Essex Wraps Successful SRA

SASEBO, Japan (NNS) -- Amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) finished its Selected Restricted Availability period Oct. 10.

Essex's summer-long SRA improved operational readiness in every department on the ship.

“It was an absolute success,” said SRA Administrative Assistant Lt. John P. Richerson. “This yard period gave us the time we needed to overhaul a number of key systems and make some quality of life upgrades to the crew’s accommodations.”

Some of the major work included several hardware and software upgrades to Essex’s combat systems, a complete resurfacing of the flight deck, replacement of the wood planking in the well deck, repairs to the air conditioning units, crew berthing refurbishing and the installation of the Navy Cash Card system throughout the ship.

Contractors and SRA personnel were not the only ones working diligently to complete the repairs. Essex Sailors worked long hours cleaning and preserving spaces to improve the materiel readiness of the ship. Engineering personnel worked day and night in the main spaces to ensure the success of an all important Light Off Assessment (LOA).

LOA, a major check of the ship’s engineering plant, is a thorough demonstration of everything the ship needs to get underway, from main engines to evaporators, as well as the ship’s ability to fight a main space fire.

“The overall success of the assessment is one more example of the hard work and devotion Essex Sailors display as they perform their jobs,” said Damage Control Assistant Lt. Cmdr. Chris Van Avery.

Essex’s forward-deployed status creates a high level of operational commitments, which is why the command took this SRA as an opportunity to send their Sailors to school.

“The 11 week [SRA] provided Essex the opportunity to raise our operational excellence through NECs, schools and shipboard training,” said Essex Training Officer Lt. Cmdr. Dianne Quattrone. “At the completion of FY07, our school's percentage was the highest out of all LHDs, [at] 97 percent. That is a significant accomplishment for a forward deployed ship.”

Knowing that Essex would remain in port for an extended period of time enabled their school's coordinator and assistant school's coordinator, to send Sailors to stateside schools and plan for watch teams to attend stateside based trainers.

“We sent 536 Sailors to 88 schools,” said Quattrone.
Sea trials mark the beginning of a busy fall underway period for Essex Sailors. Now they have new combat systems to test, a new way to use money onboard and new racks to sleep in heading to Fall Patrol 2007. Essex Sailors will continue their mission of forward-deployed presence and engagement while getting familiar with all the new tools in their arsenal.

STS-120 Countdown Underway - Intercepts Update

The countdown for the launch of STS-120 continues. Here is a summary of the latest intercepts.

5.711 NASA Cape Radio w Liberty Star - working frequency(USB)
10.780 NASA Cape Radio w Liberty Star (USB)
118.625 USAF CCAFS Tower
123.475 Civilian Contractor Air Scan Inc Bat##
126.650 NASA Tower / STA
133.750 USAF Patrick AFB Tower
133.800 NASA CAPE CONTROL
138.150 CCAFS Radio Maintenance (AM mode)
138.450 USAF Jolly aircraft
138.450 DoD CAPE (AM mode)
141.300 VARIETY (AM mode)
143.150 USAF CCAFS Tower (AM mode)
149.500 Radio Maintenance(AM mode)
156.800 USCG Channel 16
157.175 USCG and CG Auxiliary
239.050 USAF CCAFS Tower
243.000 Guard
252.000 NORAD Combat Air Patrol: Arrow ## 33FW/58FS Eglin AFB, FL
259.700 NASA KSC Shuttle A-G 1
264.800 CAPE CONTROL
270.000 CCAFS Projects
282.800 SAR Common
285.000 USN NAS Jacksonville TSC Fiddle
294.600 VARIETY
321.000 USAF Patrick AFB King Ops
344.600 CAPE METRO
348.700 FAA ARTCC Miami - Melbourne RCAG
349.600 DoD CAPE
381.800 USCG
416.500 USAF CCAFS Command destruct testing
463.125 Med 6
463.175 Med 8

STS-120 Countdown Underway - UHF Milsat Up

At 1800 UTC on 10-20-2007, the countdown for the STS-120 mission was begun. STS-120 using the shuttle Discovery is scheduled for liftoff from Pad 39A at 1538 UTC on 10-23-2007. The crew is expected to return 11-6-2007 at approximately 1045 UTC at the Kennedy Space Center Shuttle Landing Facility.

Courtesy of Ronald Rensen in Holland, the Hearsat newsgroup and Nils in Germany:
The Space Shuttle Support network is up on 261.575 MHz (FM). Wolfs Den, Cape Osbourne, and Herky 624 have all been heard this morning Eastern daylight Time.

More on this mission and frequencies as we move down the timeline.

NORAD exercise planned for Washington D.C.

Courtesy of Alan Henney and the Scan-DC newsgroup. Possbile frequencies to monitor are listed at the end of this article.

The North American Aerospace Defense Command and its geographical component, the Continental United States NORAD Region (CONR), will conduct Exercise Falcon Virgo 08-01 from Tuesday through Thursday (October 23-25, 2007) in the National Capital Region (Washington, D.C.).

This exercise comprises a series of training flights held in coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration, the National Capital Region Command Center, the Joint Air Defense Operations Center, Civil Air Patrol, and NORAD’s Northeast Air Defense Sector.

Exercise Falcon Virgo 08-01 is designed to test NORAD’s intercept and identification operations, as well as procedural tests of the NCR Visual Warning System. Civil Air Patrol aircraft, Air Force F-16s and C-38s, and Coast Guard HH-65 Dolphin helicopters, will participate in the exercise. Residents in the area can expect flights to occur throughout the day, including late night and early morning hours, on
scheduled exercise dates.

In the event of inclement weather, the exercise will push to the next day. Further weather delays will result in rescheduling or cancellation of the exercise.

These exercises are carefully planned and closely controlled to ensure NORAD’s rapid response capability. NORAD has conducted exercise flights of this nature throughout the U.S. and Canada since the start of Operation Noble Eagle, the command’s response to the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.

As the Continental United States (CONUS) geographical component of the bi-national command NORAD, CONR provides airspace surveillance and control, and directs air sovereignty activities for the CONUS region. CONR and its assigned Air Force assets throughout the country ensure air safety and security against potential air threats.

Since Sept. 11, 2001, NORAD fighters have responded to more than 2,300 possible air threats in the United States, Canada and Alaska, and have flown more than 46,780 sorties with the support of Airborne Warning and Control System and air-to-air-refueling aircraft.

Eastern Air Defense Sector (Callsign: Huntress)
VHF
Aircraft Air-to-Air 138.000 138.025 138.200 138.225 138.425 138.475 139.150
NORAD CAP/Scramble Discrete 138.200 139.700
NORAD Air Defense Alert/Air-to-Ground 148.125

UHF
AICC 364.200
Alert/Air Defense Tactical 276.400 276.650 279.400 285.900 298.300
AWACS/ACM 278.400 288.400 293.600
AWACS/SOCC Coordination/Calling Frequency 277.600
CAP Refueling 295.800
--DC CAP 293.600 318.400 320.600
CAP Tactical
-- Boston Patriot CAP 259.600 260.900 271.000 282.800
-- Chicago 282.800
-- Detroit/Kennebunkport/Twin Cities 260.900 360.150
-- New York 260.900 282.800 320.600 320.900 324.000 358.850 360.150 364.800 386.000 387.000 387.800
-- Philadelphia CAP 235.900 260.900
-- SE US CAPs 252.000 265.400 (Primary) 282.800 328.000
-- Washington DC CAP Guard Dog (ZDC) 350.250
-- Washington DC/Mid Atlantic CAP - AWACS 234.600 254.200 255.800 260.900 262.150 271.000 362.300
Command and Control Common 387.800
Tactical All Sectors
--Autocat Tac-1 228.800
--Autocat Tac-2 306.400
Worldwide Emergency and Calling: 243.000
NORAD ADX CMD (AWACS) 335.950

Possible Additional NORAD Tacticals (any and all current intercept reports on these frequencies are requested, please no older list):
225.000 225.600 225.800 227.600 228.000 228.400 228.700 229.100 233.600 234.700 235.800 238.500 239.200 239.400 250.800 251.000 251.250 251.800 256.600 258.000 263.200 263.600 264.400 270.200 273.400 274.400 275.000 278.300 278.600 282.400 282.500 284.800 287.800 288.000 288.700 288.900 292.400 292.700 282.800 297.700 298.500 298.800 300.125 302.400 303.900 309.500 312.000 312.800 316.200 316.300 318.100 325.500 326.400 327.200 327.900 338.400 338.800 342.100 342.600 344.000 347.400 348.800 351.600 356.000 357.100 357.200 369.000 369.900 371.000 375.100 376.200 379.000 379.800 384.000 386.200 392.800

Air Force releases B-52 munitions transfer investigation results

by Staff Sgt. Monique Randolph, Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs


A senior Air Force official released results of the command-directed investigation stemming from a weapons transfer incident that occurred Aug. 30 when cruise missiles were loaded onto a B-52 Stratofortress at Minot Air Force Base, N.D., and transported to Barksdale AFB, La.

The Barksdale-assigned B-52 was prepared to transport 12 cruise missiles to Louisiana as part of a tactical ferry mission; however, six of the 12 missiles were not properly prepared for transport, said Maj. Gen. Richard Newton III, assistant deputy chief of staff for operations, plans and requirements at the Pentagon.

General Newton attributed the loading and transport of the weapons to "a series of procedural breakdowns and human errors," stating that the six cruise missiles on that particular pylon "were not supposed to be moved."

"The extensive, six-week investigation found that this was an isolated event and the weapons never left the custody of Airmen and were never unsecured," General Newton said. "However, this incident is unacceptable to the people of the United States and to the United States Air Force."

Following the incident, Gen. Ronald Keys, Air Combat Command commander, ordered an immediate investigation to be conducted by Maj. Gen. Douglas Raaberg, ACC director of Air and Space Operations. The investigation lasted six weeks.

Immediately following the incident, one ACC commander was relieved of command, and the 5th Bomb Wing at Minot was decertified from specific missions and suspended from performing tactical ferry operations.

Since the investigation, several other officers have received administrative action and were relieved of command. Additionally, the Air Force conducted a service-wide stockpile inventory to verify there were no additional discrepancies, and enhanced management directives regarding the storage, tracking and labeling of all weapons.

Secretary of the Air Force Michael W. Wynne also directed nuclear security inspections for nuclear-capable units with oversight from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency.

As a result of the investigation, Air Combat Command officials will recertify the tactical ferry program prior to reinitiating B-52 ferry operations, General Newton said.

"We are aggressively examining and implementing corrective measures to our weapons handling and transfer process," he said. "Corrective action will ensure our munitions are handled precisely and safely 100 percent of the time.

"This was a serious error caused by a breakdown of procedural discipline by our Airmen," General Newton added. "We're accountable and we reassure the American people that the Air Force standards they expect are being met."

Milcom editorial comment from the blog editor: My question to the Air Force and General Newton: How did this story get into the public domain in the first place? Did you bother to investigate the leak and who has been disciplined for this obvious violation of security? When I was associated with the nuc program back in the day, we could neither confirm or deny the existence of nucs on any platform. If the people conducting this investigation didn't investigate the leak, then these people are no better than those who messed up the weapon ferry mission. The investigators of this incident now need to be disciplined for their incompetence.

HSL-43 Returns from 6-month Deployment

By Lt. j.g. Brendan O’Dea Negle, Helicopter Anti-Submarine Light 43 & Naval Air Forces Public Affairs


“Los Gatos Locos” of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Light (HSL) 43, Det. 2, returned to San Diego, Oct. 6, following a successful six-month Western Pacific deployment.

Attached to the Pearl Harbor-based USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93), an Arleigh Burke-class Aegis destroyer, with the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 5, HSL-43 conducted maritime security operations in the 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

"The logistical hurdles of a San Diego-based detachment and a Pearl Harbor-based ship presented unique challenges,” said HSL-43 Det. 2 Maintenance Officer Lt. Greg Lembo. “Through an exceptionally long workup cycle, a pre-cruise maintenance inspection away from our home unit and the cross-deck of aircraft on the USS Bonhomme Richard, Det. 2’s maintainers and aircrew performed exceptionally."

Det. 2 departed San Diego for deployment April 10. Once off the coast of Hawaii, the strike group conducted anti-submarine exercises before Chung-Hoon and HSL-43 detached from ESG-5 and chopped into the Persian Gulf.

Upon arrival, Chung-Hoon and Los Gatos Locos locked arms with Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 – a multinational naval coalition established near the beginning of Operation Enduring Freedom and comprised of naval ships from Canada, France, Germany, Pakistan, the United Kingdom and the U.S. Together they conducted maritime security operations in the Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea, Red Sea and the Indian Ocean.

Operations with theater CTFs allow better coverage of the geographical area. In addition, communications are streamlined leading to enhanced cooperation with coalition nations, said Lembo.

HSL-43 aided CTF-150 with anti-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia by gathering intelligence, flying armed surveillance and reconnaissance missions, and providing humanitarian relief.

During this time, Los Gatos Locos were asked by Somalia’s Prime Minister Ali Mohamed Gedi to provide assistance to a commercial cargo vessel in distress. Despite a high sea state, the vessel’s inability to maneuver, and several large hazards scattered along the length of the ship, the aircrew successfully lowered several weeks’ worth of food, water and supplies, giving the stranded crew the time it needed to eventually return to port under its own power.

“[Aiding the Somalian vessel was] a great opportunity to help others in need as well as put my training and skills to good use,” said HSL-43 Aircrew Member, Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyler Brock.

The squadron soon detached from CTF-150 to join CTF-158 – the task force responsible for training Iraq’s Navy and Marines to safeguard their territorial waters and protect two off-shore oil platforms, the Al Basra and Khawr al Amaya oil terminals – in the Northern Arabian Gulf.

The aircrews monitored maritime traffic and supported 31 boardings performed by Chung-Hoon’s visit, board, search and seizure teams, while logging a total of 350 flight hours.

“We were only a few hundred yards from those oil platforms,” said Lt. Cmdr. Chris Herr, Det. 2 officer in charge. “Every member of the detachment could see what we were defending and put forth an incredible effort to accomplish the mission.”

According to Lembo, the work accomplished on the deployment could be described in two words, “truly inspiring.”

“The Sailors of HSL-43 Det. 2 endured a demanding deployment schedule, a multitude of aircraft and equipment challenges, and prolonged operations in the extreme conditions of the Northern Arabian Gulf,” Lembo said. "Their combined efforts and teamwork allowed for the execution of 930 mishap-free flight hours in support of Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom.”

AFIT students conduct payload testing for space shuttle

by Kim Curry, Air Force Institute of Technology Public Affairs

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio (AFPN) -- Air Force Institute of Technology students from the graduate school of engineering and management's department of aeronautics and astronautics recently completed testing of their flight hardware experiment in preparation for an upcoming space shuttle mission, STS-123.

Rigidizable Inflatable Get-Away-Special Experiment, or RIGEX, is a space shuttle experiment that will study the behavior of structures built using rigidizable/inflatable technology.

The structural characteristics of three test specimens when deployed in a zero-gravity space environment will be investigated.

The overall goal is to demonstrate the feasibility of using rigidizable/inflatable materials to create lightweight space structures, which can then be used for a variety of Defense Department remote sensing applications. Current payloads are often limited in size due to limited launch vehicle dimensions. Success of this technology would help alleviate size limitations for future missions.

The RIGEX program is being accomplished by combining the efforts of student research theses completed as part of their Master of Science programs at AFIT. Participants included students from a variety of programs offered, including astronautics, space systems, aeronautics, systems engineering, and electrical engineering.

The project began in 2001 with a single student and a handful of experiment objectives, and it slowly developed into a set of preliminary designs and test plans.

With each year, the students involved refined the designs, built and tested prototypes, and settled on a final design. A unique aspect of the experiment, according to primary research advisor Dr. Richard Cobb, is that each student was fully responsible for his or her contribution to the overall design, including all phases of the design, build, test and qualification process. The students led the design reviews and presented to the DOD Space Experiment Review Board to get manifested for launch, and presented to the NASA Flight Safety Review Board to qualify the design.

As a result, the effects of every engineering decision, both good and some not so good, became apparent as the build and testing proceeded. For a space-qualified design suitable for manned spaceflight, every last detail needed to be worked out, documented, and then presented to the NASA engineering team during flight safety reviews.

This process provided the students with invaluable hands-on engineering experience they will undoubtedly put to good use in their future jobs.

Testing RIGEX at the Johnson Space Center represents the transition from the design/prototype/test phase of RIGEX to the flight qualify and launch readiness phase.

To date, 13 AFIT students, plus the work of several summer intern students and laboratory support technicians including members from the U.S. Air Force Academy, Wright State University, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology and the Ohio State University, were involved in the project.

RIGEX represents the first-ever designed, built and qualified space flight experiment for AFIT. Along the way, AFIT has developed in-house expertise and implemented facility upgrades for development and flight qualification testing for future AFIT space payloads, enhancing both space research and space curriculum development.

The testing at the Johnson Space Center involved random vibration and electromagnetic testing designed to verify that the flight hardware will survive the trip to and from orbit and that it will function properly in the space environment. According to Capt. Jeremy Owens, a current AFIT student in the astronautical engineering program, all scheduled testing at Johnson was successfully completed. Final testing of the RIGEX payload has now been completed at AFIT, and the hardware will now be delivered to the Kennedy Space Center for a launch on the shuttle in February.

Sixth Fleet JFMCC Ready for Action

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dave Holmes, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs

The 6th Fleet flagship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) arrives in Souda harbor for a brief port visit on Greece's largest island. The Blue Ridge-class amphibious command ship is homeported in Gaeta, Italy. U.S. Navy photo by Mr. Paul Farley

USS MOUNT WHITNEY, At Sea (NNS) -- The U.S. 6th Fleet Joint Forces Maritime Component Command (JFMCC) staff wrapped up a two-week training evolution while embarked aboard USS Mount Whitney (LCC/JCC 20) Oct. 14.

The purpose of the training was to maintain JFMCC staff proficiency and capability to respond effectively to possible contingencies within the U.S. European Command area of responsibility. The training applies real-time, quick-action scenarios to gauge the teams’ readiness and organization.

JFMCC personnel ran through a myriad of scenarios ranging from an oil spill to an Avian influenza outbreak. The scenarios were designed to force the JFMCC staff to reach beyond their normal comfort zones as military professionals and deal with issues not normally confronted on the traditional battlefield.

“Within this broad range of military operations, we must be prepared to respond effectively to terrorist attacks as well as natural or man-made disasters affecting U.S. forces and interests,” said JFMCC Doctrine, Training and Lessons Learned Cell Chief, Craig Linderman, a retired U.S. Army major.

“Most are no-notice, ‘bolt-out-of-the-blue’ events where hours can make the difference between life and death for those caught in the affected area," said Linderman. "To save lives and mitigate damage, we must act with agility and speed. This doesn’t happen without well thought out plans and lots of practice.”

The JFMCC staff’s training has prepared them for Joint Task Force recertification that will commence next summer with exercise Austere Challenge 2008.

“In order to maintain our sharp edge and readiness to respond in a crisis, we must take the time to train rigorously under realistic conditions. This embarked training period has given us an opportunity to realize this goal and sustain our readiness,” said Linderman.

Air Force armada all about the ammo

by Staff Sgt. Matthew Bates, Air Force News Agency
The MV Capt. Steven L. Bennett, one of the Air Force's Afloat Pre-positioned Fleet ships, sits at one of the docks Oct. 16 at the Military Ocean Terminal-Sunny Point, N.C. The APF ships are loaded with thousands of tons of munitions and then sail to a predetermined point in the Pacific or Indian Ocean where they wait to offload their cargo when needed. The Bennett is one of four ships belonging to the APF. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Matthew Bates)

Not many people know the Air Force has a navy. Ask the typical Airman if he can name even one of the service's ships and he would most likely shrug and say, "Ship? We don't have ships. We fly airplanes."

But the fact is the Air Force does have ships. Called the Afloat Pre-positioned Fleet, the program consists of four freighter-style ships that sail around the world loaded with various types of ammunition.

"These ships carry anything from bombs to missiles to high-caliber rounds and fuzes," said 2nd Lt. Marc Meier, the APF program manager.

The program is based out of the Military Ocean Terminal-Sunny Point, an Army-run port located near Southport. The 16,000-acre site is a key shipping port for military operations and is the only of its kind that can handle such a large distribution of ammunition.

Most of the ammunition arrives at Sunny Point via rail. Boxcars carrying tons of ordnance are offloaded and packaged in large, side-opening containers that are marked with radio frequency bar code scanners. These high-tech gadgets track the containers as they journey across the globe and maintain strict accountability of the weapons systems inside.

Once the containers are loaded and labeled, they are stored in climate-controlled cargo holds on one of the APF's ships, each of which is named for fallen heroes. These are the Capt. Steven L. Bennett, the Maj. Bernard F. Fisher and the Airman 1st Class William H. Pitsenbarger, all three are Medal of Honor awardees. The other ship, the Tech. Sgt. John A. Chapman, is named after an NCO who died supporting Operation Enduring Freedom and an Air Force Cross recipient.

"Once a ship is full, it will sail to a predetermined area, where it will sail until it's called upon to dock or offload its cargo," Lieutenant Meier said.

The ships do this for five years at a time.

"A lot of people ask 'Why ships?'" Lieutenant Meier said. "The answer is that ships can carry more, do it cheaper and free up our cargo planes for other missions."

This theory is the basis of the three-tiered "swing stock" system the APF is part of. The first tier, bomber fly-away packages, is where munitions are delivered to a target directly from bombers. The second tier, standardized-air-munitions packages, are rapid-air-munitions packages that can be placed on pallets and loaded onto airlift aircraft for deployment to areas where the munitions are needed. The third tier, the pre-positioned fleet, allows large munitions packages to be quickly available to a theater commander.

For instance, during the early days of Operation Enduring Freedom, the Fisher downloaded nearly 400 containers of munitions that were used to sustain bombing sorties over Afghanistan.

"These ships carry a lot of munitions," said Staff Sgt. Juan Guadalupe, an APF team member from Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla. "And when needed, they can offload them pretty fast."

The ships carry a combined total of 42,900 short tons of munitions, with a net explosive weight of 24 million pounds. The munitions recently loaded onto the Bennett alone are worth an estimated $266 million.

But, none of these munitions would make it to the ships without the aid of the Airmen assigned to the pre-positioned fleet. Ammunition experts by trade, these Airmen are brought to Sunny Point from all across the globe for several months.

"It's kind of like a deployment for us," said Airman 1st Class David Lowery, an APF crewmember from Andersen AFB, Guam. "We get here when the ship does and we leave when it does, which is usually three or four months."

While the sheer magnitude of the operation is awe-inspiring to some, for others on the APF team simply working around a ship is the highlight of the tour.

"I never thought I'd be working on a ship in the Air Force," said Senior Airman Joseph Fitchett, an APF team member from Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany. "But it's definitely a new experience."

Spirits set to soar over Pacific

by Tech. Sgt. Steven Wilson, 36th Operations Group Public Affairs

A B-2 Spirit bomber is prepared for a morning mission at Anderson Air Force Base, Guam. The aircraft is from the 509th Bomb Wing at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo. (U.S. Air Force photo/Master Sgt. Val Gempis)

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- B-2 Spirits recently deployed here from Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., are scheduled to fly their first missions over Guam in mid October as part of a continued bomber presence in the Pacific region.

The B-2s are at Andersen AFB to enhance regional security, demonstrate the nation's commitment to the Western Pacific and focus on integrated training opportunities.

"The B-2s are normally deployed in garrison," said Lt. Col. John Vitacca, the 393rd Expeditionary Bomb Squadron commander. "For us, that means we are prepared to fly from Whiteman at any time to strike targets anywhere in the world in a moment's notice."

While Colonel Vitacca's squadron goes "wheels up" for the first time on this deployment, he said the first large-scale integration is during Exercise Koa Lightning in late October over Hawaii.

The Koa Lightning operations demonstrate the Air Force's unique capability to strike an adversary anywhere on the globe. The B-2s will take off from Guam, refuel with a tanker deployed from the Ohio Air National Guard, engage their targets over the bombing range in Hawaii, and then return to Andersen AFB. These sorties are about 20-hours long.

"This exercise will provide good training for our crews as they drop weapons and integrate with ground forces at the Pohakuloa Training Area," Colonel Vitacca said.

"I'm glad to see the B-2 operation up and running," said Col. Damian McCarthy, the 36th Operations Group commander. "We have a great opportunity to practice joint operations across the board with a truly unique bomber. I'm looking forward to fully integrating the B-2s into the 36th Wing."

A B-2 Spirit bomber refuels from a KC-135 Stratotanker during a deployment to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. The bomber deployed as part of a rotation that has provided U.S. Pacific Command officials a continuous bomber presence in the Asia-Pacific region, enhancing regional security and the U.S. commitment to the Western Pacific. The B-2 is from the 509th Bomber Wing at Whiteman AFB, Mo. The KC-135 is assigned to the Illinois Air National Guard's 126th Air Refueling Wing at Scott AFB, Ill. (U.S. Air Force photo/Master Sgt. Val Gempis)

USS Milius Returns from Deployment

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Shannon K. Cassidy, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Pacific
USS Milius (DDG 69) returned to San Diego, Oct. 8, after completing a six-month deployment as part of the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group.

Milius and assigned visit, board, search and seizure teams deployed with Amphibious Group 7 and embarked elements from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit. She also sailed alongside USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), USS Denver (LPD 9) and USS Rushmore (LPD 47) to conduct Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet areas of operations.

Milius supported MSO in the Persian Gulf through presence activities and interaction patrols, which helped to generate support and awareness of the coalition’s efforts to ensure a safe and secure maritime environment in international waters so that commercial shipping and fishing could occur safely in the region.

MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel weapons or other material.

“We did a lot of great things out there to support the fleet,” said Cmdr. Edmund B. Hernandez. “The morale and attitude of the Sailors on this ship never faltered, and all of us were proud to get the job done.”

Hernandez praised the work of Milius Sailors in getting involved with the community during the deployment.

“One of the highlights of this deployment was working with our Philippine allies and Habitat for Humanity, which helped make a success out of all of the community relation projects we participated in,” said Hernandez.

Information Systems Technician Seaman Alex Quintero, assigned to Milius, echoed similar thoughts.

"I'm so proud of the work we did out there, but at the same time I couldn't be happier to be home,” said Quintero.

USS Fort McHenry Mission to Set Tone for U.S. Africa Command

By Donna Miles, American Forces Press Service
The USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) left Little Creek, Va., Oct. 16 for a seven-month deployment to the Gulf of Guinea that the chief of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) said will exemplify how his new command will operate.

The amphibious dock landing ship will serve as a platform for the Africa Partnership Station Initiative, which aims to work cooperatively with U.S. and international partners in promoting maritime security in Western Africa, said Army Gen. William E. "Kip" Ward.

Fort McHenry will sail to Spain to take on passengers from several European partners -- Spain, the United Kingdom, Portugal and Germany, among them -- before heading to the Gulf of Guinea, said Adm. Henry G. "Harry" Ulrich III, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe.

Its full complement will include representatives of U.S. and partner nations' government agencies and non-governmental organizations, all working together to help African nations increase their ability to provide maritime security.

In addition to the U.S. military, U.S. agencies to participate will be the State Department, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Agency for International Development, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and U.S. Coast Guard, Ulrich said.

High Speed Vessel 2 Swift will join Fort McHenry in the Gulf of Guinea, where it will transport students as well as trainers during visits to Senegal, Liberia, Ghana, Cameroon, Gabon, and Sao Tome and Principe.

Training teams will focus on a broad range of areas, including maritime domain awareness, leadership, seamanship and navigation, maritime law enforcement, search and rescue, civil engineering and logistics.

Support provided will vary between visits, Ward said. He emphasized that the Africa Partnership Station Initiative and AFRICOM as a whole will strive to help African countries build capacity.

"Those things that are within our means to do, we look forward in working with the African nations in providing that kind of assistance," he said.

The new initiative "provides a good example of what the newly established U.S. Africa Command is all about as it relates to helping our partner nations on the continent of Africa build their capacity to better govern their spaces (and) to have more effect in providing for the security of their people," he said.

In addition, Ward said, the Africa Partnership Station Initiative will help globalize African economies and develop societies for the betterment of their people.

AFRICOM declared itself to have initial operating capability Oct. 1 and began bringing the military's activities on the continent under its umbrella.

Ward said the command will give a "consolidated focus" to work currently being conducted by three combatant commands: U.S. Central Command, U.S. Pacific Command and U.S. European Command.

"As we work over the course of the coming weeks and months to stand up the command, we are focused on building the team that will cause value added to be brought to the various programs we do on the continent," he said.

Ward said AFRICOM will reinforce efforts under way "by creating a greater synergy of the entirety of the work being done."

Holiday deadlines rapidly approaching for troop support

Blog Editor Note: I spent many years on the receiving end of holiday care packages and remember how much these meant to me. While this isn't part of our normal coverage here on Milcom, communicating with your deployed soldier, sailor, airmen, marine or coast guardsman is very important during the holiday season ahead. Keep the information provided by the MPSA below in mind to get it there on time.

While the holidays may still seem far away, Americans hoping to show their support to deployed troops must be aware of some rapidly approaching deadlines. According to the Military Postal Service Agency, or MPSA, mail going parcel post must be sent by Nov. 14, while first class mail must be sent by Dec. 10 to arrive by Dec. 25.

In addition to deadlines, several other factors must be considered when sending mail downrange. For example, each country has customs regulations that apply to all incoming mail, pertaining to everything from food items to reading materials.

Military units may also have additional restrictions concerning incoming mail imposed by unit commanders relative to size and weight to ensure logistics support can handle the heavy mail load. Finally, all packages and mail must now be addressed to individual servicemembers as required by U.S. Department of Defense regulations.

In order to help facilitate the mailing process and avoid many of the obstacles that come with the traditional care packages, the Army & Air Force Exchange Service, or AAFES, created "Gifts from the Homefront," a campaign that allows anyone to make a direct and tangible contribution to military morale with a gift certificate that can be redeemed for nearly anything a specific servicemember wants.

"A package from home is certainly nice, but cookies get stale and fragile electronics can break," said Lt. Col. Dean Thurmond, the AAFES' chief of communications. "A 'Gift from the Homefront' gift certificate can alleviate a great deal of burden for the post office and sender while ensuring Soldiers, Airmen, Marines and Sailors are able to get exactly what they desire or need."

AAFES currently operates 53 facilities in support of operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. While inventories can vary from location to location, most facilities carry a full assortment of health and beauty items, toiletries, snacks and drinks.

"Gifts from the Homefront" can be sent to deployed troops by logging on to www.aafes.org or calling 877-770-4438. From there, the gift certificates are sent to individual servicemembers (designated by the purchaser) or distributed to "any servicemember" through the Air Force Aid Society, American Red Cross, Coalition to Salute America's Heroes, Fisher House, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Operation Homefront, Operation Interdependence® or USO. "Gifts From the Homefront" gift certificates can be redeemed at exchange facilities worldwide.

As of Sept. 30, approximately 92,900 "Gifts from the Homefront" gift certificates have been sent since the Department of Defense approved the exchange support campaign in March 2003. More than 23,500 of these have been delivered to servicemembers and their families via AAFES' 10 charitable partners.

Comfort returns the NORVA

Sailors man the rails as Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) pulls pierside into Norfolk Naval Station. Comfort is wrapping up a four-month humanitarian deployment to Latin America and the Caribbean providing medical treatment in 12 countries. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Lolita M. Lewis)

Brigades to Begin Joint Air-to-Ground Training

By Sean Deam
Army units from the 4th Infantry Division from Fort Hood, Texas, will be the first to participate in new joint air-to-ground training at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., in November. (Photo by Air Force Staff Sgt. Samuel Rogers)

The new air-ground integration concept for brigade combat teams is designed to improve combat effectiveness while reducing fratricide and collateral damage on the battlefield, according to U.S. Joint Forces Command.

The core of this initiative, the BCT A-GI training concept, will bring services, schools, combat training centers and units together in order to train jointly - just as they fight in combat, officials said. The fiirst BCT A-GI training event at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Calif., will take place Nov. 5 - 23 with maneuver units from the 4th Infantry Division.

"The need to better synchronize our air-ground integration training at the brigade combat team level is a fundamental requirement to succeed on the complex battlefield that our men and women operate in today," said Maj. Thomas Hansbarger, BCT A-GI project lead for U.S. Joint Forces Command's Joint Fires Integration and Interoperability Team.

"We must develop a realistic, joint integrated air-to-ground training capability at home station and at the combat training centers for both planning and execution in order to improve application of joint fires and effects at the Brigade Combat Team level and below," said Gen. William S. Wallace, commander of Training and Doctrine Command.

The BCT A-GI team consists primarily of the TRADOC Joint Air Ground Office, Air Combat Command Joint Air Ground Division, the Army Joint Support Team and the Joint Fires Integration and Interoperability Team.

The BCT A-GI training plan emphasizes individual skills, develops training objectives, integrates robust air-ground training at the BCT's home station and implements collaborative training scenarios at combat training centers and Green Flag exercises.

BCT A-GI integrates joint concepts into existing training events after a BCT returns from a deployment and as it prepares to deploy again, officials said. They said the BCT commander determines when, where and the extent to which joint concepts are incorporated into the unit's training plan.

Another key dynamic of BCT A-GI is the development of joint, interdependent training objectives between the participating BCT, Air Support Operations Squadron and Air Force and Army flying units. Since the objectives will be interdependent, officials said every unit's inputs and actions will be required to make the event successful.

JFIIT will assess each training event during home-station training and CTC rotations. The assessments will focus on the training venues, JFCOM officials said, and the ability to create a realistic, joint training environment, and measure each unit's improvement in air-ground integration.

The Center for Army Lessons Learned will conduct the final BCT A-GI assessment while the BCT conducts combat operations. The BCT A-GI team will write a report determining if the concept was successful at creating a joint training environment and if it increased the unit's ability to conduct joint air-to-ground operations.

(Sean Deam works for the Joint Fires Integration and Interoperability Team, United States Joint Forces Command Public Affairs Office).

DHFCS TASCOMM Net part of the US DoD HF-GCS?

Over the weekend on the UDXF newsgroup several of us have had a discussion regarding the DHFCS TASCOMM net control station XSS. It is located at Forest Moor and since the middle of September has showed up on 5708 and 13215 kHz. These two frequencies are part of the US DoD HF-GCS ALE network frequencies.

So is XSS now a part of this net now or are they sharing these two Aero OR assignments with the HF-GCS?

So now I am curious. Lets see how many of the HF-GCS ALE net freqs below get used by the DFHCS network.

Drop me a line if you see TASCOMM NCS station XSS on any freq below that does not have an asterisks next to it. Mode is ALE/USB.

3137.0 4721.0 5708.0* 6721.0 9025.0 11226.0 13215.0* 15043.0 18003.0
23337.0 kHz

Latest ALE Address IDs on the TASCOMM ALE network:

200202 C-17A Aircraft #ZZ172 (previous N172UK), 00-0202

UKE306 E-3D AWACS RAF 8 Sqn/No. 23 Sqn RAF Waddington, UK #ZH106

UKE307 E-3D AWACS RAF 8 Sqn/No. 23 Sqn RAF Waddington, UK #ZH107

XSS NCS at Forest Moor, UK

And if anyone has any IDs for the following addresses or has any to add to the list, please drop me a note:
XAS XAX XBC XBE XCA XCV XDB XDV XEJ XFT XFW XFY XGF XGJ XGP XGV XGZ XHJ XHK XHN XHZ XIM XJF XJK XJP XJT XJV XKA XKB XKD XKP XKW XKY XLE XLG XOP XSA

3rd SOPS, Boeing take over WGS early-orbit support

By Staff Sgt. Don Branum, 50th Space Wing Public Affairs

Airmen with the 3rd Space Operations Squadron and contractors with Boeing Corporation took over early-orbit operations on Wideband Global SATCOM Satellite Vehicle 1 from a Boeing facility in El Segundo, Calif., approximately 30 minutes after it launched from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., Oct. 10.

The teaming gives 3rd SOPS Airmen an opportunity to become acquainted with WGS during its initial stages, said 50th Operations Group commander Col. Clinton Crosier.

"This is a better way of doing business," Colonel Crosier said. "It won't be a cold handoff. When we do the handover ... we'll have a team that has hands-on experience working with the WGS satellite on orbit." Boeing will transfer Satellite Control Authority to 3rd SOPS in about 90 days after completing a rigorous series of tests on WGS SV-1's systems.

SV-1's final orbit will be in the geosynchronous belt, approximately 23,000 miles above the Earth. Its orbit shortly after launch was highly elliptical, with a closest approach of less than 250 miles and an apogee of more than 36,000 miles. Boeing and 3rd SOPS will fire maneuvering thrusters on the satellite over the next two weeks to nudge it into a circular orbit, said 3rd SOPS' Maj. Tracy Patton.

Once the satellite is in its proper orbit, operators will test the satellite's functionality to ensure it suffered no damage through the vibration and G-forces of liftoff.

WGS SV-1 launched at 8:22 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time from Space Launch Complex 41 aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket. It the first in a planned constellation of six $300-million vehicles, each of which will have communications capabilities equal to 12 Defense Satellite Communications System-III satellites. WGS is the successor to DSCS-III, recapitalizing a fleet whose first satellite launched Oct. 30, 1982.

Airmen with 3rd SOPS will control the WGS platform, according to a ULA SV-1 fact sheet. Soldiers at four Army wideband satellite operations centers will conduct payload command and control.

The WGS SV-1 mission is the 11th flight of an Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral AFS and extends Air Force Space Command's string of consecutive successful launches to 52.

The Air Force originally planned to deploy five WGS satellites but expanded the program to six through an agreement with the Australian Defence Force. The $707-million partnership encompasses the sixth satellite, associated ground infrastructure and upkeep, according to a report in the Oct. 4 Wall Street Journal.

Milcom Frequency Tip

Want an interesting HF frequency to monitor?

Give 9120.0 kHz a spin on the radio dial. Use USB and be prepared for ANDVT and ALE comms.

WGS Military Comm Sat Launched

The U.S. Air Force launched the first of a next generation of military communications satellites from here Oct. 10 at 8:22 p.m. (EDT), when a United Launch Alliance Atlas V booster carried a Wideband Global SATCOM satellite into space. Here are the particulars:

Name: Wideband Global Satcom (WGS)
Launch date/time: 11 October 2007 at 0022 UTC
Site: Air Force Eastern Test Range, Florida, USA
Launch Vehicle: Atlas V
International Designator: 2007-046A
SSC #: 32258
Owner: US

General Characteristics:
Primary Function: High-capacity military communications satellite
Primary Contractor: Boeing Satellite Development Center
Satellite Bus: Boeing 702
Weight: Approximately 13,000 lbs at launch, 7,600 lbs on-orbit
Orbit Altitude: 22,300 miles
Payload: Transponded, cross-banded-X and Ka-band communications suite
Antennas: 8 beam, transmit and receive X-band Phased arrays and 10 Ka-band Gimbaled Dish Antennas, 1 X-band Earth coverage
Capability: 39 125-MHz Channels via digital channelizer/router
Number of Terminals Supported: 92
Inventory: 5 on contract
Unit Cost: Approximately $350 million

WGS is the nation's next-generation wideband satellite communications system. It will augment and eventually replace the aging Defense Satellite Communication System which has been the Department of Defense's backbone for satellite communications over the last two decades.

"I am extremely proud of the hard work and dedication of the launch team in working the long hours that have brought us to where we are today," said Col. Donald Robbins, Commander, Wideband SATCOM Group, MILSATCOM Systems Wing.

"With the launch of WGS SV-1, we are on the cusp of providing more capacity than the entire on-orbit Defense Satellite Communications System constellation."

With the launch of SV-1, WGS SV-2 and SV-3 will round out the remainder of the Block I contract. Both satellites are currently progressing through their test programs and are slated for launch next year. The WGS Block II contract for SV-4 and SV-5 was awarded last year. The WGS system is being procured through a commercial contract with the Boeing Company by the Wideband SATCOM Group, part of the MILSATCOM Systems Wing.

WGS will enable enhanced and more flexible execution of Command and Control, Communications Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C4ISR), battle management, and combat support information. WGS will also augment the existing service available on the UHF F/O satellites by providing additional information broadcast capabilities via Global Broadcast Series (GBS).'

The WGS SV-1 spacecraft (SC) is an approximately 12,718-lb communications satellite. WGS supports communications links in the 500 MHz range of the X-band and 1 GHz range of the Ka-band spectra. WGS can filter and route up to 4.875 GHz of instantaneous bandwidth. Depending on the mix of ground terminals, data rates, and modulation schemes employed, a WGS satellite can support data transmission rates between 2.4 and 3.6 Gbps.

WGS has 19 independent coverage areas that can be positioned throughout its field of view. This includes eight steerable/shapeable X-band beams formed by separate transmit/receive phased arrays; 10 Ka-band beams served by independently steerable diplexed antennas (three with selectable RF polarization); and transmit/receive X-band Earth-coverage beams. WGS can tailor coverage areas and connect X-band and Ka-band users anywhere within its field of view.

Command and Control of WGS is accomplished from four Army Wideband Satellite Operations Centers (WSOCs). Each Global SATCOM Configuration and Control Element (GSCCE) has the capability to control up to three satellites at a time, using X-band or Ka-band telemetry and command links. Spacecraft platform control will be accomplished by the 3rd Space Operations Squadron (3 SOPS) at Schriever AFB in Colorado Springs, CO using WGS mission-unique software and databases.

Support technologies for WGS include the xenon-ion propulsion system (XIPS), highly efficient triple-junction gallium arsenide solar cells, and deployable radiators with flexible heat pipes. The XIPS is 10 times more efficient than conventional bipropellant systems. Four 25-cm thrusters remove orbit eccentricity during transfer orbit operations.

The thrusters are also used to perform orbit maintenance and any required station-change maneuvers during the mission life. The triple-junction gallium arsenide solar cells provide on-orbit electrical power for the spacecraft. The deployable radiators? flexible heat pipes provide increased radiator area; resulting in a cooler, more stable thermal environment for the spacecraft.

Built by the Boeing Satellite Development Center, WGS will provide essential communications services for Combatant Commanders to command and control their tactical forces. Tactical forces will rely on WGS to provide high-capacity connectivity into the terrestrial portion of the Defense Information Systems Network (DISN).

'After final checkout and turnover of SV-1, we will have doubled the available high-capacity Military Satellite Communications services,' said Col. Donald Robbins, Commander, Wideband SATCOM Group, MILSATCOM Systems Wing.

Upon its first launch into geosynchronous orbit in 2007, WGS SV-1 will be the Department of Defense's highest capacity communications satellite. A constellation of five satellites will provide service in both the X and Ka-band frequency spectrums.

The first three WGS satellites will be launched in 2007 and 2008. Both the Delta IV and Atlas V Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicles (EELV) will be used. Satellites 4 and 5 are anticipated for launch in 2011 and 2012.

The Space and Missile Systems Center, located at Los Angeles Air Force Base, Calif., is the U.S. Air Force's center of acquisition excellence for acquiring and developing military space systems including six wings and three groups responsible for GPS, military satellite communications, defense meteorological satellites, space launch and range systems, satellite control network, space based infrared systems, intercontinental ballistic missile systems and space situational awareness capabilities. SMC manages more than $60 billion in contracts, executes annual budgets of $10 billion and employs more than 6,800 people worldwide.

New Missions, Birds, Names For New Helicopter Squadrons

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Ahron Arendes, Commander, Naval Air Forces Public Affairs
Two new Naval Air Station North Island-based helicopter squadrons received brand new MH-60 helicopters to go with their new missions and names as part of the Navy’s helicopter concept of operations (CONOPS).

Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8 received its first MH-60S helicopter, Sept. 13, and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71 received its first MH-60R, Oct. 4.

The Navy has begun transitioning from the seven types of helicopters currently in service to just two types, the MH-60S Knighthawk and MH-60R Seahawk. On Sept. 28, HSC-8 became the Navy’s first Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) to transition to HSC, and HSM-71 became the Navy’s first operational MH-60R squadron, Oct. 3.

HSM-41, the Fleet Replacement Squadron, was the first Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) to transition to HSM, in December 2005, when it received the Navy’s first MH-60Rs to train pilots and aircrew on the new airframe.

MH-60Rs and MH-60Ss will eventually replace all SH-60B, SH-60F, HH-60H, HH-1N, UH-3H and CH-46D helicopters currently in the Navy’s inventory, effectively increasing capability and flexibility.

For HSM-71, the name, mission, and airframe aren’t the only things that are new. Despite its roots in the HSL community, the squadron will not deploy as individual detachments. Rather, the entire squadron will now deploy as part of the carrier air wing, as a second helicopter squadron, and provide detachments to the strike group’s ships. With this change, HSM-71 will join HSC-8 in Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74).

“They bring newer, more reliable systems,” said Capt. Sterling Gilliam, commander, CVW-9. “They will also be able to completely control the battle space in the vicinity of the strike group, providing greater flexibility to the air wing and strike group commanders to project power across the globe.”

Combined, the MH-60S and MH-60R will provide the fleet the capability to not only perform anti-submarine and surface warfare, but a variety of missions.

The MH-60S, now flown by HSC-8, replaces the HH-60H and SH-60F helicopters. It provides search and rescue (SAR), combat search and rescue (CSAR) and logistics to include movement of personnel and equipment.

“The Sierra is designed to operate in an over-land environment where there are threats,” said Cmdr. Larry Vincent, Commanding Officer, HSC-8. “The helo has a self-defense package and offensive weapons. I think we can really make an evolutionary leap forward in how we use this aircraft, especially in a joint environment.”

The MH-60R provides anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, naval gunfire support, CSAR and logistics.

“The Romeo does a lot for anti-submarine warfare. It brings the capabilities that were in a couple of different airframes into one,” said Cmdr. Michael Nortier, Commanding Officer, HSM-71. “Also, with the advances in technology and training for our Sailors, we’re providing five to 10 times more coverage than we have in the past, which is a huge improvement in how we defend the strike group.”

In line with the Chief of Naval Operation’s guidance for building a Navy for tomorrow, helicopter CONOPS will reduce airframes while at the same time effectively increasing capability.

“Helo CONOPS will provide us much more flexibility and agility to project power and to protect the strike force due to [the helicopters’] multi-mission aspects. The way we will utilize our resources will also be more efficient due to fewer airframes,” Gilliam said.

With the new helicopter CONOPS, HSM-71 and HSC-8 may now have some new missions and challenges in front of them.

“There are definitely going to be plenty of challenges, but my excitement is about the people,” said Cmdr. Michael Nortier, commanding officer, HSM-71. “The technology is there, but now it’s getting the great Sailors we have to focus and find out what the true capabilities of the aircraft are and how we’re going to employ them.”

Navy Establishes First MH-60R Squadron

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW/NAC) David C. Mercil, Fleet Public Affairs Center Pacific
Sailors assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71 service a MH-60R Seahawk.

The Navy established Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71 in a ceremony held at Naval Air Station (NAS) North Island, Oct. 4.

The first MH-60R squadron, HSM 71's aircraft is replacing the SH-60B and SH-60F aircraft due to possessing the combined capabilities of the two aircraft.

“The (MH-60R) aircraft changes the way we fly, the way we fight and the way we go to sea,” said Rear Adm. Garry E. Hall, commander, Amphibious Group 2.

The Navy has been working to implement the MH-60R for more than a decade. HSM 71 is the first of five MH-60R squadrons; other MH-60R squadrons are expected to be established in the future.

“Now, we have one aircraft with all the capabilities of every (previous) aircraft,” said Cmdr. Michael K. Nortier, HSM-71's commanding officer. “That’s a significant change.”

Although the mission requirements of the MH-60R will be similar to the SH-60B and SH-60F, the new aircraft features upgraded mission and flight displays, an improved advanced flight control computer and an integrated self-defense suite.

“This aircraft is the aircraft that is taking over the anti-submarine warfare and surface warfare helicopter missions for the U.S. Navy,” said Lt. Carey Castilian, HSM 71's readiness officer. “It has the radar of the SH-60B and the sonar from the SH-60F.”

Unlike traditional helicopter anti-submarine light squadrons, which deploy in separate detachments to small ships, HSM 71 will deploy to an aircraft carrier as part of the carrier air wing. HSM 71’s first deployment is scheduled to be aboard USS John C. Stennis’ (CVN 74) next deployment.

“We just got a new ‘bird,’ and it’s a new squadron,” said Aviation Machinist’s Mate Airman Joseph Grandas, assigned to HSM 71. “I feel it’s more exciting than challenging.”

HSM 71’s primary mission will be to support surface and anti-submarine warfare, command, control and communications, command and control warfare and mobility and non-combat operations. The secondary mission will be to support search and rescue, medical evacuation, vertical replenishment, naval surface fire support and communications relay.

B-2s deploy to Guam

Four B-2 Spirits from the 393rd Bomb Squadron, deployed from Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., arrived here Oct. 7 as part of a continuous bomber presence in the Asia-Pacific region.

The B-2 Spirit is a multi-role bomber capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear munitions. A dramatic leap forward in technology, the bomber represents a major milestone in the U.S. bomber modernization program. It brings massive firepower to bear, in a short time, anywhere on the globe, through previously impenetrable defenses.

The Spirit's low observability is derived from a combination of reduced infrared, acoustic, electromagnetic, visual and radar signatures. These signatures make it difficult for sophisticated defensive systems to detect, track and engage the B-2.

Many aspects of the low-observability process remain classified; however, the B-2's composite materials, special coatings and flying-wing design all contribute to its "stealthiness."

"I'm extremely pleased the B-2s are here," said Col. Damian McCarthy, 36th Operations Group commander. "These aircraft have truly unique capabilities and the training opportunities available here will translate into increased combat airpower."

Fort Hood Unit to Deploy to Iraq

The Army confirmed the Department of Defense announcement Oct. 9 sending Soldiers from the 4th Brigade, 4th Infantry Division at Fort Hood, Texas, to Iraq as part of a normal rotation of forces. The "Cobras" will deploy in the summer of 2008 to support Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The 4/4 officially activated as one of the Army's first modular brigades as part of an Army-wide restructuring and transformation in December, 2004. The unit deployed in support of OIF in late November 2005 and was based at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Prosperity. Subordinate units at FOBs Falcon, Honor and Union III, operated in some of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Baghdad.

During that deployment, the Cobra Brigade provided security for many key events, to include the first session of the Iraqi Council of Representatives at the Parliament Center in Baghdad, where 275 representatives were sworn into Iraq's newly elected, four-year government in March 2006.

The brigade combat team also conducted numerous operations - capturing or killing terrorists, finding roadside bombs and IED networks, and developing intelligence used to prevent other attacks. Other operations included important civic projects, helping rid the streets of garbage and showing Iraqi citizens their government is working for a better future.

The 4/4 will be lead by Col. Philip F. Battaglia, and CSM Edwin Rodriguez, both of whom have served in Iraq previously.

The deployment of the Cobra Brigade will provide senior commanders in Iraq the flexibility to maintain the appropriate level of effort based on their assessment of the security situation on the ground.

Prior to its deployment, the brigade will be re-designated as 4th Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division.

The existing 4th Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, is currently deployed in Iraq. That unit, based in Fort Bliss, Texas, will re-deploy in the coming months. After its return to home station, it will re-designate to become part of 1st Armored Division.

As with recent unit deployments to Iraq, the Cobra Brigade Combat Team could remain in theater up to 15 months.

Army leadership does not take for granted the incredible sacrifices borne by Family Members during this period of frequent deployments to combat. The Army continues to look closely at all aspects of Family support during this period of unprecedented operational tempo, and every consideration for the Soldier's and Family's exceptional dedication to duty is given during the periods of pre-deployment, deployment and, in particular, upon return.

VAQ 132 Returns to Whidbey Island

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tucker M. Yates, Fleet Public Affairs Center Det. Northwest
Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (VAQ) 132, the “Scorpions”, were welcomed home to Naval Air Station (NAS) Whidbey Island, Oct. 6, after a deployment to Al Asad Air Base in Iraq.

The Scorpions were deployed for seven months in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

“Our missions went great and as always, we gave the support requested to keep the guys on the ground safe,” said Lt. j.g. John Grisham, of VAQ 132.

During their deployment, the Scorpions flew more 780 sorties and logged over 3,900 hours of flight time with almost 30 officers and around 145 enlisted. The squadron had a 100 percent sortie accomplishment rate.

“We did not miss one sortie we were requested for,” said Cmdr. Jeff Graf, VAQ 132 commanding officer. “We also flew an unprecedented amount of hours. I don’t think a Navy Prowler squadron has ever logged 3,900.”

“Professionalism is the key to success in any operation in the military,” said Culinary Specialist Seaman Derryl Royster. “We had it and that’s why our deployment went really well.”

The crew was welcomed home by friends and family members when they flew in by charter airplane. Their EA-6B Prowlers were left for VAQ 142, the “Gray Wolves," to support Carrier Air Wing 17 next spring.

“It felt good actually playing a part in the war and supporting our country,” said Aircrew Survival Equipmentman Airman Dennis Piccirillo. “Over the radio, I heard the troops say they appreciated what we were doing and they couldn’t have done their job without us.”

Even with all the success of the deployment the crew members were glad to be back and out of the 120 degree weather.

“It’s great to be home,” said Royster. “What really matters is that we all made it back here in one piece.”

Tortuga Departs for Fall Patrol

USS Tortuga (LSD 46) gets underway from Fleet Activities Sasebo as the ship departs on fall patrol. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Adam R. Cole)

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Brandon A. Myrick, USS Tortuga Public Affairs

USS TORTUGA, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Tortuga (LSD 46) departed Sasebo, Japan, for its semi-seasonal fall patrol throughout the South Pacific region Oct. 8.

Talon Vision and Phiblex 08 are training exercises and will run concurrently Oct. 15-31, and will partner 2,700 U.S. and 1,300 Philippine military personnel for two weeks of training emphasizing the importance of U.S. military forces from Japan in supporting the peace and stability of the Asia-Pacific region.

“We will be conducting joint and bilateral training exercises with the armed forces of the Philippines as we continue to strengthen our security assistance program,” said Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Todd A. Lewis. “Bilateral training is vital to maintaining readiness capabilities for both the U.S. and Philippines armed forces.”

Numerous training events will focus on a variety of sea and land-based capabilities. Naval assets of Tortuga will provide a sea-based platform for simulated Marine raids, and Sailors of both nations will conduct simulated maritime interdiction operations and visit, board, search and seizure training.

“The exercises are being conducted to facilitate interoperability, increase readiness and continue to improve professional relationships between the United States and the Philippines armed forces,” said Operations Officer, Lt. Robert D. Starks. “Bilateral training is part of the long-term security assistance program between the [Philippines] and U.S.”

Along with the training schedule, Sailors on board Tortuga will be able to experience the vast array of foreign port visits as well as interact with the local community by volunteering for community service projects.

“I know how important the operational training is, but my favorite part is getting out with the locals and volunteering my time in community service projects,” said Engineman 3rd Class Kenneth Lake. “It is my way of personally getting out and doing something positive.”

While community service projects act as a one-on-one friendship builder, bilateral training is part of the long-term security assistance program between the Republic of the Philippines and U.S.

“Exercises like these go a long way toward supporting the peace and stability of the Asia-Pacific region,” said Lewis.

Bonhomme Richard ESG Enters 7th Fleet

USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) and USS Denver (LPD 9) transit through the Gulf of Oman. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Denny Cantrell)

The Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group (BHRESG) entered the 7th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) Oct. 7, after nearly four months of operations in the Persian Gulf.

The strike group proved their capability and versatility by completing multiple operations and participating in training with Coalition forces during their time in the Gulf.

“Throughout our deployment, the Sailors and Marines of the BHRESG have shown great flexibility and distinguished themselves with great tactical sense and unwavering focus to the task at hand,” said Capt. Bradley D. Martin, BHRESG and Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 7 commander. “The crews of all the ships have done outstanding work across all missions.”

While operating in the 7th Fleet AOR, the BHRESG will conduct drills and training while transiting en route to its homeport of San Diego.

The 7th Fleet AOR contains more than 50 percent of the world’s population. BHRESG is a rapid response strike group available for humanitarian or non-combatant evacuation operations in the region.

BHRESG is comprised of PHIBRON 7, USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), USS Denver (LPD 9), USS Rushmore (LSD 47) and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable).

BHRESG serves under Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group 7 / Task Force 76, the Navy’s only forward-deployed amphibious force. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with an operating detachment in Sasebo, Japan.

Operation Deep Freeze main season underway

Note: Complete information can be found at
http://mt-milcom.blogspot.com/2007/08/operation-deep-freeze-2007-08-begins.html

Air operations in support of the 52nd Operation Deep Freeze main season are underway.

A C-17 Globemaster III from the 62nd Airlift Wing, at McChord Air Force Base, Wash., completed three missions this past week from Christchurch, New Zealand, kicking off the 2007 to 2008 season for the 13th Air Force-led Joint Task Force Support Forces Antarctica, Operation Deep Freeze.

Since Oct. 2 (New Zealand time), 283 passengers and 106, 299 pounds of cargo have been flown to McMurdo Station, Antarctica, which serves as the logistical hub for much of the U.S. and Antarctic program.

During the winter fly-in season, Aug. 20 to 25, a McChord C-17 and crew flew a total of 355 passengers and 119,953 pounds of cargo to and from McMurdo Station to prepare for the arrival of the main body population of scientist and support staff.

Ski-equipped LC-130 Hercules aircraft, crews and support personnel from the New York Air National Guard's 109th Airlift Wing will begin deploying to McMurdo Station in mid-October. The LC-130s will transport passengers and cargo from McMurdo Station to other research posts throughout Antarctica.

Operation Deep Freeze is a unique joint and total-force mission that has supported the National Science Foundation and U.S. Antarctic Program that began in 1955. The start of the season was heralded Sept. 28 in a ceremony at Christchurch.

Lt. Gen. Loyd S. "Chip" Utterback, the 13th Air Force commander, attended along with the U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand William McCormick, Christchurch Mayor Garry Moore, National Science Foundation officials and others. Members of the 1958 New Zealand Trans-Antarctic Expedition to the South Pole also participated.

Operation Deep Freeze involves active-duty and Reserve C-17 support from McChord AFB, New York, Air National Guard LC-130s, and other aircraft as necessary to support the mission; one U.S. Military Sealift Command tanker, one MSC-chartered cargo ship, and the U.S. Navy Cargo Handling Battalion One to provide critical port services at McMurdo Station. All deployed forces are scheduled to return to home station in March 2008.

Total force tanker operation comes to Andersen

by Tech. Sgt. Steven Wilson, 36th Operations Group Public Affairs
A KC-135 Stratotanker, deployed from the Ohio Air National Guard's 121st Air Refueling Wing, takes off Oct. 4 from Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, for an aerial refueling mission.(U.S. Air Force Photo/Senior Master Sgt. Rasouliyan) U

ANDERSEN AFB, Guam (AFPN) -- Airmen here are used to seeing tanker units come and go, but this time a deployed contingent of aerial refueling specialists from Ohio are here to stay for about two months instead of the usual two or three weeks.

"We want to fully integrate with the 36th Wing and be a part of team Andersen," said Lt. Col. Steve Siefert, 506th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron commander. "We want our active duty counterparts to know we are here, know we are part of the same team and increase our (operational) knowledge base of each other."

The tankers and their crews are part of a large contingent of deployed Ohio Air National Guardsmen from the 121st Air Refueling Wing. They say their being here is important, given the state of affairs in today's world that require a U.S. military presence.

"This gives our (Air) Guard men and women an opportunity to use all of their training in a real world situation," said Lt. Col. Andrew Knapp, 506 EARS liaison officer. "Secondly, it gives our active duty counterparts an opportunity to see how well the Guard can assimilate alongside active duty personnel."

The deployed Airmen say they're slated to be here longer than the normal tanker rotation so Air Force officials can meet their continued goal of modernization and recapitalization of the current force.

"Currently in the Air National Guard community there are several units that are going through conversion or have been (affected by) base realignment and closure," Colonel Knapp said. "As a result of this, they are unable to deploy. So, the rest of the (Air) Guard tanker units have had to increase the number or length of their deployments to fill this void."

Their time here also will equate to plain old mission accomplishment, translating into raw combat power, said Colonel Siefert.

"By deploying to different locations and practicing how we go to war, we increase our breadth of experience," he said.

Their contributions aren't unnoticed.

"Aerial refueling truly gives our forces that global reach capability," said Col. Damian McCarthy, 36th Operations Group commander. "I'm glad the deployed Airmen from Ohio are here and I'm very much looking forward to working with them for the next few months."

Colonel Knapp said he will focus on the interface with Air Guard units and other agencies while deployed with one far-reaching objective in mind.

"I think the presence here of both tanker and bomber forces is true force projection," he said. "Our presence shows our enemies in this global war on terror that the U.S. is truly able to project our airpower anywhere in the world in a very short time."

The tanker operation here will directly support the continuous bomber presence in the Western Pacific, which is aimed at enhancing regional security and provides integrated training opportunities.

Army Finalizes Command Realignment

Army Regulation 10-87, "Army Commands, Army Service Component Command and Direct Reporting Units," has been posted to the Army Publishing Directorate Web site, http://www.apd.army.mil/.

AR 10-87 fully implements the transformation of the Army's command structure to more effectively support an expeditionary Army at war.

The Army began reorganizing its commands in June 2006 to increase its global responsiveness and defense of the homeland. The new structure identifies three types of headquarters: Army Commands, Army Service Component Commands and Direct Reporting Units.

The change is important in completing the Army's transformation to a modular force. It also increases its effectiveness by transforming business processes while operationally focusing the theater armies to combatant commands.

The restructuring eliminates the Major Army Command and recognizes the global role and multi-disciplined functions of the Army Commands, allows the ASCCs to report directly to the Department of the Army while serving as the Army's single point of contact for a combatant command and acknowledges DRUs as functional proponents at the Department of the Army level.

Col. John E. Phelan, chief of staff for U.S. Army South, an ASCC, helped write the regulation in a previous assignment and now practices it every day.

According to him, the ability for the Army to have a single point of contact for the combatant command is critical in effectively conducting operations and disaster response missions, as well as fulfilling day-to-day missions in the war on terrorism and homeland security.

"Just recently U.S. Army South assisted its COCOM, U.S. Southern Command, in humanitarian relief in Latin America in the aftermath of an earthquake followed by two hurricanes," Col. Phelan said. "We were able to provide USSOUTHCOM with immediate critical capabilities and could turn to Headquarters, Department of the Army for additional assistance when required"

"The result reinforced the intent of the Regulation: to support the unity of command for the COCOM and operationally focus the ASCC, while leveraging the enhanced capabilities of the new theater-Army design," he said. "This arrangement reduces response time and, in this case, enabled U.S. Army South to support the rescue of 40 Americans as well as saving lives and reduce the suffering of the citizens of our partner nations."

Three Army Commands - U.S. Army Forces Command (also designated an ASCC), U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command and U.S. Army Materiel Command - perform multiple Army Service Title 10 functions across multiple disciplines.

The nine ASCCs are: U.S. Army Europe, U.S. Army Central, U.S. Army North, U.S. Army South, U.S. Army Pacific, U.S. Army Special Operations Command, Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command/Army Strategic Command and Eighth Army.

Eleven DRUs provide the Army with institutional or operating functions unavailable anywhere else in the Army. The are: U.S. Army Network Enterprise Technology Command/9th Signal Command, U.S. Army Medical Command, U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command, U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Army Military District of Washington, U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command, U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Army Reserve Command, U.S. Army Acquisition Support Command and U.S. Army Installation Management Command.

USS Enterprise unreps with the USNS Supply

Nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) conducts an underway replenishment with Military Sealift Command fast combat support ship USNS Supply (T-AOE 6) while guided-missile destroyer USS Arleigh Burke (DDG-51) and guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG-69) follow. Enterprise and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 are underway on a scheduled deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class N.C. Kaylor)

Nassau Strike Group Conducts VBSS training

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class David Wyscaver, Nassau Strike Group Public Affairs

NORFOLK (NNS) -- The Nassau Strike Group’s (NASSG) visit, boarding, search and seizure (VBSS) teams participated in practice scenarios Sept. 25-27 as part of its Expeditionary Strike Group Integration (ESGINT) Exercise in preparation for its regularly scheduled deployment next year.

NASSG’s VBSS units included teams from USS Nashville (LPD 13), USS Ashland (LHD 48), USS Bulkeley (DDG 84), USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) and USS Ross (DDG 71). They all participated in the exercises to strengthen team building skills while working towards the VBSS teams’ overall goal of ensuring safety of the waterways by preventing piracy, the transportation of illegal goods and terrorism.

“Maritime interdiction operations are a primary mission for every strike group that goes overseas,” said Fire Controlman 2nd Class (SW) Jeff Lewetski, Aegis technician on board Bulkeley and member of the her VBSS team. “As a team, it is our job to conduct these boardings to carry out that mission. While on deployment we get off the ship and search any and every suspicious boat we can find. Doing this not only cuts down on terrorist activity that may take place, but also provides a safer environment for the fisherman that are out there trying to make a living.”

There are four VBSS threat levels. Levels 1 and 2 are low-threat situations, while a VBSS Level 3 involves non-compliance after an official request to inspect a ship in sovereign waters. Level 4 would involve overt armed resistance. Lewetski explained that Bulkeley’s team executed two VBSS exercises, one of which was a non-compliant boarding.

“As a sweep/security team member, I and the rest of the team are responsible for verifying the number of crew members on board and sweeping the ship for any type of cargo that may be unsafe or unauthorized,” Lewetski explained.

In order to conduct realistic training scenarios, the NASSG employs the services of Training Support Vessel Prevail (TSV-1), a 224-foot ship used to replicate a suspicious vessel for the VBSS teams. Once Prevail has been identified as "suspicious," teams then replicate their boarding, search and seizure procedures in order to hone their skills in a safe and life-like environment.

“The (strike group) has definitely benefited from using Prevail as a training platform during ESGINT,” said Lt.j.g. Reynel Saa, Nassau Strike Group VBSS officer. “It’s been a great opportunity to work out some kinks, sharpen our skills and prepare for the upcoming deployment.”

According to Lewetski, there are many benefits and advantages as to why these exercises are important to both the mission and readiness of the strike group.

“Every mock boarding we do together as a team builds our ability to conduct efficient and safe boardings,” he explained. “When we are in theater, on an unfamiliar boat, we don’t have time to stop and think. Once we get on board everything needs to get done as fast and as safely as possible. The more we practice the easier that will be.”

VBSS Sailors face many different challenges, obstacles and risks when conducting each and every mission, to include the chances of being attacked, experiencing rebellion and even suffering a casualty.

“It’s definitely a dangerous evolution but these guys receive the proper training and with that training they should be able to respond to any threat,” said Saa.

The ability to perform VBSS helps to set the conditions for security and stability in the foreign maritime environment, as well as complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations. It also assists in disrupting the use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport hostile personnel, weapons or other material.

The next certification step for NASSG and the VBSS teams will occur during Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) in Nov., when each unit will have the responsibility of successfully completing a boarding order outlining a particular VBSS mission.

ESGINT is the second of three pre-deployment exercises designed to test the fundamental capabilities and shipboard interoperability between the NASSG and the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24 MEU) out of Camp Lejeune, N.C.

Currently preparing for its regularly scheduled 2008 deployment, the NASSG is made up of more than 5,000 Sailors and Marines, and projects sea power ashore by maintaining the capability of landing amphibious forces by helicopters, amphibious track vehicles, air cushion landing craft, and assault craft whenever and wherever the need arises.

Air Force Reserve stands up first F-22 Raptor unit

by Master Sgt. Chance Babin, Air Force Reserve Command Public Affairs
Tech. Sgt. Paul Hennig unveils the newly painted 302nd Fighter Squadron tail markings Oct. 2 following the 477th Fighter Group activation ceremony at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska. The 477th FG, and its subsequent squadrons, are now the first and only Reserve F-22 Raptor unit in the Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Garrett Hothan)

10/5/2007 - ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- Air Force Reserve officials activated the first F-22 Raptor unit, the 477th Fighter Group, in a ceremony here Oct. 2, giving the Reserve a valuable part of America's newest and most sophisticated weapons system.

"This is a most wonderful day for the AFRC because we have officially stood up our first F-22 associate squadron and its group," said Lt. Gen. John A. Bradley, the AFRC commander. "I'm really proud of this day. This will be something that our command will be proud of for 50, 60, 70 years I believe."

The day also honored the unit's fabled heritage, with the 477th FG and the 302nd Fighter Squadron both having Tuskegee Airmen lineage. Tuskegee Airmen were present to add to the momentous day.

"It's priceless, there's no other way to put it," General Bradley said. "This is their heritage; we're standing on their shoulders. We're very proud to have their name and heritage in our 477th FG and 302nd FS."

For Col. Eric Overturf, 477th FG commander, having the unit stood up means it's time to get to work.

"Now we can go from the planning phase to the execution phase. The first thing we're going to do is start flying airplanes, start fixing airplanes and make the mission happen," Colonel Overturf said.

One of the unit's top priorities is to continue attracting highly qualified candidates, unit officials said.

The 477th FG currently has approximately 35 people assigned. By the end of this fiscal year that number should be 163, with incremental rises the next four years bringing the groups total to 426 by fiscal 2012. Ultimately, the group is scheduled to have 160 Air Reserve technicians and 266 traditional reservists.

He is first going to focus his efforts on filling the almost 270 traditional reservists positions, Colonel Overturf said.

For the Tuskegee Airmen on hand, having this new unit with the Air Force's newest fighter is an honor, they said.

"The highlight of this is the continuation of our legacy we started in the '40s," said retired Tuskegee Airman Lt. Col. Robert Ashby. "To have our unit flying the newest most sophisticated aircraft in the world and adopt the unit here is truly outstanding."