of troubleshooting."

"I check everything from the network configuration on the router, military radio configurations to testing and basic avionics electronics," Grant said.

Long hours, hard work and dedication are keys to the team's success, according to Carter, adding that FSRs work alongside the Soldiers under difficult conditions to ensure the systems are mission ready. Carter recently returned to the United States.

"They live the command philosophy of supporting Soldiers and operate with a teamwork spirit and can-do attitude."

In 2003, James Brown was an FSR with the first A2C2S aircraft to go into Iraq with the 101st Airborne Division. He's on his third tour supporting the 12th CAB.

"Travis Curtis was a driving force behind the A2C2S mission for three years," Yanochko said. "He was the lead FSR and first Tobyhanna to deploy providing Sustainment support for the mission." Curtis transferred to the TOC mission this year.

Other Tobyhanna A2C2S representatives are Edwin Bookout, John Nichols and Steven Manson.

1st Cavalry Passing Baghdad Mission to 4ID

By Master Sgt. Dave Larsen

CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq (Army News Service, Dec. 7, 2007) - After 399 days as Multi-National Division-Baghdad, the 1st Cavalry Division will turn its mission over to the Fort Hood, Texas-based 4th Infantry Division Dec. 19.

"First Team" leaders were hard-pressed to pick one event as the crowning achievement of the deployment, but agreed that Operation Fardh Al-Qanoon ("enforcing the law") in mid-February, and the surge of security forces into Baghdad neighborhoods, improved the security situation in the Iraqi capital.

"We had the advantage of the surge, having two-and-a-half brigades added to our force structure here," said Maj. Gen. Joseph F. Fil Jr., commanding general of MND-B and the 1st Cav. Div. "That has really made a difference. It's allowed us to get out into all parts of the city, to touch places where we really were unable to get to before, and to influence not only the security situation there but also the Iraqi Security Forces."

"Nine Iraqi Army battalions have surged into Baghdad," added Brig. Gen. John F. Campbell, the deputy commanding general for maneuver of MND-B and the 1st Cav. Div. "That's helped quite a bit."

Additional troops, both coalition and Iraqi, meant more interaction with Baghdad neighborhoods and area residents, building trust and alleviating the grip of fear terrorists held on the populace.

"They were intimidated by the people who were living among them," Brig. Gen. Campbell said. "To win this counterinsurgency fight, you've got to have the population on your side and the only way to do that is to live with them. They get more comfortable with Iraqi Security Forces, more comfortable with coalition forces. They know we are going to be there when they need us."

Brig. Gen. Campbell added that volunteers for the concerned local-citizen program have also been very helpful. The movement spread from the west to Baghdad and filled every security district, he said.

"The volunteers are coming out in droves," Brig. Gen. Campbell said. "They're tired of the violence and they want to take control of their own destiny."

Recruiting drives have been held throughout the city, and candidates undergo mental and physical screenings to determine if they can eventually join the Iraqi police. The drives have been so successful that Brig. Gen. Campbell said volunteers outnumber police-training slots.

To secure Baghdad, he said, the Iraqi police must maintain the peace in each neighborhood; he added that while they're not there yet, the security situation is the best he has seen in 17 months.

While improved security improves living conditions and allows businesses to flourish, Brig. Gen. Vincent K. Brooks, the deputy commanding general for support with MND-B and the 1st Cav. Div., said the reverse can also be true: improved living conditions and the support of area residents also increases security.

"What is more important is to be able to use things like the delivery of services to change to environment for the people," said Brig. Gen. Brooks. "And as they begin to realize that someone is doing work on their behalf, it changes the environment and makes it less hospitable for terrorists to be able to hide among them.

"The population, having been protected, recognized that their great problem in the past and for the future would be the continued presence of extremists of any ilk. They've tasted what happens when those elements are pushed aside and that life can go on."

One of the First Team's biggest successes is the revitalization of the Doura Market. In January, only a handful of shops were open for business, but hundreds of vendors now ply their wares in one of Baghdad's busiest business districts.

"I have seen a tremendous change in security there," said Col. Bryan Roberts, commander of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team. "It's a great feeling. We came here to make a difference. Everything is thriving. There are physical, visual signs of progress. Everywhere you go things are open and people are working."

"If you haven't addressed the things that are iconic, things that are recognizable to the population, then even when you have achieved security, there's not a perception of security and the environment doesn't change," Brig. Gen. Brooks said.

He pointed to Al Haifa Street in central Baghdad, where extremists have been pushed out and programs are in place to improve the area, bring in businesses and have residents return to what was a daily battle zone in early 2007.

Another Baghdad icon is the Abu Nuwas Market on the Tigris River. Even before the Saddam Hussein-era, it was a thriving cultural, business and tourist area. It held a grand re-opening Nov. 24, and Iraqis filled the streets to celebrate its rebirth.

"Probably the most significant difference is the city is seeing much reduced violence, significantly improved conditions, not only for security but for the enabling of governance and setting the conditions for the economy to get started, as well," Maj. Gen. Fil said. "There's a sense of hope here now among the people that is paying off."

(Master Sgt. Dave Larsen serves with the1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs Office.)

Tarawa Ramping Up for STUFFEX

INDIAN OCEAN -- On the flight deck of amphibious assault ship USS Tarawa (LHA 1), personnel prepare to move aircraft into the hangar bay for the up coming STUFFEX exercise. This exercise gives the Air Department practice stowing as many aircraft and pieces of flight deck equipment in the hanger bay as possible, in the event of foul weather. Tarawa and embarked 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit are on a scheduled deployment in support of maritime security operations and the global war on terrorism. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Daniel A. Barker)

Navy to Commission Amphibious Transport Dock Ship Mesa Verde

PANAMA CITY, Fla. (NNS) -- The Navy will commission the newest San Antonio class amphibious transport dock ship Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Mesa Verde Dec. 15 in Panama City.

The ship is named to honor the Mesa Verde National Park in southwestern Colorado. In 1906, Congress established Mesa Verde as the first cultural park in the National Park Systems. This is the first U.S. Navy ship to be named Mesa Verde.

Former U.S. Senator from Colorado, Ben Nighthorse Campbell, will deliver the ceremony's principal address. Campbell's wife, Linda Price Campbell, will serve as ship's sponsor. The ceremony will be highlighted as she gives the first order to "man our ship and bring her to life!"

PCU Mesa Verde is the third amphibious transport dock ship in the San Antonio class. As a critical element in future expeditionary strike groups, the ship will support the Marine Corps "mobility triad," which consists of the landing craft air cushion vehicle, the Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle and the Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft (MV-22).

PCU Mesa Verde will support amphibious, special operations, and expeditionary warfare missions in keeping with "A Cooperative Strategy of 21st Century Seapower," the new maritime strategy that postures the sea services to apply maritime power to protect U.S. vital interests in an increasingly interconnected and uncertain world.

Cmdr. Shawn W. Lobree of Miami, Fla., will become the first commanding officer of the ship and will lead a crew of approximately 360 officers and enlisted personnel and three Marines.

Built by Northrop Grumman Ships Systems, Ingalls Operations in Pascagoula, Miss., PCU Mesa Verde is 684-feet long, has an overall beam of 105 feet, a navigational draft of 23 feet, displaces approximately 24,900 tons and is capable of embarking a landing force of up to 800 Marines. Four turbo-charged diesel engines power the ship to sustained speeds of 22 knots. PCU Mesa Verde will be homeported in Norfolk.

Essex Completes Successful Fall Patrol

The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) returned to Sasebo, Dec. 11 after completing a successful two-month fall patrol.

During Essex's fall patrol, the ship's Sailors and Marines conducted combined training with several Southeast Asian countries, participated in community relations projects and cultural exchanges as well as performed various medical and dental civil action projects ashore.

After departing Sasebo, Essex's first task was to on-load the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) in the Republic of the Philippines, which came at the conclusion of Talon Vision and Amphibious Landing Exercises.

While in Subic Bay, Republic of the Philippines, Sailors and Marines took part in two community relations projects, working with local elementary schools.

"It was an honor for us to make our first port call of the fall patrol Subic Bay, a city rich in history, culture and tradition," said Capt. Brian Donegan, Essex commanding officer. "Our Sailors and Marines had the opportunity to participate in some community relations projects that allowed them to give something back to the local residents in exchange for their hospitality and friendliness."

Essex then transited to Hong Kong for a scheduled port call, where the ship's 2,500 Sailors and Marines had a chance to enjoy the city's culture as well as host members of the local community for tours and a formal reception.

"We want to continue to foster good relations," said Essex Supply Officer, Cmdr. Kenneth Dixon. "Hosting a reception aboard the ship lets us do that. The reception was a success; I received nothing but positive feedback."

While in port, the ship's Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) division also provided a variety of tours and trips enjoyed by several hundred crew members. The various trips included tours of Disneyland Hong Kong, Lantau Island Monastery, home of the world's largest Buddha statue, and a trip showcasing the city of Hong Kong itself.

"MWR gave the Sailors and Marines a chance to see and do things that many do not experience during a port visit," said Essex Afloat Recreation Specialist Mick Hultz. "Many of the Sailors who attended the tours were new to MWR events."

Following a successful visit to Hong Kong, Essex traveled to the Republic of Korea to take part in the Korean Interoperability Training Program (KITP).

KITP was designed to enhance bilateral operations between the United States and the Republic of Korea, demonstrating U.S. commitment to peace and stability in the region. Bilateral exercises are designed to provide training for forces across a wide spectrum of combined/joint amphibious training, focusing on amphibious landing and assault.

The final stop for Essex was an historic visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia.

While in port, Sailors and Marines participated in community relations projects, medical and dental assistance events and professional military exchanges. The ship's crew and embarked Marines also participated in cultural exchanges and friendship-building activities.

Essex's visit to Cambodia marked the first visit by an amphibious assault ship, and was the second port call by a U.S. Navy ship visit this year. USS Gary's (FFG 51) visit in February was the first U.S. ship to visit the Kingdom of Cambodia in more than 30 years.

While in Cambodia, Essex and the 31st MEU conducted Medical and Dental Civic Action Programs with the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces in Kampong Cham and the remote village of Kulen. Marines from the 31st MEU also constructed two bridges and a culvert in Kampong Chhnang.

"Essex medical department and Fleet Surgical Team 7 were excited about working with the Marines to provide medical care for the people of Cambodia," said Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman (SW/AW) Mark Davison. "The Blue-Green team recognized the historical significance of these events and had the opportunity to provide care to those who would otherwise have limited or no access to health care in some rural areas."

While in the Sihanoukville area, Sailors and Marines visited the Hun Sen Krong Primary School, Hun Sen Mittapheap Primary School, Chamka Kaosu Primary School, and the orphanage Village D'Enfantes to take part in friendship building activities, pass out gifts and play games with the children. They also helped clean and paint the schoolhouses.

The ship's crew also distributed several pallets of Project Handclasp material to the schools and the orphanage. Project Handclasp is a U.S. Navy program that provides donated items to agencies and organizations in countries that could benefit from those materials.

"At each engagement opportunity, Sailors and Marines made a significant difference in the lives of thousands of people in need," said Donegan. "This port visit has been absolutely historic and is one of the most significant engagement activities in the Pacific this year."

Operating in the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean, the U.S. 7th Fleet is the largest of the forward-deployed U.S. fleets, with approximately 50 ships, 120 aircraft and 20,000 Sailors and Marines assigned at any given time.

Essex is the lead ship of the only forward-deployed U.S. Expeditionary Strike Group and serves as the flagship for Commander, Task Force 76, the Navy's only forward-deployed amphibious force commander. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with a detachment in Sasebo, Japan.

USS Sampson Arrives in San Diego

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Alexia M. Riveracorrea, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Pacific



SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The guided-missile destroyer USS Sampson (DDG 102) arrived at Naval Base San Diego Dec. 7, after completing several exercises following her commission in Boston Nov. 3.

Sampson crew participated in several evolutions including qualifying in boat operations, seamanship and flight operations.

"We certified engineering department and completed cruise missile tactical qualification for strike warfare and damage control as well," said Sampson's Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Philip Roos.

The ship also underwent unit level training assessment and took on board personnel from the afloat training group for tailored ship's training availabilities.

"We worked really hard before and after the ship got commissioned," said Yeoman 1st Class Harry Tatekawa. "As part of our journey, we got to visit very exciting countries, such as Colombia and Mexico, and we transited the Panama Canal."

Family and friends of Sampson Sailors eagerly waited as the ship docked.

"I am happy to be back with my family once again, especially now that the holidays are coming up," said Cryptologic Technician (Collection) Seaman Aaron Cunningham. "After all this time away from home, we are finally here."

Next, Sampson's crew must complete engineering operation certification and will complete final evaluation in early 2008.

Sampson is the fourth ship named after Rear Adm. William T. Sampson, a naval hero during the Spanish-American War. The three previous ships, all destroyers named in honor of Sampson, were also commissioned in Boston.

F-22s at Langley receive FOC status

by David Hopper, Air Combat Command Public Affairs


LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. (AFPN) -- F-22 Raptors here reached full operational capability Dec. 12, said Gen. John D.W. Corley, the commander of Air Combat Command.

The announcement officially makes Langley's F-22 squadrons combat ready.

FOC for the F-22 means the aircraft are now ready for global engagement, said Lt. Col. Mark Hansen, the Air Combat Command F-22 integration officer.

"Crews are now (fully) organized, trained, equipped and ready for the joint fight," he said.

Since the F-22s reached initial operational capability two years ago, the 1st Fighter Wing and the Air National Guard's 192nd Fighter Wing have dedicated time and resources into finding how to best use and maintain the world's most advanced fighter. The fighter has deployed and trained across the world to define and refine its capabilities and tactics.

The 1st FW has been training for the wartime mission since the F-22 went IOC, said Brig. Gen. Mark A. Barrett, the 1st FW commander. Langley AFB's F-22s were declared IOC in December 2005, making them capable of some combat operations such as homeland defense.

"We are available to be tasked at any time, to do whatever our nation requires," General Barrett said. The 1st and 192nd Fighter Wings will continue to baseline the F-22 so the rest of the fleet can learn from their experience, he said.

Even though the F-22 has reached FOC, Airmen at Langley AFB will continue training to get better every day, said Col. Jay Pearsall, the 192nd FW commander.

"There's no change in training," he said. "Everybody is working hard, and we're ready to go to war, (on) deployments or on exercises."

The F-22's unique combination of stealth, speed, agility, precision and situational awareness, combined with air-to-air and air-to-ground combat capabilities, gives the airframe numerous advantages over any potential adversary.

Canadian Snowbirds 2008 Schedule -Update

The Canadian Forces Snowbirds were delighted to announce their 2008 show season schedule December 11 in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States of America, during the International Council of Air Shows Convention.

"We are looking forward to a fantastic 2008 Season and to flying Canada's colours across North America," said Major Robert Mitchell, Commanding Officer, Canadian Forces Snowbirds. "Both in the air and on the ground, we remain committed to strive and represent the best of the Canadian Forces and to preserve our tradition of excellence."

During the 2008 Season, the Snowbirds are scheduled to participate in 65 air shows in 43 locations, proudly telling the Canadian Forces story through their inspirational flying and engaging team members. The team is also scheduled to conduct fly pasts of the following significant Canadian events: Canada Day, Calgary Stampede, The Formula 1 and Edmonton Grand Prix.

As ambassadors of the Canadian Forces and Canada, the team will travel as far North as Yellowknife, N.W.T., as far South as Fort Lauderdale, Fla., as far West as Victoria, B.C. and as far East as Halifax, N.S. The team is also looking forward to celebrating the 400th anniversary of Quebec City, Que., 14 and 15 June and to performing in their hometown of Moose Jaw, Sask., 23 August.

During the team's 38-year history, the Snowbirds have performed in about 2,100 air shows, before more than 125 million spectators.

The Canadian Forces Snowbirds' mission is to represent the professionalism, skill and teamwork of the Canadian Forces and to inspire Canadians to consider an exciting career in Canada's military.

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MT MIlcom Blog Readers: Don't forget to checkout our ninth annual Air Show Guide that will appear in the March 2008 issue of Monitoring Times magazine. It will be loaded with the latest frequencies (for US and foreign teams), combined schedules, and radio equipment recommendations to make your air show experience an enjoyable and pleasurable one.

The web version of our March guide won't be posted to the MT website until mid to late April. This is done as a courtesy to our subscribers and readers who pay the freight. So get your copy of the March issue before it sells out when it is released in the last week of February. Better yet, get a subscription and don't miss a single exciting issue of Monitoring Times magazine.

Canadian Forces Snowbirds 2008 Performance Schedule
The schedule below is subject to change without notice.

May
3-4 MacDill AFB, Florida - Air Fest 2008
7 Anderson, South Carolina - Anderson Air Show
10-11 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - Wings Over Pittsburgh
14 Duluth, Minnesota - Duluth Air Show
17-18 Malmstrom AFB, Montana - Malstrom AFB Open House
21 Cranbrook, British Columbia - Cranbrook Air Show
24-25 Janesville, Wisconsin - Southwest Wisconsin Airfest
31 Portage-la-Prairie, Manitoba - 17 Wing Armed Forces Day

June
1 Brandon, Manitoba - Westman Air Show
4 Kapuskasing, Ontario - Kapuskasing Air Show
7-8 Montreal, Quebec - Formula 1 Race
10 Magog, Quebec - Magog Fly-past
14-15 Quebec City, Quebec - 400th Anniversary of Quebec
18 Kingston, Ontario - Kingston Air Show
21-22 CFB Borden, Ontario - Canadian Force Base Borden
25 Goderich, Ontario - Goderich Air Show
28-29 Ottawa, Ontario - Ottawa Air Show

July
1 Ottawa, Ontario - Canada Day Flypast
4 Calgary, Manitoba - Calgary Stampede Flypast
16 Thompson, Manitoba - Thompson Air Show
19 Yellowknife, North West Territories - Yellowknife International Air Show
20 Edmonton, Alberta - Edmonton Grand Prix Flypast
26-27 Wetaskiwin, Alberta - Wetaskiwin Air Show
30 White Rock, British Columbia - Wings Over White Rock

August
3 Dawson Creek, British Columbia - Dawson Creek Air Show
6 Penticton, British Columbia - Penticton Air Show
8-10 Abbotsford, British Columbia - Abbotsford International Air Show
13 Rocky Mountain House, British Columbia - Rocky Mountain House Air Show
16 Springbank, Alberta - Springbank Air Show
23 Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan - 15 Wing Armed Forces Day
27 Welland, Ontario - Welland Air Show
30-31 Toronto, Ontario - Canadian International Air Show

September
1 Toronto, Ontario - Canadian International Air Show
2 Whitby, Ontario - Captain Michael VandenBos School Flypast
6-7 Halifax, Nova Scotia - Nova Scotia International Air Show
10 Stephenville, Newfoundland - Stephenville Air Show
20-21 Victoria, British Columbia - Victoria Air Show
24 Tri-Cities, Washington - Tri-Cities Air Show
27-28 Chico, California - Chico Air Show

October
1 Douglas, Arizona - Douglas Air Show
4-5 El Paso, Texas - Amigo Air Sho
11-12 San Francisco, California - San Francisco Fleet Week
17 CFB Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan - End of Year Show

US Army Golden Knights 2008 Schedule

Photo courtesy of the US Army Black Knights.

You will notice in the schedule we have provided below that the GK Team may be appearing in more than one location during a given weekend. This is because they have two teams (Gold/Black). The pre-public release schedule we received from the team does not show which team is going to which location. We hope to have that very soon.

In the meantime, don't forget our ninth annual Air Show Guide that will appear in the March 2008 issue of Monitoring Times magazine. It will be loaded with the latest frequencies (for US and foreign teams), combined schedules, and radio equipment recommendations to make your air show experience an enjoyable and pleasurable one.

The web version of our March guide won't be posted to the MT website until mid to late April. This is done as a courtesy to our subscribers and readers who pay the freight. So get your copy of the March issue before it sells out when it is released in the last week of February. Better yet, get a subscription and don't miss a single exciting issue of Monitoring Times magazine.

US Army Golden Knights 2008 Performance Schedule
This schedule is subject to change without notice.

March
13-16 South Padre Island, Texas
29 Tyndall AFB, Florida

April
5 Slidell, Louisiana
5-6 Punta Gorda, Florida
19-20 Wilmington, North Carolina/Peoria, Illinois
26 Jackson, Mississippi

May
3-4 Ft. Lauderdale, Florida/March ARB, California
7 Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
10-11 Barksdale AFB, Louisiana
17-18 Ft. Smith, Arkansas/Andrews AFB, Maryland
24-25 Janesville, Wisconsin/Jones Beach, New York
31 Danville, Virginia

June
1 Danville, Virginia
7-8 MCAS Cherry Point, North Carolina/Davenport, Iowa
21-22 Quad City, Iowa/Sioux City, Iowa
28-29 Huntsville, Alabama/Evansville, Indiana

July
3 Dubuque, Iowa
5-6 Traverse City, Michigan/Cape Girardeau, Missouri
19-20 Gary, Indiana
26-27 Rochester, New York/Helena, Montana

August
16-17 Chicago, Illinois/Yankton, South Dakota
20 Atlantic City, Nnew Jersey
23-24 Kansas City, Missouri/Indianapolis, Indiana
30-31 Cleveland, Ohio/Travis AFB, California

September
6-7 NAS Brunswick, Maine/Westover ARB, Massachusetts - Great New England Air Show
13-14 Eau Claire, Wisconsin
20-21 Midland, Texas
21 Dover, Delaware (NASCAR Sprint Cup Race)
27-28 Parkersburg, West Virginia

October
4-5 El Paso, Texas/MCAS Miramar, California
11-12 West Chester, Pennsylvania/Ft. Worth (Alliance), Texas
18-19 Huntington Beach, California/Little Rock AFB, Arkansas

November
1-2 Lafayette, Louisiana/Lackland AFB, Texas