Putin Blast NATO - Increases Strategic Nuc Forces Readiness

Associated Press reporter VLADIMIR ISACHENKOV is reporting that Russian President Vladimir Putin has ratcheted up the new Cold War rhetoric between Russia and the West. Putin said Tuesday that Russia's decision to suspend its participation in a key arms control treaty was a necessary response to NATO "muscle-flexing" near its frontiers.

"In violation of previous agreements, military resources of NATO members are being built up next to our borders. Of course, we cannot allow ourselves to remain indifferent to this obvious muscle-flexing," Putin said in televised remarks at a meeting of top military officials.

Russia has fiercely opposed U.S. plans to establish missile defense sites in Poland and the Czech Republic, and the deployment of U.S. and other NATO forces on the territory of former Soviet republics and satellite states in Europe.

As a counterproposal to the U.S. missile defense plans, Putin earlier this year offered the United States joint use of a Soviet-built, Russian-operated radar in Azerbaijan. Washington said it was studying the proposal, but U.S. officials said the radar couldn't be considered as a replacement for the sites in Poland and the Czech Republic.

"Regrettably, Russian proposals about the creation of a joint missile defense system with equal access for all its participants have remained unanswered," Putin said Tuesday.

Putin also warned that Russia also would increase the combat-readiness of its strategic nuclear forces to ensure a "swift and adequate response to any aggressor."

Supercarrier to air on Nat Geo Nov 27

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Torrey W. Lee, USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs

Sailors, family members and guests watch the world premier of "Super Carrier: USS Ronald Reagan," presented by the National Geographic Channel. (US Navy Photo)

USS Ronald Reagan's (CVN 76) flight deck transformed from a mobile airport into a movie theater Nov. 13, as the National Geographic Channel premiered its newest documentary, "Supercarrier: USS Ronald Reagan."

The two-hour movie, which will air in high definition, Nov. 27 at 8 p.m., on the National Geographic Channel, features Ronald Reagan on its recent surge deployment in the 7th Fleet area of operations from January to April 2007.

National Geographic partnered with Indigo Films to send two video crews to live on board Ronald Reagan for three weeks during the deployment, shooting 150 hours of film to create the two-hour finished product.

"It was such a whirlwind trip, there was so much to take in," said Kathryn Gilbert, one of the documentary's producers.

Ronald Reagan provided Indigo's film crews complete access to film normal ship functions including flight operations, munitions handling and the everyday lifestyle of the crew.

"I feel like I could spend a month showing footage from the trip," said Gilbert. "How you encapsulate an aircraft carrier, and all the amazing people that make it work, into 90 minutes is impossible. We definitely did the best that we could."

Ronald Reagan's Command Master Chief, Master Chief (SW/AW) Jim Delozier, felt that the documentary was a great experience that would help the American public understand the military, especially the Navy.

"The aircraft carrier is the biggest asset of the U.S. Navy," said Delozier, "Anytime you come on an aircraft carrier and just watch flight operations, it gives people confidence in the Navy."

With the San Diego city skyline as an atmospheric back light, Ronald Reagan's crew ate popcorn on the flight deck, watching themselves as the stars in high-definition and Dolby surround sound. Sailors cheered when seeing themselves on the big screen.

"Our crew loved it," said Delozier. "We're gone for six months, back for a few months, and then gone again for another three months. The American people need to know, and they need to see our young Sailors that are doing these great things for the country."

"The documentary will show the traditional side of the Navy," said Ship's Serviceman 3rd Class Jessica Gutierrez, a Sailor on board Ronald Reagan. "It'll also show the new Navy. We have almost a whole new crew. [And at the end of surge] we were already at our best and ready."

As credits rolled across the screen, with a final shot of the Ronald Reagan making its way home, Sailors stood from their seats giving a standing ovation.

"It was amazing to see all the different people who came together to make this work," said Gilbert. "It was the Sailors, the crew, which made this an amazing experience. It's definitely about the crew, and it will be a memory I will not soon forget."

Ronald Reagan was commissioned in July 2003, making it the ninth and newest Nimitz-class, nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. The ship is named for the 40th U.S. president; its motto, "Peace through Strength," was a recurring theme during the Reagan presidency.

MEDEVAC unit completes relief in place

By Sgt. 1st Class Rick Emert; 1st ACB, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs
Medical evacuation UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters sit on the airfield at Camp Taji, Iraq. The MEDEVAC Soldiers from Company C, 2nd Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, transferred authority of the MEDEVAC mission for the Baghdad area to Company C, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division. (US Army Photo)

CAMP TAJI, Iraq - The unit that has performed arguably the most difficult yet rewarding mission in Iraq is on its way home after 15 months.

The air medical evacuation Soldiers from Company C, 2nd Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, completed a transfer of authority Nov. 8 with Company C, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division at Camp Taji.

The Company C "Witchdoctors," based out of Fort Carson, Colo., flew 3,400 MEDEVAC missions and moved about 5,500 patients in need of care that ranged from routine to urgent, according to Reno, Nev., native Lt. Col. Christopher Joslin, commander of 2nd "Lobo" Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st ACB.

"The motto of the MEDEVAC is 'So that others may live,' and it is no boast or overstatement that when they fly, Soldiers don't die," Joslin said. "They are the best of the best, fought and served valiantly in the main effort fight of Operation Iraqi Freedom, setting records in mission accomplishment that no other unit can come close to claiming."

The 84 Soldiers provided MEDEVAC support for the Baghdad area. Although the unit is assigned to the Fort Hood-based Lobo battalion, its current home base is Fort Carson, Colo. Prior to deploying to Iraq in 2006, the unit was called the 571st Medical Company (Air Ambulance).

The 1st ACB and 3rd Inf. Div. MEDEVAC companies conducted a nontraditional relief in place since the 3rd Inf. Div. unit had been in Iraq for several months conducting the MEDEVAC mission in a different area.

"They are assuming our battle space and extending their lines of coverage," said Corpus Christi, Texas, native Maj. Guy Gierhart, commander of Co. C, 2-227th General Support Aviation Battalion. "We transferred property and took some of their pilots on duty with us."

Additionally, the 3rd Inf. Div. had covered for the 1st Cav. Div. MEDEVAC unit earlier in the year when several of the latter's aircraft sustained battle damage and could not fly.

"We have been pulling MEDEVAC duty (in Iraq) for five months, and we picked up the mission for this area for a week previously," said Maj. Scott Prescott, commander of Co. C, 2-3 Aviation Regiment, based out of Hunter Army Airfield in Savannah, Ga. "We worked with them during that time. Our pilots trained with their pilots to assume the mission then."

It was a long, difficult year for the 1st ACB MEDEVAC Soldiers.

"The extension hit us all pretty hard," said Gierhart, who performed the MEDEVAC mission on two other deployments in Iraq as well. "I think this deployment was harder because I was the commander this time."

The unit, which spent all of its days saving the lives of critically injured service members and civilians, lost one of its Soldiers in an indirect fire attack on Camp Taji.

"The most difficult part of the deployment and I think what we will all remember the most about the deployment was the loss of Sgt. William Brown," Gierhart said. "When you have to pick up one of your own (on a MEDEVAC mission), it's difficult."

Despite the difficult mission, Gierhart said he wouldn't trade places with anyone.

"I'm really proud to be part of this unit," he said. "All of the people that were part of this unit made it happen. The mission was difficult at times, but they always made it happen."

For Joslin, their departure is bittersweet.

"They are heroes - they deserve a hero's a welcome, a handshake and a thank you," Joslin said. "While I am so proud of them and so glad that they will be home for Thanksgiving, they've become part of my family, and I am going to miss them when they leave."

New Black Hawk Unveils Latest Helo Technology

BY J.D. Leipold
The Army's latest version of the Black Hawk, the UH-60M, in silhouette lands at the Pentagon's helicopter pad. (US Army Photo)

WASHINGTON (Army News Service, Nov. 16, 2007) - The Army's latest version of the Black Hawk helicopter, the UH-60M, paid a call on the Pentagon Wednesday to show off its various upgraded technical capabilities.

While this was the "M" model's maiden flight into the Washington area, the newest version was introduced to the Army in late October when a single bird flew from the Sikorsky factory in Connecticut directly to Fort Campbell, Ky., for a preview to the 30 Black Hawks which begin delivery to the 159th Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division next month.

The UH-60M will gradually replace the 25-year old "L" model and become the Army's medium-lift helicopter capable of assault, medevac and cargo missions as well as command and control, aerial sustainment, and search and rescue. It will also be looked at as a follow-on helo to special operations units according to Chief Warrant Officer 4 Gene McNeill, who is presently serving as a test pilot and trainer on the "M" model at Sikorsky.

CWO4 McNeill, with two Iraq tours behind him and a 20-year veteran of the "L" model has made four cross-country trips and logged some 40 hours of cockpit time. He's impressed and a believer in the new technology, particularly the digital avionics suite that makes the bird more user-friendly to crew and passengers regardless of mission.

"The Mike model will do everything the Lima will do... but the "M" will do it so much better," he said. "What I like about this aircraft is the extreme precise accuracy of navigation using imbedded GPS and INS technologies. That translates to increased situational awareness on the battlefield at all times.

"With a digital moving map you know exactly where you are with relationship to the earth; it enables you with ease and comfort to navigate, fly and execute your mission a lot better because you also don't have to do manual calculations; the aircraft's digital suite makes everything faster and they can be done while the aircraft is on-the-fly," Chief McNeill said. "That also allows one pilot to fly the aircraft while the other serves as the mission operator."

Another digital advantage "M" pilots will have at their disposal is the capability of downloading all flight information from an office computer to a two-gigabyte PCMCIA card which can then be inserted into one of four slots for up to eight gigabytes of data, then downloaded to the Black Hawk's computer system.

"What that means is I can walk out to my aircraft with a flight plan and my entire mission loaded onto the card... all my intelligence data, my frequencies, my waypoints, then dump them into my aircraft and load it into the flight management system," CWO4 McNeill said. "You can't do that in the "L" model."

Another element to the new Black Hawk is its "threat intervisibility" system. This system allows for terrain data and known enemy in the field plotted on the map via a grid location. It allows the pilot to keep the aircraft masked below terrain at stand-off distances or threat engagement zones.

"If I climb too high, the system will flash red meaning that I'm within range of various bad-guy weapons systems, so it assists me by telling me to fly lower and keeps me out of harm's way," CWO4 McNeill said. "The classified system contains known capabilities of friendly and enemy weapons systems. That means we can plan our routes and have a decreased probability of being shot at... that's a huge advantage."

The multi-function display can be switched almost as quickly as it takes to press the button - from cautionary advisory pages, to maps, pilot instrumentation, calculator pages - all those screens are interchangeable and compressed into computers without needing to have extra gauges or having to spend valuable time making calculations such as fuel burn-rate.

"I can now determine based on head winds whether I'm going to make it there, which allows me to plan alternate routes on-the-fly; those are things that would have taken several minutes on the "L," but now I can do them in a matter of seconds," CWO4 McNeill said.

Chief McNeill, who is also a maintenance officer, said another major difference between the "L" and "M" models is the onboard Integrated Vehicle Health Management System or IVHMS, a series of sensors throughout the aircraft which constantly collect information crucial to the Black Hawk's health.

"If it rotates, gyrates, vibrates, it's been processed by the IVHMS and can be downloaded and extracted," he said. "To do my routine maintenance balancing adjustments, all I have to do is hit buttons and the computers, come up with vibration diagnostics, so I no longer have to bring ancillary gear; the aircraft will do a self-diagnosis.

"So, if there's a transmission ready to blow, we'll know before it happens. That system in itself will pay for itself down the road as the Army moves toward conditioned maintenance, where we may change something out before they break rather than after," he said.

Comparing the old to the new, the "L" and "M" models look similar, he said. The shape is pretty much the same, though the "M" rotor blades are different. The new helicopter has what are called anhedral blades which generate more lift and hover capability. The rotor system also has a wide-cored composite blade, which can stand up better to enemy gunfire and the antenna configuration is a little different. Each of the two General Electric 701D engines generates 2,000 shaft horsepower versus 1,900 horsepower from the "L." Yet the "M" is lighter.

The "M" model also has new seats for the crew and pilots who sometime suffer from back injuries as a result of hard landings. Crash survivability is also better for the crew, CWO4 McNeil Pilot seats contain variable-load energy attenuators, basically customized shock absorbers which allow the pilots to digitally dial in their weight. The pilot and crew seats will then "stroke" on seat support poles.

"In an unfortunate crash or hard landing sequence, everyone on board is going to be a lot safer because the seats are designed to go up, down, left, right, forward, aft and they swivel," Chief McNeill said. "The seat will actually stroke all the way down to prevent spinal injuries; they work like shock absorbers."

Chief McNeill believes "L" model pilots will find the transition to the "M" to be smooth, easy and that it will take about 15 hours of flight time.

Go Navy - Beat Army

ARABIAN SEA - Sailors and Marines shout "Go Navy, Beat Army" during the filming of a commercial for the Navy vs. Army football game, which will be aired Dec. 1 on CBS. The commercial will be entered into a contest held by U.S. Navy media officials and, if selected, will be aired the night of the game. The USS Enterprise and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 are underway on a scheduled deployment in support of Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom and maritime security operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Kiona M. Mckissack)

The Old Chief says -- Go Navy - Beat Army

History Channel 'Modern Marvels' film crew visits Schriever

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

Blog editor note: I have been in the 2SOS control center for a tour several years ago. What a neat operation and an even neater experience to be in the same building that controls the majority of the US military satellites. It was part of a tour of Schriever and NORAD's Cheyenne Mountain conducted by the Air Force for the MT editorial staff. Truly a journey of a lifetime and a milcom hobbyist rush.


Lt. Col. Kurt Kuntzelman, commander of the 2nd Space Operations Squadron here, discusses GPS on the record with Kaylan Eggert of Actuality Productions Oct. 30 for a segment on the History Channel's "Modern Marvels" TV show. The segment will be part of an episode featuring technology that also includes the World Wide Web, DVD and digital video recorders. The episode is scheduled to air Feb. 14, 2008. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Don Branum)

SCHRIEVER AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Is GPS a modern marvel? A three-person film crew from Actuality Productions visited the base Oct. 30 to find out.

The crew visited the 2nd Space Operations Squadron here and interviewed 2nd SOPS Commander Lt. Col. Kurt Kuntzelman for an upcoming episode of the History Channel's "Modern Marvels" TV series. The episode is scheduled to air Feb. 14, 2008, said Actuality Productions producer Kaylan Eggert.

"We want to capture how the operations center works," Ms. Eggert said. "That's how we operate - we like to be the fly on the wall."

The first experimental GPS satellite launched Feb. 22, 1978. Former President Ronald Reagan made GPS available to the public in 1983 after Soviet interceptors shot down a Korean Airline jet that was in restricted airspace.

Applications of GPS technology were few and far-between until the first Persian Gulf conflict. That changed when the Gulf War coalition VII Corps used GPS to aid its "left hook" maneuver, surprising an Iraqi army that considered its southern deserts unnavigable.

Former President Bill Clinton turned off selective availability in 2000, allowing civil users to access GPS' high-quality precision navigation. Since then, its use has taken off. The timing signal is now used for financial transactions, for synchronizing power systems and cell phone towers, and even for regulating traffic signals. The navigation signal sees such diverse uses as automated farming equipment, small-diameter bombs, artillery systems, airlines and the space shuttle.

Some of these applications came as a surprise to the Actuality Productions crew.

"I knew GPS had a lot of uses, but I didn't know you used it at the gas pump," remarked Kem Stralka, the crew's sound expert.

The GPS segment will be a portion of the overall episode focused on the technological marvels of the 1990s, Ms. Eggert said.

"The main thing we do is explain how things work - how a little receiver is able to tell you where you are," she said.

Other segments in the episode will feature the development of DVDs, digital video recorders and the World Wide Web. Each episode requires about a week of preproduction, eight to 12 days of filming and two weeks of post-production.

But is GPS a modern marvel? When you consider that it supports more than 1 billion users and is estimated to provide about $30 billion in the world wide maket in equipment and services by 2008, the answer is an unequivocal yes, Colonel Kuntzelman said.

"GPS is the world's gold standard for all-weather, day-and-night, 24/7, 365-days-a-year precise positioning, navigation and time transfer," he said. "GPS is absolutely a modern marvel, and we have the world's best active-duty and Reserve Airmen, government civilians and contractors, all working as one team to make it happen."

Space Command striving for improved field communications

by Tech. Sgt. Kurt Arkenberg, 90th Space Wing Public Affairs
This illustration shows how the Combat Airborne Network could improve communication and situational awareness between the security forces on the ground and the missile alert facility by eliminating dead spots in the field and limiting signal degradation by establishing a wireless mesh network.

F. E. Warren AFB, Wyo. -- Members of Air Force Space Command's Space Innovation and Development Center were on hand in Warren's Quebec flight area recently but they weren't looking to the area's Peacekeeper past; they were demonstrating the future.

"We're here to continue demonstrations of the Combat Airborne Network," said Maj. Jeffrey Zornes, U.S. Air Force Tactical Exploitation of National Capabilities, Commercial Integration Division deputy chief. "We're hoping to gather range and signal quality data to further this platform's opportunities in any [area of responsibility]."

Development and initial operational checks were conducted in Colorado Springs, Colo., and Chandler, Ariz., but when it came to "kick the tires and light the fires," Warren got the nod to host the demonstration for many good reasons.

"Warren's missile fields seemed ideal for the second round of demonstrations," said Maj. Zornes. "The landscape, weather patterns and sparse population help in the data gathering of quality information and provide a quiet environment for the demonstration."

The areas' sparse population allows for more control of another demonstration variable -- interference from wireless communications signals. As anyone who's driven throughout Warren's missile complex knows, there are few cell phone relay antennas and plenty of dead spots with no wireless coverage.

The system, which uses one or more high-altitude balloons, effectively becomes the communications link for ground forces and a command and control tool for strategists away from the front line.

"We are excited to host a demonstration that highlights security forces applications in Warren's missile field," said 1st Lt. Andrew Pisut, 90th Communications Squadron. "During a mock SF response, this airborne wireless network will allow for greater command and control information to pass between the response team and the missile alert facility."

In addition to voice and data, the SIDC hopes to demonstrate streaming video and platform survivability capabilities.

"The more applications and abilities we can demonstrate with this system, the more beneficial it will be to those warfighters on the ground around the world," said Major Zornes. "With multiple balloons we can create a wireless mesh network that will automatically reroute the information to the clearest path, limiting degradation of the system due to jamming or destruction of a platform by the enemy."

As Major Zornes and others involved with the program proceeded through the development of the CAN, they continued to look for applications in every aspect of operations. For Warren, they see increased situational awareness during convoy or security forces response operations, the elimination of communication "dead spots" and potentially a deployable emergency wireless network throughout the complex.

The demonstration here should give the SIDC more concrete data on the system's abilities, and a better picture of the range and quality of the signal sent. With that information, they can continue to improve the system and grow its operational uses across the services.

"This demonstration will go a long way to solidify the system," said Major Zornes. "And its success here is a great example of the Air Force's 'total force' concept working toward improving operations for all branches of service.

"It takes all components of the Air Force to run a demonstration like thi, he said." Active duty, Guard, Reserve and Department of Defense civilians have all come together to work this project."

Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Performs Anti-Sub Warfare Exercise

The Los Angeles-class nuclear-powered fast-attack submarine USS Miami (SSN 755) surfaces in the North Arabian Sea during an anti-submarine warfare (ASW) exercise with the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group. 9U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jhi L. Scott)

The Enterprise Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 12 concluded a three-day, multi-unit exercise Nov. 13 aimed at sharpening its anti-submarine warfare (ASW) skills.

This exercise was geared toward maintaining security and stability in the region and is one of several exercises taking place in the 5th Fleet area of responsibility ensuring the U.S. Navy maintains the highest state of readiness and is capable of executing a broad range of operations, focusing on maintaining regional security and stability.

The ASW training ranged from practicing individual technician skills to coordinating multi-platform deterrent measures. Carrier strike groups hold these exercises routinely to maintain proficiency and demonstrate anti-submarine capabilities.

"This was a routine training exercise to help our forces maintain a full-range of readiness," said Rear Adm. Dan Holloway, commander, CSG 12. "These exercises also help reassure regional countries of our ability to maintain security for lawful use of the sea."

"The value of conducting an anti-submarine warfare exercise during deployment cannot be understated," said Cmdr. Rich Bryant, USS Miami's (SSN 755) commanding officer. "We get the best training when we break out the play book and ensure we are ready for anything we're tasked to do."

"Our efforts are geared toward maintaining regional security, which helps build regional stability and global economic prosperity," said Holloway.

The exercise included participation from CSG 12, USS Enterprise (CVN 65), Destroyer Squadron 2, Carrier Air Wing 1, USS Gettysburg (CG 64), USNS Supply (T-AOE 6), USS Philadelphia (SSN 690) and Miami.

CSG 12 is operating in the North Arabian Sea in support of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) and Operation Enduring Freedom.

MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations seek to disrupt violent extremists' use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.

UAV detachment stands up at Creech

MQ-1 Predator (USAF Photo)

NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. (AFPN) -- A new detachment has been established at Creech Air Force Base, Nev., to manage MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial vehicle operational test and evaluation and force development evaluation for Air Combat Command.

The Airmen assigned to Det. 4, a unit of the 53rd Test Management Group based at Eglin AFB, Fla., provide operational expertise for developmental test and evaluation for new sensors, weapons, hardware and software upgrades, including developing operational procedures and training aircrews and maintainers.

The detachment evolved from the 53rd Test and Evaluation Group Det. 4, currently operating the MQ-1 Predator at Creech. Program managers, flight test analysts and engineers make up the new Det. 4, with pilots and sensor operators remaining with the 53rd TEG's Det. 4.

MQ-9 Reaper (USAF Photo)

Kirkuk airspace returned to Iraqi control

SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFPN) -- United States Central Command Air Forces officials transferred control of Kirkuk air traffic control assigned airspace to the Baghdad Air Control Center on Nov. 15.

Under the U.S. CENTAF Airspace Transition Concept, airspace above 29,000 feet was transferred back to Iraq sovereign control. The Baghdad ACC was the first in a series of stages to stand up Aug. 30. Following the completion of the Kirkuk transfer, Ali (southern) airspace control will transfer in the January 2008 timeframe.

When the transition process is complete, the Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority will be responsible for control of all airspace over Iraq at 29,000 feet and above.

The Combined Forces Air Component Commander retains the authority to take back sections of airspace in order to accomplish any military missions.

Officials begin to clear F-15Es to full-mission status

by Tech. Sgt. Russell Wicke, Air Combat Command Public Affairs
Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles are undergoing inspections that will return them to flying status. Once all the E-model aircraft are certified, inspections will begin on earlier versions of the F-15. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Craig Seals)

LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. (AFPN) -- Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle aircraft are now undergoing a safety inspection that will return them to flying status according to an order issued Nov. 11 by Gen. John Corley, the commander of Air Combat Command.

Each of the 224 E-model aircraft require the completion of a 13-hour time-compliance technical order that inspects hydraulic system lines, the fuselage structure, or longerons, as well as structure-related panels.

General Corley ordered all F-15 models grounded after the mechanical failure and crash of a Missouri Air National Guard F-15C Nov. 2. The F-15s were grounded based on suspected structural fatigue in the Air Force's remaining 665 aging F-15s. The E-models are the Air Force's latest F-15 aircraft and average about 15 years in age.

"We were able to determine, based on initial reports from an engineering analysis, that the F-15E is not susceptible to the same potential cause of the Missouri mishap," said Col. Frederick Jones, ACC Combat Aircraft Division chief.

The TCTO inspection, he said, is designed to confirm the engineering analysis.

"Our inspections will be very methodical and thorough ... safety is an essential focus," Colonel Jones said, assuring the F-15Es will not be "rushed" back to flight.

Although the F-15E models are newer, they only represent about one third of the Air Force's F-15s. The older majority of the F-15s are of more concern for Air Force officials.

"What we've got here is an example, in the C model, of what happens when you have an airplane that's about 25 years old," said Maj. Gen. David Gillett, ACC director of logistics.

The Nov. 2 crash also demonstrates the importance of recapitalizing the Air Force's fighter fleet, said the general. ACC's current fleet is the oldest in Air Force history. New systems are more capable, cost less to operate, require fewer people to maintain and can survive modern threat environments, ACC officials have said.

According to General Gillett, it's not just flight safety that draws concern on the aging F-15, but the mounting maintenance costs.

"What you find is that it becomes more and more expensive to modify [the F-15 airframe] over time," he said "Our costs have gone up 87 percent in the last five years and continue to rise rapidly. Even when you invest in an old airframe, you still have an old airframe."

The 13-hour maintenance inspection is being conducted at each location where the F-15Es are located. According to Colonel Jones, inspections of the E-models in the Southwest Asia area of responsibility have been completed already. Colonel Jones said a similar process will take place for the remaining models (A through D) of the F-15, which are approximately two thirds of the F-15 fleet. Specific details of that inspection are being worked out by ACC engineering experts.

Meanwhile, Air Force officials have stated they will remain engaged in meeting their worldwide mission requirements with safety as the "number-one essential focus." Officials in ACC said the command continues to ensure the integrity of all air sovereignty alert missions and protection of the United States from air attacks.

Bright Star Underway - Paratroopers Make Jump

Paratroopers from five nations descend onto Koum Asheem drop zone in Egypt as part of Exercise Bright Star. (US Army Photo)

U.S. and coalition forces conducted a “Friendship Jump” at Koum Asheem drop zone in Cairo Sunday as part of Exercise Bright Star.

The joint-combined exercise continues through Nov. 19. It includes a computer-aided command post exercise, airborne operations, naval operations, and special forces training exercises conducted by the components of U.S. Central Command. This year’s exercise demonstrates the shift in modern warfare by focusing on technology as a battlefield enabler, USCENTCOM officials said.

The airborne operation began at 6:30 a.m. Sunday with about 200 paratroopers participating from the United States, Egypt, Kuwait, Germany, and Yemen. There was an airborne wing exchange at the conclusion of the jump.

Nearly 7,100 Soldiers, Airmen, Marines and Sailors from Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Jordan, Kuwait, Netherlands, Pakistan, Turkey, the United Kingdom, the United States and Yemen are participating in this year’s Bright Star exercise.

About 200 members of the New York Army National Guard’s 42nd Infantry (Rainbow) Division headquarters are part of this week’s command post exercise in Egypt. The division, with supporting elements from New Hampshire, New Jersey and Minnesota, will team with members of the Egyptian Army’s 9th Armor Division command and staff to replicate a multinational senior headquarters during the battle simulation.

Bright Star is designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships for U.S. and coalition forces while increasing awareness and appreciation of each participant’s culture, customs and professional military skills, according to the U.S Central Command.

Bright Star is the oldest and largest exercise in the USCENTCOM area of operations. It is a biennial joint/coalition exercise designed to increase regional involvement in pursuit of improved security and defense capabilities.

'Vanguard' Battalion Wrapping Up Its 15-Month Deployment in Iraq

BY By Spc. Nathaniel Smith 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division Public Affairs Office

BAGHDAD, Iraq Nov. 8, 2007 -- It has been 15 months since the Soldiers of U.S. Army Europe's 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry entered a combat zone, answering their nation's call to serve.

Now, the Army has one message for the Schweinfurt, Germany-based Soldiers: Mission complete.

The Soldiers of 1-18th -- the "Vanguards" -- are set to return to Schweinfurt this month after having been deployed since August 2006. The unit is part of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, USAREUR's first brigade to complete a 15-month tour following the Army's decision to extend combat tours from 12 to 15 months.

The deployment was long and full of challenges,said "Vanguards" Command Sgt. Maj. Israr Choudhri, but thought of his daughter safe at home made it all worth it.

"It was worth it, because every day she went to school, I never worried that someone would attack my wife's car with an (improvised explosive device) or (rocket-propelled grenade)," he said. "In order to prevent that from happening to any one of our kids, if I was in Iraq for 15 months, it was all worth it."

Maj. Eric Timmerman, the operations officer for Task Force Vanguard, said he volunteered to join the unit after it had already deployed because he felt it was worth it as well.

Timmerman, who had already served as a battalion-level operations officer, actually worked with 1-18th in training the Soldiers to deploy, and he said being with the troops was one reason he volunteered to be in the position again.

"Believe it or not, once you get to a certain rank, you spend a lot of time on the staff side of things, often very removed from everyday combat Soldiers, and you miss that because really that's kind of why I came in," he said. "It was an opportunity for me, so I jumped at that opportunity."

Choudhri, who initially deployed as a first sergeant with a military intelligence company in Samarra and Mosul, says it has always been about the Soldiers.

"My job as a first sergeant was about taking care of Soldiers," he said. "Now, as a battalion sergeant major, the duty does not change -- taking care of Soldiers."

But the challenges are not over for the troops of the 1-18th. Now they must return home to convey what they've been through here in terms that their families will understand.

Timmerman says his father, who served in Vietnam, taught him how to tell his three sons, ages 9, 11 and 13, about the trials and triumphs he and his troops endured here.

"I remember he never really talked a whole lot about it. With my sons, I think for each one of them I'm going to have to sort of talk about things in a different manner. That will evolve over time as they get older," he said. "I'm not going to talk about the horrors of war with them at such an early age, but they need to know that. I want to be able to paint the experience on the good and the bad side as truthfully as possible."

Timmerman said one of the most difficult things to get his family to understand will be the conflict going on in Iraq.

"There's a whole range of dimensions of things you do, from killing to handing out school books," he said. "I want them to know that we came over here, and we did some killing, some killing was done to us, and that wasn't pretty. When that had to happen, often, other people were affected immediately. The family, somebody else was hurt. It's not as clean as shoot and kill, bad guy down, done."

Timmerman said he also feels it is important for his kids to understand the versatility of America's fighting forces.

"I think their country has trained an Army to be able to go and do these things that I don't think any other army in the world really does to the extent that we do, or takes the amount of care we do to fix a school; to deliver school books and desks; to get packages from family members; and distribute those items to kids on the street -- to try and have a positive outcome to this thing that we're doing," he said.

Ultimately, Timmerman said his troops' ability to react to the complex set of circumstances they faced every day in Baghdad's Rashid District is a point of pride.

"War isn't like a movie. War isn't like 'Band of Brothers' There're so many more dimensions to it. By us being here, in probably one of the most violent places in all of Iraq, we touched a lot of people and we made a difference. We always sought ways to go about helping people.

"Even though we had our game faces on every day and we were ready to deal death, our Soldiers are good enough nowadays they can almost turn on and off like a switch. That's an incredible testament to the guys that are wearing this uniform at all levels. We have a lot to be proud of. I attribute that to discipline and the leadership that we have in this organization. The desire to make every place we went better every time was always there."

'Grey Wolf' Soldiers prepare to head home

BY Spc. Ryan Stroud; 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division Public Affairs

BAQOUBA, Iraq (Nov. 5, 2007) -- It was a mild fall season in October 2006 when the Soldiers of the 3rd "Grey Wolf" Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, packed their gear, kissed their families goodbye and headed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom 06-08.

Thirteen months later and counting, these brave Soldiers are once again packing their gear and getting ready to deploy once more, this time back to their families in the United States.

Now in the phase of packing their shipment containers, two Soldiers from 1-12 Combined Arms Battalion, are taking the time to reflect on their experiences in Iraq and what they have to look forward to back home.

"We were a major part in the effort out here to provide a safer and securer life to the people of Diyala," said Cpl. Norton Ronald, Company D, 1-12 CAB, and a native of Buffalo, N.Y.

"We were a part of Arrowhead Ripper, Dover Clearance, which was a big part of keeping [an important route] from improvised explosive devices. We cleared Buhriz of all al-Quida and set up an outpost keeping the whole area clear and helping take care of the people out there," he said.

"Things have changed out here and that's great," Ronald said.

According to a CNN broadcast in February, Baqouba was dubbed the most dangerous city in Iraq. Now, many months and countless hours of effort later, CNN has commented that Diyala has made a drastic change and is now on its way to one of the safest provinces in Iraq.

"It feels great!" said an elated Spc. Adamm Creel, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, attached to Co. D, and a native of Portland, Ore..

"Before, when you would go into the cities, you'd get shot at," he said. "Now when we go back, people are happy to see us, kids are out playing, and it's becoming trash free. The people are starting to take care of their city. The cities are looking really nice."

"It feels good knowing that when we first got here, the streets were bare, no people ever came out, and now you can go down the streets and see all the kids out playing soccer and all the people going to the market," added Ronald. "It's 'normal' living here now."

And these two Soldiers know what they're talking about. They saw the mean streets of Baqouba back in the early part of their deployment, and they were there for all the changes.

"I went on missions all the time," said Creel. "I've done a little bit of everything out here - gunned, dismount, drove. I even helped load tanks. I've seen everything you could imagine seeing."

"I helped take the commander, the [executive officer] and first sergeants out to all their meetings at the outpost," added Ronald. "We also supplied rations, food, water and all other supplies they needed to the surrounding areas. Going back and forth, seeing the changes, it's really amazing and we were a part of that."

Now these Soldiers have completed their mission, they now look forward to going home and spending some well-deserved family time with those who know them best.

"I definitely plan on spending lots of time with my family," laughed Ronald. "I have two kids, a daughter that's six and a son that's three; and I haven't been a part of their lives in the past year, so it's time for some quality family time."

"Once I get home, I'm picking up my new car - a '97 Mustang," Creel said. "Then I plan to fly back home and see my family. Hopefully I will get to see my brother who's in Afghanistan right now. He's supposed to be getting home around the same time frame as me, so hopefully we'll get to see each other."

Though many things have changed out here in Iraq for these Soldiers and they're ready to head home, they say there are a few things they will miss about being out here.

"One thing I will miss is being close with all the Soldiers out here," said Ronald. "With the living conditions, you're always around and get to know people really well, making good friends. I know the friendships will pull apart a little bit once we're at home with not living together. But that's okay because we will have our families again."

"One thing I will miss out here is the lack of 'home' stress," added Creel. "There's not many things to worry about out here that you would worry about back at home. You just have to focus on your team and yourself, getting the mission accomplished. You know, it's nice knowing you don't have to worry about your car breaking down over here."

All jokes aside, both Soldiers said they are satisfied with their deployment to Iraq and very happy it's almost over.

"I feel our time out here was alright," Creel said. "You know, you don't want to be away from family and friends, but we accomplished our mission out here and that alone feels good. Not all was bad out here, I did meet and get to hang out with some good people and work with many different groups of people. But I'm happy to be going home. I'm looking forward to being done."

"A lot of good things happened in the year plus we were out here," added Ronald. "It's really nice to see a difference was made."

Colombian Sub Visits Mayport, Supports Maritime Security

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Holly Boynton, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command Public Affairs
Colombian Armada submarine A.R.C. Tayrona enters Mayport Basin during a visit sponsored by U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command (NAVSO).(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Holly Boynton)

U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command (NAVSO) sponsored a port visit to Mayport for Colombian Armada submarine A.R.C. Tayrona (S-29) Oct. 29 through Nov. 11 to further extend its focus on partner nation interaction.

Tayrona made the port visit during a break in training with various U.S. Navy units along the East Coast. The submarine is participating in joint exercises with several U.S. Navy units, including the Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group.

"Tayrona's participation with the U.S. Navy is a great example of how we're promoting strong partnerships in this region," said NAVSO Commander Rear Adm. James W. Stevenson Jr. "Having the submarine in Mayport extends our opportunity to engage with a close regional partner."

The submarine's exercise role stems from their involvement with the diesel electric submarine initiative (DESI). The DESI program coordinates training between the U.S. and foreign navies, focusing on anti-submarine warfare. ESI is a U.S. Fleet Forces Command (USFF) program with Commander, Submarine Force (CSF) acting the program Executive Agent. Diesel electric submarines' ability to run virtually silent presents a detection challenge to ships and aircraft. These subs are only used by foreign navies, so the U.S. depends on countries such as Colombia to conduct these training exercises.

NAVSO coordinates the interactions between U.S. Navy forces and Latin American military and civil maritime forces through various exercises and events within U.S. Southern Command's area of focus. For DESI participants, including Tayrona, NAVSO sponsors port visits to Naval Station Mayport, providing the crew an opportunity to rest and to use various training facilities.

"During the time in port, the crew can use the facilities here at Mayport, as well as at Kings Bay, to include the simulators for the submarine as well as the fire-fighting, damage control, and flooding facilities they have here to train the crew," explained Colombian Capt. Hernan Ospina, a foreign liaison officer assigned to NAVSO. "This gives the crew access to very important training that increases their proficiency in operating a submarine."

Tayrona's port visit and participation in the training exercises gave the Colombian Sailors the chance to interact with U.S. Sailors at sea and on shore at Naval Station Mayport.

"The interaction between the two navies is important because we are both battling against the illegal flow of drugs, and the operation of the submarine is a good way to prove the communications and connectivity between the two navies," said Colombian Capt. Carlos Polania, Tayrona's commanding officer.

After their visit to Mayport, Tayrona's crew returned to sea to continue anti-submarine warfare training with the Nassau Expeditionary Strike Group.

USS Hopper and the USS Port Royal Deploy

Family and friends wave farewell to Sailors aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Hopper (DDG 70) as she departs Naval Station Pearl Harbor for deployment. Hopper and guided-missile cruiser USS Port Royal (CG 73) deployed with the San Diego element of Tarawa Expeditionary Strike Group for a six-month deployment to the 5th and 7th Fleet areas of operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Paul D. Honnick)

Oklahoma City Returns to Norfolk

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist (SW/AW) Dean Lohmeyer, Commander, Submarine Force Public Affairs


The Los Angeles class fast-attack submarine USS Oklahoma City (SSN 723) returned to its home port of Norfolk, Virginia, November 9 following a regularly scheduled six-month deployment.

The crew demonstrated the submarine force ability to make full use of every asset they have in the most productive way possible. While deployed, Oklahoma City completed a wide range of joint requirements supporting national security in the Central Command area of responsibility.

Cmdr. Ed Mayer, commanding officer of Oklahoma City, is justifiably proud of his crew and their performance on this deployment.

"We took the Oklahoma City halfway around the world, we defended freedom and we supported the global war on terrorism," said Mayer. "These guys operated this submarine in shallow water, high contact-density environments, very challenging navigational areas, and they did it safely. They did a unique and important mission for our country."

Oklahoma City deployed May 11 as the first submarine in the Navy to certify and deploy using the Voyage Management System (VMS). VMS is a combination of digital charts, constant global positioning system fixes, environmental sensors and electronic command and control that allowed the submarine to eliminate many of the constraining aspects of navigation when using paper charts.

"It gave us a new level of situational awareness to navigate at a new level of safety," said Mayer. "I'm a believer. I really like it."

Tricia McMurtray is the command ombudsman for Oklahoma City. She was very happy to have her husband, Machinist's Mate First Class Petty Officer (SS) Michael McMurtray, home for the holidays.

"I'm very excited," said McMurtray. "I'm glad he's home and I'm glad (the deployment) is done."

In her position as ombudsman, McMurtray was personally involved with many Oklahoma City family members. It was a job she didn't take lightly.

"It was an honor that the commanding officer felt confident in my abilities to have me support the family members while they were home," she said. "I was glad I could be of help."

During the deployment, Oklahoma City's crew members served as ambassadors for the United States Navy during port visits to Rota, Spain; Bahrain; Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates; Diego Garcia; Souda Bay, Crete, Greece; and Toulon, France.

ATFLIR: CVW-1 Gets New Targeting System

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joseph R. Wax, USS Enterprise Public Affairs/Fleet Public Affairs Center, Atlantic

Military technology serves many purposes including keeping our Sailors, Marines, Soldiers and Airman safe. USS Enterprise (CVN 65) and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 are currently deployed with a new targeting system for its F/A-18s designed to do just that.

The ASQ-228 Advanced Targeting Forward Looking Infrared (ATFLIR) system is an upgrade from the (targeting) TFLIR system previously used. It increases the altitude that the pilots can safely and effectively use their weapons.

"It operates at 25,000 feet," said Chief Aviation Electronics Technician (AW/SW) Terry Brown, a branch leading chief petty officer for Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department (AIMD). "The older version had a lower ceiling. The higher altitude keeps the pilots safer."

The new system is also an upgrade to the targeting view finder, which allows the pilots to more accurately hit their targets.

"The new view mode isn't just infrared," said Marine Cpl. Giovanni Velasco, a FLIR tech in AIMD's IM-3 shop. "It has a TV mode allowing the pilot to watch it as it happens."

The troops on the ground have access to the same picture the pilots are looking at to ensure the right targets are being hit.

According to Velasco, when infantry call calls for back-up now, troops on the ground can watch the same thing as the pilots. The higher resolution allows for more effective identification of the intended target.

Enterprise was the second carrier to deploy with the new targeting system. There are currently 38 pods on board active with the new system. The technicians in the radar and FLIR shop spend countless hours ensuring they are ready to go.

"It takes about 12 hours to take apart[the pod], and 12 more to put it back together," said Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd Class (AW) Darryn Lubonski, an AIMD FLIR technician. "Total it takes about one week to get online."

The length of time spent working on the new systems is directly related to how detailed and delicate a process it is.

The new ATFLIR system has one screw that literally takes two hours to put in according to Lubonski. "Because of its location, we can only turn it one-eighth of a turn each time, he said"

The technicians in Enterprise's Radar and FLIR shop aren't just making the pilots jobs safer and more effective; they are saving the Navy millions of dollars.

According to Velasco, the Enterprise technicians have saved the Navy more than $5 million doing the work on the new systems themselves instead of having them shipped off to be worked on by civilian contractors.

Crew Members Rescued from Navy Helo Crash off Cal Coast

All seven crew members were rescued from a crash of a Navy HH-60H Seahawk helicopter off the coast of southern California Nov. 11 and returned safely to USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) with minor injuries.

The helicopter crashed at approximately 9 p.m. local time.

The helicopter is assigned to "Golden Falcons" Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 2, stationed at Naval Air Station North Island. It was providing support for the Abraham Lincoln Strike Group at the time of the crash. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

The Everett, Wash.-based Nimitz-class aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln, embarked Carrier Air Wing 2, the ships of Destroyer Squadron 9, and commander, Carrier Strike Group 9 are underway approximately 100 miles from San Diego participating in Composite Training Unit Exercise.

The exercise is designed to enhance the interoperability of the strike group. The strike group is completing qualifications in preparation to deploy overseas early next year.

The Department of Homeland Security Strikes Again

Capt. David Swatland, Deputy Commander of Coast Guard Sector San Francisco, speaks to the media aboard the CGC Sockeye in San Francisco Bay November 12, 2007. The media was aboard the Sockeye to view beach cleanup efforts and the damage to fenders along the Bay Bridge. The M/V Cosco Busan struck the fender system on the bridge November 7, 2007, spilling 58,000 gallons of oil into the bay. (Unified Command photo by Coast Guard Petty Officer Second Class Prentice Danner)

I said this when Congress shoved this insanity known as the Department of Homeland Security down the American taxpayers throats --

"This will be one of the biggest waste of time, money, energy, manpower and skin in US Government history, and the government agencies that are absorbed into this new monster bureaucracy will suffer as well. The American taxpayer can stand by to take a broadside in the wallet when taxpayer money flows like honey in grants and expenditures from the new DHS. And this will continue until someone in GAO grows a set and stops the fraud, waste and abuse that will result from the creation of this new bureaucracy."

But no, instead of taking a deep breath and a pause after 9/11, the politicians in Congress rushed headlong into the issue and created this new home for every Cold War warrior able to draw a breath to work. You boys breathing easier now that you are back on the government payroll?

You can see more on this absolutely worthless government department in action at
http://monitor-post.blogspot.com/2007/10/another-government-loser-700-mhz-ps.html

And in the now this. Yesterday we find that the the oil spill plaguing San Francisco Bay has raised fresh questions about the changing mission of the U.S. Coast Guard (an agency that use to be in the Department of Transportation that is now a part of DHS-LVH), with critics saying the agency's new homeland security duties have eroded its ability to tackle such environmental disasters.

Last March, the Coast Guard disbanded its department that helped set up oil-spill response exercises and reassigned more than a dozen people to homeland security duties.

Way to go DHS! Let's do this the government way. Keep re-organizing that organizational chart every time you screw up. Remember the government has four ways to fix things when they are broke and under public scrutiny:

1. Conduct more training to fix the problem (this is the old Tailhook scandal principle)
2. Spend more taxpayer money to fix the problem.
3. Re-organize the government organizational chart or carve out a new government department.
4. A combination of any of the above or all three.

Bet we will see more personal pour back into this area of the CG mission after Congress gets a hold of them in hearings. But which other program will pay the cost when those personnel are moved? What other CG program will suffer?

You can read the complete story on all this online at the LA Times:
http://www.latimes.com/news/printedition/front/la-me-spill13nov13,1,5989374.story?coll=la-headlines-frontpage&ctrack=1&cset=true

Death of Spy Satellite Program

Truthout has reprinted a New York Times piece by Philip Taubman on the death of a US spy satellite program at http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/111207P.shtml. How to spend $5 billion of taxpayer money and get absolutely nothing.

I have said this publicly before - the fact that they wrap these black space programs in secrecy to hide them from our enemies is a joke. So you Cold War warriors in DC think that the Russians, Chinese, North Koreans, etc, don't know or have any details on all these orbiting systems?

Hell, they know more than the US taxpayer.

Let's get to the real truth here. The government is, in fact, really hiding how much money they have spent and wasted on these black sat programs. And who is responsible for oversight on these programs- Congress. That is like asking a weasel to guard the hen house.

I bestow a "Golden Fleece" award on the NRO, Boeing and to the idiots in Congress who serve in the intelligence committees. It is time to fire the whole bunch and clean house (let's get that weasel off guard duty).

A Bit of Sage Radio Hobby Advice

Looking for new frequencies? Can't hear the neat stuff you want to hear? Tired of all the old out of date list on the Internet?

Here is a piece of radio hobby wisdom that will help you regain your radio scanner mojo -- "A radio search button should never gather dust...it should have the lettering worn off!"

And this same piece of advice applies for radio hobbyists who prowl the HF radio bands. You have to turn that frequency knob and experience first hand what propagation conditions are going to let you hear. Successful HF DXers and ute listeners really understand propagation and are very, very patient.

So don't expect to hear military aircraft headed for a mission downtown or sensitive communications in the real operational world of the military. It just isn't going to happen.

The next time a major world event occurs, don't run up to the radio newsgroups five minutes after the start of the event and ask the entire list what frequencies you should listen to monitor the event. Get off your duff, turn on your radio and be a contributor -- not a user.

And the successful radio hobbyist know this truth very well. You want to hear the good stuff - "you" will have to find it.

Grote Reber tuning around with an early radio receiver. If he hadn't tuned around the radio dials he wouldn't have discovered cosmic radio noise.

Army Space Initiatives Aim to Help Warfighters

BY Gary Sheftick

New satellites, radar sites, laser technology and missile-defense locations overseas are among initiatives planned by the Army's Space and Missile Defense Command that will help warfighters in the next five years, according to Lt. Gen. Kevin T. Campbell.

The SMDC commander spoke at the Association of the U.S. Army's Land Warfare Forum Breakfast Thursday morning, providing an overview of his command's wide-ranging operations -- from Army astronaut Col. Doug Wheelock returning to earth Wednesday on the Space Shuttle Discovery to National Guard troops manning Ground-Based Missile Defense systems at Fort Greely, Alaska.

"Space is important for what the Army does," said Lt. Gen. Campbell, who also heads up the U.S. Army Forces Strategic Command "and it's going to be more important."

He explained that SMDC provides commanders in Iraq and Afghanistan satellite imagery, intelligence and reconnaissance, and communications capabilities.

Space-based communications were bolstered last month when the first Wideband Global SATCOM satellite was launched. Lt. Gen. Campbell said the new satellite has up to 10 times the capacity of older ones in the Defense Satellite Communications System. He said more of these new satellites will be launched in the next few years to replace the "legacy" system.

"We want to be responsive to (Joint Task Force) commanders - not commanders in Washington, but in the field - that's where we want to go with this," Lt. Gen. Campbell said of SMDC initiatives.

He said the command is looking at ways to provide "coherent change detection" to support warfighters and route reconnaissance. Such initiatives might better detect improvised explosive devices in the future along convoy routes.

SMDC is also experimenting with new ways to provide early warning to troops, Lt. Gen. Campbell said. He wants to better integrate a global Ballistic Missile Defense System.

Lt. Gen. Campbell said he returned last night from the Netherlands where he had been discussing possible radar and missile-interceptor sites in Europe, to include Eastern European NATO countries.

The SMDC commander said America's adversaries are developing better space-based capabilities, and predicted this could cause dramatic changes.

"Until now, we've had the luxury to do whatever we wanted (in space)," Lt. Gen. Campbell said. "but I thing that's going to change."

U.S. Navy Strike Groups Exercise Capabilities In The Region

United States naval forces assigned to Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet, will begin several exercises in the Persian Gulf during November to demonstrate a wide range of capabilities, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief assistance.

Contingency planning helps prepare forces for real-world events that can happen unexpectedly. USS Wasp (LHD 1) began a crisis response exercise Nov. 1, involving amphibious, air and medical forces in the Persian Gulf.

Commander Task Force (CTF) 59 is leading the exercise, focusing on furthering the region's humanitarian and disaster response capability.

"The scenario is challenging but prepares us for a real-world event," said Cmdr. Jay Chambers, CTF 59 plans officer. "From the table-top discussions, which drew up plans for how our forces will assist, to turning those plans into action, this exercise allowed us to examine the best way to proceed, and to proceed quickly, with providing assistance to any requesting nation."

The exercise is designed to practice and evaluate the ships' ability to serve as "first responders" after a natural disaster. The five-day training exercise ensures 5th Fleet is capable of responding to any crisis in this region and is part of United States commitment to the people of the region.

"The purpose of the exercise is to continually improve the 5th Fleet skills in completing complex missions that require capabilities broader than one ship or unit," said Vice Adm. Kevin Cosgriff, commander, U.S. 5th Fleet.

This exercise tests the ability to rapidly flow personnel and supplies from the sea to an affected area within the first 72 hours, similar to U.S. Navy assistance for natural disasters during the Indonesia tsunami, relief efforts for the Pakistan earthquake, and most recently the volcano eruption in Yemen.

Crisis response exercises also develop the capabilities of military personnel to respond to hazards affecting maritime infrastructure. For instance, a problem on an oil platform could cause an oil spill that, if not contained, could cause follow-on problems to the environment or other infrastructures.

An important part of this exercise will be to test oil spill response capabilities, which will involve a spill response and initial clean-up.

In addition to the Wasp training, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group and Kearsarge Expeditionary Strike Group are also operating and training in the region. Multiple strike groups are capable of executing a broad range of operations.

"Naval forces deployed here contribute to building stronger relationships that in turn help underwrite security and stability," said Cosgriff. "Counter piracy operations off the coast of Somalia demonstrate our commitment to keeping sea lanes open for legitimate commerce and shipping."

Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations encompasses about 2.5 million square miles of water and includes the Persian Gulf, Arabian Sea, Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman and parts of the Indian Ocean. This expanse includes three critical waterways: Suez Canal, Strait of Hormuz and Strait of Bab al Mandeb.

Maritime security operations help set the conditions for security and stability throughout the region. Naval forces conduct maritime operations under international maritime conventions to ensure security and safety in international waters so that commercial shipping and fishing can occur safely in the region.

Ronald Reagan Earns Flight Deck Certification

Aircraft directors, wearing yellow flight deck uniforms, signal two F/A-18C Hornets, attached to the "Blue Diamonds" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 146, into position on the bow catapults aboard Nimitz-Class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Reagan was underway in the Pacific Ocean conducting carrier certifications. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher D. Blachly)

The officers and crew of USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) returned to homeport Nov. 9 after completing flight deck certification.

The certification came only four short days after Ronald Reagan left Naval Air Station North Island.

Ronald Reagan's flight deck certification underway period comes shortly after completing a six-month planned incremental availability one day ahead of schedule.

According to Cmdr. John Breast, Ronald Reagan's air boss, getting the flight deck certified by the commander, U.S. Naval Air Forces, Pacific Fleet Handling Team is a major step in preparing the ship to return to combat readiness.

Breast said there are three stages in the final certifications. "The first is the advanced recovery control certification. Next we have the precision landing equipment certification, for the Sailors in air operations."

"Lastly are the controls for the operations department, flight and deck certifications for air department," added Breast.

In addition, a key part of the certification process included how Sailors responded to simulated crashes and fires.

The crew spent many long hours in port getting ready for the underway period. Aircraft from Carrier Air Wing 9 took part in the certification process.

"The certification actually started around 60 days ago, with checking the administrative paperwork," said Lt. Derek Jensen, Ronald Reagan's aircraft handling officer. "There is also a check to see if all flight deck personnel have proper PPE [personal protective equipment]."

After a successful certification, Breast said he looks forward to continuing the mission and completing carrier qualifications.

According to Breast, it's not just the Sailors who work on the flight deck that made the flight deck certification possible.

"It takes all 3,000 of us aboard Ronald Reagan to do our job," said Breast. "Each department plays an important role."

SS Petersburg Heading for New Home

By Jesse Leon Guerrero, U.S. Naval Forces Marianas Public Affairs

SANTA RITA, Guam (NNS) -- The Navy and Guam said goodbye to SS Petersburg (T AOT-9101) as the tanker left Delta/Echo pier on U.S. Naval Base Guam Nov. 10.

The ship served 10 years on island and is now headed to California after it discharges its cargo in Hawaii.

The island will soon welcome its replacement, MV VADM K. R. Wheeler (T-AG 5001). Wheeler, a new Military Sealift Command-chartered ship that distributes rather than discharges fuel, pumps 500,000 gallons more fuel per day and can operate in more difficult environments.

Originally built in 1963, the 736-foot 48-ton Petersburg is one in a fleet of five tankers fitted with a offshore petroleum discharge system.

It has helped support the Navy's mission in the Pacific region since November 1998, and is now only one of two of the original five tankers still in service.

"It's kind of sad," said Capt. William Bartlett. "It's been a good ship and a good job for us, but we understand it's a 45-year-old ship."

With its crew of 35, Petersburg has participated in various operations involving Navy commands such as Commander, Submarine Squadron 15, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 5, Naval Special Warfare Unit 1, and various Seabee battalions.

"In every exercise or training that we did, Petersburg was part of it," said Capt. Ulysses O. Zalamea, commander of Maritime Prepositioning Ships (MPS) Squadron 3. "That's something we really appreciate."

Gulf of Mexico Exercise-Full Steam Ahead for Mine Countermeasures

By Ed Mickley, Naval Mine and Anti-Submarine Warfare Command Public Affairs
Personnel assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit Six (EODMU-6), Detachment Two, detonate a floating mine during Gulf of Mexico Exercises (GOMEX) 05-1. GOMEX is scheduled quarterly for mine countermeasures units that have completed the basic mine countermeasure training phase. GOMEX marks the transition of a mine warfare readiness group from training to ready-to-deploy status that includes integrated surface, air and explosive ordnance disposal mine countermeasures operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mineman 2nd Class Patrick Connerly)

Two Mine Countermeasures (MCM) ships, several MH-53E helicopters and hundreds of Sailors trained in the Gulf of Mexico's Corpus Christi operating area through Nov. 9 for the Gulf of Mexico Exercise (GOMEX) 08-2.

GOMEX 08-2 is held to certify that ships, equipment and crews are ready to deploy when called upon. This exercise marks the transition from a training group to fully capable and deployable assets in the MCM arsenal.

HELMINERON 15 MH-53E helicopters; mine countermeasures ships USS Warrior (MCM 10) and USS Devastator (MCM 6); and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 6 are assets that comprise the MCM triad. Bringing them together is one of the most demanding and challenging military exercises on the Gulf Coast.

"This exercise gives us the opportunity to observe the individual unit's capability to conduct the mission for which they are trained," said Cmdr. Rob Hoar, assessments officer for Naval Mine and Anti-Submarine Warfare Command (NMAWC). "It also allows the command and control function of the coordinating staff to be flexed in ways that are not possible through any other means prior to deploying into theater."

Mine Countermeasures Squadron (MCMRON) 1 is the command coordinating the exercise, which will employ the triad and determine any shortfalls in operations. MCMRON 1 will also evaluate some new MCM technology installed onboard the ships and helicopters.

Lt. Cmdr. Ken Reilley, commanding officer, Devastator is looking forward to having his crew operate the new systems installed recently.

"Perhaps the most exciting installation is the Precise Integrated Navigation Systems (PINS) v(5) final installation. Devastator is the first of the class to have this done," said Reilley.

PINS offers improved navigational accuracy and command/control features which will yield rapid mine-hunting operations.

The latest Mine Warfare Environmental Decision Aids Library build will be exercised for the first time, providing the Mine Warfare commander with timely and accurate reports reducing task time due to re-investigation of previously classified contacts.

"We always look forward to the challenge of practicing our art at sea," Reilley added. "Our new crew members will be readied for their watches to support sustained combat operations at sea, once we deploy."

Likewise, HM-15 is using this exercise to train and incorporate the capabilities of both the MK-104 mechanical sweep gear and the updated AN/AQS-24 high-speed, high resolution mine hunting sonar system with side-scan sonar and laser line target acquisition scan technology.

Once mine contacts are verified, EOD divers deploy to neutralize mines using unique systems such as AN/PQS 2A Hand-held SONAR, lift balloons, specific shape charges and demolition materials.

The seas and environmental conditions in the Corpus Christi Operating Area are challenging with diver visibility averaging less than 3 feet.

"High silt bottoms and strong currents make it difficult for divers to conduct their mission," said EOD Master Chief Leo Arambula. "The saying goes 'if you can successfully operate in the waters off Corpus Christi you can operate anywhere.'"

This is a large exercise in that the assets from each part of the MCM triad will be present and performing their function. NMAWC will have people at each of these levels gathering information on what happens during the exercise.

"At the end of the exercise, we will take this information and reconstruct what happened during the exercise," said Dr. David Broyles, NMAWC analyst. "From this information, we can produce useful information about why certain things, good or bad, happened during the exercise, our strength and weaknesses and where we might want to focus future efforts."

NMAWC, in assessing this exercise, is applying extensive experience gained from the merger with the Anti-Submarine Warfare Command.

"The transition from the previous, subjective form of evaluating MCM has been replaced by an open, inclusive and data driven method to evaluate the capabilities of our forces," added Hoar.

What do you hear on this mystery freq?

Recently monitors in the northeast United States have been hearing some interesting communications on a mil aero frequency -- 267.350 MHz (NFM mode). While I believe that these comms are terrestrial in nature, satellite comms cannot be completely ruled out.

So to my Milcom blog readers, we need your help. How about giving 267.350 MHz a listen worldwide and let us know what you are hearing. You can send your reception reports to the email address in the masthead. Make sure you provide as much detail as possible, including mode, time, antenna heading (if you have directional capability), and what/who you heard.

I will pass along any results received via these blog pages.

Milcom HF Frequency List

For all those doomsday radio hobbyist who say that HF utility listening is dead, I present our latest compiled list of HF Milcom frequencies monitored at in the Btown Monitoring Post, sent to this reporter by other monitors, or compiled from other various reports.

Recently some of our HF frequency lists have been reposted in total on at least one online newsgroup (a Russian radio forum). Material on this list is exculsive content. You are free to repost a link to this list, but not the list itself.

Continued violation of our posting policy will result in no more list being posted publicly here. All frequencies below are in kilohertz (kHz).

21.750 French Navy HWN-Le Blanc, France 200/90 PSK
65.800 French Navy FUE-Brest, France 200/90 PSK
2064.0 French Navy FUB-Brest 850/50 RTTY
2217.3 UK TASCOMM ALE Network ALE/USB
2252.0 US Navy CWC (BF) USS Eisenhower Link 11 Voice coordination net USB
2705.0 UK TASCOMM ALE Network ALE/USB
3032.0 RNZAF AOCCAK General Purpose Net USB
3038.0 USN Harry S. Truman CSG CWC Net USB/ANDVT
3105.0 Algerian Military (ANG?) ALE/USB
3150.0 French Air Force USB
3175.0 Papua New Guinea Defense Force General Purpose Net USB
3200.0 Georgia Military GS2 Net ALE/USB*3848.0 UK Combined Cadet Force/Army Cadet Force USB
3259.0 Russian Military CW/36-50
3379.0 NATO 850/75 RTTY
3382.0 Russian Military CW
3400.0 Georgia Military GS2 Net ALE/USB
3450.0 Georgia Military GS2 Net ALE/USB
3531.0 Russian Long Range Air Force REA4-HQ Moscow 800/50 REVS
3566.5 Russian Military 81-81
3782.0 Portuguese Navy CTP-Lisbon 75 baud RTTY
3807.0 Russian Military 81-81
3811.0 Russian Military CW
4031.0 Russian Navy P-MX Beacon Kaliningrad CW/Italian Navy IDR-Rome Ship-to-Ship USB
4036.0 US Army MARS Net USB
4050.0 Norwegian Navy JWT-Stavanger Ship-to-Shore USB
4100.0 Georgia Military GS2 Net ALE/USB
4137.0 Lithuania Navy Ship-to-Shore ALE/USB
4241.0 Israeli Navy 4XZ-Haifa ISR-Hybrid modem
4350.0 Georgia Military GS2 Net ALE/USB
4363.0 UK Combined Cadet Force/Army Cadet Force USB
4443.0 UK Combined Cadet Force/Army Cadet Force USB
4443.5 US Army Aviation/National Guard CONUS Net ALE/USB
4476.0 Russian Navy P-MX Beacon Kaliningrad CW
4490.0 Shares SCN ALE Net ALE/USB
4495.0 Israeli Navy 4XZ-Haifa ISR-Hybrid modem
4530.0 Lithuanian Air Force ALE/USB
4540.0 Singapore Navy ALE/USB
4550.0 Georgia Military GS2 Net ALE/USB
4610.0 UK Royal Navy GYA-Northwood 120/576 FAX
4620.0 NATO/DoD Link 11 data transmission
4681.0 Israeli Air Force ALE/USB
4850.0 Georgia Military GS2 Net ALE/USB
4851.7 Georgia Military GS2 Net ALE/USB
4900.0 Georgia Military GS2 Net ALE/USB
4918.0 UK Combined Cadet Force/Army Cadet Force USB
4950.0 DoD SCR Net ADW-Andrews AFB ALE/USB
4953.0 UK Combined Cadet Force/Army Cadet Force USB
5056.0 Polish Military ALE/USB
5066.5 Russian Military 81-81
5071.0 NATO/US DoD TADIL-A single channel Link 11
5189.5 French Army FAV22-Mont-Valerien CW
5232.0 Russian Navy CW
5240.0 Algerian Military ALE/USB
5252.0 Russian Military CW
5270.0 UK TASCOMM ALE Network ALE/USB
5280.0 Georgia Military GS2 Net ALE/USB
5328.0 UK Combined Cadet Force/Army Cadet Force USB
5333.0 Algerian Military ALE/USB
5343.0 Lithuania Navy Ship-to-Shore ALE/USB
5350.0 Georgia Military GS2 Net ALE/USB
5404.0 Russian Military 36-50/BEE
5450.0 Algerian Military ALE/USB
5595.0 Georgia Military GS2 Net ALE/USB
5650.0 Georgia Military GS2 Net ALE/USB
5662.7 US Army Serbia ALE/USB
5687.0 RNZAF AOCCAK General Purpose Net USB
5690.0 Turkish Air Force Stanag 4285
5691.0 Russian Navy P-MX Beacon Kaliningrad CW
5705.0 Mexican Army ALE/USB
5727.0 Chinese Navy Enigma M89 CW
5746.0 Papua New Guinea Defense Force General Purpose Net USB
5785.0 Italian Navy Taranto Sector Ship-to-Shore ALE/USB
5796.0 Russian Military RUS-SYS
5805.0 Russian Military MS-5/4800
5864.0 Russian Military RUS-SYS
6050.0 Georgia Military GS2 Net ALE/USB
6224.0 Israeli Air Force ALE/USB
6250.0 Georgia Military GS2 Net ALE/USB
6277.2 Unidentified Military STANAG 4285
6382.2 Unidentified Military STANAG 4285
6417.0 Japanese Navy Slot Machine (XSL) MPSK
6500.0 Georgia Military GS2 Net ALE/USB
6631.0 Israeli Air Force ALE/USB
6750.0 Georgia Military GS2 Net ALE/USB
6767.0 Russian Military duplex traffic CW
6785.0 Lithuania Navy Ship-to-Shore ALE/USB
6840.0 Chinese Military NYZ CW
6846.0 Russian Military RUS-SYS
6873.0 Russian Navy RMP-Kaliningrad, Baltic Fleet Naval Headquarters CW
6843.0 French Air Force CALORIE USB
6902.0 Russian Navy RDL-Moscow 200 Hz/50 baud encrypted BEE-50-50
6911.5 National Guard Pennsylvania ALE/USB
6913.0 UK Combined Cadet Force/Army Cadet Force USB
6977.0 Canadian Forces Affiliate Radio System (CFARS) USB
6996.8 Ukranian Military RTTY
7459.5 NATO/DoD Link 11 data transmission
7496.0 Papua New Guinea Defense Force General Purpose Net USB
7521.5 French Air Force FDI22-Narbornne RTTY
7527.0 Russian Military RUS-SYS
7593.0 Unknown Military STanag 4285
7602.0 Brazilian Army ALE/USB
7611.0 US FAA RCOM HF SSB Network ALE/USB
7650.0 Georgia Military GS2 Net ALE/USB
7703.0 US Navy trigraphs with EAM traffic USB
7704.0 Russian Military MS-5/4800/USB
7848.0 Israeli Air Force ALE/USB
7850.0 Georgia Military GS2 Net ALE/USB
7959.0 Russian Long Range Air Force REA4-HQ Moscow 800/50 REVS
7978.0 Chinese Military ALE/USB
7990.0 DoD SCR Net ADW-Andrews AFB ALE/USB
8006.0 Russian Military Broadcasts T600 200/50 36-50
8042.0 Chile Navy DBM ARQ ALE/USB
8045.0 Saudi Arabia Air Defense Net ALE/USB
8050.0 US Army Fort Bragg MC SOAR/JSOC ALE/USB
8058.0 Russian Navy Ship-to-Shore CW
8143.0 Pakistan Navy Ship-to-Ship Net ALE/USB
8190.0 Italian Navy Taranto Sector Ship-to-Shore ALE/USB
8234.0 Israeli Air Force ALE/USB
8262.0 Israeli Air Force ALE/USB
8276.0 UNIFIL Naval Task Force USB
8300.0 Israeli Air Force ALE/USB
8323.0 Israeli Air Force ALE/USB
8345.0 Russian Navy RMP-Kaliningrad CW
8438.3 Chinese Navy Enigma M89 CW
8450.0 Georgia Military GS2 Net ALE/USB
8463.2 Spanish Navy EBA-Madrid STANAG 4285
8495.3 Russian Navy K-MX Beacon Petropavlovsk-Kamchatskiy CW
8495.4 Russian Navy M-MX Beacon Magadan CW
8565.0 French Navy FUB-Brest 850/50 RTTY
8622.0 Israeli Air Force ALE/USB
8650.0 Georgia Military GS2 Net ALE/USB
8974.0 RNZAF AOCCAK General Purpose Net USB
8998.0 NATO/DoD Link 11 data transmission
9001.6 US Coast Guard Tactical Net USB/ANDVT
9072.0 Chinese Military Net ALE/USB
9086.0 Saudi Arabia Air Defense Net ALE/USB
9106.0 Shares SCN ALE Net USB/ALE
9190.0 Venezuela Coast Guard/Riverine Forces ALE/LSB
9232.0 Venezuela Army 2nd Infantry Division HF Net ALE/USB
9260.0 Danish Army NCS-50 ALE/USB
9295.0 National Guard New york net ALE/USB
9303.0 Georgia Military Net ALE/USB
10156.5 Austria Military, OEY71-UN Mission Golan, Syria ALE/USB
10168.0 Rodhe & Schwarz, British Mil Interop Test ALE/USB
10206.0 German Navy DHJ59-Wilhelmshaven Ship to Shore USB
10464.0 Russian Military MS-5/4800
10747.0 Russian Navy RIW-HQ Moscow CW
10800.0 DoD SCR Net ADW-Andrews AFB ALE/USB
11004.0 NATO/DoD Link 11 single channel data transmission
11059.0 HF-GCS Discrete USB
11220.0 US DoD Airborne Command Post Data duplex frequency with 11460 kHz Data/USB
11235.0 RNZAF AOCCAK General Purpose Net USB
11510.8 Brazil Military Packet 200Bd/200Hz + 300Bd/300Hz Packet
12183.8 Polish Army ALE/USB
12431.0 Brazilian Navy ALE/USB, Italian Navy Taranto Sector Ship-to-Shore ALE/USB
12587.5 Uzbek Military ALE/USB
12589.0 Brazilian Navy ALE/USB
12730.0 French Navy FUB-Brest 850/50 RTTY
13206.0 RNZAF AOCCAK General Purpose Net USB
13423.5 UK TASCOMM ALE Network ALE/USB
13490.0 UK TASCOMM ALE Network ALE/USB
13499.0 UK TASCOMM ALE Network ALE/USB
14232.0 Russian Military MS-5
14438.5 Austria Military, OEY71-UN Mission Golan, Syria ALE/USB
14550.0 DoD SCR Net ADW-Andrews AFB ALE/USB
14653.0 National Guard STARC Nationwide Net ALE/USB
14824.0 Polish Military Iraq Net ALE/USB
15880.5 Polish Military Iraq Net ALE/USB
15962.0 Australian ADF-HFCS Net USB
16014.2 French Forces Le Port, Reunion ARQ-E3
16023.5 National Guard (NY) ALE/USB
16252.0 Austrian Military ALE/USB
16350.0 UK TASCOMM ALE Network ALE/USB
16716.0 China Navy DTM-ARQ mode ALE/LSB
16895.0 Portuguese Navy CTP-Lisbon 75 baud RTTY
16966.0 French Navy FUB-Brest 850/50 RTTY
19233.5 National Guard Nationwide Net ALE/USB
20047.7 Russian Navy D-MX Beacon Sevastopol Ukraine CW

Navy T-45 with a hidden message

A T-45C Goshawk breaks away from a formation to reveal an underlying message during filming for a television spot in the skies above Naval Air Station Meridian. Jet 100 is assigned to Capt. John Wood, commander of Training Air Wing One, a 1983 graduate of the Naval Academy. The U.S. Military Academy Black Knights will host the Midshipmen at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland, on Dec. 1 for the 117th Army-Navy game. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Lee Allen)

Go Navy - Beat Army from the Chief and family