Forth Worth Arrives in San Diego: Maiden Voyage Complete

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Rosalie Garcia, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The Freedom-class littoral combat ship USS Fort Worth (LCS 3) arrived in San Diego Oct. 18, completing the ship's maiden voyage to her homeport.

The ship, named for Fort Worth, Texas, the 17th largest city in the United States and the 5th largest city in Texas, was built in Marinette, Wis., and was commissioned in Galveston, Texas, Sept 22.

After commissioning, Fort Worth departed Galveston and steamed through the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea and Panama Canal into the Pacific Ocean, completing more than 11,000 miles on her maiden voyage.

Fort Worth Blue Crew Commanding Officer Cmdr. Randy Blankenship, said the blue crew, teamed with the Anti-Submarine Warfare Mission Package crew members, is excited to be reuniting with their families as they deliver the ship to the San Diego fleet.

"Our Sailors have done an amazing job operating this ship for the very first time and flawlessly executing so many challenging evolutions with absolute professionalism and pride," said Blankenship. "I am exceptionally proud of the effort this team has put forth, and they deserve full and unique recognition for this accomplishment."

Fort Worth is outfitted with reconfigurable mission packages, which can be changed out quickly, and focus on three mission areas: mine countermeasures, surface warfare and anti-submarine warfare.

"This is definitely a ship that 20 years from now, we will invent a weapon or capability that we haven't even thought of that will be able to go on the ship because of how the ship has been designed to carry a payload," said Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, Vice Adm. Tom Copeman. "The ship is a different way of how we've designed to deliver combat capabilities to the fleet."

Fort Worth is 390 feet in length, with a steel mono hull, aluminum structure and is the third littoral combat ship in the fleet. It has a displacement of approximately 3,000 metric tons fully loaded, is capable of speeds in excess of 40 knots, and can operate in water less than 20-feet deep. Propelled by four water jets in addition to two diesel and two gas turbine engines, the ship boasts a range of over 3,500 nautical miles.

#Warfighting: USS Nimitz, CSG 11 begins Composite Training Unit Exercise

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW) Carla Ocampo, USS Nimitz Public Affairs

USS NIMITZ, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Nimitz (CVN 68), Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 11 and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11 began Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) Oct. 17.

COMPTUEX is an 18-day exercise required for each CSG, and designed to drill every warfare area including sub surface, surface and air, to practice responses to situations that may occur on deployment.

Embarked Strike Force Training Pacific evaluators will test the CSG on its integrated operational capabilities through a series of simulations.

This is the first time the strike group has worked together since Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC).

"It's unusual that we have done some integrated training," said Cmdr. Larry Sidbury, Nimitz operations officer. "We had the opportunity to work together in RIMPAC where the whole CSG participated. During a normal turnaround cycle we would not have gotten an opportunity."

COMPTUEX is broken up into phases. Phase one provides a detailed schedule of events (SOE) and specific task training for CSG and warfare commanders. Phase two consists of real-world exercises and no SOE.

"No doubt each of these phases will challenge our ability to effectively manage and employ our limited resources," said Rear Adm. Peter Gumataotao, commander, CSG 11. "We need to embrace a fundamental mindset shift from training to certification."

Nimitz will simulate a straits transit with other ships from the strike group, participate in replenishments at sea, vertical replenishments, and run many general quarters drills.

"It's going to be a busy time because we're going to get exposed to every mission area in such a condensed amount of time," said Sidbury. "With the amount of work that needs to be accomplished during this time, I think it's going to push people to a fairly high OPTEMPO [operations tempo]."

Unit specific training will allow the separate strike group assets to practice their roles individually, while other situations will test the strike group's ability to react as a single force.

"Give 100 percent because the next time we sail, we may be standing in harm's way," said Gumataotao. "Execute as you have diligently trained for this moment and continue to make me proud."

After successful completion of COMPTUEX, Nimitz and the rest of the CSG will move on to the final exam, joint task force exercise, preparing Nimitz for her 2013 deployment.

CSG 11 is made up of Nimitz, CVW-11, guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton (CG 5), and Destroyer Squadron 23; guided-missile destroyers USS Higgins (DDG 76), USS Shoup (DDG 86), USS Stockdale (DDG 106) and USS William P. Lawrence (DDG 110).

Navy to Christen Amphibious Assault Ship America

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy will christen the amphibious assault ship, America (LHA 6), Oct. 20, during a 10 a.m. CDT ceremony in Pascagoula, Miss.

The Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. James F. Amos will deliver the ceremony's principal address. Mrs. Lynne Pace, wife of former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Peter Pace, will serve as the ship's sponsor.

From the American Revolution through the first Gulf War, three warships have sailed with the name America. The first America was a 74-gun ship-of-the-line built for use by the Continental Navy and then presented to the king of France as a gift to show appreciation for his country's service to the new nation. The second America transported troops during World War I. The third ship to bear the name was a Kitty-Hawk class aircraft carrier that supported operations from the Vietnam War through Operation Desert Storm. America will be the fourth U.S. Navy ship to bear this name.

"The LHA 6 will inherit and continue the proud tradition of distinguished service that has long been associated with ships bearing the name America," said Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus. "For decades to come, the America Class will give sailors and Marines highly capable, flexible and advanced platforms for executing the complete spectrum of operations."

The future USS America will be the first ship of its class, replacing the Tawara class of amphibious assault ships. As the next generation "big-deck" amphibious ship, LHA 6 will be optimized for aviation, capable of supporting current and future aircraft such as the tilt-rotor MV-22 Osprey and Joint Strike Fighter. The LHA 6 will use the same gas turbine propulsion plant, zonal electrical distribution system, and electric auxiliary system built for USS Makin Island (LHD 8). This unique auxiliary propulsion system is designed for fuel efficiency.

The LHA 6 will provide a flexible, multi-mission platform with capabilities that span the range of military operations -- from forward deployed crisis response to forcible entry operations. The ship also will provide forward presence and power projection as an integral part of joint, interagency and multinational maritime expeditionary forces.

The America will operate for sustained periods in transit to, and operations, in an amphibious objective area to include: embarking, transporting, controlling, inserting, sustaining and extracting elements of a marine air-ground task force, and supporting forces by helicopters and tilt rotors supported by Joint Strike Fighters F-35B.

Although the America will not include a well deck, the ship includes additional aviation spaces and will have an increased aviation capacity: enlarged hangar deck, realignment and expansion of the aviation maintenance facilities, a significant increase in available stowage for parts and support equipment, and increased aviation fuel capacity.

The ship's keel was laid July 17, 2009, and the shipbuilder plans to deliver the America in late 2013. The USS America will be homeported in San Diego.

Built by Ingalls Shipbuilding, a division of Huntington Ingalls Industries in Pascagoula, Miss., the ship will be 844 feet in length, with a 106-foot beam, and have a displacement of approximately 44,971 long tons.

#Warfighting: John C. Stennis Strike Group Enters US 5th Fleet

JOHN C. STENNIS, At Sea (NNS) -- The John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCSSG), entered the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Responsibility (AOR), Oct. 17.

The JCSSG takes the place of the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group, which departed U.S. 5th Fleet AOR to return to the United States where flagship USS Enterprise (CVN 65) will be deactivated after more than 50 years of service.

"We're looking forward to working with our partner nations and ensuring the vital sea lanes of this region remain free for all maritime traffic," said Rear Adm. Chuck Gaouette, commander, JCSSG. "We have trained for a wide variety of contingencies, from supporting coalition ground troops in Afghanistan to conducting humanitarian assistance operations, and I'm confident this strike group will accomplish any mission that we are asked to execute."

JCSSG deployed four months ahead of schedule, to support combatant commander requirements for U.S. assets in the region.

While en route to 5th Fleet, the JCSSG conducted integrated training within the strike group, as well as combined operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet with the George Washington Carrier Strike Group. The JCSSG also had two port visits in 7th Fleet, Sepangar, Malaysia and Phuket, Thailand.

The JCSSG consists of the aircraft carrier USS John. C. Stennis (CVN 74), Carrier Air Wing 9, Destroyer Squadron 21 and guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53). 

Fentress Reopens After Yearlong Upgrade

Blog Editor Note: The only known frequency I have for Fentress is 269.800 MHz.

By Tom Kreidel, Naval Facilities Engineering Command Mid-Atlantic Public Affairs

CHESAPEAKE, Va. (NNS) -- Naval Auxiliary Landing Field Fentress reopened with a traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony Oct. 16 in a ceremony attended by both the mayors of Chesapeake and Virginia Beach Va.

The $19.2 million project was awarded September, moving Field Carrier Landing Practice (FCLP) to other bases, primarily Naval Air Station Oceana since January of this year.

"We're happy to welcome everyone to the new and improved Fentress," said Capt Bob Geis, NAS Oceana commanding officer. "These improvements will make both Oceana and Fentress operationally viable for many years to come."

The project included laying down a completely new concrete runway and many other improvements such as LED style lighting for the runways and taxiways along with upgrades to the electrical, mechanical and communications systems, and landing signal officer (LSO) shacks that will provide improved visibility for LSOs to observe aircraft approaches and landings.

The new shacks will be more similar in placement and design to those on actual carrier decks improving safety and realism of training for both aircrafts and crews. In addition, there will be new hold areas that will allow for heavy aircraft to turn and helicopter spot markings that will expand the versatility of the landing field.

The design for the project was performed by the Naval Facilities Engineering Command Mid-Atlantic, who also oversaw construction of the project by Lane Construction of Cheshire, Conn.

"This project was a major undertaking in scope, complexity and timeliness," said Capt. Paul Odenthal, NAVFAC Mid-Atlantic executive officer. "We are pleased to deliver this one of a kind facility to Oceana."

NALF Fentress began operations later in the afternoon of the ceremony.

F-35: Newest fighter much more than just 'stealthy plane'

 

by Marine Corps Cpl. Daniel Wetzel, Defense Media Activity

 EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (AFNS) -- The engines roared overhead as an F-35A fell into formation. Although this is a basic maneuver for the test pilots, the possibilities for combat environments created by these elite aircraft working together are anything but mundane.

The F-35, which features three variants to be used by the Air Force, Marine Corps and Navy, is a single-seat aircraft capable of stealthy operations, equipped with an enhanced computer technology system. The Marine Corps B variant is also capable of performing short takeoffs and vertical-landings while maintaining the conventional operations of other airplanes.

The F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter program started in 1997. The program includes plans to replace the Air Force's aging F-16 Fighting Falcon and A-10 Thunderbolt II, the Marine Corps' short takeoff, vertical landing AV-8B Harrier and dogfighting and air-to-ground attacking F/A-18 Hornet and the Navy's stock of legacy Hornets.

"The F-35 is a fifth-generation fighter; but it's more than just a stealthy airplane," said Marine Corps Col. Art Tomassetti, a pilot who has been with the JSF program since 1998. "It goes beyond stealth and low observable capability. It brings together everything that today's computer and digital age can bring to how the airplane flies and how it's maintained."

The F-35 is an ideal combination of stealth, sensor fusion and a robust digital flight control system making it, not only easy for a pilot to fly, but easy to identify and engage targets in the battlespace. Along with ease of flight, the F-35 also allows pilots greater situational awareness.

"When you look at the F-35, you can't look at it as a single airplane against another single airplane," Tomassetti said. "You have to look at a group of F-35s working together, then you really get to take advantage of what the F-35 brings to the battle space. The ability of the airplanes to use a variety of sensors to gather information and share the information they gather between planes is truly incredible."

With the F-35, pilots can access information about possible targets and threats from supporting F-35 aircraft via data links, which allows them to see more and identify more of what is happening in the battle space, Tomassetti said.

Currently, the military is only training seasoned pilots on the new airplane at Eglin Air Force Base.

When new pilots are allowed into the program, they will find themselves in a unique training environment along with enlisted aircraft maintainers and mechanics from all three branches of service and also coalition partners from several foreign nations.

These service members will learn how to operate and maintain the F-35 through a digital training environment. This kinetic learning system allows the learning to occur through touching and doing, rather than seeing and hearing.

"The fact that we're starting with the same airframe, same formations, same weapons capabilities, I think that already puts us at a better starting point when we show up to a combat theater together," said Lt. Col. Lee Kloos, squadron commander for the 58th Fighter Squadron, of the integration of forces with the F-35.

Kloos, who has more 2,100 hours flying the F-16, said having the Air Force, Marine Corps and Navy field the same airframe allows a common frame of reference for pilots regardless of service.

The aircraft is also a joy to fly, Kloos said. Despite the advanced technology and complexity of the aircraft, it's a very easy aircraft to fly, and basic pilot actions remain the same as in any fighter aircraft.

"Pull back on the stick and the trees get smaller, push forward and the trees get bigger," Kloos said. It is a stable and well-balanced plane designed for today's generation who grew up playing video games, he said.

Comparatively speaking, the F-35 has a clean cockpit. Instead of a multitude of switches inherent of many aircraft, the F-35 has two touch screens with interfaces similar to a tablet computer.

For the maintainers, things are a little tougher.

"I was working on the F-15 C and D models," said Staff Sgt. Matthew Reed, F-35 A maintainer. "The F-35 is a completely different aircraft. The technology is challenging at times."

Since the F-35 is still in operational testing, the maintainers and pilots work through all the bugs together. On a continuous basis, personnel are testing the aircraft in new maneuvers and capabilities. Once these are monitored and assessed, the pilots are cleared to perform them in their daily flight operations.

"Today our training consists of the basics of takeoff, landing, navigation and basic formation as we wait for the flight clearance to expand and allow us to train specific mission sets," Tomassetti said.

Air Force maintainers, the first service members to work on the F-35, use the maintenance side of the computer to do preventative diagnostics and pinpoint possible problems.

With the pilots and maintainers working together, the Air Force and Marine Corps have flown hundreds of training sorties since their first flight in 2011. They continue to fly daily to bring the F-35 A, the Air Force's conventional landing and take-off variant, F-35 B, the Marine Corps' STOVL variant, and F-35 C, the Navy's carrier-based variant, closer to combat operations.

Enterprise Transits the Suez Canal for the Final Time

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW) Brian G. Reynolds, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs

The aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) moves through the Suez Canal for the last time. Enterprise was deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom. The U.S. Navy is reliable, flexible, and ready to respond worldwide on, above, and below the sea. Join the conversation on social media using #warfighting. (U.S. Navy photo by Information Systems Technician 1st Class Stephen Wolff/Released)

USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS) -- Aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) has been the first to do a lot of things. The "Big E" was the world's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier and the first carrier to respond to the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

On April 29, 1986, Enterprise did something that no other nuclear-powered carrier had ever done - she transited the Suez Canal, the world's largest man-made canal, adding another first to an already long list of accomplishments.

The 1986 transit brought Enterprise back into the Mediterranean for the first time in 22 years, as she shifted homeports from Alameda, Calif., back to Norfolk, Va., where she was originally commissioned in 1961.

Twenty-six years later, on Oct. 12, the "Big E" passed through the Suez Canal for the final time as she transitioned from the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) to U.S. 6th Fleet AOR, entering the Mediterranean Sea for the last time.

The transit marks the beginning of the last leg of the carrier's historic 25th and final deployment, after seven months of operations at sea.

The Suez Canal is a 120-mile long, 79-foot-deep canal that runs through Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, allowing mariners to transit from the Red Sea to the Mediterranean Sea, and vice versa.

Because the canal is so shallow and narrow, the transit puts the skills of even the most seasoned helmsman to the test, as the canal was not originally designed to accommodate ships the size of an aircraft carrier. In fact, the evolution usually takes anywhere from 14-20 hours to complete.

"Planning for this type of evolution starts months out to try to minimize any hiccups," said Chief Quartermaster Craig J. Bowman. "We (Navigation department) lay out the ship's planned track with proposed or planned times to be at certain places. Other departments on the ship take the information we provide and plan when and where they can or can't do evolutions - or when they need to shut off or stop certain services."

Because Enterprise was the first to make the historic journey through the Suez Canal, those involved in its current transit believe that there is a bit of reverence in having the honor to take the "Big E" through "the Ditch" for the final time.

"To bring Enterprise through the Suez Canal for the last time is certainly an honor," said Cmdr. Donald Kennedy, Enterprise's navigator. "For more than 50 years, Big E Sailors have expertly stood the long watches required to navigate Enterprise safely. To be among the last to see her through the Suez Canal will no doubt be one of the most memorable experiences of my career."

Many "Big E" crewmembers agree that it is an honor to be involved with the final cruise and Suez Canal transit of the world's first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. The cruise marks a milestone in not only their careers, but their lives as well.

"Being involved in the planning of the transit is something that no one can take away from me or anyone else on the Navigation team," said Bowman. "I went through as a QM1 (quartermaster first class) and I am coming out as a QMC (chief quartermaster). Just adding that to the transit makes this that much more memorable for me."

Enterprise is scheduled to return to its homeport of Norfolk at the end of its current deployment to begin its inactivation process after 51 years of service.

New York Air National Guard kicks off Antarctic science support Tuesday

Master Sgt. Carmello Modesto loads equipment sleds destined for the U.S. Antarctic Program's South Pole research station into the back of an LC-130 Hercules. (Defense Department photo)

 STRATTON AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Scotia, N.Y. - The New York Air National Guard's 109th Airlift Wing kicks off its annual support for the National Science Foundation in Antarctica as ski-equipped LC-130s head for Antarctica on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Two aircraft will depart on the five-day, 11,000- mile trip to Antarctica on each day. A total of six ski-equipped LC-130 aircraft will be on the ice during the October to February period. These aircraft will support the National Science Foundation's research in the Antarctic running supplies and people to field camps across the continent and the South Pole station.

The ski-equipped LC-130s operated by the 109th Airlift Wing are the only aircraft in the United States military capable of landing on snow and ice. This is the 24th year that the 109th will support operations in Antarctica.

The New York Air National Guard's 109th Airlift Wing plays a critical role in supporting National Science Foundation research across Antarctica. About 120 members of the New York Air National Guard will be deployed to Antarctica throughout the support season. The airmen deploy for 30 to 60 days each, working two 12-hour shifts to cover 24-hour operations, six days each week. They work a half-day on Sunday.

Based at the United States Antarctic Program base at McMurdo Station, the 109th is slated to fly more than 350 missions across the continent, with more than half of those moving passengers, cargo and fuel to the South Pole. The majority of supplies that reach the United States Amundsen–Scott Base at the South Pole are ferried there by the 109th Airlift Wing.

Despite the cold, the maintenance crews normally attain a high reliability rate for each aircraft, allowing the flight crews to carry as much cargo as possible to remote Antarctic outposts. The wing accumulates roughly 3,000 hours of flying time in the 16-week season. This is almost as much as most Air National Guard C-130 units fly in a year.

All maintenance performed on the aircraft is done outside on the snow and ice without the use of hangars. This requires maintainers to undergo specialized training for both maintenance procedures and personal extreme weather survival training.

U.S. military support for Operation Deep Freeze is a Pacific Command responsibility organized as Joint Task Force -Support Forces Antarctica. The Joint Task Force includes cargo and fuel tanker ships provided by Military Sealift Command, active-duty and Reserve C-17 support from the 62nd and 446th Airlift Wings at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, the ski-equipped LC-130 Hercules flown by the 109thAirlift Wing of the New York Air National Guard, as well as Coast Guard icebreakers and the Navy Cargo Handling Battalion One to provide critical port services at McMurdo Station.
The airlift part of Operation Deep Freeze operates from two primary locations with C-17s situated at Christchurch, New Zealand, and LC-130 Hercules forward based at McMurdo Station, Antarctica, beginning in late October.

USS Nimitz: Always Vigilant

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ryan J. Mayes, USS Nimitz Public Affairs

 

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68), along with the ships of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 11, are conducting force protection exercises (FPX) that include similar scenarios built around the terrorist attack on USS Cole (DDG 67).

With what was supposed to be a routine stop for fuel, the USS Cole became a part of naval history when a small boat attack that left a 40 foot by 40 foot gash in the hull of the ship claimed the lives of 17 Sailors and injured 39 more.

This would forever change the Navy's force protection practices and training.

Almost 12 years later to the date, Nimitz and CSG 11 are training to learn from that attack. The lessons learned from that day have transformed how naval security forces prepare and respond to threats while at home and abroad.

"It was clear to me that the responding forces have been practicing their tactics, techniques and procedures," said Rear Adm. Peter Gumataotao, commander CSG 11. "They did a great job at synchronizing their movements, and this illustrates how everything we do now needs to take advantage of the integrated force. As the ship moves into the composite training unit exercise, everything is about integration. It's no longer about one single ship or unit."

In an all-day training event administered by Third Fleet, the forces of CSG 11 responded to multiple scenarios including unauthorized surveillance, rioting crowds, personnel-born improvised explosive devices (IED), small boat attacks and vehicle born IEDs. The FPX is part of a pre-deployment certification that every ship undergoes as it prepares for overseas operations. This particular exercise was modeled after a 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

"This was a fully integrated training effort," said Cmdr. Steven Richards, anti-terrorism force protection officer of CSG 11. "We were tasked to analyze and respond to multiple threats on two different pier facilities with five of our ships. We went beyond what was required for our qualification and certifications."

Realistic training environments are key to the success of the evolutions. Mentally drawing trainees into a scenario with accurate replication ensures they are fully involved and creates a more natural response. Strategic Operations, a San Diego based company, provided the makeup artists, props, costumes and simulated explosives to create the hyper-realistic environment usually found in Hollywood.

"It was a phenomenal training evolution," said Richards. "Even with many of the crew members playing the role of the opposing force, the realism was incredible. This event incorporated a response from not only the security forces but the medical team, damage control team and command and control departments, all of which played an important role."

Joint Warrior 12-2 Draws to a Close

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Foster Bamford, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West

USS GETYSBURG, At Sea (NNS) -- Exercise Joint Warrior 12-2 concluded off the coast of Scotland, Oct. 11.

Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 26 took part in the exercise with guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64), guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) fleet replenishment ship USNS Leroy Grumman (TAO 195), Helicopter Maritime Strike (HSM) 46 Detachment 2 and U.S. maritime support reconnaissance patrol aircraft from Experimental Evaluation Test Squadron (VX) 1, Patrol Squadron (VP) 9 and VP 10.

The biannual exercise, which is the largest military exercise in Europe, began Oct. 1, and was planned by the Joint Tactical Exercise Planning Staff (JTEPS) in the United Kingdom. It is used by the U.K. as their advanced naval certification course and is on par with a U.S. Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX), which certifies U.S. ships for deployment.

"We had the opportunity to work with live aircraft, live submarines, live ships, we get to shoot our guns, and we're doing it in a new and different area," said Capt. Bob Hein, Gettysburg's commanding officer. "We lose the home field advantage, but as a commanding officer, I think that's a good thing."

The two-week exercise involved many different scenarios, some of which provided a rare opportunity for the ships involved.

"The exercise is designed to test the skill, knowledge and equipment of the participants in a range of different environments," said Capt. Paul Titterton, director of JTEPS. "By training in this fashion, we are able to prepare for a whole range of potential and ultimately realistic tactical scenarios, from out-and-out warfare to rescuing fishermen captured by pirates."

The U.S. ships participated in simulated missions aimed to test air, surface and subsurface capabilities.

"We conducted anti-air, anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare events and we also did some smaller exercises like NEO (non-combatant evacuation operation) and mine clearance operations," said Capt. Nelson Castro, commander, DESRON 26.

The exercise is intended to test and improve interoperability and to train allies in a maritime environment, where nations can prepare forces for combined operations.

"It has been a great opportunity to test our interoperability and develop common tactics, techniques and procedures," said Castro.

One of the operations taken on by a multinational force was minesweeping.

"Our task group was integrated with the Royal Navy and its minesweepers," said Castro. "The operations were a great opportunity to improve our interoperability and we derived many new procedures to execute missions together."

Another part of the operation included simulated visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) missions.

"Apart from the cold weather, it was very similar to our normal VBSS training," said Castro. "It provided a different venue with different perspectives brought by the U.K. trainers."

In order to complete all of the missions, extensive planning took place.

"From mid-August through the actual execution date, DESRON 26 did a lot of planning, with JTEPS and then all the other units as well," said Lt. Cmdr. Jason Lautar. "And the planning that took place during Joint Warrior was vital to every mission we did."

The exercise was detail-oriented and included simulated media arriving aboard Gettysburg to interview Hein and Castro.

"The press conference was tough. You had friendly, neutral and aggressive reporters asking very pointed and political questions," said Castro. "We just ensured that we provided facts and tried not to speculate in areas outside of our expertise."

The exercise, which occurs off the coast of Scotland twice a year, provides an opportunity for U.S. Sailors to interact with service members from coalition forces.

"I think it was really successful," said Lautar. "Overall it was great working with all the ships, all the units that participated. The interaction with the LNOs (liaison naval officers), having a British LNO onboard, was outstanding. All in all, I think Joint Warrior went well."

#Warfighting: Washington, Stennis Carrier Strike Groups Operate in Andaman Sea

The Nimitz-class aircraft carriers USS George Washington (CVN 73) and USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) are underway together in formation. Ships and aircraft of the George Washington and John C. Stennis carrier strike groups are conducting exercises to increase interoperability, readiness, and the capability to respond quickly to various potential crises in the region, ranging from combat operations to humanitarian assistance. The U.S. Navy is constantly deployed to preserve peace, protect commerce, and deter aggression through forward presence. Join the conversation on social media using #warfighting. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Jennifer A. Villalovos/Released)

ANDAMAN SEA (NNS) -- The USS George Washington and USS John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Groups (CSGs) steamed together in the Andaman Sea Oct. 12, conducting integrated flight operations while also practicing surface and anti-submarine drills.

Located in the northeast edge of the Indian Ocean, the Andaman Sea narrows to form the Strait of Malacca, one of the most important shipping lanes in the world. Both CSGs have been conducting forward presence operations and port visits in the vital Asia-Pacific region for the past three weeks, but having two aircraft carriers operating together in the Andaman Sea is an unusual opportunity.

"The U.S. Navy routinely conducts dual-aircraft carrier operations in international waters when and where opportunities exist; however, I believe this is the first time it has been done in the Andaman Sea," said Capt. Greg Fenton, USS George Washington's (CVN 73) commanding officer. "These operations are vital in improving interoperability and readiness to respond across the full range of military operations from humanitarian assistance to combat missions."

The two CSGs conducted similar dual-carrier operations in late September near Guam following exercise Valiant Shield.

"Integrated operations are essential to our ability to effectively respond to any threat or crisis in the region," said Rear Adm. Chuck Gaouette, commander of the Stennis CSG. "As the Asia-Pacific region continues to grow in importance, we must ensure we are capable of operating in a complex environment in order to continue to promote peace, cooperation and stability here."

Consisting of more than 10,000 Sailors, 120 aircraft, four escort ships and a supply replenishment ship, both CSGs patrolled the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations over the last few weeks before conducting highly successful port visits.

USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) anchored in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia Sept. 30 for a four-day port visit during which Sailors conducted numerous professional exchanges with the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) while also performing community service projects. Stennis then transited the Strait of Malacca and conducted a port visit in Phuket, Thailand. Sailors worked with the Royal Thai Navy, conducted community service events, and took some time to enjoy the local culture and cuisine.

After recently patrolling in the South China Sea, USS George Washington conducted a port visit to Port Klang, Malaysia Oct. 7. Sailors continued advancing partnerships with the RMN by practicing Explosive Ordnance Disposal team training, conducting a medical subject matter exchange, and visiting the RMN's world class National Hydrographic Center in Port Klang.
Both aircraft carriers departed from their respective port visits in preparation for operating together in the Andaman Sea Oct. 12, the day before the U.S. Navy's 237th birthday.

"It seems appropriate that we have two of our 11 aircraft carriers working side-by-side as we celebrate the Navy's birthday," said Cmdr. Shawn Mangrum, Carrier Air Wing 5 operations officer aboard the USS George Washington. "Working with another carrier air wing increases sortie generation and provides a more robust simulated threat environment and more realistic training."

The George Washington CSG is led by Rear Adm. J. R. Haley and consists of his Carrier Strike Group 5 staff, Destroyer Squadron 15, Carrier Air Wing 5, the flagship aircraft carrier USS George Washington, the guided-missile destroyer USS McCampbell (DDG 85) and the frigate USS Vandegrift (FFG 48).

The John C. Stennis CSG is led by Rear Adm. Gaouette and consists of his Carrier Strike Group 3 staff, Destroyer Squadron 21, Carrier Air Wing 9, the flagship aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis, guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53) and guided-missile destroyer USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60). The group is also joined by the fast combat support ship USNS Bridge (T-AOE-10).

Capital Shield Exercise preps D.C. National Guard for Inauguration

D.C. National Guard members recently participated in training with other agencies to help protect the nation’s capital. (Photo by Sgt. Jesse Searls, D.C. National Guard)

By Sgt. Jesse Searls, District of Columbia National Guard

The District of Columbia National Guard participated in the 2012 Capital Shield Exercise, a training event which emphasizes unity of effort for district and federal agencies operating in the District of Columbia in preparation for events such as the upcoming inauguration.

The D.C. Army National Guard’s 33rd CST, together with the Massachusetts National Guard’s 1st CST, set up their equipment for a section of the training conducted in Southeast Washington.
The western campus of St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, which opened in 1855 as the “Government Hospital for the Insane,” is situated in southeast D.C., south and across the Anacostia River from the D.C. National Guard Armory. The rich and storied history of the institution is palpable as the National Guard members conducted a training scenario based on a possible chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear threat.

The mission of the D.C.ARNG’s 33rd CST is one of paramount importance: made up of 22 highly trained hazmat technicians, it is capable of responding to various untold levels of natural or man-made disasters that could threaten the public safety in the District of Columbia. Training exercises like Capital Shield prepare the soldiers to work with and assist several agencies and departments.
The 33rd works closely with the D.C. Fire Department, Metropolitan Police Department, D.C. Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency, D.C. Department of Health, and the FBI in a combined effort to protect the public in the event of a weapons of mass destruction attack on our nation’s capital.

Among the training area is a vast array of shuttered, three-story brick buildings. The campus covers more than 100 acres. It’s closed to the public with fencing and gate guards and is confusing to drive around with its tight, twisting roads, adding up to an excellent environment for precise and professional training to take place.

During Capital Shield Exercise at S The 33rd Civil Support Team, District of Columbia National Guard, participates in the 2012 Capital Shield Exercise. (Photo by Sgt. Jesse Searls, D.C. National Guard)t. Elizabeth’s, Sgt. Tanisha Mercado, having just finished an exercise in a heavy, air-tight chemical suit with its own oxygen container, talked about the training that day.

“Staff Sgt. Jason McGuire and I were tasked with performing surveying and recon around a trailer.” Mercado said, as she pointed to a large conex container sitting conspicuously among the historic buildings of St Elizabeth’s. “We took a grab sample, which is when the entire package, container, envelope, or in this case, a propane tank is taken into the lab. Our grab sample turned out to be an improvised dispersal device.”

The 33rd CST has completed two large-scale exercises this year in anticipation of the 2013 Presidential Inauguration to be held Monday, Jan. 21.

I’m proud of the hard work they put in every day,” said 33rd CST’s First Sergeant and senior non-commissioned officer, 1st Sgt. Charles Mick. “We’re ready for anything.”

UAVs autonomously refuel in flight during DARPA demo

Two modified RQ-4 Global Hawk unmanned aerial vehicles successfully demonstrated technology that allows unmanned vehicles to be automatically refueled in-flight, an important step in conducting surveillance and combat duties, said the Defense Advanced Research Project Agency on Oct. 5.

Currently global military aviation relies on a key enabler – aerial refueling. Fighters, bombers, reconnaissance and transport aircraft use “flying gas stations” to go the extra mile, it said. Increasingly, it said UAVs are conducting combat and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations, but the aircraft aren’t designed to be refueled in flight.

DARPA said it teamed up with NASA in 2007 to show high-performance aircraft can easily perform automated refueling from conventional tankers, but many unmanned aircraft can’t match the speed, altitude and performance of the current tanker fleet. The 2007 demonstration also required a pilot on board to set conditions and monitor safety during autonomous refueling operations, it said.

On Oct 5, DARPA’s two-year Autonomous High-Altitude Refueling (AHR) program, which concluded Sep. 30, explored the ability to safely conduct fully autonomous refueling of UAVs in challenging high-altitude flight conditions. During its final test flight, two modified Global Hawk aircraft flew in close formation, 100 feet or less between refueling probe and receiver drogue, for the majority of a 2.5-hour engagement at 44,800 feet, said the agency.

The manuever demonstrated for the first time that High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) class aircraft can safely and autonomously operate under in-flight refueling conditions, it said. The flight was the ninth test and the first time the aircraft flew close enough to measure the full aerodynamic and control interactions, it added. Flight data was analyzed over the past few months and fed back into simulations to verify system safety and performance through contact and fuel transfer–including the effects of turns and gusts up to 20 knots, it said.

According to the agency, since HALE aircraft are designed for endurance at the expense of control authority, the program started with the expectation that only one of six attempts would achieve positive contact (17 percent). The final analysis, however, showed 60 percetn of the attempts would achieve contact, it said. Multiple autonomous breakaway contingencies were successfully triggered well in advance of potentially hazardous conditions, it said. Fuel systems were also fully integrated and ground tested, demonstrating a novel “reverse-flow” approach with the tanker in trail, said DARPA, opening up valuable trade space for future developers to choose between various fixed and modular implementations of proven probe and drogue hardware.

“The goal of this demonstration was to create the expectation that future HALE aircraft will be refueled in flight,” said Jim McCormick, DARPA Program Manager. “Such designs should be more affordable to own and operate across a range of mission profiles than systems built to satisfy the most stressing case without refueling. The lessons from AHR certainly extend beyond the HALE flight regime, and insights into non-traditional tanker concepts may offer further operational advantages.”

'Silent Sentry' gives deployed Airmen upper hand in space superiority

by Senior Airman Bryan Swink, 379th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs

SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFNS) -- With the advancement of technology, satellite communication has been a key factor in maintaining space superiority throughout the entire area of responsibility.

Airmen assigned to the 379th Expeditionary Operations Support Squadron operate the Rapid Attack Identification Detection Reporting System, which monitors and protects the U.S. military's SATCOM links. This mission is called Operation Silent Sentry.

Using RAIDRS, the team conducts defensive counter-space operations in support of theater campaigns and combatant commanders. They monitor high priority SATCOM signals, detect electromagnetic interference on those signals and geolocate the source of that interference as well as other signals of interest.

"It's like a game of chess we are playing with the enemy," said Tech. Sgt. Josh Swicegood, 379th Expeditionary Operations Support Squadron Silent Sentry operator. "They attempt to run interference and we counteract by creating a work around. We continuously update our TTPs (Tactics, Techniques and Procedures) to best support our assets in the field."

Jamming occurs when a legitimate signal is overpowered by another signal. This can be intentional (hostile) or accidental due to misconfigured equipment.

Fortunately, RAIDRS detects the jamming signal. When the enemy uses a SATCOM jammer, the jamming signal acts somewhat like a flashlight beam hitting a wall. The main portion of the jamming signal will hit the intended satellite, while a small portion of the signal also hits nearby satellites; similar to the way a beam of light would illuminate across a wall.

RAIDRS exploits these characteristics by measuring the time it takes the signal to travel the two different distances as it is relayed through the satellites. It also measures the observed difference in frequency between the two signals due to the Doppler Effect. Using this data, the Airmen then conduct a series of complex calculations to predict where the jammer is located. They relay the information forward to ensure appropriate countermeasures are taken.

The team monitors hundreds of different signals 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Their unique capability is not only utilized by the Air Force, but also by numerous joint agencies in the AOR to support the United States efforts to combat the enemy throughout the world.

Operation Silent Sentry began as a proof of concept experiment in 2004, which led to a 120-day deployed demonstration in 2005. The program was so successful, U.S. Central Command retained the capability indefinitely.

"This is the Air Force Space Command's only defensive space control asset," said Lt. Col. Blake Tibbetts, 379th EOSS Silent Sentry commander. "Prior to Silent Sentry, our nation's SATCOM was completely vulnerable to jamming that went unresolved. Our ability to geolocate sources of interference means the warfighter can find and resolve the source of the jamming, and the mission can go on. Under the Fly, Fight, Win banner, you don't know where to fly, what to fight or who won unless it's communicated correctly - we make that happen."

379th Air Expeditionary Wing Silent Sentry Airmen are composed of active-duty and reserve personnel from the 16th Space Control Squadron and 380th Space Control Squadron, Peterson Air Force Base, Colo.

"This team is a great group of dedicated Airmen," said Capt. Chad Gilbert, 379th EOSS Silent Sentry crew commander. "They truly are technical experts and do an incredible job. Many of the circumstances they face over here, they have never experienced stateside in training, but they learn quickly and adapt to the situation."

The next installment to Operation Silent Sentry is RAIDRS Block 10. It is expected to be operational in 2013. The Block 10 system allows for the remote control of RAIDRS sensors located worldwide from a central operating location within the United States.

#Warfighting: USS George Washington Conducts Replenishment At Sea

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class William Pittman, Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet Public Affairs

USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, At Sea (NNS) -- The U.S. Navy's forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) conducted a replenishment-at-sea (RAS) with the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Alan Shepard (T-AKE 3), Oct. 5.

George Washington received more than 200 pallets of supplies during the RAS, allowing the flagship of the George Washington Carrier Strike Group to continue its mission of providing a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interest of the U.S. and its partners and allies in the Asia-Pacific region.

"The ability to replenish our supplies while at sea allows us to keep an at sea forward presence," said Cmdr. Sean Egge, George Washington's supply officer. "We can sustain underway operations for an extended period of time because of this capability."
George Washington also offloaded several pallets, including supplies designated for the Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS Vandegrift (FFG 48), which has been independently steaming in the 7th Fleet area of operations.

Helicopters attached to the 'Chargers' of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 14 delivered pallets of supplies from Alan Shepard to George Washington via vertical replenishment.

"We have a system, where nearby ships can send a message to all U.S. forces close by asking for a particular material," said Egge. "We had the needed supplies and we were the closest ship, so we gave it to Vandegrift."

Ships and aircraft of the George Washington and John C. Stennis carrier strike groups are currently exercising to hone their collective interoperability, readiness, and the capability to respond quickly to potential crises in the region, ranging from combat operations to humanitarian assistance missions. As two of the Navy's 11 global force carrier strike groups, the strike groups are further ensuring security, stability and peace in the vital Asia-Pacific region.

Gettysburg VBSS Team Conducts Training during Exercise Joint Warrior

By Lt. Amber Lewis, Destroyer Squadron 26 Public Affairs

Sailors from the guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64) move toward a small vessel during a visit, board, search and seizure training event during Exercise Joint Warrior. Joint Warrior is designed and led by the joint tactical exercise planning staff in the United Kingdom and is intended to improve interoperability between allied navies and prepare participants for a role in a joint maritime environment during deployments. Join the conversation on social media using #warfighting. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Amber Lewis/Released)

 

USS GETTYSBURG, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Gettysburg (CG 64) Sailors participated in visit, board, search, and seizure (VBSS) team training as part of Exercise Joint Warrior off the coast of Scotland, Oct. 2.

As part of the training, a small vessel approached the area where Gettysburg was patrolling and acted as a suspected pirate vessel. Gettysburg queried the vessel according to exercise instructions. When the small vessel did not reply properly, the VBSS team prepared to board it.

The VBSS team officers reported to the Gettysburg bridge to get amplifying information about the vessel, and how it was behaving while the other members of the VBSS team dressed out for the boarding. The VBSS team then reported to the fantail to launch a rigid hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) to transport them to the suspected vessel.

"I look at it kind of like a football game, when we are in the locker room just prepping, thinking about the plays you are going to make, what the other team is going to do, how you are going to counter that to bring your team back home safe." said Lt. j.g. Christian Mack, a member of the VBSS team on board Gettysburg.

Once on board the small vessel, the VBSS team's job is to conduct a search and determine if it is operating within international law. If they find the vessel is a suspected pirate ship or participating in illegal operations, the team will move to take control of the ship. Team members are trained in engineering and bridge standing procedures so they can maneuver the vessel if needed.

VBSS teams participate in similar training at least once a quarter, either at sea or ashore.

"Being at sea, doing it underway is the best training," said VBSS team member Lt. j.g. Michael Burris.

#Warfighting: Navy to Commission Guided-Missile Destroyer Michael Murphy

The guided-missile destroyer Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Michael Murphy (DDG 112) makes its way through New York Harbor in preparation for its commissioning Oct. 6. The new destroyer honors the late Lt. (SEAL) Michael P. Murphy, a New York native, who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in combat as leader of a four-man reconnaissance team in Afghanistan. Murphy was the first person to be awarded the Medal of Honor for actions in Afghanistan, and the first member of the U.S. Navy to receive the award since the Vietnam War. #murph (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Erik Swanson/Released)

 

NEW YORK (NNS) -- The Navy will commission the newest guided-missile destroyer, Michael Murphy (DDG 112), Oct. 6, during a 10 a.m. EDT ceremony at Pier 88 in Manhattan, N.Y.

The newest destroyer honors Navy SEAL (Sea, Air, Land) Lt. Michael P. Murphy, who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during Operation Red Wings in Afghanistan June 28, 2005.

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

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

Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus will deliver the ceremony's principal address. Maureen Murphy will serve as sponsor of the ship named for her late son. The ceremony will be highlighted by a time-honored Navy tradition when she gives the first order to "man our ship and bring her to life!"

"This ship honors the courage, service and sacrifice of Lt. Michael Murphy, his Red Wings brothers, fellow SEALs, special operators and service members around the world who answer the call of duty every day," said Mabus. "It is absolutely fitting that the USS Michael Murphy bears a SEAL trident on her crest because, much like Michael and every Navy SEAL who has earned the honor of wearing the trident, this ship is designed to counter threats from above and below the surface of the oceans, in the air and on land."

Designated DDG 112, Michael Murphy is the 62nd Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, capable of conducting operations from peacetime presence and crisis management to sea control and power projection. Michael Murphy is capable of fighting air, surface and subsurface battles simultaneously and will contain a myriad of offensive and defensive weapons designed to support maritime warfare.

"USS Michael Murphy, the most flexible, lethal and multi-mission capable ship of its kind, represents the backbone of our surface combatant fleet," said Adm. Jonathan Greenert, chief of naval operations. "It is one of the best destroyers in the world. This ship will operate forward around the globe, assuring allies, projecting power and defending our nation. And, like its namesake Lt. Michael Murphy, this ship will serve to protect, influence and win in an era of uncertainty."

Cmdr. Thomas E. Shultz, a native of El Cajon, Calif., is the commanding officer of the ship and will lead the crew of 279 officers and enlisted personnel. The 9,200-ton Michael Murphy was built by General Dynamics Bath Iron Works. The ship is 509 feet in length, has a waterline beam of 59 feet, and has a navigational draft of 31 feet. Four gas turbine engines will power the ship to speeds in excess of 30 knots.

The commissioning ceremony will be live at www.livestream.com/usnavy and you can join the conversation on Twitter with the hash tag #MURPH. 

Future USNS Cesar Chavez Completes Integrated Acceptance Trial

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Following four days of intensive testing and trials, the future USNS Cesar Chavez (T-AKE 14) completed Integrated Acceptance Trial Sept. 28, departing from and returning to the General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard in San Diego.

T-AKE 14 is the 14th and final Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo/ammunition ship to be presented to the Navy's Board of Inspection and Survey.

Because of the maturity of the class, the Navy holds only one round of trials on each ship of this class prior to delivery, instead of separate builder's and acceptance trials. This single integrated trial requires less time, fuel and manpower than the conventional multiple trial method. Completion of the acceptance trial is the final major milestone prior to delivery to the Navy.

"Completing trials for the final ship in the Lewis and Clark class is a major milestone in this very impressive shipbuilding program," said Frank McCarthey, the Auxiliary Ships, Small Boats and Craft program manager for the Navy's Program Executive Office (PEO) Ships. "This ship trial again demonstrates the maturity of this class, the many lessons learned incorporated, and significant production efficiencies NASSCO has achieved across the class."

The T-AKE program is based on a low risk, commercial-oriented acquisition strategy that has yielded multiple efficiencies. The last five ships of the class have delivered on cost and ahead of schedule, with USNS Cesar Chavez to deliver to the Navy later this year.

T-AKEs are operating in Military Sealift Command's Combat Logistics Force, helping the Navy maintain a worldwide forward presence by delivering ammunition, food, fuel, and other supplies to U.S. and allied ships at sea.

As one of the Defense Department's largest acquisition organizations, PEO Ships is responsible for executing the development and procurement of all destroyers, amphibious ships, special mission and support ships, and special warfare craft. Currently, the majority of shipbuilding programs managed by PEO Ships are benefiting from serial production efficiencies, which are critical to delivering ships on cost and schedule. 

#Warfighting: Navy's Second Joint High Speed Vessel Launched

MOBILE, Ala. (NNS) -- The future USNS Choctaw County (JHSV 2) launched Oct. 1, in Mobile, Ala., marking a key milestone in the ship's construction process.

JHSV 2 is a versatile, non-combatant, transport ship that will be used for fast intra-theater transportation of troops, military vehicles, and equipment. Austal USA built the ship, and it is the second of a 10-ship program.

"As only the second ship of the Spearhead class, JHSV 2's launch represents an important early success for the entire program," said Capt. Henry Stevens, strategic and theater sealift program manager. "Choctaw County is already building on lessons learned from JHSV 1 and is more complete than her predecessor at launch."

JHSVs are designed to commercial standards, with limited modifications for military use. These vessels can transport 600 short tons 1,200 nautical miles at an average speed of 35 knots and can operate in shallow-draft ports and waterways, providing U.S. forces added mobility and flexibility. The ships also have an aviation flight deck to support day and night air vehicle launch and recovery operations. JHSVs have berthing space for up to 146 personnel and airline-style seating for up to 312.

Choctaw County is named for three U.S. counties, located in Mississippi, Alabama and Oklahoma, which share the same name. Upon delivery to the U.S. Navy's Military Sealift Command (MSC), JHSV 2 will be designated as a U.S. naval ship and will have a core crew of 21 civilian mariners who will operate and navigate the ship. The first four ships, including Choctaw County, will be crewed by federally-employed civil service mariners. The remaining six will be crewed by civilian contract mariners working for private shipping companies under contract to MSC. Military mission personnel will embark, as required, by the mission sponsors.

As one of the Defense Department's largest acquisition organizations, PEO Ships is responsible for executing the development and procurement of all destroyers, amphibious ships, special mission and support ships, and special warfare craft. Delivering high-quality war fighting assets - while balancing affordability and capability - is key to supporting the nation's maritime strategy.

October is #Warfighting month focusing on Navy Warfighters, a fast and flexible force deployed worldwide to preserve peace, protect commerce, and deter aggression on, above, and below the sea.

#Warfighting: Underwood Resumes Operation Martillo in Caribbean

By Lt. Stephanie Homick, Southern Seas 2012 Public Affairs

USS UNDERWOOD, At Sea (NNS) -- The Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS Underwood (FFG 36) resumes patrols to support Operation Martillo in the Caribbean Oct. 1 after participating in the annual multinational exercise UNITAS 2012.

Underwood conducted counter-transnational organized crime (C-TOC) operations supporting Operation Martillo in August, and then diverted to participate in UNITAS in September.

The frigate returned to the western and southern Caribbean Sea to continue C-TOC operations until the ship completes its Southern Seas deployment to U.S. 4th Fleet and returns to homeport of Mayport, Fla., in November.

"Operation Martillo is an important mission for us because it is an opportunity to prevent illegal drugs from reaching the shores of the United States," said Cmdr. Michael Brasseur, executive officer of Underwood. "Our mission is to patrol an area of the Caribbean Sea and to deter and prevent drug traffickers from bringing their products to the U.S."

Operation Martillo (Spanish for 'hammer') is a U.S., European, and Western Hemisphere partner nation effort targeting illicit trafficking routes in coastal waters along the Central American isthmus. Led by Joint Interagency Task Force South (JITAF-S), a component of SOUTHCOM, Martillo is a component of the U.S. government's coordinated interagency regional security strategy in support of the White House strategy to combat transnational organized crime and the U.S. Central America Regional Security Initiative.

Fourteen countries are participating in the operation: Canada, Belize, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, France, Guatemala, Honduras, the Netherlands, Nicaragua, Panama, Spain, the United Kingdom and the United States.

"This time around we will have the Colombian frigate ARC Antioquia (FM 53) and the British Royal Navy destroyer HMS Dauntless (D-33) assisting us in patrolling our designated area," added Brasseur. "These extra assets will increase our chances of success for this mission."

This month's support of Operation Martillo will be the last part of Underwood's final deployment before she is decommissioned in March 2013.

"I think that we will be much more successful this time because we have learned lessons from our first go-around with Operation Martillo and we will use those lessons learned to execute better," said Brasseur. "I have a good feeling that we will make a difference and have a big impact on drug trafficking in the region."

JIATF South is a multiservice, multiagency national task force which conducts counter-illicit trafficking operations and intelligence fusion to detect, monitor, and handoff suspected illicit trafficking targets to law enforcement activities; promotes security cooperation and coordinates country team and partner nation initiatives in order to defeat the flow of illicit traffic.

October is #Warfighting month focusing on Navy Warfighters, a fast and flexible force deployed worldwide to preserve peace, protect commerce, and deter aggression on, above, and below the sea.