The cleanout of the 380-400 MHz milair aero service continues to be replaced by LMR and wideband services. If you are not familiar with what is happening, I have written about this several times on this blog and in my Monitoring Times Milcom column. In fact, I hav some major updates on this and a new 380-400 MHz TRS in the southwest US in the September Milcom column in Monitoring Times magazine. Miss one issue and you miss a lot that is NOT published on this blog or anywhere else. A MT Express (electronic edition) sub is only $19.95 a year (one heck of a bargain). You can order your sub at http://www.grove-ent.com/page81.html.
So now it is time again for some more of our exclusive aero frequency changes, updates, listings and corrections from the Milcom MP Quik-Stop . . .
118.2750 Nephi Muni UT (KUXN) AWOS-3 Weather System
118.4000 Waverly-Pike County OH (KEOP) AWOS-A Weather System
118.7000 Southwest Oregon Regional OR (KOTH) Tower (starting 19 Sep 2009)
118.8000 Elk Mountain Airport WY (KEHY) AWOS-A Weather System
119.9250 Gallipois-Gallia Meigs Regional OH (KGAS) AWOS-3 Weather System
120.0500 Patuxent River NAS/Trapnell Field MD (KNHK) Patuxent River Approach / Departure Control (165-055 above 3000 feet)
120.3500 Ryan Field AZ (KRYN)Arrival Service North (Local Control)
121.0000 Cambridge-Dorchester Airport MD (KCGE) Patuxent River Approach/Departure Control, ex-127.9500/134.1000
121.0000 St. Mary's County Regional MD (2W6) Patuxent River Approach/Departure Control, ex-127.9500/134.1000
121.0000 Patuxent River NAS/Trapnell Field MD (KNHK) Patuxent River Approach/Departure Control (165-055 below 3000 feet)
121.0000 Webster NOLF MD (KNUI) Patuxent River Approach/Departure Control, ex-120.0500
121.0000 Tangier Island Airport VA (KTGI) Patuxent River Approach/Departure Control, ex-120.0500
122.0000 Seattle AFSS WA (SEA) Advisory, ex-120.6000
122.7000 Hart/Shelby-Oceana County Airport MY (C04) AWOS-A Weather System
123.7500 Versailles-Darke County OH (KVES) AWOS-3 Weather System
123.7500 St. Cloud Regional MN (KSTC) Ground Control, ex-121.6000
124.2000 Nassau Radio (Bahamas) secondary
125.9250 MBS International (Saginaw) MI (KMBS) ATIS, ex-118.6000
127.1000 Southwest Oregon Regional OR (KOTH) Ground Control (starting 19 Sep 2009)
127.9500 Patuxent River NAS/Trapnell Field MD (KNHK) Patuxent River Approach/Departure Control (056-164 all altitudes)
127.9500 Accomack County Airport (KMFV) Patuzent River Approach/Departure Control
128.0000 Nassau Radio (Bahamas) primary
130.5750 Marana-Pinal Park AZ (KMZJ) AWOS-3 Weather System
132.5500 Washington ARTCC (ZDC) Snow Hill MD RCAG Low Altitude Discrete: Approach/Departure services (Sector 23/Cape Charles Sector)
133.1250 Washington ARTCC (ZDC) Atlantic City NJ RCAG High Altitude, paired with 281.4500 (the site at Sea Isle has been disestablished)
133.9000 Washington ARTCC (ZDC) Patuxent River MD RCAG Low Altitude Discrete: Approach/Departure services (Sector 11/Calvert Sector), paired with 281.4000
134.1000 Washington ARTCC (ZDC) Patuxent River MD RCAG Approach/Departure Services; Patuxent River NAS/Trapnell Field MD (KNHK) radar and Wallops Island (KWAL) no longer uses this freq
135.0250 Patuxent River NAS/Trapnell Field MD (KNHK) Ground Controlled Approach Radar
135.5500 Travis AFB CA (KSUU) D-ATIS, 116.4000
141.6500 Wheeler AAF HI (KHHI) Lightning Radio
250.3000 Cambridge-Dorchester Airport MD (KCGE) Patuxent River Approach/Departure Control
250.3000 St. Mary's County Regional MD (2W6) Patuxent River Approach/Departure Control
250.3000 Patuxent River NAS/Trapnell Field MD (KNHK) Patuxent River Approach/Departure Control (165-055 below 3000 feet)
250.3000 Webster NOLF MD (KNUI) Patuxent River Approach/Departure Control, ex-281.8000
250.3000 Tangier Island Airport VA (KTGI) Patuxent River Approach/Departure Control, ex-281.8000
255.4000 Seattle AFSS WA (SEA) Advisory
256.8000 Washington ARTCC (ZDC) Snow Hill MD RCAG Low Altitude Discrete: Approach/Departure services (Sector 23/Cape Charles Sector)
270.8000 Patuxent River NAS/Trapnell Field MD (KNHK) Radar no longer uses this freq
273.4500 Corpus Christi TX Approach/Departure Control, ex 385.6000
281.4000 Washington ARTCC (ZDC) Patuxent River MD RCAG Low Altitude Discrete: Approach/Departure services (Sector 11/Calvert Sector), paired with 133.9000
281.4500 Washington ARTCC (ZDC) Atlantic City NJ RCAG High Altitude, paired with 133.1250 (the site at Sea Isle has been disestablished)
281.8000 Patuxent River NAS/Trapnell Field MD (KNHK) Patuxent River Approach/Departure Control (165-055 above 3000 feet)
286.0000 Patuxent River NAS/Trapnell Field MD (KNHK) Radar no longer uses this freq
314.0000 Washington ARTCC (ZDC) Patuxent River MD RCAG Approach/Departure Services; Patuxent River Approach/Departure Control Service (056-164 all altitudes)
314.0000 Accomack County Airport (KMFV) Patuzent River Approach/Departure Control
348.0000 Patuxent River NAS/Trapnell Field MD (KNHK) Ground Controlled Approach Radar
262.6000 Patuxent River NAS/Trapnell Field MD (KNHK) Ground Controlled Approach Radar
And finally from Master Mark Cleary:
"I noticed a new Approach frequency is in use at Shaw AFB today. Frequency is 225.400. 287.000 has gone silent. 385.6 was in use Sunday and is silent today."
Here is a NOTAM confirming it:
APPROACH CONTROL UHF FREQ 385.6 OUT OF SERVICE. CONTACT APPROACH CONTROL ON UHF FREQ 225.4. 12 JUL 13:17 2009 UNTIL 12 AUG 23:59 2009. CREATED: 12 JUL 13:19 2009
The area in and around 287.0000 is interesting. It is another segment of the UHF milair spectrum where AM aero services are being moved out. This strongly suggest based on previous assignments in and around this freq and past intercepts, that this may be a new wideband sub-band in the 225-400 MHz spectrum. I have more exclusive details on this in my Septemmber 2009 MT Milcom column, including some in-depth analysis of the changes in the 380-400 MHz LMR sub-band.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Ike is Underway in Atlantic
The aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) is underway in the Atlantic Ocean during a visit by nearly 100 dignitaries from the North Atlantic Council. The Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group is operating in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility after a scheduled five-month deployment in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility supporting Operation Enduring Freedom and maritime security operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Rafael Figueroa Medina/Released)
Sonar Operators Test Their Skills During COMPTUEX
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Coleman Thompson
USS HARRY S. TRUMAN At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors from Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HST CSG) used active sonar to hunt submarines during the strike group's composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX) June 9-July 3.
COMPTUEX is an intermediate-level exercise required of each carrier strike group before it deploys. The exercise brings ships and aircraft together to prepare to project force as a strike group in the interest of global maritime security and to protect the nation's homeland security.
Although sonar operators receive various types of synthetic antisubmarine warfare (ASW) training, nothing compares to using active sonar at-sea to hunt actual submarines.
"The ability to run silently on battery power makes modern diesel submarines a significant threat against U.S. forces patrolling the oceans. An undetected submarine can quickly cripple a high value target such as an aircraft carrier before the ships accompanying it can effectively respond," said Capt. Robert C. Barwis, commander, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 26,
According to Lt. Christopher W. Clevenger, DESRON 26 submarine operations officer, detecting these threats is the duty of all Sailors within the ASW community, requiring simultaneous training at-sea by ships, submarines, planes and helicopters. Through the use of helicopters and towed sonar arrays, ASW teams can detect most sub-surface threats, but the only way to detect an ultra-quiet threat before it comes within striking range is with of active sonar.
"ASW training, including the use of active sonar in at-sea training scenarios during COMPTUEX, is vital to training sonar operators and ensuring the Navy stays competent in its ability to combat sub-surface threats," Clevenger said.
Because ASW skills are perishable and deteriorate rapidly, repeated training is required.
"The proficiency goes away if you don't maintain and keep up with it," said Sonar Technician (Surface) 2nd Class Alex Szlamas, a sonar operator with DESRON 26's ASW team. "That goes for the ability of an operator working on a destroyer platform to evaluate accurate types of contacts on their sensors, all the way to the command and control staffs, like the DESRON."
Sailors have opportunities to hone their ASW skills during COMPTUEX.
"There are a lot of elements that make background noise when using sonar - whales, background shipping freighters, even shrimp. All these create a situation that can easily mask a diesel submarine, which can sound like a shipping freighter," said Clevenger. "It's very hard to mimic all those sounds in a simulation, which is why we need real-time training in a real environment.
"Unfortunately these diesel submarines don't have a lot of tonal frequencies that we can pick up when they're running on battery. They can be very difficult to locate if we're just using passive sonar until, unfortunately, they get too close. Worse, they become even harder to locate in littoral waters where background noise is both higher and more diverse, providing a larger protective sound shield for the subs."
Although some concern has been raised lately over the adverse effect of active sonar and marine wildlife, the Navy is one of the leading sponsors of marine mammal research, spending $26 million in fiscal year 2008, including efforts to understand the relationship between sound and marine mammals.
"We follow a lot of precautions to ensure the safety of marine mammals," said Clevenger. "One of the common practices we use is to have sonar operators trained specifically to identify and locate marine mammals and we'll limit, or cut off, the power of our active sonar as they get within a certain range."
With more countries fielding more submarines, it is very important for strike groups to continue to practice ASW so they are better prepared for sub-surface threats and able to maintain safe and effective fleet operations. The Navy recently completed a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement for Atlantic Fleet Active Sonar Training (AFAST), which evaluated the environmental effects of the Navy's training activities on all of its training areas. As a result of this study, the Navy will continue with the present level of training along the East Coast of the United States and within the Gulf of Mexico as authorized by federal regulators. As part of this authorization, Navy continues to implement protective measures set forth by the National Marine Fisheries Service.
Carrier Strike Group 10 (CSG-10) is made up of the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), with its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing Three (CVW-3) and embarked Destroyer Squadron 26 (CDS-26), guided missile cruiser USS Hue City (CG 66); guided-missile destroyers USS Carney (DDG 64), USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79) and USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81); attack submarine USS Norfolk (SSN 714); and independently participating frigates USS Stephen S. Groves (FFG 29) and USS McInerney (FFG 8).
CVW-3 consists of Strike Fighter Squadrons (VFA) 32, 37 and 105; Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 312; Electronic Attack Squadron 130; Airborne Early Warning Squadron 126; Carrier Logistics Support Squadron 40; and Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 7.
USS HARRY S. TRUMAN At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors from Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HST CSG) used active sonar to hunt submarines during the strike group's composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX) June 9-July 3.
COMPTUEX is an intermediate-level exercise required of each carrier strike group before it deploys. The exercise brings ships and aircraft together to prepare to project force as a strike group in the interest of global maritime security and to protect the nation's homeland security.
Although sonar operators receive various types of synthetic antisubmarine warfare (ASW) training, nothing compares to using active sonar at-sea to hunt actual submarines.
"The ability to run silently on battery power makes modern diesel submarines a significant threat against U.S. forces patrolling the oceans. An undetected submarine can quickly cripple a high value target such as an aircraft carrier before the ships accompanying it can effectively respond," said Capt. Robert C. Barwis, commander, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 26,
According to Lt. Christopher W. Clevenger, DESRON 26 submarine operations officer, detecting these threats is the duty of all Sailors within the ASW community, requiring simultaneous training at-sea by ships, submarines, planes and helicopters. Through the use of helicopters and towed sonar arrays, ASW teams can detect most sub-surface threats, but the only way to detect an ultra-quiet threat before it comes within striking range is with of active sonar.
"ASW training, including the use of active sonar in at-sea training scenarios during COMPTUEX, is vital to training sonar operators and ensuring the Navy stays competent in its ability to combat sub-surface threats," Clevenger said.
Because ASW skills are perishable and deteriorate rapidly, repeated training is required.
"The proficiency goes away if you don't maintain and keep up with it," said Sonar Technician (Surface) 2nd Class Alex Szlamas, a sonar operator with DESRON 26's ASW team. "That goes for the ability of an operator working on a destroyer platform to evaluate accurate types of contacts on their sensors, all the way to the command and control staffs, like the DESRON."
Sailors have opportunities to hone their ASW skills during COMPTUEX.
"There are a lot of elements that make background noise when using sonar - whales, background shipping freighters, even shrimp. All these create a situation that can easily mask a diesel submarine, which can sound like a shipping freighter," said Clevenger. "It's very hard to mimic all those sounds in a simulation, which is why we need real-time training in a real environment.
"Unfortunately these diesel submarines don't have a lot of tonal frequencies that we can pick up when they're running on battery. They can be very difficult to locate if we're just using passive sonar until, unfortunately, they get too close. Worse, they become even harder to locate in littoral waters where background noise is both higher and more diverse, providing a larger protective sound shield for the subs."
Although some concern has been raised lately over the adverse effect of active sonar and marine wildlife, the Navy is one of the leading sponsors of marine mammal research, spending $26 million in fiscal year 2008, including efforts to understand the relationship between sound and marine mammals.
"We follow a lot of precautions to ensure the safety of marine mammals," said Clevenger. "One of the common practices we use is to have sonar operators trained specifically to identify and locate marine mammals and we'll limit, or cut off, the power of our active sonar as they get within a certain range."
With more countries fielding more submarines, it is very important for strike groups to continue to practice ASW so they are better prepared for sub-surface threats and able to maintain safe and effective fleet operations. The Navy recently completed a comprehensive Environmental Impact Statement for Atlantic Fleet Active Sonar Training (AFAST), which evaluated the environmental effects of the Navy's training activities on all of its training areas. As a result of this study, the Navy will continue with the present level of training along the East Coast of the United States and within the Gulf of Mexico as authorized by federal regulators. As part of this authorization, Navy continues to implement protective measures set forth by the National Marine Fisheries Service.
Carrier Strike Group 10 (CSG-10) is made up of the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), with its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing Three (CVW-3) and embarked Destroyer Squadron 26 (CDS-26), guided missile cruiser USS Hue City (CG 66); guided-missile destroyers USS Carney (DDG 64), USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79) and USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81); attack submarine USS Norfolk (SSN 714); and independently participating frigates USS Stephen S. Groves (FFG 29) and USS McInerney (FFG 8).
CVW-3 consists of Strike Fighter Squadrons (VFA) 32, 37 and 105; Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 312; Electronic Attack Squadron 130; Airborne Early Warning Squadron 126; Carrier Logistics Support Squadron 40; and Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 7.
Navy Accepts Re-Delivery of USS Carl Vinson
The aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) performs high-speed turns during the rudder check phase and sea trials certification. Carl Vinson is now working towards a flight deck certification. While at sea, the ship will launch and recover aircraft for the first time in nearly four and a half years. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Justin Stumberg/Released)WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy took re-delivery of USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) July 11, following successful completion of its Refueling and Complex Overhaul (RCOH).
USS Carl Vinson began its RCOH in November, 2005. During her RCOH more than 20 million man-hours of work were conducted on board the ship, divided between refueling the propulsion plant, upgrading ship's infrastructure to last another 25 years, and modernizing combat systems and airwing capabilities to increase combat effectiveness.
"USS Carl Vinson's return to the fleet is the result of hard work by the ship's crew, shipyard employees, and the men and women at Program Executive Office (PEO) Carriers and the Naval Sea Systems Command who plan and oversee the ship's RCOH. Thanks to advance planning efforts begun years before the start of work we were able to complete the RCOH on budget," said Program Executive Officer for Aircraft Carriers Rear Adm. Michael McMahon.
USS Carl Vinson is the third Nimitz-class aircraft carrier to complete RCOH at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding-Newport News. USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) begins her RCOH later this summer. Advance Planning is currently ongoing for the USS Abraham Lincoln's (CVN 72) RCOH.
PEO Aircraft Carriers is responsible for the acquisition, modernization and support of the Navy's in-service and future aircraft carriers.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
My old U.S. Navy squadron makes a little news
Most of you do not know that I am a retired Navy Chief from the aviation community. My last unit was the River Rattlers of VFA-204 based at NAS/JRB New Orleans. I had a nice surprise in my morning mail with the publishing of this US Navy News "Photo of The Day" below.
Two F/A-18 Hornets assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 204 and two F-15 Strike Eagles assigned to the Louisiana Air National Guard 159th Fighter Wing fly in an echelon formation over southern Louisiana wetlands during a photo exercise. VFA 204 and the 159th are stationed on Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base (NAS JRB) New Orleans. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John P. Curtis/Released)
Go get'em River Rats
Two F/A-18 Hornets assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 204 and two F-15 Strike Eagles assigned to the Louisiana Air National Guard 159th Fighter Wing fly in an echelon formation over southern Louisiana wetlands during a photo exercise. VFA 204 and the 159th are stationed on Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base (NAS JRB) New Orleans. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John P. Curtis/Released)
Where do satellite catalogs come from?
Tracking all the active satellites and orbital debris around the Earth is a challenging task, even for the US Defense Department. (credit: NASA)Occasionally on this blog I write up information on some of the more interesting military satellite information that crosses my desk. In those write ups you will see mention of the NORAD Space Catalog number, International Designator, and other information on the object's orbit.
I have come across a most interesting article online that describes the creation and maintenance of satellite catalogs and a lot more by a knowledgeable author, Brian Weeden.
http://www.thespacereview.com/article/1417/1
If you would like to learn more about how NORAD tracks stuff in orbit, this is a must read.
Monday, July 13, 2009
17th Air Force Prove Capabilities With President's Ghana Trip
Airmen from the 621st Contingency Response Wing on McGuire Air Force Base, N.J., assist aircrew personnel in offloading a presidential limousine from a C-17 Globemaster at Kotoka International Airport at Accra, Ghana, July 8, 2009, as part of the U.S. military support for President Barack Obama's visit to Ghana. U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jerry Fleshman By Air Force Master Sgt. Jim Fisher, Special to American Forces Press Service
ACCRA, Ghana - Before President Barack Obama could land to an unprecedented reception here July 10, airmen, sailors and Marines were on the ground days in advance to prepare.
More than 150 servicemembers here and more than 1,000 sailors and Marines aboard the USS Iwo Jima came together in the West African country to form a task force to support the president's visit July 10 and 11.
The mission was conducted by 17th Air Force, also known as Air Forces Africa, based at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. Seventeenth Air Force is the air component for U.S. Africa Command.
The task force provided aerial port and aircraft maintenance teams, forward communications, medical and helicopter support, and early warning and air domain safety and security elements to support the president's visit, his first to the African continent since taking office in January.
In addition to supporting the visit, members worked with their Ghanaian counterparts to strengthen the partnership between the two nations.
The multiple teams that make up the task force have gelled into a cohesive team, said Air Force Col. Mark Vijums, task force commander.
"When you are supporting the president of the United States, our commander in chief, you deliver your absolute best, and that's what this task force has done," Vijums said. "Everyone has operated with a keen sense of the purpose and scope to ensure our president and all those supporting him have everything they need while in Ghana."
A presidential mission overseas means transporting equipment ranging from the president's limo to the stair truck that makes it possible for him to disembark Air Force One. Scheduling, offloading and maintaining a stream of C-17 Globemasters were crucial in getting the equipment to Ghana and having it in place in time for Obama's arrival, Vijums explained.
Air Force Master Sgt. Ken Duran served as the aerial port team chief during the operation. Deployed from the 819th Global Support Squadron at McGuire Air Force Base, N.J., his team has unloaded every piece of equipment needed for the visit. Duran said his team was excited about its first visit to the African continent and about the chance to support the president.
"This is pretty much a once-in-a-lifetime experience for us, and something I know I will always remember," Duran said. "We are all very excited, and the Ghanaian people are phenomenal. We've met so many people that are smiling, friendly and engaging. It's been a really positive experience."
While his aerial port team doesn't have all the support they would have while conducting a similar operation at their home base, they are well equipped, both in terms of personnel and resources, to provide complete support to the operation in Ghana.
"This team is designed lighter and leaner and to make sure we can handle everything that arrives on every aircraft. Also, the 17th Air Force folks have been a really big help to us," Duran said.
The task force used the communications capabilities supplied by a team from the 1st Combat Communications Squadron at Ramstein Air Base. Upon arrival, Air Force 1st Lt. A.J. DeLaFuente and his team provided for a range of communications, including Internet, land-line telephone services, network administration and radio.
"We pretty much have a hand in every form of communications outside of the commercial cell phones," DeLaFuente said. "When the rubber meets the road, it's really awesome to see it all working out well."
The communications squadron deploys to set up forward communications at locations throughout Europe, and the team is well versed in overcoming communications challenges outside of the normal base infrastructure.
"This is my 'A-team,' the cream of the crop, and that's what they do," DeLaFuente said. He said the team is a mix of qualified technicians from members on their first deployment to experienced experts who have set up similar operations before. But for everyone, this mission is "a pretty big deal."
It was the first forward operation for the lieutenant.
"I'm really thankful to be on a mission of such notoriety with such qualified professionals across the spectrum," said DeLaFuente, noting that in addition to fostering teamwork on the Task Force, the mission also enhanced the partnership with the Ghanaians. "They are going out of their way to be helpful. It's really a pleasure to work with them."
Air Force Master Sgt. Russ Killpartrick agreed that the Ghanaians were eager to work in concert with the U.S. delegation. The production superintendent for aircraft maintenance operations deployed from Charleston Air Force Base, S.C., where he is assigned to the 437th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron. His team of maintainers has attended to every C-17 touching down here.
"We provide whatever they need, usually filling them up with gas and launching them back out," Killpartrick said. "Everyone's excited to be here. This is the highest-priority mission we could have."
That point was reiterated by the commander, who said that everyone, including sailors and Marines on the Iwo Jima, and Marines conducting security on the ground, acted on that premise.
"Our Marine and Naval components of this team have displayed the highest level of dedication and professionalism, and have instilled confidence in everyone taking part -- they are excellent at what they do and it shows," Vijums said.
Air Force Squadron Improves Base in Iraq
By Army Sgt. Frank Vaughn, Special to American Forces Press Service
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE BASRA, Iraq - The landscape of this base is changing rapidly. Some buildings already have been built to improve the operational capability of Multinational Division South, with others planned for the near future.
The progress evident throughout the base is due largely in part to the efforts of the U.S. Air Force's 557th Expeditionary RED HORSE Squadron. RED HORSE stands for Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operation Repair Squadron Engineers.
The squadron includes engineering specialists from 76 bases throughout the United States, Air Force Master Sgt. Barry Snyder Jr. said.
"We have multiple skills from multiple bases," said Snyder, who is deployed with the 819th RED HORSE Squadron from Malmstrom Air Force Base, Mont. "We have 11 specialties on our team, including heavy equipment operators, pest management, plumbers, power production, [vertical construction] and logistics."
The team already has constructed a 30,000-square-foot headquarters building here for the 4th Infantry Division's 2nd Brigade Combat Team. Snyder, the acting first sergeant for the squadron, said his team is especially proud of the new headquarters building.
"We put a lot of work into that building to make it functional for those guys," he said.
Snyder credits his troops and their leaders for the success of the RED HORSE mission so far.
"These guys are phenomenal," he said. "They work hard and make me proud to be a RED HORSE. Leadership over here has also been outstanding in keeping everyone focused on our goals."
Air Force Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Ratliff, a carpenter with the squadron, said staying focused has been fairly easy under the circumstances.
"I love this job," said Ratliff, a native of Lexington Park, Md. "We get to the job site at 7 a.m., get our materials together and discuss what we're going to do for the day. Then we get to work. I love seeing the contributions we've made to this place when the projects are completed."
Ratliff said the squadron's members have come together as a team since the beginning of the deployment.
"We all mesh together pretty good," he said. "We're not all from the same station, but it's good to meet new people."
The RED HORSE members currently are working on a hall for the Red Bull Band. The building, located near the recently completed mail-sorting facility, will house office space and room for band rehearsals, said Ratliff, who is serving his fourth deployment.
Future projects include a post chapel.
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE BASRA, Iraq - The landscape of this base is changing rapidly. Some buildings already have been built to improve the operational capability of Multinational Division South, with others planned for the near future.
The progress evident throughout the base is due largely in part to the efforts of the U.S. Air Force's 557th Expeditionary RED HORSE Squadron. RED HORSE stands for Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operation Repair Squadron Engineers.
The squadron includes engineering specialists from 76 bases throughout the United States, Air Force Master Sgt. Barry Snyder Jr. said.
"We have multiple skills from multiple bases," said Snyder, who is deployed with the 819th RED HORSE Squadron from Malmstrom Air Force Base, Mont. "We have 11 specialties on our team, including heavy equipment operators, pest management, plumbers, power production, [vertical construction] and logistics."
The team already has constructed a 30,000-square-foot headquarters building here for the 4th Infantry Division's 2nd Brigade Combat Team. Snyder, the acting first sergeant for the squadron, said his team is especially proud of the new headquarters building.
"We put a lot of work into that building to make it functional for those guys," he said.
Snyder credits his troops and their leaders for the success of the RED HORSE mission so far.
"These guys are phenomenal," he said. "They work hard and make me proud to be a RED HORSE. Leadership over here has also been outstanding in keeping everyone focused on our goals."
Air Force Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Ratliff, a carpenter with the squadron, said staying focused has been fairly easy under the circumstances.
"I love this job," said Ratliff, a native of Lexington Park, Md. "We get to the job site at 7 a.m., get our materials together and discuss what we're going to do for the day. Then we get to work. I love seeing the contributions we've made to this place when the projects are completed."
Ratliff said the squadron's members have come together as a team since the beginning of the deployment.
"We all mesh together pretty good," he said. "We're not all from the same station, but it's good to meet new people."
The RED HORSE members currently are working on a hall for the Red Bull Band. The building, located near the recently completed mail-sorting facility, will house office space and room for band rehearsals, said Ratliff, who is serving his fourth deployment.
Future projects include a post chapel.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Multinational Exercise Focused on Multi-Mission Capabilities
The sun rises on a new day for the crew of the guided missile frigate USS Doyle (FFG 39) as she sails through the Pacific Ocean. Doyle is on a six-month deployment to Latin America and the Carribean as part of Southern Seas 2009 in support of U.S. Southern Command's Partnership of the Americas strategy. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Patrick Grieco/Released)By Ensign Kassandra Richardt, USS Doyle Public Affairs
IQUIQUE, Chile (NNS) -- USS Doyle (FFG 39) hosted a closing ceremony to commemorate the end of a two-week Team Work South (TWS) 2009 exercise July 8.
Exercise participants from Brazil, Chile, France, the United Kingdom and the United States were in attendance at the ceremony.
TWS 2009 is a multinational exercise that includes surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, anti-air warfare, maritime interdiction operations, littoral operations and anti-piracy events. The exercise is focused on creating a multinational task group that operates together in a multi-threat environment.
"During this exercise, you realized what a group effort many of the warfare exercises are. I was able to see different tactics thanks to participating with other navies and observed warfare from a different viewpoint," said Ensign Tasha Bernhardt, Doyle's assistant operations officer.
French Midshipman Lucille Gaultier was aboard Doyle during the exercise.
"It was a long week, but the experience was incredible. I saw everything from a different perspective. There were many differences between the French and U.S. Navy. I feel extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to do this," said Gaultier.
TWS 2009 enhanced friendly relationships and mutual cooperation among participating Navies.
TWS 2009 is part of the Southern Seas deployment being conducted by Task Group 40.0. The task group, commanded by Destroyer Squadron 40, consists of Doyle, USS Kauffman (FFG 59) and USS Ford (FFG 54) with embarked Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (Light) 43 Detachment 4.
Southern Seas is part of U.S. Southern Command's Partnership of the America's strategy and focuses on conducting exercises to enhance relationships with partner nations in the region.
Oak Hill, Uruguayan Navy Conduct Joint Exercise
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Hendrick L. Dickson, Navy Public Affairs Support Element East
USS OAK HILL, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Oak Hill (LSD 51) conducted joint maritime exercises with the Uruguayan Navy in the Atlantic Ocean July 9 as part of Southern Partnership Station (SPS) 2009.
Oak Hill participated in a mine-sweeping exercise with several Uruguayan ships. Uruguayan pilots were also given the opportunity to land their helicopters on the Oak Hill's flight deck during flight operations.
Capt. Brad Williamson, commodore, Destroyer Squadron 2 said the exercises were important because they embodied the spirit of SPS 2009.
"The utilization of U.S. and partner nation's ships in a combined exercise of this nature reinforces our commitment to foster a friendly, mutually cooperative maritime environment with nations who share the common interest of freedom of the seas," said Williamson. "Working together improves our interoperability and allows us to better respond to maritime contingencies in the region."
Naval leaders from both nations learned from each other during the exercise. Capt. Eduardo Franco, commander, Combined Protect Task Force Uruguay Navy, visited Oak Hill with Williamson and Oak Hill Commanding Officer Cmdr. Daniel Blackburn. Williamson and Blackburn also had the opportunity to visit leaders aboard the Uruguayan Navy ship, R.O.U. 1.
"The visit aboard R.O.U. 1 was very unique," said Blackburn. "We had a lot of discussion about how we each operate. We also got the chance to exchange ideas. Our navies share common goals, and establishing a strong, open, multi-lateral partnership enhances regional stability and security."
SPS 2009 is a combined multinational naval and amphibious operation with Oak Hill and maritime forces from Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Chile and Uruguay. Oak Hill is also supporting the U.S. Marine Corps Forces South multinational amphibious exercise known as Southern Exchange 2009. Oak Hill is scheduled to continue SPS 2009 with a port call in Brazil. The ship will return to its homeport in Little Creek, Va., in August.
USS OAK HILL, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Oak Hill (LSD 51) conducted joint maritime exercises with the Uruguayan Navy in the Atlantic Ocean July 9 as part of Southern Partnership Station (SPS) 2009.
Oak Hill participated in a mine-sweeping exercise with several Uruguayan ships. Uruguayan pilots were also given the opportunity to land their helicopters on the Oak Hill's flight deck during flight operations.
Capt. Brad Williamson, commodore, Destroyer Squadron 2 said the exercises were important because they embodied the spirit of SPS 2009.
"The utilization of U.S. and partner nation's ships in a combined exercise of this nature reinforces our commitment to foster a friendly, mutually cooperative maritime environment with nations who share the common interest of freedom of the seas," said Williamson. "Working together improves our interoperability and allows us to better respond to maritime contingencies in the region."
Naval leaders from both nations learned from each other during the exercise. Capt. Eduardo Franco, commander, Combined Protect Task Force Uruguay Navy, visited Oak Hill with Williamson and Oak Hill Commanding Officer Cmdr. Daniel Blackburn. Williamson and Blackburn also had the opportunity to visit leaders aboard the Uruguayan Navy ship, R.O.U. 1.
"The visit aboard R.O.U. 1 was very unique," said Blackburn. "We had a lot of discussion about how we each operate. We also got the chance to exchange ideas. Our navies share common goals, and establishing a strong, open, multi-lateral partnership enhances regional stability and security."
SPS 2009 is a combined multinational naval and amphibious operation with Oak Hill and maritime forces from Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Chile and Uruguay. Oak Hill is also supporting the U.S. Marine Corps Forces South multinational amphibious exercise known as Southern Exchange 2009. Oak Hill is scheduled to continue SPS 2009 with a port call in Brazil. The ship will return to its homeport in Little Creek, Va., in August.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Makin Island Begins Transit to San Diego Homeport
PASCAGOULA, Miss. (NNS) -- After three years in pre-commissioning status, the future USS Makin Island (LHD 8) departed in commission without ceremony from Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding, Gulf Coast July 10 bound for its future homeport of San Diego.
Makin Island is scheduled to be formally commissioned Oct. 24 in a ceremony in San Diego and witnessed by the friends and family of the ship's 1,100 plankowners.
Makin Island earned commission (special) status June 26, after its successful completion of light-off assessment, anti-terrorism force protection certification and crew certification. These are the three major inspections the crew had to pass in order to get underway.
"Well done to you all," said Makin Island Commanding Officer, Capt. Bob Kopas to the crew. "It's the performance of the crew that got us where we are. This is just the beginning of a long road for us in commissioned status."
The next two months will take Makin Island on a transit around South America, during which the crew will continue training, obtaining underway certifications and preparing for its arrival in San Diego. During the transit, Makin Island is scheduled to conduct theater security cooperation (TSC) activities with Brazil, Chile and Peru, which will focus on working closely with partner nation civil and maritime forces - sharing methods and training to build on U.S. and partner nations' already strong relations and interoperability.
On Makin Island, the crew gathered to witness Kopas hoist the ship's commissioning pennant in a recent awards quarters. Several Sailors were awarded Navy Commendation Medals and Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals for their instrumental work in the certification process. Since moving aboard, upon the ship's April 16 delivery, the command has executed an intensive, all-encompassing training schedule. The ship's final certifications were a culmination of years of classroom training, observed evolutions and administrative checks.
Makin Island is scheduled to be formally commissioned Oct. 24 in a ceremony in San Diego and witnessed by the friends and family of the ship's 1,100 plankowners.
Makin Island earned commission (special) status June 26, after its successful completion of light-off assessment, anti-terrorism force protection certification and crew certification. These are the three major inspections the crew had to pass in order to get underway.
"Well done to you all," said Makin Island Commanding Officer, Capt. Bob Kopas to the crew. "It's the performance of the crew that got us where we are. This is just the beginning of a long road for us in commissioned status."
The next two months will take Makin Island on a transit around South America, during which the crew will continue training, obtaining underway certifications and preparing for its arrival in San Diego. During the transit, Makin Island is scheduled to conduct theater security cooperation (TSC) activities with Brazil, Chile and Peru, which will focus on working closely with partner nation civil and maritime forces - sharing methods and training to build on U.S. and partner nations' already strong relations and interoperability.
On Makin Island, the crew gathered to witness Kopas hoist the ship's commissioning pennant in a recent awards quarters. Several Sailors were awarded Navy Commendation Medals and Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals for their instrumental work in the certification process. Since moving aboard, upon the ship's April 16 delivery, the command has executed an intensive, all-encompassing training schedule. The ship's final certifications were a culmination of years of classroom training, observed evolutions and administrative checks.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Stryker Brigade to Afghanistan
A 5th Stryker Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division based out of Fort Lewis, Washington, has deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
CGC Boutwell Completes World Cruise
The Coast Guard Cutter Boutwell returned July 8 from a six-month deployment that took it around the world.
USS John C. Stennis Completes 2009 Deployment
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steve Owsley
BREMERTON, Wash. (NNS) -- The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) completed its 2009 deployment July 10 when it pulled into homeport in Bremerton, Wash., after six months at sea.
Stennis made a scheduled deployment to the western Pacific Ocean as part of the John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCSCSG) which included Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, USS Antietam (CG 54), USS Preble (DDG 88), USS Kidd (DDG 100) and the staffs of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 21 and Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 3.
"We deployed to the western Pacific Ocean in support of our nation's maritime strategy to ensure freedom of the seas and security in the Pacific Rim," said Commander Carrier Strike Group (CCSG) 3 Rear Adm. Mark Vance.
During deployment Stennis participated in an undersea warfare exercise with the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force, annual Exercise Foal Eagle with the Republic of Korea Navy and joint exercise Northern Edge.
According to Stennis Commanding Officer Capt. Joseph Kuzmick, the deployment allowed Stennis to improve regional maritime security, while strengthening relationships with partner nations.
"We increased our tactics, techniques and procedures and ability to work with [Pacific Rim] enduring partners, so we're much better as a combined and joint force working with other navies and air forces," said Kuzmick. "We also got great work done with our own joint services up in Northern Edge in the Gulf of Alaska."
While deployed, Stennis and other assets of JCSCSG increased maritime security in the western Pacific Ocean through their forward presence, working with partner nations' militaries during exercises and local community leaders during port visits.
CTF 150 Seizes 10 Tons of Narcotics
MANAMA, Bahrain (NNS) -- Coalition forces operating in the Gulf of Aden as part of Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, seized approximately 10 tons of narcotics July 7 with an estimated value of $70 million.
A U.S. Navy maritime patrol (P-3) aircraft and a British warship located and tracked the vessel in the Gulf of Aden and then the crew from the UK ship boarded the dhow approximately 150 miles southeast of Salalah, Oman. This drug seizure is the largest by coalition naval forces in 2009.
"The seizure of these drugs takes money out of the hands of those financing terrorists in the region," said Vice Adm. Bill Gortney, commander, Combined Maritime Forces. "The smugglers need to know that coalition forces are patrolling the seas and skies above. These efforts send a message to all would-be smugglers that we are here and we won't tolerate drug trafficking in international waters."
During the boarding, coalition Sailors discovered the drugs in vessels operating along the so-called 'Hash Highway' and destroyed large quantities of narcotics.
CTF 150 forces have seized more than 18 tons of narcotics during 2009, highlighting the continual presence in the region and the commitment to creating and maintaining a lawful maritime order. In 2008, CTF 150 seized more than 53 tons of narcotics.
CTF 150 is a multinational task force that conducts maritime security operations (MSO) in and around the Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean and the Red Sea. The task force was created to counter terrorism, prevent smuggling and deter other destabilizing activities to develop security in the maritime environment and create a lawful maritime order.
MSO complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seeks to disrupt violent extremist use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. Through training opportunities with regional partners, CTF 150 enhances existing cooperative relationships which aim to support regional countries' struggles against violent extremism.
A U.S. Navy maritime patrol (P-3) aircraft and a British warship located and tracked the vessel in the Gulf of Aden and then the crew from the UK ship boarded the dhow approximately 150 miles southeast of Salalah, Oman. This drug seizure is the largest by coalition naval forces in 2009.
"The seizure of these drugs takes money out of the hands of those financing terrorists in the region," said Vice Adm. Bill Gortney, commander, Combined Maritime Forces. "The smugglers need to know that coalition forces are patrolling the seas and skies above. These efforts send a message to all would-be smugglers that we are here and we won't tolerate drug trafficking in international waters."
During the boarding, coalition Sailors discovered the drugs in vessels operating along the so-called 'Hash Highway' and destroyed large quantities of narcotics.
CTF 150 forces have seized more than 18 tons of narcotics during 2009, highlighting the continual presence in the region and the commitment to creating and maintaining a lawful maritime order. In 2008, CTF 150 seized more than 53 tons of narcotics.
CTF 150 is a multinational task force that conducts maritime security operations (MSO) in and around the Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean and the Red Sea. The task force was created to counter terrorism, prevent smuggling and deter other destabilizing activities to develop security in the maritime environment and create a lawful maritime order.
MSO complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seeks to disrupt violent extremist use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material. Through training opportunities with regional partners, CTF 150 enhances existing cooperative relationships which aim to support regional countries' struggles against violent extremism.
Airmen in EC-130H unit complete 2,000th combat mission
by Capt. David Faggard, 455th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan (AFNS) -- An EC-130H Compass Call aircrew here completed their unit's 2,000th combat mission in support of Operation Enduring Freedom July 8.
The Airmen, assigned to the 41st Expeditionary Electronic Combat Squadron, provided direct support to coalition ground forces in Afghanistan on the milestone mission.
The EC-130H is an airborne tactical weapon system using a heavily modified version of the C-130 Hercules airframe.
The mission was like any other, according to Capt. Kelly Weber, an EC-130H pilot deployed from Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., and a native of Fort Worth, Texas.
"It was a very rewarding mission," he said while not discussing the exact details of the sortie due to operational security.
Often called a "Super-E" model, some of the EC-130H aircraft are more than 40 years old. The aircraft's electronics disrupt enemy command and control and are often used to attack hostile communications.
"We're a small community with a small inventory of aircraft," said Lt. Col. Chris Kirschman the 41st EECS squadron commander. "We're 100 percent committed to the mission, and this couldn't get done without our great maintainers on the ground."
The three crewmembers discussing the mission, none of whom were in the Air Force on Sept. 11, 2001, weren't even aware that it was such a monumental flight.
It was almost "routine," said Staff Sgt. Ashley House, a native of Portsmouth Va.
The mission was about seven hours and supporting coalition forces was "very rewarding," said 1st Lt. Lori Brophy, an electronic warfare officer from Raymond, Neb. "They're very professional and know what capabilities we bring to the fight."
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan (AFNS) -- An EC-130H Compass Call aircrew here completed their unit's 2,000th combat mission in support of Operation Enduring Freedom July 8.
The Airmen, assigned to the 41st Expeditionary Electronic Combat Squadron, provided direct support to coalition ground forces in Afghanistan on the milestone mission.
The EC-130H is an airborne tactical weapon system using a heavily modified version of the C-130 Hercules airframe.
The mission was like any other, according to Capt. Kelly Weber, an EC-130H pilot deployed from Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., and a native of Fort Worth, Texas.
"It was a very rewarding mission," he said while not discussing the exact details of the sortie due to operational security.
Often called a "Super-E" model, some of the EC-130H aircraft are more than 40 years old. The aircraft's electronics disrupt enemy command and control and are often used to attack hostile communications.
"We're a small community with a small inventory of aircraft," said Lt. Col. Chris Kirschman the 41st EECS squadron commander. "We're 100 percent committed to the mission, and this couldn't get done without our great maintainers on the ground."
The three crewmembers discussing the mission, none of whom were in the Air Force on Sept. 11, 2001, weren't even aware that it was such a monumental flight.
It was almost "routine," said Staff Sgt. Ashley House, a native of Portsmouth Va.
The mission was about seven hours and supporting coalition forces was "very rewarding," said 1st Lt. Lori Brophy, an electronic warfare officer from Raymond, Neb. "They're very professional and know what capabilities we bring to the fight."
Thursday, July 09, 2009
Airmen provide presidential support in Moscow
by Master Sgt. Scott Wagers, Defense Media Activity-Europe
MOSCOW (AFNS) -- Two C-130 Hercules aircraft and aircrews from Ramstein Air Base, Germany, hauled a 17-member presidential support team, 10 portable light carts and a utility truck to Moscow's Vnukovo International Airport July 3 in preparation for President Barack Obama's visit to the region.
Planning the travel route for the 10-hour round trip flight would normally be a routine task for veteran flyers; however, Captain Zac Johnson, the C-130 aircraft commander, said military aircraft haven't made the trip into Russia's capital city for quite some time.
"When we looked at all our products to prepare for this mission, the last account we had of a crew coming out (to Moscow) was from a DC-10 mission 10 years ago, so nobody knew what to expect," he said.
But once the pair of C-130s down at the oldest of Moscow's three operating airports, the 37th Airlift Squadron crew commented that the support was awesome, the facilities were excellent and that help was given where it was needed.
While fuel trucks were being vectored in to top off the planes, Airmen on the presidential support team began pairing with aircrew to unload cargo.
Within 30 minutes, the planes were empty and Capt. William Taylor, the presidential support team's detachment chief, began focusing on preliminary coordination for the commander-in-chief's arrival.
It's a mission that Captain Taylor said was "very normal" for members of the 86th Contingency Response Group but no less special.
"It is definitely awesome to be a part of something that is bigger than just yourself and to also be a part of making history," he said.
The presidential support team, comprised of Airmen representing eight different career field specialties brought communications capabilities, ground security for Air Force One, maintenance, air transportation and even an airfield manager who speaks Russian.
Tech. Sgt. Shawn Smith said he studied Russian in both high school and college and had previously traveled to Moscow to conduct a site survey for an airshow in 2007.
"This is a high-profile mission and a unique opportunity," he said.
The opportunity was also unique for Capt Zac Johnson, a three-year C-130 pilot with only 17-hours of stick time as the aircraft commander.
As the 37th AS transitions from the H to the J model C-130, the pool of experienced H-model pilots is thinning out. Captain Johnson said that while this increases the workload on H-model aviators, it also creates unique opportunities.
"A year ago in our squadron, you would never see a brand new aircraft commander fly a mission into Moscow, let alone a presidential support mission," he said. "I'm lucky I have the chance to do this."
MOSCOW (AFNS) -- Two C-130 Hercules aircraft and aircrews from Ramstein Air Base, Germany, hauled a 17-member presidential support team, 10 portable light carts and a utility truck to Moscow's Vnukovo International Airport July 3 in preparation for President Barack Obama's visit to the region.
Planning the travel route for the 10-hour round trip flight would normally be a routine task for veteran flyers; however, Captain Zac Johnson, the C-130 aircraft commander, said military aircraft haven't made the trip into Russia's capital city for quite some time.
"When we looked at all our products to prepare for this mission, the last account we had of a crew coming out (to Moscow) was from a DC-10 mission 10 years ago, so nobody knew what to expect," he said.
But once the pair of C-130s down at the oldest of Moscow's three operating airports, the 37th Airlift Squadron crew commented that the support was awesome, the facilities were excellent and that help was given where it was needed.
While fuel trucks were being vectored in to top off the planes, Airmen on the presidential support team began pairing with aircrew to unload cargo.
Within 30 minutes, the planes were empty and Capt. William Taylor, the presidential support team's detachment chief, began focusing on preliminary coordination for the commander-in-chief's arrival.
It's a mission that Captain Taylor said was "very normal" for members of the 86th Contingency Response Group but no less special.
"It is definitely awesome to be a part of something that is bigger than just yourself and to also be a part of making history," he said.
The presidential support team, comprised of Airmen representing eight different career field specialties brought communications capabilities, ground security for Air Force One, maintenance, air transportation and even an airfield manager who speaks Russian.
Tech. Sgt. Shawn Smith said he studied Russian in both high school and college and had previously traveled to Moscow to conduct a site survey for an airshow in 2007.
"This is a high-profile mission and a unique opportunity," he said.
The opportunity was also unique for Capt Zac Johnson, a three-year C-130 pilot with only 17-hours of stick time as the aircraft commander.
As the 37th AS transitions from the H to the J model C-130, the pool of experienced H-model pilots is thinning out. Captain Johnson said that while this increases the workload on H-model aviators, it also creates unique opportunities.
"A year ago in our squadron, you would never see a brand new aircraft commander fly a mission into Moscow, let alone a presidential support mission," he said. "I'm lucky I have the chance to do this."
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
USS Shoup Supports NORAD in Air Defense Exercise
By Lt. Elisabeth Erickson, USS Shoup Public Affairs
USS SHOUP, At Sea (NNS) -- The guided-missile destroyer, USS Shoup (DDG 86) wrapped up participation in joint air and space exercise Amalgam Dart June 23.
Amalgam Dart is part of North American Aerospace Defense Command's (NORAD) and U.S. Northern Command's (USNORTHCOM) Ardent Sentry '09 exercise series. Shoup played a major role in Amalgam Dart which took place off the coast of Oregon and protected U.S. air sovereignty through airspace surveillance and control.
"Shoup does not often get the opportunity to participate in joint exercises like Amalgam Dart, so this was a valuable experience for my Sailors," said Shoup Commanding Officer Cmdr. Michael Lehman. "Working with the Army liaisons was very productive, and we gained important lessons learned for future exercises and real-world homeland defense scenarios."
Shoup was integrated into the exercise from the Air and Space Operations Center at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla., where the Continental U.S. NORAD Region (CONR) commander and his staff directed Air Force and Army assets and coordinated with the Maritime Component Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, in employing Navy assets.
Shoup detected and tracked unknown air contacts with its advanced Aegis weapons system, while the Western Air Defense Sector, based at McChord Air Force Base, Wash., detected, identified, tracked and scrambled fighters to intercept threatening airborne objects.
Simultaneously, the Air Force's 552nd Air Control Wing E-3 Sentry provided all-weather surveillance, command, control and communications needed by air defense forces over secure data and voice networks provided by Rhode Island Air National Guard's (ANG) 282nd and Georgia ANG's 283rd Combat Communications Squadron.
"Being out on the ocean with a Navy ship is a unique experience for an Army officer, and we hope to incorporate the Navy in future homeland defense exercises," said Army Maj. Scott Joslin, who was aboard Shoup for the duration of the exercise,
These coordinated joint efforts ensured the air sovereignty and air defense of the continental United States, which met the goal of the exercise to demonstrate a rapidly deployable air defense system that could protect high profile national targets against cruise missiles and other low-flying threats.
"Exercise Amalgam Dart '09 provides the opportunity to train for potential scenarios that could affect the Continental U.S.," said Maj. Gen. Hank Morrow, CONR commander. "Exercises like this allow us to review processes and procedures and focus our future training efforts to identifying areas that may need attention."
"This exercise allowed us to practice our air control and engagement skills in a Real World Environment, so we will be better prepared for operations with the Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group," said Chief Warrant Officer Bill Morgan, Shoup's Combat Information Center officer.
Air mobility, tanker support key elements of Global Thunder
by Roger Drinnon, Air Mobility Command Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. (AFNS) -- Air Mobility Command airlift and tanker support were key contributors to Exercise Global Thunder 2009 that ran June 24 through 30, AMC officials said recently.
Global Thunder 2009, a U.S. Strategic Command-led exercise, provided training opportunities for various service components, units and their respective command posts. During the exercise, AMC provided tanker and airlift support by coordinating and managing all tanker forces to include generating KC-135 tankers to alert and dispatching C-130 aircraft for critical airlift requirements.
"Our success came as a result of total force integration," said Col. Peggy Phillips, an individual mobilization augmentee to the 618th Tanker Airlift Control Center director of current operations. "The combination of active-duty, air Reserve component and National Guard personnel demonstrated the interoperability needed in today's environment."
The 618th TACC is AMC's global Air Operations Center responsible for coordinating airlift, air refueling and aeromedical evacuation operations. On a typical day, the 618th TACC coordinates an average of 900 airlift and air refueling missions, moving nearly 2,000 tons of cargo and more than 6,000 passengers globally.
Colonel Phillips said the 618th TACC staff coordinated and managed more than 40 aerial refueling missions and several airlift support missions during the exercise. She said the 22nd Air Refueling Wing from McConnell Air Force Base, Kan., also demonstrated rapid deployment capability during an exercise scenario.
"I believe we instilled a sense of confidence (among the exercise participants) regarding AMC's role in these operations," said David Dey, deputy chief of the 618th TACC's Task Force 294 Division.
AMC officials support worldwide mobility operations for America's nuclear enterprise as well as for overseas contingency operations. Since Sept 11, 2001, AMC Airmen have airlifted 12.5 million passengers and more than 4.6 million tons of cargo in support of global operations. In support of operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, AMC members have delivered more than 3.6 million tons of cargo and nearly 9 million passengers. AMC tanker crews also have provided more than 1.5 billion gallons of fuel in support of global operations since Sept. 11, 2001.
Global Thunder exercises are designed to reflect the ongoing evolution of STRATCOM and its component commands. This exercise provides the opportunity to incorporate the most current technology and techniques in support of these efforts. The last similar exercise was held in August 2007.
Tuesday, July 07, 2009
Essex Begins Talisman Saber
Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU) fast-rope onto the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) from a CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter from Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 262. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Gabriel S. Weber/Released) By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Greg Johnson, USS Essex Public Affairs
USS ESSEX, At Sea (NNS) -- The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) began exercise Talisman Saber 2009 (TS09) July 6 off the coast of Australia.
The exercise is designed to enhance bilateral interoperability between U.S. and Australian forces and will include participation from more than 20,000 U.S. and 10,000 Australian personnel.
"The military alliance we've shared with Australia has set a great example in the Asia-Pacific region," said Capt. Brent Canady, Essex's commanding officer. "Our efforts throughout TS09 will help to further that alliance by enhancing our interoperability, readiness and flexibility."
The exercise, concentrated in the Shoalwater Bay Training Area near Rockhampton in central Queensland, will focus on crisis action planning and execution of contingency response operations. TS09 will provide an opportunity to work in a joint environment and refine procedures and doctrine.
Essex Sailors will be instrumental in accomplishing the primary goal of the exercise, which is to train Marines of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) and the Australian Deployable Joint Force Headquarters as a designated, combined task force.
With the 31st MEU Aviation Combat Element (ACE) and Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25 embarked, Essex's aircraft include the CH-53E Sea Stallions, CH-46E Sea Knights, MH-60S Sea Hawks, AH-1Z Super Cobras and UH-1N Huey helicopters, as well as AV-8B Harrier jet aircraft, but without Essex's air department, the aircraft wouldn't be able to leave the flight deck.
"We're out there from morning to night," said Chief Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) (AW) Kevin Johnson. "This exercise is definitely going to be demanding, but being forward-deployed, we train like this all the time, and our personnel are ready for the challenge."
Essex's schedule typically includes 10-hour flight operations per day while underway, a routine that will most likely intensify during TS09. Flight deck personnel will have to rely on each other to successfully complete the demanding exercise, said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 3rd Class (AW/SW) Lois Braxton.
"It's an amazing group of Sailors here," said Braxton. "We really try to look out for each other and keep each other on our toes. As long as we're working together, we're going to be on top of anything that happens out on the flight deck."
Essex's air department isn't the only group of Sailors who will play a pivotal role throughout the exercise. The ship's deck department will also be hard at work launching Marines from the well deck via landing craft air cushion (LCAC) vehicles.
"This kind of experience is vital to the progression of our younger Sailors," said Chief Boatswain's Mate (SW/AW) Christopher White. "We've got a lot of Sailors who don't have experience doing the kind of things we do during a full-scale exercise, and Talisman Saber provides a great opportunity for them to get that experience."
The Sailors who do have the experience will look to use TS09 as an opportunity to mentor some of the deck department's more junior Sailors, said Seaman Fredrick Smith, who has been aboard Essex for a little more than a year.
"I've done a lot of well deck operations, like launching LCACs and LCUs (landing craft utility), but this will be my first time participating in Talisman Saber," said Smith. "I think it should be a good learning experience for a lot of the guys here."
For TS09, Essex has been assigned three LCACs from Assault Craft Unit 5. LCACs are high-speed, over-the-beach fully amphibious landing craft, capable of carrying a 60-75-ton payload. They are used to transport weapons systems, equipment, cargo and personnel from ship to shore and across the beach.
Throughout the exercise, Essex's crew will operate with a heightened awareness regarding the diverse marine life off the coast of Australia. Sailors have received training on how to identify marine mammals and respond appropriately to avoid collisions with sea life.
"We're very aware of the great number of diverse species in the ocean, especially the unique marine life near the Great Barrier Reef," said Canady. "We're doing everything we can to prevent any mishaps that would cause harm to any of these animals or damage the environment where they live."
Essex departed its homeport of Sasebo, Japan, June 12 for TS09. Essex was commissioned October 17, 1992, and is capable of carrying 1,200 Sailors and 1,800 Marines. It is 844 feet long, can travel at 24+ knots and displaces 40,650 tons.
Essex is the lead ship of the only forward-deployed U.S. amphibious ready group (ARG) and serves as the flagship for Combined Task Force 76, the Navy's only forward-deployed amphibious force commander. CTF 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with a detachment in Sasebo, Japan.
Carrier Air Wing 9 Completes 2009 Deployment
An F/A-18F Super Hornet from the "Black Knights" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 154 launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) during Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 fly off. John C. Stennis is returning from a scheduled six-month deployment to the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Walter M. Wayman/Released)By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Steve Owsley, USS John C. Stennis Public Affairs
SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- The squadrons of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9 completed their 2009 deployment when the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) pulled into Naval Air Station North Island, Calif., July 6.
CVW 9 began its deployment Jan. 17, when it embarked Stennis for a scheduled deployment to the Western Pacific Ocean as the air assets of the John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group.
According to CVW 9 Deputy Commander Capt. Paul Haas, the deployment was more like the traditional Western Pacific Ocean deployments from his days as a junior officer.
"We've spent a lot of generations in the Arabian Gulf doing Fifth Fleet operations," said Haas. "This is a vital and very important thing that we do in the Western Pacific."
During the deployment, CVW 9 participated in an undersea warfare exercise with the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force, annual exercise Foal Eagle with the Republic of Korea and joint exercise Northern Edge 2009.
CVW 9 Sailors also participated in 38 community service projects during seven port visits.
The deployment marked several milestones within the air wing. The Raptors of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71 completed their maiden deployment, while the "Yellow Jackets" of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 138 made their last scheduled deployment with the EA-6B Prowler. The "Argonauts" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147 completed their first deployment with the F/A-18E Super Hornet after transitioning from F/A-18C Hornet.
CVW 9 flew more than 7250 sorties, consisting of approximately 12,747 flight hours with a sortie completion rate of 97 percent during deployment.
While deployed, the squadrons of CVW 9 increased maritime security in the Western Pacific Ocean through their active presence and working with partner nations during exercises and port visits.
Reagan Relieves Eisenhower, Launches Sorties in Support of OEF
The Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group relieved the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group as Commander, Task Force (CTF) 50 July 6 and launched its first sorties in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.
Aircraft from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14 departed the decks of the strike group's flagship, the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) bound for Afghanistan to support coalition ground forces.
"I'm excited to get this started because, in essence, what we're doing is saving American and coalition lives," said Capt. Kenneth Norton, Ronald Reagan's commanding officer. "The Eisenhower strike group did a fantastic job in theater, and we're ready to continue that level of support. We have a lot of experience on board Ronald Reagan and with the air wing. Our crew knows how to execute this mission effectively."
While Ronald Reagan and CVW-14 are returning to a mission they did a year ago, they understand that conditions in Afghanistan have changed. Already focused on minimizing collateral damage, they understand processes are even more rigorous. There are new, stricter guidelines put in place by Gen. Stanley A. McChrystal to do even more to help minimize civilian casualties and collateral damage in Afghanistan.
According to Rear Adm. Scott Hebner, the strike group's commander, the group's more than 7,500 Sailors are trained and equipped to carry out their mission.
"Our Sailors are focused and serious minded about what is ahead; they know the Navy and our country is counting on them," Hebner said. "They are ready to demonstrate their impressive capabilities across the spectrum of our maritime strategy."
The Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group operated in the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Operations since March.
"Our preparations last fall allowed us to deliver exactly what the fleet commander asked for -- persistent U.S. naval power, in perfect partnership with our joint and coalition partners, delivering security and stability for the good of all mariners in this vital area of the world," said Rear Adm. Kurt W. Tidd, commander, Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group.
Eisenhower's embarked air wing, CVW-7, flew more than 2,000 sorties in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Ships of the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group also were vital in counterpiracy operations, including the USS Bainbridge's (DDG 96) direct role in the rescue of the captain of the cargo ship Maersk Alabama, Richard Phillips.
"I am extremely proud of the 4,500 men and women on USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). They have performed magnificently this entire deployment," said Capt. Dee L. Mewbourne, Eisenhower's commanding officer. "They supported coalition forces on the ground in Afghanistan with utmost professionalism while providing regional security and stability. Without question, their service made a difference."
USS Ronald Reagan is joined by the guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62). Other Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group ships will support maritime security operations (MSO) while deployed to the region. The guided-missile destroyers USS Decatur (DDG 73), USS Howard (DDG 83) and USS Gridley (DDG 101) and the guided-missile frigate USS Thach (FFG 43) will help deter destabilizing activities and ensure a lawful maritime order in the Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden and Red Sea.
The squadrons of CVW-14 include the "Redcocks" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 22, the "Fist of the Fleet" of VFA-25, the "Stingers" of VFA-113, the "Eagles" of VFA-115, the "Black Eagles" of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 113, the "Cougars" of Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (VAQ) 139 and the "Black Knights" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 4. A detachment from Fleet Logistics Squadron (VRC) 30 is providing logistics support to the carrier.
The Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group is on a regularly scheduled deployment to the region. Operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Operations are focused on reassuring regional partners of the United States' commitment to security, which promotes stability and global prosperity.
Lt. Jason Budde, a shooter aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), launches an F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the "Eagles" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 115 off of the flight deck. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Torrey W. Lee/Released)
Sunday, July 05, 2009
Navy's Newest Helicopter Hangar Opens At NAS Jacksonville
JACKSONVILLE (NNS) -- Numerous dignitaries, military personnel, contractors and their families turned out for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open the Navy's newest helicopter hangar at NAS Jacksonville June 30.
The state-of-the-art facility will be home to five Helicopter Maritime (HSM) squadrons from HSM Squadron Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet. It will house approximately 57 MH-60R "Romeo" helicopters, the newest aircraft in the Navy's fleet and house more than 1,400 personnel.
"The $77 million that was invested in this project will serve the Navy's Helicopter Maritime Strike Force Wing Atlantic and its' multimission, agile and very sophisticated MH-60 Romeo helicopter, the newest aircraft in the Navy's fleet, for decades to come," said NAS Jacksonville Commanding Officer Capt. Jack Scorby Jr. "It will provide our warfighters with the very best in modern infrastructure, including being the second 'green' hangar in the Navy and aboard our installation."
Congressman Ander Crenshaw (R-Fla.), a member of the House Military Construction, Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, underscored the importance of building infrastructure in support of the mission now and in the future.
"This is a fantastic example of the growth and modernization that is taking place at Naval Air Station Jacksonville," remarked Crenshaw. "In addition to housing the five Romeo helicopter squadrons, the hangar project includes required maintenance support, administration and building support spaces for each squadron."
Commander, Navy Region Southeast Rear Adm. Townsend Alexander also praised those involved accomplishing the historic milestone.
"It's not easy to pull these things off," Alexander said to Capt. Doug Morton, commanding officer, Naval Facilities Command Southeast. "Your team did a fantastic job on this outstanding facility."
The first squadron to move into the new facility will be HSM-70 and their fleet of new MH-60R helicopters. The squadron was established at NAS Jacksonville in February 2009.
"More than 10 years ago, the Navy developed the Helicopter Master Plan, which was an acquisition strategy to develop a helicopter force that was combat effective, easy to support with global logistics and provide commonality across the Navy and Department of Defense. The result of that initiative is the MH-60R," stated Commander, HSM Wing, U.S. Atlantic Capt. Glenn Doyle. "It is designed to be deployed as either part of the carrier air wing on an aircraft carrier or in traditional HSL detachments on frigates, destroyers or cruisers."
The 204,931-sq.-foot facility will consolidate five helicopter squadrons into one hangar resulting in a smaller footprint and reducing energy cost.
The state-of-the-art facility will be home to five Helicopter Maritime (HSM) squadrons from HSM Squadron Wing, U.S. Atlantic Fleet. It will house approximately 57 MH-60R "Romeo" helicopters, the newest aircraft in the Navy's fleet and house more than 1,400 personnel.
"The $77 million that was invested in this project will serve the Navy's Helicopter Maritime Strike Force Wing Atlantic and its' multimission, agile and very sophisticated MH-60 Romeo helicopter, the newest aircraft in the Navy's fleet, for decades to come," said NAS Jacksonville Commanding Officer Capt. Jack Scorby Jr. "It will provide our warfighters with the very best in modern infrastructure, including being the second 'green' hangar in the Navy and aboard our installation."
Congressman Ander Crenshaw (R-Fla.), a member of the House Military Construction, Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, underscored the importance of building infrastructure in support of the mission now and in the future.
"This is a fantastic example of the growth and modernization that is taking place at Naval Air Station Jacksonville," remarked Crenshaw. "In addition to housing the five Romeo helicopter squadrons, the hangar project includes required maintenance support, administration and building support spaces for each squadron."
Commander, Navy Region Southeast Rear Adm. Townsend Alexander also praised those involved accomplishing the historic milestone.
"It's not easy to pull these things off," Alexander said to Capt. Doug Morton, commanding officer, Naval Facilities Command Southeast. "Your team did a fantastic job on this outstanding facility."
The first squadron to move into the new facility will be HSM-70 and their fleet of new MH-60R helicopters. The squadron was established at NAS Jacksonville in February 2009.
"More than 10 years ago, the Navy developed the Helicopter Master Plan, which was an acquisition strategy to develop a helicopter force that was combat effective, easy to support with global logistics and provide commonality across the Navy and Department of Defense. The result of that initiative is the MH-60R," stated Commander, HSM Wing, U.S. Atlantic Capt. Glenn Doyle. "It is designed to be deployed as either part of the carrier air wing on an aircraft carrier or in traditional HSL detachments on frigates, destroyers or cruisers."
The 204,931-sq.-foot facility will consolidate five helicopter squadrons into one hangar resulting in a smaller footprint and reducing energy cost.
HSM-71 Completes Maiden Deployment
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dmitry Chepusov, USS John C. Stennis Public Affairs
PACIFIC OCEAN (NNS) -- The "Raptors" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71 will complete their maiden deployment when the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) pulls into San Diego July 6.
HSM-71 was commissioned Oct. 3, 2007 and started its first deployment on Jan. 17, 2009.
In 2007 the squadron was comprised of two aircraft and a handful of personnel. Now it has more than 270 Sailors and 11 MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopters. HSM-71 serves aboard Stennis and mans detachments aboard USS Antietam (CG 54), USS Preble (DDG 88) and USS Kidd (DDG 100).
"Raptors" Commanding Officer Cmdr. Jeffrey Dodge said he has seen the squadron grow as they experienced their first deployment.
"Many of our people had never gone to sea before," said Dodge. "There was a lot of training we had to do, but everyone rose to the challenge."
Dodge said a large part of their training was on the helicopter systems, which were new to everyone in the squadron.
"Most of our training was [on the job training], and we've made more than 500 changes to the maintenance and flight publications," said Dodge. "We've had three major upgrades since we've gotten the aircraft and have set the foundation for the entire community to build upon."
Maintenance Master Chief (AFCM) (AW) Walter Butac, who has been with the squadron since its commissioning, said the major challenge was working with brand new aircraft, which were the first ones of their type to be manufactured in the world.
"We have been learning how to maintain it from day one," said Butac.
Butac said the squadron's electronics technicians had to be retrained to maintain the new helicopter.
When the Navy first established the squadron, personnel being assigned to the "Raptors" came from various backgrounds and job experiences.
"We had people coming from fixed-wing aircraft and different helicopter squadrons, and they all had different ways of doing business," said Butac. "That was the real challenge – to make them work together. But we learned a lot during the workups, and it worked out pretty good."
According to Dodge, the high point of HSM-71's maiden deployment was the USWEX [undersea warfare exercise].
"Since one of our primary missions is ASW [anti-submarine warfare], the USWEX that we did in February really showed the tactical capabilities of what we can do with the aircraft," said Dodge. "It was nice to see because it validated everything else that we've done."
During the USWEX, HSM-71 deployed multiple aircraft to simulate engagements with U.S. and Japanese submarines.
The squadron kept three helos airborne throughout the entire four-day exercise for a total 222 flight hours and conducted 28 simulated attacks on two U.S. and two Japanese submarines.
Dodge said he was proud of what his squadron accomplished during the USWEX, but he really saw them come together as a team when a helo had to be downed due to mechanical failure.
"One of the aircraft had a problem with its sensors," said Dodge. "It was replaced by another aircraft that launched within 15 minutes. So the crew and the maintainers had that aircraft prepped and ready to go. The failed system was fixed within two hours and was ready to go back into the rotation. From the warfare commander's perspective, there was no gap. It was pretty impressive."
As the "Raptors" approach the end of their first deployment, Dodge said the squadron has been blessed to be incident free while still meeting all their mission requirements.
During their workups and maiden deployment, HSM-71 flew more than 4,690 hours with a 95 percent sortie completion rate and earned the right to fly the Enlisted Aviation Warfare Pennant.
PACIFIC OCEAN (NNS) -- The "Raptors" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71 will complete their maiden deployment when the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) pulls into San Diego July 6.
HSM-71 was commissioned Oct. 3, 2007 and started its first deployment on Jan. 17, 2009.
In 2007 the squadron was comprised of two aircraft and a handful of personnel. Now it has more than 270 Sailors and 11 MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopters. HSM-71 serves aboard Stennis and mans detachments aboard USS Antietam (CG 54), USS Preble (DDG 88) and USS Kidd (DDG 100).
"Raptors" Commanding Officer Cmdr. Jeffrey Dodge said he has seen the squadron grow as they experienced their first deployment.
"Many of our people had never gone to sea before," said Dodge. "There was a lot of training we had to do, but everyone rose to the challenge."
Dodge said a large part of their training was on the helicopter systems, which were new to everyone in the squadron.
"Most of our training was [on the job training], and we've made more than 500 changes to the maintenance and flight publications," said Dodge. "We've had three major upgrades since we've gotten the aircraft and have set the foundation for the entire community to build upon."
Maintenance Master Chief (AFCM) (AW) Walter Butac, who has been with the squadron since its commissioning, said the major challenge was working with brand new aircraft, which were the first ones of their type to be manufactured in the world.
"We have been learning how to maintain it from day one," said Butac.
Butac said the squadron's electronics technicians had to be retrained to maintain the new helicopter.
When the Navy first established the squadron, personnel being assigned to the "Raptors" came from various backgrounds and job experiences.
"We had people coming from fixed-wing aircraft and different helicopter squadrons, and they all had different ways of doing business," said Butac. "That was the real challenge – to make them work together. But we learned a lot during the workups, and it worked out pretty good."
According to Dodge, the high point of HSM-71's maiden deployment was the USWEX [undersea warfare exercise].
"Since one of our primary missions is ASW [anti-submarine warfare], the USWEX that we did in February really showed the tactical capabilities of what we can do with the aircraft," said Dodge. "It was nice to see because it validated everything else that we've done."
During the USWEX, HSM-71 deployed multiple aircraft to simulate engagements with U.S. and Japanese submarines.
The squadron kept three helos airborne throughout the entire four-day exercise for a total 222 flight hours and conducted 28 simulated attacks on two U.S. and two Japanese submarines.
Dodge said he was proud of what his squadron accomplished during the USWEX, but he really saw them come together as a team when a helo had to be downed due to mechanical failure.
"One of the aircraft had a problem with its sensors," said Dodge. "It was replaced by another aircraft that launched within 15 minutes. So the crew and the maintainers had that aircraft prepped and ready to go. The failed system was fixed within two hours and was ready to go back into the rotation. From the warfare commander's perspective, there was no gap. It was pretty impressive."
As the "Raptors" approach the end of their first deployment, Dodge said the squadron has been blessed to be incident free while still meeting all their mission requirements.
During their workups and maiden deployment, HSM-71 flew more than 4,690 hours with a 95 percent sortie completion rate and earned the right to fly the Enlisted Aviation Warfare Pennant.
Saturday, July 04, 2009
Happy 233rd Birthday America
I want to take this opportunity to wish all my fellow Americans a happy 233rd birthday. This holiday is courtesy of the millions of men and women who have served in uniform. So I also want to pass along a special shout out to our servicemen and women, and especially their families. Your service and sacrifice continues a long tradition of protecting and preserving the freedom and liberties we enjoy here in America. The old Chief salutes each of you and may God keep you safe and out of harms way.
Trenton Ontario Airshow Online Feed Up Tomorrow
There will be an audio feed dedicated to the Trenton, Ontario, Canada air show tomorrow (Sunday). CFB Trenton frequencies will be scanned and the provider will have both the VHF air band and UHF MilAir band both on search the whole time.
Feed link:
http://www.radioreference.com/apps/audio/?ctid=4297
http://incidentbroadcast.com:8000/QuinteRegion.m3u
CFB Trenton Air show website:
http://www.cfbtrenton.com/anniversary/index.php
Schedule for Sunday July 5th
1:00pm - 4:00pm Air Display featuring:
* Skyhawks
* Snowbirds / Hawk One
* Griffon Search and Rescue Demonstration
* Hercules Para Drop
* CF-18 Demo Team
* Centennial Flight
* CC-150 Polaris / CF-18 air-to-air refuelling demonstration
* CC-177 Globemaster
Feed link:
http://www.radioreference.com/apps/audio/?ctid=4297
http://incidentbroadcast.com:8000/QuinteRegion.m3u
CFB Trenton Air show website:
http://www.cfbtrenton.com/anniversary/index.php
Schedule for Sunday July 5th
1:00pm - 4:00pm Air Display featuring:
* Skyhawks
* Snowbirds / Hawk One
* Griffon Search and Rescue Demonstration
* Hercules Para Drop
* CF-18 Demo Team
* Centennial Flight
* CC-150 Polaris / CF-18 air-to-air refuelling demonstration
* CC-177 Globemaster
Friday, July 03, 2009
PCU Independence LCS-2 Conducting Gulf of Mexico Sea Trials
Here is a heads up for my radio friends down in Mobile AL.The Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Independence (LCS 2), the U. S. Navy's first trimaran littoral combat ship, departs Mobile, Ala. to begin builder's sea trials in the Gulf of Mexico July 2, 2009. LCS is a fast, agile, focused-mission ship designed to defeat asymmetric "anti-access" threats such as mines, quiet diesel submarines and fast surface craft. The 417-foot Independence is designed and built by the General Dynamics Littoral Combat Ship team. Builder's trials test the vessel's propulsion, communications, navigation and core mission systems, as well as all related support systems. Following the completion of builder's trials, Independence will prepare for acceptance trials that will be conducted by the U.S. Navy's Board of Inspection and Survey later this summer. Independence will be outfitted with reconfigurable payloads, called mission packages, which can be changed out quickly. These mission packages focus on three mission areas: mine counter measures, surface warfare and anti-submarine warfare. Independence is scheduled to be delivered to the Navy later this year and will be home ported in San Diego, Calif. (Photo courtesy of General Dynamics/Released)
Milcom Blog Logs - June 2009 - Central Florida
Jack, a member of the MMP team, has passed along his Milcom blog log freqs monitored during the month of May from his central Florida location. Thanks Jack.
225.1500 J-STARS
225.3500 R-2910 PINECASTLE RNG
225.8000 J-STARS
227.1000 EXERCISE/TRAINING
229.0750 TRUMAN C2X
229.0750 CNTRA T-45's CQ w/ CVN-77
231.7500 J-STARS
233.1500 TRUMAN C2X ??
233.4750 TRUMAN C2X ??
234.5000 VFC-12 TAC
234.8000 159FS/125FW
235.4000 NASA INTERFLIGHT
236.0750 Moody AFB GA GRAND BAY RANGE
236.8500 USAF
237.4000 TRUMAN C2X
237.7000 TRUMAN C2X
238.7000 CNTRA T-45'S w/CVN-77
238.8000 USAF
239.5500 NORTHCOM
240.1000 MACDILL AFB DROP ZONE
240.4000 TRUMAN C2X
240.6000 USCG
245.3000 ARMY
245.7000 ARMY
251.1500 JAX IAP A/D
251.2500 159FS/125FW
251.6000 NAS JAX
252.9250 HAVEQUICK
253.1000 MCAS BEAUFORRT SC VMFA-122
253.5000 ORLANDO IAP TOWER
253.7000 159FS/125FW
254.3000 KZJX RCAG TALLAHASSEE
254.3250 KZJX TAYLOR - LO w/125.375
255.4000 FSS
256.7500 USAF
260.7000 SATCOM
260.9000 NORAD
261.2500 R-2907 LAKE GEOGRE TARGETS
263.5000 CNTRA T-45 INTERFLIGHT
264.2000 NAS JAX VP-16 "EAGLE BASE"
264.6250 R-2901 BRAVO/FOXTROT RANGE
264.6500 BOEING OPS CECIL FIELD
264.8000 KSC VARIETY NET
266.0500 J-STARS
266.3000 TRUMAN C2X ??
267.5000 FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD"
267.8500 HAVEQUICK
269.2000 PATRICK AFB TOWER
269.2250 KZJX
269.2500 KZJX OCALA - LO w/133.325
269.3000 KZMA SECTRO
269.4750 ST AUGUSTINE TOWER
270.5000 NAVY
270.6000 FACSFAC JAX GCI "BRISTOL"
271.1000 J-STARS
271.2750 TRUMAN C2X
271.8000 95FS INTERFLIGHT
271.9500 HAVEQUICK
273.2750 EXERCISE/TRAINING
273.5000 PATRICK AFB ATIS
273.5500 KZJX ST JOHNS - LO w/134.0
275.2000 GRUMMAN FLIGHT TEST
275.5000 NAVY
276.0250 TRUMAN C3X ??
276.6000 R-2901
277.8000 FLEET COMMON
278.1250 HST
278.4000 NORAD
281.5000 KZMA FT MEYERS LO
282.1500 HST
282.2000 KZJX JEKYLL - LO w/124.675
282.9750 TRUMAN C2X
283.5750 TRUMAN C2X
284.0000 KSC TOWER
284.3000 MCAS BEAUFORT SC VMFA-122
284.7000 ORLANDO IAP A/D
285.5000 KZMA AVON PARK
285.6500 KZJX STATES - HI w/126.125
285.7250 R-2901 CHARLIE/ECHO (S TAC) RANGE
288.4000 NORAD
288.4250 TRUMAN C2X
288.7000 TRUMAN C2X
289.2000 R-2910 PINECASTLE RNG RNG CONTROL
289.3750 TRUMAN C2X
290.5000 CNTRA T-45'S w/CVN-77
290.8500 TRUMAN C2X
290.9000 EGLIN AFB CMD POST
291.2250 TRUMAN C2X
291.5500 TRUMAN C2X
292.0000 TRUMAN C2X
292.2000 R-2901 AVON PARK RNG RNG CONTROL/ BOOM FREQ
292.4000 TRUMAN C2X
293.2250 KZMA SECTOR STOOP
293.5500 AWACS
294.7000 MACDILL AFB TOWER
294.9500 CNTRA T-45'S w/CVN-77
298.6500 HAVEQUICK
299.5000 TRUMAN C2X
301.0000 MCAS BEAUFORT SC SOUTH TACTS RNG 4 X-RAY "WARLOCK"
303.0000 TRUMAN C2X
303.2750 HAVE QUICK
306.0000 NAS JAX VP-30 OPS
307.0000 ORLANDO IAP A/D
307.1000 KZMA SECTOR LABELLE HI
307.2000 KZJX SEMINOLE- HI w/128.075
307.2500 KZJX ST AUGUSTINE - LO/HI w/126.35
307.4250 TRUMAN C2X
308.4000 JAX IAP A/D
308.7500 AWACS
310.2000 NAS JAX BASE OPS
311.0000 MACDILL AFB 6ARW COMMAND POST "LIGHTING OPS"
311.5000 FACSFAC JAC GCI "BRISTOL"
314.2000 159FS/125FW
314.4500 HAVEQUICK
314.5000 TRUMAN C2X
317.5250 KZJX PERRY- HI w/135.625
317.6000 KZJX CEDAR KEY - LO w/135.75
317.6000 KZMA SECTOR VERO BEACH
317.7000 JAX IAP TOWER
318.6000 FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD"
319.0000 KZMA SECTOR BOYEL
320.5000 FACSFAC JAX GCI "BRISTOL"
321.0000 PATRICK AFB 920 RQW CMD POST
322.4000 JAX IAP A/D
322.4750 KZJX LAKE CITY - HI w/133.875
327.1000 KZJX TORRY - LO/HI w/134.85
335.5500 KZJX DARBS - LO w/128.05
335.6000 JAX IAP A/D
338.2000 FAA UNKNOWN
339.7000 FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD"
339.8000 ORLANDO IAP A/D
340.2000 NAS JAX TOWER
341.7000 ORLANDO IAP C/D
342.6500 EXERCISE/TRAINING
343.0000 159FS/125FW
346.3500 KZJX NEPTA - HI w/124.775
348.7000 KZMA SECTOR HOBEE
349.0000 KZMA LAKELAND HI
349.3750 EXERCISE/TRAINING
349.4000 ALCC
349.8000 FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD"
350.0250 CUSTOMS AIR STATION JAX
351.8000 JAX IAP A/D
351.9000 ORLANDO EXEC A/D
352.0000 KZJX TALLAHASSEE - LO (QPE) w/127.8
357.0000 CNTRA T-45s w/CVN-77
357.0000 TRUMAN C2X
360.7000 KZJX MAYO- HI w/125.175
360.8000 KZJX GENEVA- HI w/125.05
363.3000 TRUMAN C2X
364.2000 NORAD AICC
367.6250 TRUMAN C2X
369.3250 TRUMAN C2X
370.7750 TRUMAN C2X
371.8250 HST
372.2000 PTD
373.9750 TRUMAN C2X
374.3750 TRUMAN C2X
376.0500 TRUMAN C2X
376.7500 TRUMAN C2X
377.0500 JAX IAP A/D
380.3000 KZMA FT MEYERS HI
381.5000 DAYTONA IAP A/D
381.6000 KZMA SARASOTA
387.1000 SAVANNAH IAP(CRTC) GA A/D
225.1500 J-STARS
225.3500 R-2910 PINECASTLE RNG
225.8000 J-STARS
227.1000 EXERCISE/TRAINING
229.0750 TRUMAN C2X
229.0750 CNTRA T-45's CQ w/ CVN-77
231.7500 J-STARS
233.1500 TRUMAN C2X ??
233.4750 TRUMAN C2X ??
234.5000 VFC-12 TAC
234.8000 159FS/125FW
235.4000 NASA INTERFLIGHT
236.0750 Moody AFB GA GRAND BAY RANGE
236.8500 USAF
237.4000 TRUMAN C2X
237.7000 TRUMAN C2X
238.7000 CNTRA T-45'S w/CVN-77
238.8000 USAF
239.5500 NORTHCOM
240.1000 MACDILL AFB DROP ZONE
240.4000 TRUMAN C2X
240.6000 USCG
245.3000 ARMY
245.7000 ARMY
251.1500 JAX IAP A/D
251.2500 159FS/125FW
251.6000 NAS JAX
252.9250 HAVEQUICK
253.1000 MCAS BEAUFORRT SC VMFA-122
253.5000 ORLANDO IAP TOWER
253.7000 159FS/125FW
254.3000 KZJX RCAG TALLAHASSEE
254.3250 KZJX TAYLOR - LO w/125.375
255.4000 FSS
256.7500 USAF
260.7000 SATCOM
260.9000 NORAD
261.2500 R-2907 LAKE GEOGRE TARGETS
263.5000 CNTRA T-45 INTERFLIGHT
264.2000 NAS JAX VP-16 "EAGLE BASE"
264.6250 R-2901 BRAVO/FOXTROT RANGE
264.6500 BOEING OPS CECIL FIELD
264.8000 KSC VARIETY NET
266.0500 J-STARS
266.3000 TRUMAN C2X ??
267.5000 FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD"
267.8500 HAVEQUICK
269.2000 PATRICK AFB TOWER
269.2250 KZJX
269.2500 KZJX OCALA - LO w/133.325
269.3000 KZMA SECTRO
269.4750 ST AUGUSTINE TOWER
270.5000 NAVY
270.6000 FACSFAC JAX GCI "BRISTOL"
271.1000 J-STARS
271.2750 TRUMAN C2X
271.8000 95FS INTERFLIGHT
271.9500 HAVEQUICK
273.2750 EXERCISE/TRAINING
273.5000 PATRICK AFB ATIS
273.5500 KZJX ST JOHNS - LO w/134.0
275.2000 GRUMMAN FLIGHT TEST
275.5000 NAVY
276.0250 TRUMAN C3X ??
276.6000 R-2901
277.8000 FLEET COMMON
278.1250 HST
278.4000 NORAD
281.5000 KZMA FT MEYERS LO
282.1500 HST
282.2000 KZJX JEKYLL - LO w/124.675
282.9750 TRUMAN C2X
283.5750 TRUMAN C2X
284.0000 KSC TOWER
284.3000 MCAS BEAUFORT SC VMFA-122
284.7000 ORLANDO IAP A/D
285.5000 KZMA AVON PARK
285.6500 KZJX STATES - HI w/126.125
285.7250 R-2901 CHARLIE/ECHO (S TAC) RANGE
288.4000 NORAD
288.4250 TRUMAN C2X
288.7000 TRUMAN C2X
289.2000 R-2910 PINECASTLE RNG RNG CONTROL
289.3750 TRUMAN C2X
290.5000 CNTRA T-45'S w/CVN-77
290.8500 TRUMAN C2X
290.9000 EGLIN AFB CMD POST
291.2250 TRUMAN C2X
291.5500 TRUMAN C2X
292.0000 TRUMAN C2X
292.2000 R-2901 AVON PARK RNG RNG CONTROL/ BOOM FREQ
292.4000 TRUMAN C2X
293.2250 KZMA SECTOR STOOP
293.5500 AWACS
294.7000 MACDILL AFB TOWER
294.9500 CNTRA T-45'S w/CVN-77
298.6500 HAVEQUICK
299.5000 TRUMAN C2X
301.0000 MCAS BEAUFORT SC SOUTH TACTS RNG 4 X-RAY "WARLOCK"
303.0000 TRUMAN C2X
303.2750 HAVE QUICK
306.0000 NAS JAX VP-30 OPS
307.0000 ORLANDO IAP A/D
307.1000 KZMA SECTOR LABELLE HI
307.2000 KZJX SEMINOLE- HI w/128.075
307.2500 KZJX ST AUGUSTINE - LO/HI w/126.35
307.4250 TRUMAN C2X
308.4000 JAX IAP A/D
308.7500 AWACS
310.2000 NAS JAX BASE OPS
311.0000 MACDILL AFB 6ARW COMMAND POST "LIGHTING OPS"
311.5000 FACSFAC JAC GCI "BRISTOL"
314.2000 159FS/125FW
314.4500 HAVEQUICK
314.5000 TRUMAN C2X
317.5250 KZJX PERRY- HI w/135.625
317.6000 KZJX CEDAR KEY - LO w/135.75
317.6000 KZMA SECTOR VERO BEACH
317.7000 JAX IAP TOWER
318.6000 FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD"
319.0000 KZMA SECTOR BOYEL
320.5000 FACSFAC JAX GCI "BRISTOL"
321.0000 PATRICK AFB 920 RQW CMD POST
322.4000 JAX IAP A/D
322.4750 KZJX LAKE CITY - HI w/133.875
327.1000 KZJX TORRY - LO/HI w/134.85
335.5500 KZJX DARBS - LO w/128.05
335.6000 JAX IAP A/D
338.2000 FAA UNKNOWN
339.7000 FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD"
339.8000 ORLANDO IAP A/D
340.2000 NAS JAX TOWER
341.7000 ORLANDO IAP C/D
342.6500 EXERCISE/TRAINING
343.0000 159FS/125FW
346.3500 KZJX NEPTA - HI w/124.775
348.7000 KZMA SECTOR HOBEE
349.0000 KZMA LAKELAND HI
349.3750 EXERCISE/TRAINING
349.4000 ALCC
349.8000 FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD"
350.0250 CUSTOMS AIR STATION JAX
351.8000 JAX IAP A/D
351.9000 ORLANDO EXEC A/D
352.0000 KZJX TALLAHASSEE - LO (QPE) w/127.8
357.0000 CNTRA T-45s w/CVN-77
357.0000 TRUMAN C2X
360.7000 KZJX MAYO- HI w/125.175
360.8000 KZJX GENEVA- HI w/125.05
363.3000 TRUMAN C2X
364.2000 NORAD AICC
367.6250 TRUMAN C2X
369.3250 TRUMAN C2X
370.7750 TRUMAN C2X
371.8250 HST
372.2000 PTD
373.9750 TRUMAN C2X
374.3750 TRUMAN C2X
376.0500 TRUMAN C2X
376.7500 TRUMAN C2X
377.0500 JAX IAP A/D
380.3000 KZMA FT MEYERS HI
381.5000 DAYTONA IAP A/D
381.6000 KZMA SARASOTA
387.1000 SAVANNAH IAP(CRTC) GA A/D
VAQ-138 Completes 2009 Deployment
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Steve Owsley, USS John C. Stennis Public Affairs
EVERETT, Wash. (NNS) -- The "Yellow Jackets" of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 138 completed their 2009 Western Pacific deployment when USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) pulled into Naval Station Everett, Wash., June 29.
VAQ-138 deployed Jan. 17, as part of Carrier Air Wing 9 embarked aboard Stennis.
This was the "Yellow Jackets'" last scheduled deployment with the EA-6B Prowler.
VAQ-138 will continue to fly the Prowler to sustain their pilots' qualifications, conduct training missions and take part in a joint training exercise before beginning the transition to the E/A-18G Growler in March. The transition is expected to take approximately six months and be completed in the fall of 2010.
EVERETT, Wash. (NNS) -- The "Yellow Jackets" of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 138 completed their 2009 Western Pacific deployment when USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) pulled into Naval Station Everett, Wash., June 29.
VAQ-138 deployed Jan. 17, as part of Carrier Air Wing 9 embarked aboard Stennis.
This was the "Yellow Jackets'" last scheduled deployment with the EA-6B Prowler.
VAQ-138 will continue to fly the Prowler to sustain their pilots' qualifications, conduct training missions and take part in a joint training exercise before beginning the transition to the E/A-18G Growler in March. The transition is expected to take approximately six months and be completed in the fall of 2010.
USS Anzio Relieves USS Gettysburg as CTF 151 Flagship
USS Gettysburg CG-64 (US Navy Photo)USS ANZIO, At Sea (NNS) -- The guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68) relieved USS Gettysburg (CG 64) as the flagship for Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 June 28.
"Gettysburg did an incredible job serving as our flagship from May 3–June 28," said Turkish Navy Rear Adm. Caner Bener, commander, CTF 151.
"Whatever the situation, whether engaged in the boarding or the safe and secure holding of suspected pirates for 28 days, Gettysburg undertook them all without complaint. The experience Gettysburg and her crew brought to our mission as flagship was a major key to our success in counterpiracy operations over the last couple months."
Gettysburg participated in counterpiracy operations as part of CTF 151 since early April. In less than three months, her crew conducted several boardings, captured 17 suspected pirates and confiscated more than a dozen assault rifles and a number of rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) launchers, RPGs, ladders and grappling hooks suspected in attacks on merchant vessels.
Gettysburg's visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team along with members of the U.S. Coast Guard's Legal Detachment (LEDET) 409 out of Miami, Fla., also captured the first and only pirate mothership taken by coalition forces.
"This has been the first occasion of Turkish flag officer with a multinational staff embarking on a United States ship," said Bener. "Doing so for the purposes of coalition counterpiracy operations has presented a range of unique challenges and was a ground-breaking experience for us all. Gettysburg and her crew made an immeasurable impact on keeping the sea lanes of communication safe. The ship's contributions to counterpiracy operations should serve as a model to all ships to follow."
CTF 151 is a Turkish-led multinational task force established to conduct counterpiracy operations under a mission-based mandate throughout the CMF area of responsibility to actively deter, disrupt and suppress piracy in order to protect global maritime commerce, enhance maritime security and secure freedom of navigation for the benefit of all nations.
Thursday, July 02, 2009
Truman Strike Group Preps for any Contingency during Exercise
Visitors watch as an F/A-18 Hornet from the Checkerboards of Marine Strike Fighter Squadron (VMFA) 312 completes an arrested landing aboard the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). Harry S. Truman is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting a Composite Training Unit Exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Second Class Joshua A. Moore/Released)By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jeff Troutman, USS Harry S. Truman Public Affairs
USS HARRY S. TRUMAN, At Sea (NNS) -- The Harry S. Truman Strike (HST) Group, comprised of approximately 7,500 Sailors and Marines, is engaged in a composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX), a three-week evolution, designed to enhance the training and skills of crew members in preparation for an upcoming fall deployment.
COMPTUEX is a multi-week, intermediate-level exercise required of each carrier battle group before departing for a seven-month deployment. The exercise brings ships and aircraft together to prepare to project force as a battle group in the interest of global maritime security and protecting the nation's homeland security.
"COMPTUEX is a key fundamental training block that allows Sailors to improve their readiness," said Rear Adm. Patrick Driscoll, commander, Carrier Strike Group 10. "That enhances our overall effectiveness. When we successfully complete COMPTUEX, we will be surge capable and ready to deploy in the event of an emerging contingency."
In the event of a contingency or threat, COMPTUEX will enable the strike group to respond in an effective manner and help set the conditions necessary for proper security and prosperity, thereby directly contributing to the defense of our homeland.
USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) has completed numerous at-sea evolutions since the beginning of the year in preparation for a 2009-2010 deployment. In addition to being the ship's lengthiest sea trial before deployment, COMPTUEX will be the first evolution during which Truman and other strike group ships train together as a cohesive battle unit.
Capt. John Meier, Truman's executive officer, said the integration of the strike group is vital to the training necessary for Truman's success during COMPTUEX.
"The basic overall goal of the COMPTUEX exercise is really for us to demonstrate our ability to operate as an integrated strike group," said Meier. "This is how we will fight, how we will go into combat and how we will go into harm's way. We will be going into these scenarios with all of our strike group's assets, so it's important we train with all our assets."
Driscoll said COMPTUEX is different from prior sea exercises by its heightened degree of training and level of focus.
"This will be the most intense training we get as a strike group before we deploy," said Driscoll.
"Commander, Second Fleet Vice Admiral Mel Williams and Commander Fleet Forces Training Atlantic Rear Admiral Garry White and their staffs are very focused on training the HST carrier strike group and are providing numerous aircraft, ships and fast boats to act as opposition."
"The ability to protect the carrier, which is the great power projection unit for the Navy, is the key role of practicing our air defense," said Meier. "We work with all the units of the strike group to ensure the protection of this high-value target. It's all about how we interoperate, how we communicate and how we fight as a strike group."
Successful completion of COMPTUEX will certify Truman and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 3 as qualified for open ocean operations. It's not only a critical step in the pre-deployment training cycle but a prerequisite for the battle group's joint task force exercise (JTFX), Meier added.
To achieve that success, the battle group will need to rely on the key to success in any military strategy -- its people.
"COMPTUEX and CSG operations are a team sport," said Driscoll. "The Sailors are top-notch and highly-skilled, and I know they're going to be combat ready. My hope is we will leave COMPTUEX with a strong team and we will understand each warfare command's strengths and their efforts to the overall fight."
CSG-10 is made up of the aircraft carrier Harry S. Truman; its embarked air wing, CVW 3; embarked Destroyer Squadron (CDS) 26; the guided missile cruiser USS Hue City (CG 66) the guided missile destroyers USS Carney (DDG 64), USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79) and USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81); and the attack submarine USS Norfolk (SSN 714). Also participating in the exercise are frigates USS Stephen S. Groves (FFG 29) and USS McInerney (FFG 8).
CVW-3 consists of Strike Fighter Squadrons 32, 37 and 105; Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 312; Electronic Attack Squadron 130; Airborne Early Warning Squadron 126; Carrier Logistics Support Squadron 40; and Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 7.
You can view a video report on this at http://www.navy.mil/swf/mmu/mmplyr.asp?id=12766
Here is the latest list of freqs that have been monitored during this COMPTUEX
3035.0 kHz USB HST CWC Air Warfare Commander Net HOTEL WHISKEY
136.975 Hawker Hunter/Phoenix Air/Flight Intl Air-to-Air, COUGAR/DART air-air
225.350 Pinecastle Targets - Range Impact (Strike/Shot Common)
228.400 Townsend Range Control - R-3007 Range Control
229.200 VMFA-312 CHECK Tactical
233.475 Unknown usage, VFA-37 RAGIN aircraft noted here
234.500 VFC-12 AMBUSH Tactical
240.400 HST STRIKE [Button 04]
240.425 Unknown user/Air-to-Air (Note: Used earlier this year by the Ike and CVW-7)
243.575 VAW-126 CLOSEOUT Air Intercept Control (AIC)/ VFA-105 CANYON / TRIDENT
261.250 Pinecastle Range R-2907
264.625 Avon Park MOA North Tactical
267.500 FACSFAC Jax: Warning Area Air/Ground Advisory South SEALORD
269.200 Jacksonville ARTCC - Unknown RCAG
271.275 VAW-126 CLOSEOUT with FREDDY / Secure comms
271.400 NAS Jacksonville (ex-VS squadron common; possible VFC-12 use)
273.550 Jacksonville ARTCC - Daytona Beach RCAG
275.500 VFA-37 RAGIN Tactical
276.600 Avon Park MOA Range - Range Target Scoring
277.800 Fleet Common-Tactical/Warning
278.125 HST CSG CWC Surface Warfare Commander Net HOTEL SIERRA [Button 05]
279.400 SILENT WARRIOR
282.975 VFA-105 CANYON Tactical 2
283.575 VFA-37 RAGIN Tactical
284.975 Air Intercept Control CLOSEOUT / SWEEP
288.425 Plane Reps
288.700 VFA-32 GYPSY Tactical
289.200 Pinecastle Range Operations - R-2910 Range Air Control
289.375 VNFA-312 CHECK Tactical
292.200 Aerial Refueling Boom / Avon Park Range Operations
293.725 Positive Identification and Radar Advisory Zone (PIRAZ) RED CROWN
299.500 VFC-12 AMBUSH Tactical / VIPER 1 air-air
301.950 VMFA-312 CHECK Tactical
303.000 Aerial Refueling Boom Secondary
304.950 Data Link-4A (Dolly)
307.250 Jacksonville ARTCC - Jacksonville/St. Augustine RCAG
310.825 Unknown user/Air-to-Air, possible ACM
312.175 HST Departure
318.875 HST CSG CWC Air Resources Element Commander Net: HOTEL ROMEO
328.450 HST Marshal [Button 16]
340.200 NAS Jacksonville Tower
342.250 Urban JTAC (Jacksonville)
342.325 HST CSG CWC Strike Warfare/Air Resources Element Commander Net: HOTEL PAPA
348.850 “sweet tanker” / “411 is sweet tanker” / “410 is sweet tanker”
351.800 Jacksonville Approach Control
354.900 Air Intercept Control (AIC) [Button 9]
357.000 VFA-32 GYPSY Tactical
357.425 HST CCA Alpha / PADDLES
364.100 HST CCA Bravo / PADDLES
367.625 VFA-32 GYPSY Tactical
369.325 VFA-32 GYPSY Tactical
371.825 VAW-126 CLOSEOUT Tactical
373.975 VFA-105 CANYON Tactical
374.000 Overhead Aerial refueling
374.300 VFC-12 AMBUSH Tactical
374.375 VFA-37 RAGIN Tactical
377.050 Jacksonville Approach/Departure Control
378.875 Unknown user/usage
379.875 VMFA-312 CHECK Tactical
384.100 Unknown user/Air-to-Air (DRAGON use in the past)
Have Quick
225.150, 235.050, 239.950, 252.925, 257.250, 262.450, 267.850, 271.950, 279.750, 284.150, 289.050, 293.550, 298.650, 308.750, 314.450
USS Stethem Arrives in Russia
VLADIVOSTOK, Russia (NNS) -- USS Stethem (DDG 63) arrived in Vladivostok, Russia, for a scheduled port visit July 1. The visit provides an opportunity to promote stability in the Asia-Pacific region by demonstrating that the United States and Russia are committed to a regional partnership and the growth of foreign relations.
Stethem's commanding officer was greeted with a bread and salt ceremony, which is a traditional Russian welcome ceremony, attended by Russian military and civilian dignitaries.
"The welcome shown here is deeply appreciated as we work to foster an open and continued relationship between our two nations," said Stethem's Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Shan Byrne.
Events planned during Stethem's visit to Vladivostok include involvement in the City Day celebrations, meetings with military and civil dignitaries, participation in sporting events, community service projects and academic conferences.
This is the second visit to Vladivostok by Stethem. During the previous visit in May 2008, crew members enjoyed their time during events related to Victory Day.
Stethem is named in honor of Petty Officer Robert Stethem, killed by terrorists on the hijacked TWA Flight 847 in 1985. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star for the heroism he displayed that day.
Stethem is part of Destroyer Squadron 15 and is forward-deployed to Yokosuka, Japan, as part of the 7th Fleet.
Operating in the Western Pacific and Indian Oceans, the U.S. 7th Fleet is the largest of the forward-deployed U.S. fleets, covering 52 million square miles with approximately 50 ships, 120 aircraft and 20,000 Sailors and Marines assigned at any given time.
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
Multipsk to add Mil-Std 188-110A
Fans of Multipsk will be happy to know that Patrick, F6CTE, developer of the program, is in the process of adding the Mil-Std-188-110A serial modem mode to the popular decoding software. This mode will become part of the professional package and not the freeware version.Mil-Std 188-110a is a mode commonly used by various military services, including the US Department of Defense services, US Coast Guard, the Chinese military, Mexican Navy, Swedish Navy, the Australian ADF-HFCS, Austria Navy, Swiss diplo nets, Georgia military, Venezuela Army/Navy, and the Spanish Navy to name a few. Since the Skysweep software is going away in the near future, this is very welcomed news. Patrick's program just keeps getting better and is very reasonably priced to het the professional modes.
You can learn more about the Mil-Std-188-110A mode at
http://pubs.drdc.gc.ca/PDFS/unc03/p518678.pdf
You can also learn more about this mode in Joerg Klingenfuss' Radio Data Code Manual available from our friends at Universal Radio via the link below
http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/books/5104.html
You can hear an audio sample on the Taunus Signals website at
http://www.signals.taunus.de/TABLES/VOCODER.HTML
Here are the current modes decoded by the Multipsk software:
Phase Shift Keying modes:
BPSK: BPSK31-63-125-250 / CHIP (64/128) / PSK10 / PSKFEC31 / PSKAM10-31-50
BPSK with SSTV: PSK63 F - PSK220F + DIGISSTV "Run"
QPSK: QPSK31-63-125-250
MPSK: MT63
PACKET BPSK1200-250-63 + APRS+ DIGISSTV "Run"
On-Off Keying Modes:
CW / CCW-OOK / CCW-FSK / QRSS
Frequency Shift Keying modes:
PACKET: 110-300-1200 bauds + APRS+ DIGISSTV "Run"
PACTOR 1 / AMTOR FEC-Navtex / AMTOR ARQ / SITOR A
ASCII / RTTY 45-50-75-100-110-150-200 / SYNOP + SHIP
1382 / GMDSS DSC / ACARS (VHF) / DGPS
Multi Frequency Shift Keying modes:
MFSK8 / MFSK16 (+SSTV)
OLIVIA / Contestia / RTTYM / VOICE
THROB/THROBX
DominoF / DominoEX
PAX / PAX2
Automatic Link Establishment (see http://www.hflink.com) MIL-STD-188-141A+
ARQ FAE / ALE400 + ARQ FAE
DTMF, SELCAL
JT65 (A B and C)
Hellschreiber modes:
FELD HELL / FM HELL(105-245) / PSK HELL / HELL 80
Graphic modes:
HF FAX / SSTV / PSK SSTV modes (mentioned above) / MFSK116 SSTV (mentioned above)
DSP modes:
Filters / Analysis / Binaural CW reception
Identifiers:
Video ID / RS ID / Call ID
RTTY, CW, BPSK31, BPSK63 and PSKFEC31 Panoramics
TCP/IP digital modem
Integered SdR demodulator/modulator
You can learn more about the Multipsk family of software at
http://f6cte.free.fr/index_anglais.htm
If you are active on HF utes and you want to decode digital signals, Multipsk is a "must" download.
73 and good hunting de Larry
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)