Bataan ARG Returns from Deployment

Marines assigned to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (22nd MEU) prepare to depart the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) after completing a seven-month deployment with the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kelvin Edwards/Released)

NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- Sailors and Marines of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) completed a successful seven-month deployment Dec. 8 when USS Bataan (LHD 5) and USS Ponce (LPD 15) arrived at Norfolk Naval Station and USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) returned to Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek, Va.

"Completing a successful deployment and bringing all of the Sailors and Marines safely back home to their families accomplished one of my major goals," said Capt. Paul McElroy, commander of the Bataan ARG. "The support of our families is the foundation that has carried us through these seven challenging months, so it's great to reunite with them before the holidays."

"It's hard being out at sea for such a long time, but my wife has been the core of my support," said Information Systems Technician 1st Class Michael Spicer, from Virginia Beach, Va. "She has handled all of the responsibilities I had at home and has done an exceptional job."

The Bataan ARG began its deployment May 13 with a primary mission of conducting maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility while the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), embarked on the ARG ships, served as the theater reserve force. They also engaged in seven theater security cooperation engagements and exercises, including Bright Star 2009, 5th Fleet's largest multinational exercise.

"Every mission, every exercise and every port visit conducted by these Sailors and Marines made a lasting impact throughout the maritime domain," said Bataan's commanding officer, Capt. Sam Howard. "I'm extremely proud of their performance, professionalism and accomplishments."

The Bataan ARG and 22nd MEU was the first ARG/MEU to deploy with the MV-22B Osprey, a tiltrotor aircraft with the ability to fly and hover like a helicopter or tilt its wing-mounted propellers forward to fly like an airplane. Bataan launched 10 MV-22B Ospreys from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 263 (Reinforced), 22nd MEU, to fly into Camp Bastion, Afghanistan, Nov. 6, marking the first time the aircraft were used in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

The Bataan ARG/22nd MEU also had the opportunity to host several distinguished visitors while they were deployed, including the 75th secretary of the Navy, Raymond Maybus, who visited Fort McHenry and Bataan, and the Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead, who attended a reception held in his honor aboard Ponce.

The Bataan ARG is composed of the Bataan, who served as the flagship for the ARG, Ponce, Fort McHenry, Amphibious Squadron 2, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 22 Detachment 4, Fleet Surgical Team 6, Tactical Air Control Squadron 21 Detachment 1, and detachments from Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 2, ACU 4 and Beachmaster Unit 2.

DoD Announces Replacement Unit for Iraq Rotation

The Department of Defense announced today the alert for mobilization of a replacement unit scheduled to deploy in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Approximately 2,600 soldiers from the 29th Combat Aviation Brigade, headquartered at Edgewood, Md., will begin deploying in the summer of 2011.

This rotation announcement reflects the continued commitment of the United States to the security of the Iraqi people.

NORAD exercise planned for Washington, D.C.

TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. – The North American Aerospace Defense Command and its geographical component, the Continental United States NORAD Region (CONR), will conduct a one-day exercise, Falcon Virgo 10-03, beginning late Tuesday evening and continuing into the early morning hours Wednesday in the National Capital Region, Washington, D.C.

The exercise comprises a series of training flights held in coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration, the National Capital Region Command Center, the Joint Air Defense Operations Center, the Continental U.S. NORAD Region, Civil Air Patrol, U.S. Coast Guard and CONR’s Eastern Air Defense Sector.

Exercise Falcon Virgo is designed to hone NORAD’s intercept and identification operations, as well as procedural tests of the NCR Visual Warning System. Civil Air Patrol aircraft and Coast Guard HH-65 Dolphin helicopters will participate in the exercise. Residents in the area can expect flights to begin around midnight and continue through the scheduled exercise hours.

In the event of inclement weather, the exercise will take place the next day until all training requirements are met.

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

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

Since Sept. 11, 2001, CONR fighters have responded to more than 2,300 possible air threats in the United States and have flown more than 54,000 sorties with the support of Airborne Warning and Control System and air-to-air-refueling aircraft.

Carl Vinson Leaves Shipyard Ahead of Schedule

Monitoring Note: With Vinson now conducting sea trials, keep a watch on the following VA SESEF freqs for activity from the big guy: 5745.0 7535.0 8150.0 and 10711.0 kHz (all USB).

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Austin Rooney, USS Carl Vinson Public Affairs

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (NNS) -- USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) departed the Northrop Grumman Naval Shipyard in Newport News, Va., after completing an extensive four-year refueling complex overhaul (RCOH) and a 14-week Post Shakedown Availability / Supplemental Restricted Availability (PSA/SRA) period, Dec. 3.

Carl Vinson immediately went to sea to conduct Sea Trials in preparation for its homeport transfer to San Diego.

Carl Vinson's Commanding Officer Capt. Bruce Lindsey said he thinks the crew did a great job bringing the ship out of the shipyard ahead of schedule.

"The crew did a fantastic job," said Lindsey. "Not only did we deliver during PSA, but we caught up on training we missed during RCOH and became the first carrier in 16 years to leave a commercial shipyard early."

Carl Vinson Sailors were relieved to have their ship become operational again, as some have been aboard for most of the time while in the shipyard. Vinson is the third nuclear aircraft carrier to have successfully completed 25 years of service and to undergo RCOH.

Interior Communications Electrician 2nd Class (SW) Jaymes Linenkohl, the Engineering Interior Communications leading petty officer, came aboard Vinson at the very beginning of RCOH.

"When RCOH started there was nothing. The ship was completely gutted. It looked like bare metal with compartments," said Linenkohl. "Now it doesn't even look like the same ship. I'm very proud of all the work I put into getting this ship ready to go underway."

Lt. Eugene Osborn, who has been aboard the ship since Feb. 2008, says the opportunity to bring a ship out of the shipyard and into the fleet doesn't happen often.

"It'll be good to have the ship be fully operational again," said Osborn. "It'll be a once-in-a-lifetime experience; it's not everyday you get to sail the Atlantic, visit foreign ports, and pull into San Diego."

Carl Vinson's move to Norfolk is one step in her move to San Diego, which will be her homeport.

"It's going to be really nice to finally get out of the shipyards and get a chance to do our jobs," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman James Hullender, who has been aboard the ship since May. "I'll be a shellback, and I'll get to see new countries I've never seen before. It'll be a really fun trip."

The short underway ended on Saturday, Dec. 5 with the ship pulling into Naval Station Norfolk.

Carl Vinson is scheduled to transit around the Horn of South America and ultimately homeport in San Diego during the spring of 2010.

USCG Selects Stratos Govt Services To Deploy FleetBroadband

WASHINGTON, DC, - Stratos Government Services Inc. (SGSI), a global integrator of commercial satellite solutions for the U.S. Dept. of Defense, federal and state government agencies, announced it has been selected by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) to deploy Inmarsat's FleetBroadband mobile broadband satellite service on up to 50 USCG vessels. SGSI is a wholly owned subsidiary of Stratos Global Corp.

Under the agreement, SGSI will deploy FleetBroadband on USCG High Endurance Cutters and Medium Endurance Cutters. The broadband service will enable the cutters to interconnect with the USCG data network to exchange operational ship traffic, including SIPRNET and NIPRNET data.

FleetBroadband is a critical component of the USCG's efforts to upgrade technology onboard its ships as they migrate from Inmarsat B lease services to an IP-based architecture. The upgrade is designed to increase the vessels' communications throughput capabilities to operate globally in all weather conditions. SGSI has successfully deployed similar prototype FleetBroadband services on selected USCG vessels.

The SGSI solution includes installation support, training, Multi-Protocol Label Switching interconnectivity, monitoring, engineering, end-to-end service and 24x7 support. USCG also will utilize field-tested, value-added management and monitoring services, known as The Stratos Advantage, to attain the highest possible performance and support from FleetBroadband at the lowest possible cost.

About FleetBroadband from Stratos

Stratos has activated more than 2,000 Inmarsat FleetBroadband systems across all major geographic regions and vessel types. FleetBroadband from Stratos provides cost-effective, high-speed data and voice communications - available simultaneously - at speeds up to 432kpbs. FleetBroadband from Stratos also provides on-demand guaranteed IP data rates, regardless of the vessel's location. The above-deck, stabilized, compact directional antennas are smaller than most existing Inmarsat Fleet products used today.

FleetBroadband from Stratos also helps Stratos continue to provide ship managers with innovative crew-communications solutions, to support the recruitment and retention of well-trained seafarers. For example, FleetBroadband from Stratos is now available with a pre-paid web-browsing solution and other valuable services.

Communications managers will find that FleetBroadband from Stratos can be rapidly deployed across an entire fleet and, as a standard IP service, seamlessly integrated with head-office networks. Terminals operate globally and the user interface is standard across all products. FleetBroadband from Stratos supports any IP service, as well as traditional circuit-switched voice and ISDN data for legacy applications. Terminal costs are relatively low and the network supports all the latest security protocols.

Stratos offers a wide range of value-added services to provide ship managers with optimal communications performance, management control and cost efficiency. Stratos is the largest supplier of mobile satellite services to the maritime industry, with communications to more than 40,000 maritime terminals worldwide. In addition to FleetBroadband, Stratos' industry-leading portfolio of maritime broadband satellite services includes Iridium OpenPort and the VSAT solutions OceanVSAT and StratosITek.

FleetBroadband from Stratos Features The Stratos Advantage

With the benefit of The Stratos Advantage, FleetBroadband from Stratos is elevated far above baseline FleetBroadband services. The value-added services comprising The Stratos Advantage provide users with cost and traffic control, high-usage metering, firewall management, data optimization, real-time traffic overviews, instant remote provisioning, high security options, easy VPN access, messaging services and a full IP range. More than 11,500 mobile users in 180 countries already utilize The Stratos Advantage for BGAN, the land-based version of FleetBroadband.

In addition to offering The Stratos Advantage, Stratos works with application partners to deliver broadband business solutions in key maritime business areas. These solutions include voyage management, remote management, IT management and cargo management, which help reduce fuel and operations costs and improve crew and customer satisfaction. Maritime customers can secure more information on FleetBroadband from Stratos by calling their Stratos account manager or by visiting www.thepowerofmobilebroadband.com.

DOD Announces Afghanistan Force Deployment

The Department of Defense today announced the deployment of approximately 16,000 additional forces to Afghanistan, the initial elements of the 30,000 troops authorized on Nov. 30. An infantry battalion task force, with approximately 1,500 Marines, from Camp Lejeune, N.C., will deploy later this month. Regimental Combat Team-2, headquartered at Camp Lejuene, N.C., will deploy approximately 6,200 Marines in early spring 2010. A Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) headquarters from I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif., will deploy approximately 800 Marines in spring 2010.

A Brigade Combat Team (BCT), with approximately 3,400 soldiers from the 1st Brigade, 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum, N.Y. will deploy in early spring 2010 to conduct a training mission.

Secretary Gates also approved the deployment of approximately 4,100 support forces, which will deploy at various times into spring 2010.

USS Freedom Reaches Major Milestone Toward Maiden Deployment

By Lt. Ed Early, Littoral Combat Ship Class Squadron Public Affairs

NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- The Navy's first littoral combat ship (LCS), USS Freedom (LCS 1), has successfully completed another major milestone in preparation for her upcoming maiden deployment.

Freedom conducted independent ship deployment training and certification at sea from Nov. 13-21, operating with ships from the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) Carrier Strike Group during their Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) off the southeastern coast of the United States.

Freedom conducted effective complex training as part of the Maritime Security Surge certification for the ship's Gold Crew, which will deploy aboard Freedom in early 2010 to U.S. Southern Command.

"USS Freedom superbly satisfied our operational expectations," said Vice Adm. Mel Williams Jr., commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet, responsible for certifying deploying strike groups and independent deployers. "I am confident that the ship and crew will meet the combatant commander's needs on deployment."

Freedom's path to deployment has been unique and challenging. As with every lead ship of a class, the operational testing and validation of the ship's sensors and weapon systems is a complex and time-consuming series of events that are normally conducted sequentially over an extended time period.

The Navy expects to learn key operational lessons about Freedom in a deployment setting and to integrate those lessons into the larger LCS fleet integration process. To achieve this goal, the Navy modified the typical workup schedule to accelerate Freedom's deployment by approximately two years. The Fleet Response Training Plan, used to evaluate a ship's operational capabilities as well as maintenance, testing and training, was modified to ensure effective training for this unique and highly capable ship with reduced manning and two crews.

In a plan developed by Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet; Commander, Naval Surface Forces/Commander, Naval Surface Force, Atlantic; Commander, Naval Network Warfare Command; Commander, Strike Force Training (CSFTL) Atlantic; LCS Class Squadron (LCSRON); Afloat Training Group, Pacific; Naval Sea Systems Command; Naval Air Systems Command; and Commander, Operational Test and Evaluation Force; the Post-Delivery Maintenance and System Testing activities were interwoven with unit and integrated, advanced level training.

In the past, test events were rigidly structured and scripted to validate system performance. As much as possible, these were modified to simultaneously fulfill operational training requirements with no compromise to performance standards.

"Because of the LCS multi-crewing concept, two core crews needed to be trained and assessed aboard Freedom, and that added another new dimension to our standard surface ship training and certification plan," said Capt. Michael Taylor, commander, LCSRON. "During testing and much of the unit level training, both the 'on-hull' crew and some members of the 'off-hull' crew were on board, and that gave both crews a chance to gain experience and proficiency on Freedom's systems."

During most of the Integrated/Advanced Phase Training and Assessment, only a single core crew and embarked detachments could be evaluated at one time across the range of military operations. The primary focus was on the Gold Crew, which will deploy with the ship for the first portion of the deployment.

After avoiding heavy weather off the East Coast, Freedom departed Mayport, Fla., Nov. 13 with the Blue Crew and Cmdr. Kristy Doyle, the Blue Crew commanding officer. During the three days that followed, CSFTL assessors put the crew through an intensive series of underway scenarios designed to evaluate their ability to execute maritime security missions both as an independent unit and as part of a larger force.

CSFTL presented Freedom with realistic missions in rapid succession to stress planning and decision-making. From self-defense against air and surface threats, to maritime interception operations, electronic warfare, common tactical picture management and datalink operations, the team performed well and met every challenge.

Freedom returned to Naval Station Mayport for a "hot swap" between the Blue Crew and the Gold Crew. The Gold Crew Commanding Officer Cmdr. Randy Garner and his crew then headed back out to sea, this time for five days of integrated training. Despite not having been on the ship for several months, the Gold Crew quickly settled in and successfully completed its training regimen.

"The opportunity to participate in COMPTUEX gave an unprecedented opportunity for my crew to operate with each of the components needed to bring Freedom to full operational capacity – mission module, aviation detachment and core crew," said Garner. "Never before had Freedom's Gold Crew operated with all of these elements at sea. The proficiency gained and the lessons learned were invaluable. I think we have another success to indicate that LCS will be a valuable asset to our operational fleet. We are looking forward to our deployment early next year."

LCSs like Freedom are designed to handle mission sets that do not require the full breadth and depth of capabilities of a traditional surface combatant. Instead of the wide spectrum of combat capability inherent to those platforms, LCS embarks tailored mission packages (surface warfare, mine countermeasure, anti-submarine warfare or maritime security) and an aviation detachment to fulfill a specific mission set. The tailored packages allow LCS to fulfill several niche missions with a much smaller crew and at less cost than larger surface combatants. In addition, the shallower draft of the LCS allows it to operate in many areas where larger, deeper draft combatants cannot venture.

Freedom will conduct additional system testing and training before it heads into its final Integrated/Advanced Phase training with the U.S. Coast Guard in January 2010. Freedom is scheduled to deploy to U.S. Southern Command and U.S. Pacific Command regions beginning in early 2010.

WGS-3 Milcomsat Launched Over the Weekend

After two failed launch attempts, the Air Force's third communication satellite, Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS-3), successfully blasted off from Cape Canaveral 8:47 p.m. (EST), Saturday (0147 UTC Dec 6).

United Launch Alliance (ULA) had postponed the launch earlier amid bad weather and technical snags.

41 minutes after its launch, the Delta IV 5-4 rocket successfully deployed the satellite into the geosynchronous orbit, triggering cheers at the space launch control center. The satellite launch also marks the completion of the 36th mission ULA in 36 months.

Jim Sponnick, ULA Vice President, Delta Product Line, said in a statement, "ULA congratulates the Air Force and our mission partners on the successful launch of WGS-3. It was appropriate the Air Force, which was one of the primary customers ULA was created to support, was the customer for today's 36th launch in 36 months.”

With its spectacular launch from Space Launch Complex-37, WGS-3 has joined the two other WGSs launched on Oct. 10, 2007 and Apr. 3, 2009 respectively. The 6.5 ton WGS-3 will be parked at 12 degrees West, after undergoing in orbit testing.

The WGS satellite’s installation has enabled more robust and successful execution of Command and Control, Communications Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C4ISR).

One WGS satellite’s capability is equivalent to the entire DSCS constellation. It not only enables users to get information faster but also provides data 10 times the data rate previously available, stated Air Force Maj. Mark Hadley, deputy program manager, Wideband Global SATCOM project.

WGS-3, an upgrade over Defense Satellite Communication System (DSCS), has been designed to serve U.S. and allied military forces around the world.

Providing high-capacity broadband communication services, WGS-3 will replace its DSCS as the Department of Defense's backbone for satellite communications.

As mentioned previously, the WGS-3 mission is the third installment of the Wideband Global SATCOM (WGS) system. The WGS satellites are important elements of a new high-capacity satellite communications system providing enhanced communications capabilities to America's troops in the field for the next decade and beyond. WGS enables more robust and flexible execution of Command and Control, Communications Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C4ISR), as well as battle management and combat support information functions. WGS-3 augments the existing service of the WGS-1 and WGS-2 satellites by providing additional information broadcast capabilities. It also provides high-capacity X-band and Ka-band communications to U.S. forces and allies across all current theaters of operation around the world. WGS-1 has been in operation over the Pacific since April 2008, and WGS-2 has been operating over the Middle East since August 2009. Both satellites have met or exceeded mission requirements throughout their testing and operational phases.

“With its extraordinary increase in satellite communications capacity and flexibility, WGS helps our warfighters more effectively execute their missions on land, at sea and in the air,” said Brig. Gen. Samuel Greaves, Vice Commander of the Air Force’s Space and Missile Systems Center in Los Angeles. “This is another great milestone for the WGS team, which is performing superbly and setting the standards for getting these critical communications assets into space and into operational use.”

“WGS addresses our military’s ever-growing appetite for high-bandwidth satellite communications,” said Craig Cooning, vice president and general manager, Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems. “We’re now working with the Air Force to determine how future WGS satellites could be enhanced to handle missions involving airborne intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, and communications-on-the-move.”

WGS-3 was flown on an Air Force C-5 transport from Boeing’s Satellite Development Center in El Segundo to Cape Canaveral in September. Before being shipped, WGS-3 completed mission assurance reviews and challenging factory tests that simulated the stress of the satellite’s mission.

Pasadena Returns to Pearl Harbor

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ronald Gutridge, Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- Los Angeles-Class fast-attack nuclear powered submarine USS Pasadena (SSN 752) returned to Naval Station Pearl Harbor Dec. 4, following a six-month deployment to the Western Pacific region.

"Pasadena had a very successful deployment and I am very proud of the crew," said Cmdr. Andrew St. John, Pasadena's commanding officer. "After participating in two multi-level exercises and five port visits, they gained a true appreciation for the breadth of operations ongoing in the Pacific and the value the submarine force brings to the fleet commander."

"A major part of this mission is training the junior Sailors and getting them submarine warfare qualified," said St. John. "Out of a crew of 137 Sailors, 38 were making their first deployment and 25 successfully qualified to wear the submarine warfare insignia during this deployment."

Pasadena was commissioned in July 1991 and is the U.S. Navy's second "improved" Los Angeles-class nuclear-powered submarine. Throughout its proud and illustrious 20-year history, Pasadena has deployed to and conducted operations in virtually every part of the Pacific Ocean, from the west coast of North and South America to Australia and the Persian Gulf.

USS Wayne E. Meyer Arrives in San Diego

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua Martin

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108), an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, arrived at its new homeport in San Diego Dec. 4, where the ship will be stationed after transiting from the Bath Iron Works Shipyard in Bath, Maine.

"From Bath, Maine to here it took us about two months," said Hull Maintenance Technician 2nd Class (SW) Matthew Luke Willis. "We left Bath, Maine, on Sept. 25 and arrived here today."

During its transit, the ship stopped in Philadelphia, Rodman, Panama, and Manzanillo, Mexico.

"I am ecstatic right now!" said Kimberly Davis, wife of Gas Turbine System Technician (Mechanical) 3rd Class Brackshea Davis. "I missed him so much and I am so glad they are here!"

Wayne E. Meyer is the 58th destroyer in her class and is named after Rear Adm. Wayne E. Meyer.

The ship also carries the 100th Aegis combat system; an advanced command and control, weapons control system which powerful computers and radars use to track and guide weapons to destroy enemy targets.

Meyer will provide deterrence, promote peace and security, preserve freedom of the seas and humanitarian /disaster response within 3rd Fleet's 50-million square mile area of responsibility in the Eastern Pacific, as well as supporting the nation's maritime strategy when forward deployed.

Navy Christens Newest Virginia-Class Submarine Missouri

By Lt. Patrick Evans, Submarine Group 2 Public Affairs

GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- With the spray of bubbly from a champagne bottle, PCU Missouri (SSN 780), the Navy's newest Virginia-class attack submarine, was christened during a late morning ceremony at General Dynamics Electric Boat in Groton, Conn., Dec. 5.

Missouri, the fifth Navy ship to be named in honor of the people of the "Show Me State," is "a link in the honored chain of ships to bear the name; another chapter in the storied history of the Naval service," said Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Ray Mabus.

SECNAV and Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates were among the many dignitaries and guests who attended the ceremony.

"We gather for this christening with the knowledge that Missouri's service builds upon a proud lineage of her namesake," said U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill of Missouri, the principal speaker for the event. "We gather in the belief that her service to our country – silent as it may be – will keep Americans safe by deterring would-be aggressors. We also gather today to confidently set the tone for the character of this submarine, which will sail with one foot in her proud past, but with an eye toward the future and all the potential that it holds."

Becky Gates, wife of the secretary of defense, serves as ship's sponsor. She broke the traditional champagne bottle against the boat's sail. Her initials were welded into a plaque inside the boat during last year's keel laying ceremony.

"I am humbled that in some way, I will go wherever the submarine sails," said Becky Gates. "As this, the latest Missouri, moves on to active duty, my thoughts will always be with the dedicated patriots who sail aboard her, and the loved ones who wait for their safe return."

The christening marks another milestone for the submarine, which is "now 90 percent complete with construction and is on track to finish $72 million under budget and well ahead of scheduled," according to director of Naval Nuclear Propulsion Adm. Kirkland H. Donald.

"This accomplishment is a testament of the leadership on this project. It's a tribute to each individual tradesman and Sailor represented by this crew that did their job right the first time and kept the environment of success and ownership on track and ever stronger," said Donald.

The last Missouri, a legendary battleship, saw action in World War II, the Korean War, the Persian Gulf War, and was also the site where Fleet Adm. Chester Nimitz, Gen. Douglas MacArthur and many other U.S. and Allied officers accepted the unconditional surrender of the Japanese at the end of World War II Sept. 2, 1945.

"This new Missouri will continue the proud history of ships before her. We in Missouri are proud of this ship, we are proud of her crew, we are proud of the ship builders who constructed it," said U.S. Representative Ike Skelton of Missouri and chairman of the House Armed Services Committee.

The seventh Virginia-class submarine, Missouri is built to excel in anti-submarine warfare; anti-ship warfare; strike warfare; special operations; intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance; irregular warfare; and mine warfare missions. Adept at operating in both the world's shallow littoral regions and deep waters, Missouri will directly enable five of the six Navy maritime strategy core capabilities – sea control, power projection, forward presence, maritime security and deterrence.

Cmdr. Timothy Rexrode of Spencer, W.Va., the ship's commanding officer, leads a crew of approximately 134 officers and enlisted personnel.

Missouri is expected to be delivered to the Navy in 2010 and begin her missions.

"She may patrol the waters of the Western Pacific or the North Atlantic. She may work with the Coast Guard and our international partners to stem the flow of illegal narcotics into our country. She may support our strike groups. And she will deploy to answer whatever the unknown challenges of the future, wherever they may be in support of our Maritime Strategy and our national objectives," said Mabus.

The 7,800-ton Missouri is being built under a teaming arrangement between General Dynamics Electric Boat and Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding - Newport News. She is 377-feet long, has a 34-foot beam and will be able to dive to depths of greater than 800 feet and operate at speeds in excess of 25 knots submerged. Missouri is designed with a nuclear reactor plant that will not require refueling during the planned life of the ship – reducing lifecycle costs while increasing underway time.

Rural communications site has global mission

I have a complete frequency profile on the HFGCS on this blog, click here. You can learn more about the HFGCS ALE network exclusively here on MMP by checking out our JCS HFGCS Scope Command HF ALE Network frequency profile.


One of eight directional rotatable log periodic antennas stands tall behind a cornfield, Nov. 5, 2009, near Elkhorn, Neb. The directional rotatable log periodic antennas can rotate 360 degrees. A crew of telecommunications specialists maintained by the 55th Strategic Communications Squadron from Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., monitor the antennas, which support a wide variety of missions from executive levels of government to NASA. (U.S. Air Force photo/Josh Plueger)

by Ryan Hansen, 55th Wing Public Affairs

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. (AFNS) -- Although it's location in the middle of a cornfield on a quiet country road may seem cutoff from society, in reality the Elkhorn Communication Site reaches beyond almost every border -- worldwide.

Situated 35 miles northwest of Offutt Air Force Base, this 50-year-old rural communications site is one of the 13 stations around the world that comprise the High Frequency Global Communication System. Together, the sites provide the Air Force and the Department of Defense with rapid, reliable, two-way communications every day of the year.

"A lot of people don't even know we're out here," said Brady Bach, a telecommunications specialist with the 55th Strategic Communications Squadron. "Even members of the communications squadron on base have no idea where we're located a lot of the time."


Brady Bach monitors the antennas at the Elkhorn and Scribner Communication sites Nov. 5, 2009, from a detached facility located near Elkhorn, Neb. Mr. Bach is a telecommunications specialist with the 55th Strategic Communications Squadron from Offutt Air Force Base, Neb. (U.S. Air Force photo/Josh Plueger)

But while their location may be at times a mystery, their mission certainly is not. The HFGCS serves as one of the main communications systems for many U.S. government agencies. This includes the Joint Chiefs of Staff, U.S. Central, Pacific and Strategic Commands, and U.S. State Department as well as the president.

"When the president is in the air, he has 24/7 communication thanks to our system," said Dave Clingerman, site chief and telecommunications specialist with the 55th SCS. "HF is one of the most reliable communications going."

In addition to its usual global customers, the HFGCS recently went out of this world to provide communication support to NASA as it worked to get astronauts safely back to earth following a trip to the international space station.

"I am amazed as to the number of agencies that use our system on a daily basis and more are added yearly," said Duane Swigert, a telecommunications specialist with the 55th SCS. "If only we had the time to just sit there and listen to those conversations -- that would be exciting."

Each HFGCS site around the globe has control of 6,000 square miles of coverage. But when a station is having technical difficulties or is down for maintenance, the other sites have the ability to step in and assist until it's fully operational again. And with the Elkhorn Communications Site being located in the central part of the United States, it is called upon frequently because of its flexibility.

"Sitting right here, we can support either coast," Mr. Clingerman said. "It's truly seamless to our customers."

Spread out over 386 acres just outside of Elkhorn, with an additional 156 acres in Scribner, Neb., the communications site features 32 antennas. This includes 15 high frequency, eight directional rotatable log periodic and nine omni directional antennas.

"They want as little interference as possible, which is why we're out here (in the country)," Mr. Clingerman said. "The receiver site is in Scribner because we don't want transmitters right next to them. The system puts out 4,000 watts, so you don't want that transmitting right on the front end of a receiver."

While the site is now maintained by a small staff of four, it was at one time a bustling hub of activity with more than 100 Airmen performing the mission.

"Technology was a big part (of the downsizing) as was budget cuts," Mr. Swigert said.

"The old equipment required a lot more people to maintain it, so what used to take a lot of bodies to perform the mission now only takes four," said Mr. Clingerman.

However, with the small staff, the mission doesn't suffer. With their diverse communications backgrounds these four can easily handle the system and its four technologies: radio, telephone, networking and tech control.

"We've got a bunch of experience and we're a very cohesive team here," Mr. Bach said. "We all have our strengths and we're all fully qualified to perform the mission."

"Diversity (in experience and knowledge) here is the key reason we are able to keep this system running at a nearly 100 percent operational status year round," Mr. Swigert said. "We each bring something important to the table that makes things work smoothly, like a well oiled machine, as they say."

While the system plays an important role in communications for organizations and personnel around the world, it has yet to reach its maximum capability. In the future, the Elkhorn Communications Site may see digital HF, airborne networking as well as possibly integrating with the Joint Tactical Radio System.

"When other satellites go out, HF is always around," Mr. Clingerman said. "More users are coming on board with our system, people are starting to realize what it can do and it's a technology that isn't going to go away."

So while this unit may be out of mind and out of sight for the most part, there's no doubt about its contribution to the mission.

"I have had folks tell me that this place is the Air Force's best kept secret," Mr. Swigert said, "and I would have to agree."

Dave Clingerman explains how he monitors antennas for the Elkhorn and Scribner Communication Sites Nov. 5, 2009, from a detached facility located near Elkhorn, Neb. Mr. Clingerman is a telecommunications specialist with the 55th Strategic Communications Squadron from Offutt Air Force Base, Neb. (U.S. Air Force photo/Josh Plueger)

Navy Pic of the Day - USS Bataan LCAC

A landing craft air cushion (LCAC) from Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4 returns to the well deck of multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) after offloading Marines and equipment from the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (22nd MEU), following a seven-month deployment with the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kelvin Edwards/Released)

Dover C-5Ms complete test in surge operations

by Maj. Ronald L. Betts
436th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron maintenance operations officer

DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. (AFNS) -- The C-5M Super Galaxy team has completed another stage of operational test and evaluation with the conclusion of surge operations at Dover AFB. The surge operations consisted of 31 days of delivering essential cargo and flying sorties nonstop, from Dover AFB to Incirlik Air Base, Turkey, without refueling to test wartime contingency operations.

"Our maintainers spent the last 12 months training for this big game. Not only are they hitting a home run with regards to operational test and evaluation, but they hit a grand slam during the surge. The C-5M is a strategic airlift revolution -- proven by successful completion of the Dover to Incirlik surge," said Maj. Stephanie Halcrow, the 436th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron commander, who had the responsibility for preparing the C-5M aircraft and personnel for operational test and evaluation.

During the surge period, the C-5M flew 34 sorties and moved 3.8 million pounds of cargo while saving time and fuel. Traditional C-5B Galaxy sorties include fuel stops at Rota Naval Air Station, Spain, which the C-5M bypassed as part of the operational test and evaluation. This direct flight to Incirlik AB saved more than 365 hours, 289 of those on the ground, and approximately 1.3 million pounds of fuel.

"The new engines have significantly increased the C-5M's capabilities," said Lt. Col. Mike Semo, theC-5M Dover program officer. "With the nonstop flights to Incirlik, Turkey, we delivered more cargo in less time to the warfighter. The direct delivery capability to the Central Command AOR without utilizing scarce air refueling assets provides a unique capability available to the DOD leadership."

With the completion of surge operations a significant milestone has been achieved in the operational test and evaluation, with two additional goals still to meet. The first will take place at Eielson AFB, Alaska, in December. While there, the C-5M maintenance team must demonstrate the removal and replacement of the C-5M engine in the extreme cold of Alaska, with temperatures forecasted to be about 30 degrees below zero.

Finally, the C-5M must have a total of 1,300 flying hours, which means the C-5M team has to accomplish less than 400 more flying hours to reach this mark.

Estimates place the completion of operational test and evaluation sometime in January 2010. Once completed, the Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center, the agency with oversight of the C-5M operational test and evaluation here, will present a report to Congress regarding the tests conducted at Dover AFB.

Navy Pic of the Day - VMM 263

An AV-8B Harrier from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 263 (Reinforced), 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepares for its final takeoff from the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) after completing a seven-month deployment. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group is returning to homeport after conducting maritime security operations in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kelvin Edwards/Released)

USS Los Angeles Returns from Final Deployment

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ronald Gutridge, COMSUBPAC Public Affairs

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- USS Los Angeles (SSN 688) returned to Naval Station Pearl Harbor from their last Western Pacific deployment Nov. 19.

"This was an extremely successful deployment being that it was Los Angeles's final one," said Cmdr. Steven Harrison, commanding officer. "All of the national level tasking for the operational commander and joint training in support of anti-submarine warfare contributed to a very lucrative mission."

Los Angeles, the fourth naval ship to be named after the city, is the lead ship of her class. Her many capabilities include wartime functions of undersea warfare, surface warfare, strike warfare, mining operations, special forces delivery, reconnaissance, carrier battle group support and escort, and intelligence collection.

Launched on April 6, 1974 at Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry-dock Company in Newport News, Los Angeles was commissioned on Nov. 13, 1976. She made her first operational deployment to the Mediterranean Sea in 1977 and was awarded a Meritorious Unit Citation.

In 1978, Los Angeles transferred to the Pacific Fleet and was assigned to Submarine Squadron 7, homeported in Pearl Harbor. The sub and her crew operated with distinction, conducting five Western Pacific, one Indian Ocean, and four Northern Pacific deployments. These operations earned her three additional Meritorious Unit Citations. Additionally, she was awarded her squadron's annual Battle Efficiency "E" for excellence in combat readiness four times.

In July 1992, Los Angeles departed Pearl Harbor for a change of homeport to Mare Island Naval Shipyard, Vallejo, Calif. Arriving on August 6, she commenced the first engineered refueling overhaul of a Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine. During the overhaul, she was outfitted with the latest state-of-the-art sonar and fire control systems, as well as the Navy's newest reactor controls equipment.

Los Angeles returned to an operational status after the 31 month overhaul in March 1995. She was reassigned to Pearl Harbor and is currently attached to Submarine Squadron 1. Since departing Pearl Harbor on her final deployment in May, Los Angeles conducted numerous operations vital to national security and in support of Commander Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

"It was a great deployment for me and I am very honored to have worked with such an outstanding and highly motivated crew," said Culinary Specialist 1st Class (SS) Robert Dare. This deployment is very special to me knowing that we were not only helping to fight the war on terrorism, but also contributing to the history of the Naval Submarine Force."

"It's a bittersweet ending of a great era," said Harrison. I am extremely proud of each and every crewmember. I could not ask for a better way to complete Los Angeles's final mission."

Los Angeles will depart Pearl Harbor for the final time this winter, en route to Bremerton, Wash., for final inactivation.

Pearl Harbor Welcomes USS Texas

The Virginia-class submarine USS Texas (SSN 775) arrived at its new homeport, Naval Station Pearl Harbor, during an inner-fleet transfer from Groton Submarine Base. The arrival of Texas to Pearl Harbor will mark the second of the Virginia-class subs to be stationed in the Pacific, following the historic arrival of USS Hawaii (SSN 776) in July. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Josh Thompson/Released)

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ronald Gutridge, COMSUBPAC Public Affairs

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- USS Texas (SSN 775), the second Virginia-class submarine to be homeported in the Pacific, arrived at Naval Station Pearl Harbor during an inner-fleet transfer from Groton Submarine Base Nov. 23.

"This is a very exciting time for Texas and her crew," said Cmdr. Robert Roncska, commanding officer, USS Texas. "The crew performed above and beyond my expectations and I am very proud that we are here now and in the Aloha spirit."

Measuring 377 feet long, weighing 7,800 tons when submerged and with a complement of more than 130 crew members, Texas is one of the Navy's newest and most technologically sophisticated submarines.

The state-of-the-art submarine is capable of supporting a multitude of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike, naval special warfare involving special operations forces, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, irregular warfare, and mine warfare.

Texas completed a historic first for the Virginia class last month when it became the first vessel of its class to operate in the arctic region, including time spent on the surface near the North Pole. The ship moored safely to the ice for over 24 hours. Activities on the ice included a very special re-enlistment ceremony for 12 crew members and a pinning ceremony in which one crew member received his submarine warfare qualification dolphins, as well as some down time to play touch football in the five degree weather.
Though the submarine force has continually operated in the dangerous region successfully for over 50 years, this occasion marked the first such venture by one the Navy's newest assets.

Commissioned Sept. 9, 2006, Texas was the second Virginia-class attack submarine constructed and the first submarine to be named after the "Lone Star" state. Two battleships and a cruiser were previously named USS Texas, and three active Los Angeles-class submarines, USS Dallas (SSN 700), USS City of Corpus Christi (SSN 705) and USS Houston (SSN 713) have been named for cities in Texas.

The arrival of Texas to Pearl Harbor will mark the second of the Virginia-class subs to be stationed in the Pacific, following the historic arrival of USS Hawaii (SSN 776) in July. Both vessels are assigned Commander, Submarine Squadron 1.

"It is a great honor to be a part of this historical event," said Electronics Technician 1st Class (SS) Andre Valdez. "I am really looking forward to being stationed here and being part of this submarine force."

Recognizing the importance of the Asia-Pacific region and the increased threat posed by the proliferation of submarines in the Pacific, the 2006 Quadrennial Defense Review mandated that 60 percent of the U.S. Navy's submarines be home ported in the Pacific by the end of 2010. With USS Texas' arrival, 31 of the U.S. Navy's 53 fast attack submarines will be home ported in the Pacific, with 18 of those 31 homeported in Pearl Harbor.

Satellites could one day replace Coast Guard's ice-patrol crews

In a story posted on theday.com website, Jennifer Grogan has an interesting piece on the future of the U.S. Coast Guardman flying missions as part of the International Ice Patrol. They could be replaced in the future by satellites that can do the same job.

You can read more about this story by clicking here.

Air Force to expand training airspace in Dakotas

The Bismarck Tribune website has an AP story posted yesterday written by Dirk Lammers on the U.S. Air Force looking into quadrupling the airspace in which it can it can conduct training exercises with its B-1 and B-52 bombers stationed in the Dakotas.

The Powder River Training Complex, centered just northwest of where South Dakota, Wyoming and Montana meet, now spans about 6,000 square miles. The space can accommodate only one or two bombers at a time, so some B-1B Lancers from South Dakota's Ellsworth Air Force Base and B-52 Stratofortress bombers from North Dakota's Minot Air Force Base have had to fly as far as Nevada for their combat exercises, said George Stone, Ellsworth's airspace manager.

You can read the entire story by clicking here.

Indiana Soldiers Maintain Forward Operating Base

Army Spc. David Lillian, right, supervises an Afghan worker during weed removal at Forward Operating Base Salerno in Afghanistan's Khost province, Nov. 30, 2009. U.S. Army photo by Spc. William E. Henry

By Army Spc. William E. Henry, Special to American Forces Press Service

KHOST PROVINCE, Afghanistan - Indiana National Guard soldiers from the 38th Infantry Division's Task Force Cyclone ensure Forward Operating Base Salerno is maintained properly.

Located in eastern Afghanistan, Salerno is near the Pakistan border and is home to four different elements of the Indiana National Guard.

The 1-19th Indiana Agribusiness Development Team; B Company, 2nd Battalion, 151st Infantry Regiment; the 177th Finance Company; and the 38th Infantry Division's Task Force Cyclone, who run base operations, reside at Salerno during their deployment. The commander for Salerno base operations, Army Lt. Col. Rodney Babb, said the work his team does surpasses the expectations of all who live on post.

"The performance of Task Force Cyclone servicemembers has been outstanding," said Babb, an Indianapolis resident. "Their effort to go the extra mile surpasses the needs of our tenants and improves the quality-of-life support services."

Army Spcs. David Lillian and Devin Blankenship, both Indianapolis residents, said their work is difficult, but worthwhile, as soldiers coming and going on a day-to-day basis are the ones who benefit the most from their efforts.

"It boosts morale," Lillian said. "[When] you live in a house, you like to have your house clean. This is our house, and we keep it clean."

Blankenship said his rural upbringing contributes to his desire to do his part in keeping the base clean. "I grew up in the country, so I don't like having mess and filth, and I'm sure nobody else does," he said.

Each soldier supervises a crew of 10 to 12 local Afghans who perform a multitude of tasks each working day. Tasks range from filling sandbags and pulling weeds to preparing billeting and building projects.

The specialists both had high praise for the Afghans' work ethic and how they engage in each job.

"They're great. They don't mess around. You show them something, and they do it," Lillian said. "I like these guys. Some of them have been [working on the base] for five years."

On this particular day, the crews were removing weeds and trash from around the base, which are mundane jobs, but crucial for the health of all who live in and around the area.

"The weeds are an issue because of the rodents," Blankenship explained. "We have a lot of mice, rats, lizards and snakes here, especially in the summertime. There are all kinds of different diseases out here. We don't want anything to help feed that."

Blankenship noted Khost province is a high-risk area for malaria. "We don't want standing water and trash to feed the mosquitoes," he said, "and we're trying to come down on the malaria issue."

As a direct result of the work done by the local Afghans, Lillian said, units going out on assignment each day can keep their mind on their operations, rather than worrying about their living conditions.

"They can be focused on the mission and drive on, and when they come back inside from going outside the wire [they] can be like, 'Wow,'" said Lillian. "[It's] something like home, just thousands of miles away."

USS Nicholas Sets Sail for Africa

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Rachael L. Leslie, Navy Public Affairs Support Element, Norfolk Public Affairs

NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- The guided-missile frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47) departed her homeport at Naval Station Norfolk, Va., for a scheduled deployment Dec. 3.

The ship and her crew of 186 Sailors are set to participate in Africa Partnership Station (APS) in support of U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM).

"APS is so important to the Navy," said Cmdr. Mark Kesselring, the ship's commanding officer. "It helps us to expand our partnerships across the oceans."

APS is an international security cooperation initiative led by U.S. Naval Forces Africa with the goal of improving maritime safety and security in West and Central Africa.

"I want them [the crew] to come back knowing they've done their best and served their country," said Kesselring. "I also hope they gain a better appreciation for other cultures."

APS is designed to help build the professional skills and capabilities of African nations. It is also the largest maritime partnership program in African history.

"I'm so very proud of both my son and the Navy," said Joe Sagona, father of Lt. Brian Sagona, a Nicholas crew member. "I served in the Air Force back in the 70s, and I'm just so amazed at how many things the Navy does. There's just so much more to deal with and protect."

During the deployment, Nicholas is scheduled to visit and train with several countries. The training will include professional exchanges on seamanship, environmental stewardship, and maritime awareness, along with numerous humanitarian and civic outreach opportunities.

Future USS New Mexico Successfully Completes Alpha Trials

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Pre-Commissioning Unit New Mexico (SSN 779), the U.S. Navy's newest submarine, successfully completed its initial sea trials, or Alpha Trials, Nov. 26.

The submarine departed Newport News, Va., Nov. 24 to evaluate its seaworthiness and operational performance. New Mexico's Alpha Trials included diving to test depth, executing an emergency surfacing, and testing the ship's propulsion plant performance.

Successful completion of these sea trials is a significant step towards ensuring that New Mexico meets all specifications and is ready for delivery to the Navy, which is anticipated by the end of 2009, following completion of Bravo Sea Trials and the Navy's Board of Inspection and Survey trials.

"New Mexico's successful completion of sea trials is a testament to the hard work of the Navy's shipbuilding team," said Capt. Michael Jabaley, Virginia Class program manager. "It is this partnership that has helped get New Mexico to where it is today, ahead of original contract schedule."

New Mexico is the sixth submarine of the Virginia Class and third that Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding will deliver. Delivery of the ship prior to the end of the year would be four months early to its contract delivery date.

When commissioned in early 2010, New Mexico will join the five subs of its class as flexible, multi-mission platforms designed to carry out the seven core competencies of the Submarine Force: anti-submarine warfare; anti-surface warfare; special operations forces; strike; irregular warfare; intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance; and mine warfare.

COMSUBPAC Announces Changes of Homeport

Submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39) pulls into its new homeport at Naval Base Kitsap Bremerton. Land's arrival from La Maddalena, Italy, completes its change of homeport after eight years of providing mobile fleet support to submarines and surface ships in the 6th Fleet area of responsibility. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Maebel Tinoko (Released)

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- Commander Submarine Force U.S. Pacific Fleet Rear Adm. Douglas McAneny announced Dec. 1 that the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39) and the fast-attack submarines USS City of Corpus Christi (SSN 705) and USS Oklahoma City (SSN 723) will be changing homeports during 2010 and 2011.

USS Emory S. Land, currently completing depot-level maintenance in Bremerton, Wash., will be forward-deployed to Diego Garcia upon completion of maintenance, in accordance with defense agreements between the U.S. and British governments. USS Emory S. Land is expected to depart Bremerton next spring, arriving in Diego Garcia next summer.

The submarine tender will provide an expeditionary maintenance capability to the fast-attack submarines (SSNs) and guided missile submarines (SSGNs), particularly those operating in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

"Forward-deploying USS Emory S. Land to Diego Garcia will dramatically reduce transit time for our submarines operating in 5th Fleet that require intermediate level maintenance, emergent repair, or logistics support," said McAneny.

Assigning USS Emory S. Land to Diego Garcia demonstrates the Navy's continuing commitment to peace and regional security through maintaining strong capabilities.

USS City of Corpus Christi, currently homeported in Guam, will be replaced in Guam by the Norfolk-based USS Oklahoma City, and the former will be assigned to Naval Station Pearl Harbor. While specific dates are unavailable, the homeport shifts are projected to take place between the fall of 2010 and the spring of 2011.

"Shifting homeports for USS Oklahoma City and USS City of Corpus Christi ensure that our most technologically advanced submarines are forward, so we maintain our ability to dominate the sea base and shape potential adversaries," said Rear Adm. McAneny.

City of Corpus Christi will undergo maintenance at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard shortly after arrival.

The shift of homeports for the two submarines is not part of the overall military build-up on Guam. While there may be some period of overlap where more than three submarines are assigned, this homeport shift will not result in any long-term increase in the number of submarines homeported at Submarine Squadron 15, which also includes USS Houston (SSN 713) and USS Buffalo (SSN 715).

Officially recognizing the importance of the Asia-Pacific region and the increased threat posed by the proliferation of submarines in the Pacific, the 2006 Quadrennial Defense Review mandated that 60 percent of the U.S. Navy's submarines be homeported in the Pacific by the end of 2010.

In accordance with that mandate, USS Hampton (SSN 767), USS Jacksonville (SSN 699), USS Seawolf (SSN 21), USS Connecticut (SSN 22), USS Albuquerque (SSN 706), USS Hawaii (SSN 776), and USS Texas (SSN 775) have already been transferred from the Atlantic to the Pacific Submarine Force. Currently, 31 of the U.S. Navy's 53 fast attack submarines are homeported in the Pacific, with 18 of those 31 homeported in Pearl Harbor. USS Los Angeles (SSN 688) will depart Pearl Harbor for inactivation this winter.

USS Columbus Departs for WestPac Deployment

The Los Angeles-class submarine USS Columbus (SSN 762) departs Naval Station Pearl Harbor for a scheduled deployment to the western Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ronald Gutridge/Released)

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ronald Gutridge, COMSUBPAC Public Affairs

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) -- The Los Angeles-class submarine USS Columbus (SSN 762) departed Naval Station Pearl Harbor for a scheduled deployment to the western Pacific region Nov. 24.

"The crew is very excited and eager to get underway," said Cmdr. David Minyard, USS Columbus commanding officer. "They've all worked extremely hard getting this ship and themselves ready for this deployment. I am very proud of each and every one of them."

Columbus is the 51st Los Angeles-class submarine and the 12th improved version of this class, which includes a vertical launch system for Tomahawk cruise missiles and an improved hull design for under-ice operations. She completed a post shipyard availability in June 1994 in Groton, Conn. after initial construction and shakedown operations. In September 1994, the ship conducted an interfleet transfer to Pearl Harbor and joined the U.S. Pacific Fleet Submarine Force.

Commander outlines Global Strike Command mission, vision, values

by Airman 1st Class Jennifer Viveiros, 90th Missile Wing Public Affairs

F.E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. (AFNS) -- The men and women of 20th Air Force and the 90th Missile Wing hosted the commander of Air Force Global Strike Command during an historic Air Force milestone as the command assumed responsibilities for the intercontinental ballistic missile mission Dec. 1.

While at F.E. Warren, Lt. Gen. Frank Klotz met with installation and community leaders, and addressed about 600 Airmen at an installation-wide commander's call at the base theater, introducing them to the AFGSC mission, vision, expectations and values.

The mission and vision statements were reinforced by distribution of printed wallet cards for Airmen who attended.

The new command gained three missile wings -- the 90th MW here; the 341st MW at Malmstrom AFB, Mont.; and the 91st MW at Minot AFB, N.D. -- as the new higher headquarters for 20th AF, including all of the United States' 450 ICBMs.

The 576th Flight Test Squadron at Vandenberg AFB, Calif., and the 625th Strategic Operations Squadron at Offutt AFB, Neb., also now fall under AFGSC, officials said.

"This is an historic day as Air Force Global Strike Command assumes responsibility for all of the nation's ICBM force," General Klotz said. "It is the next milestone in what has been a methodical step-by-step process ... in an effort to bring all of the Air Forces strategic nuclear capabilities under one command again."

The activation of AFGSC demonstrates the Air Force's special commitment to this crucial mission, providing a singular strategic nuclear deterrence focus, General Klotz said.

The general said he and the Air Force's most senior leaders are all proud of the men and women of 20th AF and its three missile wings. He stated Air Force leaders recognize the challenges of the profession and share his pride in the Airmen charged with the ICBM mission.

"Air Force senior leadership knows how difficult your job is, knows how demanding it is, how exacting it is," he said. "And we're proud of each and every individual in this command."

The command's top leader provided a brief history of how and why the establishment of this command is so important.

Those words are reflected in the AFGSC mission statement, said the general.

"Our mission is to develop and provide combat-ready forces for nuclear deterrence and global strike operations... safe, secure, credible... to support the president of the United States and combatant commanders."

According to General Klotz, AFGSC brings focus to the nuclear enterprise by streamlining all ICBM forces and nuclear-capable bombers under one command, "providing a safe, secure and effective arsenal of nuclear deterrence."

Deterrence for the United States is one of the elements of the AFGSC mission, he added. The other, he said is "assurance for our allies."

The general explained that in order to accomplish this mission, Airmen must understand the command's vision. This vision involves creating an elite, highly-disciplined, model command.

According to General Klotz, success for the command depends on Airmen upholding the traits that the command values. These include accepting individual responsibility for mission success, critical self-assessment, uncompromising adherence to standards, superior technical weapons system expertise, pride in the nuclear heritage, respect for the worth and dignity of every Airman, and safety in all things large and small.

The transition to the new command will be smooth, the general said. One thing he said he will ask is for Airmen to continue to adhere to the standard of excellence that the Air Force and the nation expect.

The general also stressed the need for each Airman to be an expert in his or her own job and perform at the highest level. As such, he challenged Airmen to achieve new levels of excellence and asked every AFGSC Airman to be "the greatest in the world, (at) the job you are in right now "

Being great "is within your reach and within your grasp," he said. "Constantly push to achieve new levels of excellence."

General Klotz said it is going to take everyone, working together every day, to make the command successful, but he is sure the command's Airmen are up to the challenge.

"You are an elite team and a proud team, and I wish you good luck," he said.

Milcom Blog Logs - November 2009 - Central Florida

Here are the November blog logs from Jack NeSmith that he intercepted from his central Florida listening post. Thanks Jack for sharing with my MMP readers.

225.1250 UNKNOWN
225.2000 UNKNOWN
225.3250 IKE ?
225.3500 PINECASTLE RNG R-2910
225.7500 165AW
226.5500 IKE ?
228.2250 347RQG MOODY AFB GA
228.9000 NORAD
229.4750 14FTW
233.3250 IKE
234.5000 VFC-12
234.5750 IKE
234.6000 NORAD
234.8000 159FS/125FW
235.4000 NASA
236.2750 CNTRA
236.8000 UNKNOWN
237.0250 TYNDALL AFB
237.1500 AWACS
237.1750 IKE
237.4750 UNKNOWN
237.6500 UNKNOWN
237.7000 LANTCOM
237.8000 VFA-106
238.3750 3/3 AVN HUNTER AAF GA
238.8000 USED AS INTERFLIGHT
238.9000 AR-620
239.0000 ORLANDO EXEC
239.3000 NAS MAYPORT
239.4750 IKE
239.5500 NORTHCOM
240.1000 MACDILL AFB
240.5500 VFA-11
242.1500 310AS
242.4000 ARMY
242.7500 LANTCOM
245.7000 ARMY
246.8000 NAVY ?
247.1000 IKE
250.2500 AWACS
250.3000 VMFA-224
251.1000 KZJX
251.1250 ST AUGUSTINE GROUND CONTROL
251.1500 JAX IAP
251.2000 UNKNOWN
251.2500 159FS/125FW
252.6250 UNKNOWN
252.8000 920RQW
252.9250 HAVEQUICK
253.1000 VMFA-122
252.5250 IKE
253.7000 159FS/125FW
254.2750 LIVE OAK MOA
254.3250 KZJX
254.9000 OLF NORTH WHITING AREA-2 COMMON
255.1250 UNKNOWN
255.2000 IKE
255.4000 FSS
256.7500 AIR FORCE
256.8750 KZJX
256.9000 KZJX
257.1000 AVON PARK RNG
257.2500 HAVEQUICK
257.7000 KZMA
257.8000 DAYTONA TOWER
258.9250 UNKNOWN
258.9500 UNKNOWN
259.2000 AIR FORCE
260.9000 NORAD
261.2500 R-2907 LAKE GEORGE TARGETS
261.4000 W-470
262.7000 OLF NORTH WHITING FIELD
262.7500 UNKNOWN
262.8500 NORTHCOM
263.0500 KZJX
263.5000 CNTRA
264.2000 VP-16 EAGLE BASE
264.6250 AVON PARK RNG
264.6500 BOEING OPS
264.8000 NASA VARIETY NET
264.8500 UNKNOWN
266.6250 UNKNOWN
267.5000 FACSFAC JAX
267.8500 HAVEQUICK
269.2500 KZJX
269.3000 KZMA
269.3750 PATRICK AFB TOWER
269.4750 ST AUGUSTINE TOWER
269.9250 IKE ?
270.5000 IKE
270.5250 IKE
271.1250 IKE ?
271.8500 IKE
273.5000 PATRICK AFB ATIS
273.5500 KZJX
273.7000 TARPON RNG KEY WEST
275.2000 GRUMMAN FLIGHT TEST
273.6500 JARCC KEY WEST
276.3250 IKE
276.4000 NAS JAX GCA
277.2000 IKE ?
277.8000 FLEET COMMON
278.0500 IKE
278.4000 NORAD
278.7500 AIR REFUELING
279.6000 TAMPA IAP A/D
281..4250 PATRICK AFB A/D
281.5000 KZMA
282.2000 KZJX
282.3000 KZMA
282.3250 CCAFS
283.4000 VMFA-122
283.6500 IKE
283.7000 "BUCANEER OPS" MACDILL AFB
283.8500 IKE ?
284.0000 KSC TOWER
284.2500 BLUE ANGELS
284.5000 FACSFAC JAX
284.7000 ORLANDO IAP A/D
285.3500 IKE
285.5000 KZMA
285.6500 KZJX
285.7250 AVON PARK RNG
288.4250 CNTRA
289.2000 PINECASTLE RNG R-2910
290.2250 KZJX
290.4000 KZJX
292.1000 "THUNDER OPS" 6ARW
292.2000 AVON PARK RNG R-2901
293.2250 KZMA
293.6000 NORAD
294.6000 NASA VARIETY NET
298.4750 IKE ?
298.6500 HAVEQUICK
301.0000 MCAS BEAUFORT SOUTH TACT RNG
303.0000 AIR REFUELING
303.2000 IKE
307.0000 ORLANDO IAP A/D
307.1000 KZMA
307.1750 TAMPA IAP A/D
307.2000 KZJX
307.2500 KZJX
307.3000 KZMA
308.4000 JAX IAP A/D
308.7500 AWACS
310.2000 NAS JX BASE OPS
311.0000 6ARW "LIGHTING OPS"
311.5000 FACSFAC JAC GCI "BRISTOL"
313.7000 FACSFAC JAX
313.9000 IKE
314.2000 159FS/125FW
314.4250 IKE
316.3000 NORAD
317.5250 KZJX
317.6000 KZJX
317.6000 KZMA
318.6000 FACSFAC JAX
321.0000 CMD POST 920 RQW PATRICK AFB
322.4000 JAX IAP A/D
322.4750 KZJX
322.5000 KZJX
323.0500 KZJX
323.1000 KZMA
327.6000 AR-202S
328.4000 NAS JAX GCA
335.5500 KZJX
335.6000 JAX IAP A/D
335.9500 NORAD
338.1000 "OMEGA" AIR REFUELING
340.2000 NAS JAX TOWER
340.3750 IKE
341.7000 ORLANDO IAP CLEARANCE DELIVERY
341.7500 AWACS
343.0000 159FS/125FW
343.0250 IKE ?
343.5000 NAS JAX METRO
346.2500 KZJX
346.3500 KZJX
348.5250 ARMY
348.7000 KZMA
349.4000 ALCC
351.8000 JAX IAP A/D
351.8750 IKE
351.9000 ORLANDO EXEC A/D
352.0000 KZJX
353.6000 KZMA
357.0000 IKE
357.3750 IKE
360.5000 NAVY
360.7000 KZJX
363.0500 KZMA
363.2000 KZJX
348.0000 NAS JAX GCA
348.3500 IKE

Delaware Air National Guard Depart for Afghanistan

Members of the Delaware Air National Guard have departed for Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Navy to Christen Submarine Missouri

GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- The Navy will christen its newest attack submarine Missouri, Dec. 5, during an 11 a.m. EST ceremony at General Dynamics Electric Boat in Groton, Conn.

U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill will deliver the ceremony's principal address. Becky Gates, wife of Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, will serve as ship's sponsor.

This is the fifth Navy ship to be named in honor of the people of the "Show Me State" and its leaders for their continuous support of the military. The last USS Missouri, a legendary battleship, saw action in World War II, the Korean War, the Persian Gulf War, and was also the site where Fleet Adm. Chester Nimitz, Gen. Douglas MacArthur, and many other U.S. and Allied officers accepted the unconditional surrender of the Japanese at the end of World War II on Sept. 2, 1945.

The seventh Virginia-class submarine, Missouri is built to excel in anti-submarine warfare; anti-ship warfare; strike warfare; special operations; intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance; irregular warfare; and mine warfare missions. Adept at operating in both the world's shallow littoral regions and deep waters, Missouri will directly enable five of the six Navy maritime strategy core capabilities – sea control, power projection, forward presence, maritime security, and deterrence.

Cmdr. Timothy Rexrode of Spencer, W.Va., is the ship's commanding officer and will lead a crew of approximately 134 officers and enlisted personnel.

The 7,800-ton Missouri is being built under a teaming arrangement between General Dynamics Electric Boat and Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding-Newport News. She is 377-feet long, has a 34-foot beam, and will be able to dive to depths of greater than 800 feet and operate at speeds in excess of 25 knots submerged. Missouri is designed with a nuclear reactor plant that will not require refueling during the planned life of the ship – reducing lifecycle costs while increasing underway time.

USS Wayne E. Meyer to Homeport in San Diego

Crew members man-the-rails during the commissioning ceremony of the Arleigh Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108) at Penn's Landing in Philadelphia. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tiffini Jones Vanderwyst/Released)

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108), an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, will arrive in San Diego Dec. 4 where the ship will be homeported after transiting from the Bath Iron Works Shipyard in Bath, Maine.

The new destroyer, under the command of Cmdr. Nick A. Sarap, was commissioned in Philadelphia and placed into active service on the Delaware River Oct. 10. The ship is the 58th destroyer in its class carrying the 100th Aegis combat system; an advanced command and control, and weapon control system that uses powerful computers and radars to track and guide weapons to destroy enemy targets.

Meyer honors retired Navy Rear Adm. Wayne E. Meyer who led the development of the Aegis combat system for the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruisers and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers.

In 1963, the secretary of the Navy chose Meyer to lead a special Navy Task Force for Surface Missile Systems. Meyer turned down a destroyer command to continue his work with missile, radar and fire control systems, and became the founding chief engineer at the Naval Ship Missile System Engineering Station, Port Hueneme, Calif. In this position, Meyer was promoted to rear admiral in January 1975.

In January 1977, he assumed duties as the founding project manager of the Aegis Shipbuilding Project. This project was ultimately responsible for the construction of all of the Navy's current cruisers and destroyers – with 89 ships built or in construction, and more in planning. This is one of the longest and largest naval shipbuilding programs in history. He retired from active duty in 1985.

Meyer will provide deterrence, promote peace and security, preserve freedom of the sea and humanitarian/disaster response within 3rd Fleet's 50-million square mile area of responsibility in the Eastern Pacific, as well as supporting the nation's Maritime Strategy when forward deployed.

Air Force Global Strike Command officials assume ICBM mission

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. (AFNS) -- Air Force Global Strike Command officials here assume the Air Force's intercontinental ballistic missile mission Dec. 1.

The ICBM transfer is part of a phased approach to unify all Air Force nuclear-capable assets under one command, officials said.

The new command gains three missile wings with the assumption of the 20th Air Force mission: one each from F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyo.; Malmstrom AFB, Mont.; and Minot AFB, N.D. Command officials also assume responsibility for all of the United States' 450 ICBMs.

The 576th Flight Test Squadron at Vandenberg AFB, Calif., as well as the 625th Strategic Operations Squadron at Offutt AFB, Neb., also now fall under AFGSC. Previously all of those units were part of Air Force Space Command.

"We are well on our way to consolidating all of our Air Force assets in this critical mission area under a single command, one that will serve as a single major command voice to maintain the high standards necessary for stewardship of our nation's most powerful weapons," said Lt. Gen. Frank G. Klotz, AFGSC commander.

"The creation of this new command reflects the Air Force's firm and unshakable conviction that nuclear deterrence and global strike operations are a special trust and responsibility, one that we take very seriously," the general said.

On Feb. 1, AFGSC officials also will gain 8th Air Force, based at Barksdale AFB, and along with it, 8th Air Force's nuclear-capable bombers. At that time, the command will gain the B-52 Stratofortress wings at Barksdale AFB and Minot AFB, and the B-2 Spirit wing at Whiteman AFB, Mo.

AFGSC stood up in August to provide combat-ready forces to conduct strategic nuclear deterrence and global strike operations in support of the president and combatant commanders.

The Air Force Global Strike Command was established in an effort to boost security and reduce errors.

In a 2007 incident, nuclear weapons were loaded aboard a B-52 bomber at Minot Air Force Base and flown to Barksdale before the mistake was discovered. In another incident, nuclear nose cones mistakenly were shipped to Taiwan. As a result, then-Air Force Secretary Michael Wynne and then-Air force Chief of Staff Gen. T. Michael Moseley resigned. Another 15 officers, including six generals, were disciplined.

The new command is part of a roadmap to improving the Air Force's Stewardship of its nuclear program, Air Force Secretary Michael B. Donley said during an October 2008 Pentagon media roundtable to introduce the plan.

"This is a critical milestone for us. It's a new starting point for reinvigoration of this enterprise," he said then. "The changes we make today will help us focus on this enterprise regardless of other changes in Air Force missions along the way, and regardless of how big or small the nuclear enterprise is."

Russian Strategic Bomber Flights Long Range Deception

Russian TU-95 strategic bomber (USAF photo)

See my post here on MMP at http://mt-milcom.blogspot.com/2008/02/russians-are-at-it-again.html for HF frequencies to monitor the Russian Long Range Air Forces.

Thanks Jack for forwarding this interesting piece. From Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 6 Issue: 220 December 1, 2009 By Roger McDermott

On November 24 and 25 two Russian Tu-95MS strategic bombers flew long range patrolling missions above neutral waters in the Arctic to the Atlantic Oceans. Russian Air Force spokesman Lieutenant-Colonel Vladimir Drik said that during the 16 hour missions that featured mid-air refueling from Il-78 tankers, NATO F-15 and RAF Tornado's followed the Russian bombers. Russian strategic aviation flights, according to Drik, "strictly comply with the international rules of using airspace over neutral waters without violating the borders of foreign countries" (Interfax, November 25). The UK defense ministry and the RAF dispute this, arguing that while these flights pose no direct military threat, and remain in international airspace, the Russian authorities consistently fail to inform the relevant air traffic control
bodies of their movements; raising civil aviation flight safety concern since these military patrols transit some of the busiest air routes (Russia: a New Confrontation? House of Commons Report, July, 2009).

Last month, two Tu-160 strategic bombers successfully performed an air patrol mission of "unprecedented complexity." Taking off from Engels airbase their route followed the country's northern border into the Pacific, before returning across Russia's southern borders after twice being refueled in mid-air: the 20 hours flight duration exceeded previous missions during the past twenty years (ITAR-TASS, November 20).

However, Colonel Anatoliy Tsyganok, the head of the Military Forecasting Center at the Institute for Political and Military Analysis in Moscow considers such flights militarily questionable. He referred to the Tu-160 and Tu-95 strategic bombers as "morally and technically obsolete," reflecting the technology of the 1950's to 1980's. Their designated missions were to achieve key objectives using nuclear and conventional weapons in distant geographical locations and deep within any theater of operations. The Tu-95 entered service with Long-Range Aviation units in 1956, while production stopped in 1992. It will remain in service into the next decade,
currently being refitted with upgraded onboard electronic weaponry and a new
generation of "precision strategic missiles." On the other hand, the Tu-160 was a "survivor" from the contraction in the Soviet defense industry in late 1980's (Svobodnaya Pressa, October 30).

Indeed, Tsyganok believes the type of air patrolling mission now being conducted by strategic aviation is obsolete, since it has "fallen behind weapons-related development. It is highly vulnerable in the air and on the ground, it is dependent on the availability of refueling aircraft, and using it as a means of weapons delivery to the point of use takes up too much time. In an actual combat situation these aircraft would have been destroyed by enemy missiles long before they were able to deliver their retaliatory strike." Their dependence on the presence of tanker aviation and advance prepared airfields clearly restricts its potential. In fact, any theoretical military justification only relates to supporting Russia's presence on the Arctic shelf, after a military satellite tasked with surveillance of this and adjoining areas was accidently brought down two years ago. Tsyganok
considers the underlying reasons for the resumption of such flights as purely symbolic: "In my view, moreover, the current patrolling is more of a PR exercise than a demonstration of real capabilities," he noted (Svobodnaya Pressa, October 30).

The Commander-in-Chief (CINC) of the Russian Air Force (VVS) Colonel-General Aleksandr Zelin has repeatedly promised the modernization of the inventory. From 1994 to 2003 the VVS did not receive a single new combat aircraft. While Zelin was the deputy CINC from August 2002 to May 2007, on numerous occasions he publicly promoted such modernization. Meanwhile, his recent statements have become increasingly pessimistic in relation to procuring new platforms and upgrading existing ones (Nezavisimoye Voyennoye Obozreniye, October 31). On August 5, Zelin stated: "In connection with the increased cost of creating and operating new-generation aircraft as well as the cost of their mastery by flight personnel, it can be expected that with the forecasted level of funding the numerical makeup of Air Force aviation may
decline substantially by 2025. In this case manned VVS aviation will be incapable of performing the requisite scope of missions in a local war as required by program documents on national security and the military doctrine" (Nezavisimaya Gazeta, August 10).

On November 26, Zelin said that he intends setting a date in December for a delayed maiden flight of the fifth generation fighter jet. He will visit its manufacturer in Komsomolsk-on-Amur to monitor progress. "I shall look into the state of affairs myself, and then it will be clear when the plane will make the first flight," Zelin told a press conference at the defense ministry. He pointedly refused to specify when the flight might occur, which was previously scheduled before the end of 2009. During the same press conference he was scathing about the defense industry offering the air force inferior quality unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV's), saying that he refused to certify them. He highlighted his dissatisfaction with Russian designed UAV's "either with the speed, or flight altitude or the resolution capacity of their equipment. It is a sheer crime to make operational unmanned aircraft without the required tactical and technical characteristics." Consequently, Zelin said that the VVS was dependent on Israel, having procured a dozen of their UAV's, but admitted that the Israelis will not share advanced technology in this area (ITAR-TASS, November 26).

Nonetheless, Zelin stated that by January 1, 2010, the VVS will complete its structural reform from regiments to bases. In its planning stage, the VVS drew heavily on the experience of the Belarusian air force, which was similarly restructured several years ago. The reform itself is focused on consolidating the better trained units to intensify combat training, enhancing the proportion of combat ready aircraft and saving considerable funds (RIA Novosti, November 26).

Meanwhile, the resumption of long range strategic bomber flights was ordered in August 2007 by then President Vladimir Putin and has continued since. The underlying political message was calibrated toward declaring that Russia is "back," and the country's security elite appear to regard such flights as symbolically important. Equally, they appear aimed at disguising the difficulties facing the Russian defense industry in arresting the decline of the VVS.

NG Soldiers Conduct Desert Training

A group of National Guard soldiers from southeast Texas are training at Fort Bliss, Texas.