USS Nicholas Returns Home for the Final Time

NORFOLK (NNS) -- The guided-missile frigate USS Nicholas (FFG 47) returned to Naval Station Norfolk today, marking the successful completion of her final six-month deployment.

The ship deployed on Jan. 20 of this year and traveled to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet Areas of Responsibility where she supported Maritime Security and Counter-Piracy operations, promoted theater security cooperation efforts and conducted missions in support of Operation Active Endeavor, Operation Ocean Shield and Exercise FRUKUS 2013 with the British, French and Russian navies.

On Feb. 13, Nicholas transited the Suez Canal, entering the Arabian Sea where she spent the next five months conducting maritime security operations.

"Ninety percent of international cargo is moved by ship," said Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Cory Blaser. "Conducting counter-piracy operations and establishing a presence helps to ensure safety and freedom of navigation which is critical to the world's economy."

While in the region, Nicholas provided assistance to the cargo bulk carrier M/V Atlantic Confident, who suffered an engineering casualty that led to the vessel taking on water. Additionally Nicholas filled escort duties for two U.S. submarines; conducting four Suez Canal transits.

The crew made port calls in Djibouti, Djibouti; Muscat, Oman; and Manama, Bahrain, where they enjoyed liberty, conducted maintenance on the ship and participated in community relations projects.

In the Mediterranean Sea, the crew participated in the coalition exercise FRUKUS 2013- conducting live-fire gunnery exercises, rescue-at-sea, divisional tactics and Non-Combatant Evacuation exercises, crew exchanges and port visits with maritime partner nations, France, Russia, and the United Kingdom.

Blaser said exercises such as FRUKUS 2013 further the Navy's goals of interoperability among coalition partners and provide valuable training for the crew.

"Moving forward and working together makes all nations better prepared to meet the maritime challenges of the third millennium," said Blaser.

Nicholas is named for Samuel V. Nicholas (1774-1790), the first officer commissioned in the Continental Naval Service, 28 November 1775 as Captain of the Marines. The ship is slated to be decommissioned in spring 2014.

USS Freedom's "Blue" Crew Gets Ship Underway from Singapore

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Karolina Oseguera

 

SINGAPORE (NNS) -- USS Freedom's "Blue" crew got the ship underway for the first time Aug 8., days after completing a crew swap with the "Gold" crew.

The morning began with command quarters and an awards ceremony for a junior Sailor: Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Christian Diaz was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and a Letter of Appreciation. Then LCS crew 101 kicked into full gear: shore power disconnected, engineering and command and control spaces manned and equipment secured for sea for the first underway of their deployment to Southeast Asia.

"With all the training and preparation we completed prior to getting underway," said Damage Controlman 3rd Class Jessica Brigance. "I believe we are more than capable to put Freedom on the map and show people what LCS is all about." Brigance, from Conway, Ark., has been in the Navy for one year on this day exactly and says this deployment will be a great and challenging experience for her. This is her first time at sea.

This initial underway gives the crew an opportunity to exercise command and control functions, damage control, as well as visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) operations. Scheduled events during this underway will include: flight operations, aircraft and main space firefighting drills, rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) launch and recovery movements, compliant boarding exercises, and 57mm and 30mm fire control exercises.

"We will be conducting maritime interception operations with a 12-man boarding team," said Chief Gunner's Mate Joel Hernandez. "This deployment will give our team the opportunity to refine the team's tactical knowledge and techniques."

"Getting underway is a proud moment for our Sailors," said Freedom's Commanding Officer Cmdr. Pat Thien. "We have a great feeling of accomplishment after all the training and work we completed prior to arriving in Singapore. We are finally doing what we need to do."

Fast, agile and mission-focused, littoral combat ships are designed to operate in near-shore environments and employ modular mission packages that can be configured for surface warfare, mine countermeasures, or anti-submarine warfare. Freedom deployed to Southeast Asia March 1, and completed a crew swap Aug. 6, marking the midway point of the deployment. Freedom will return to her homeport in San Diego at the end of the year.

Mode-S/ADS Milcom Intercepts 9 August 2013 - Btown NC

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts and selected ATC call signs logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

AE02C8 89-9104   VADER 04 2013-08-09 23:38:49 C-130H United States AFRC | 910AW | 757AS [KYNG]
AE10B7 01-0188   E10188 2013-08-09 23:35:17 C-17A United States NY ANG | 105AW | 137AS [KSWF]
AE04AF 165741   ---  2013-08-09 23:08:23 UC-35 United States MAW-4
AE05D6 85-0036   HANK 036 2013-08-09 17:19:14 C-130H United States AFRC | 908AW | 357AS [KMXF]
AE07A6 59-1474   JEEP51 2013-08-09 16:45:57 KC-135R United States MI ANG | 127WG | 171ARS [KMTC]
ADFD01 95-0053   ---  2013-08-09 16:37:17 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS
AE4EB8 168434   ---  2013-08-09 16:27:21 P-8A United States ---
AE07A6 59-1474   JEEP51 2013-08-09 16:00:40 KC-135R United States MI ANG | 127WG | 171ARS [KMTC]
AE0650 58-0049   JEEP52 2013-08-09 16:00:30 KC-135T United States MI ANG | 127WG | 171ARS [KMTC]
AE1498 00-2000   ---  2013-08-09 15:51:30 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
ADFDC8 93-1562   EPIC62 2013-08-09 15:44:48 C-130H United States NC ANG | 145AW | 156AS [KCLT]
AE1493 96-0043   PEACH98 2013-08-09 15:09:26 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE059C 60-0350   KANZA92 2013-08-09 14:52:31 KC-135R United States USAF | 22ARW [KIAB]
AF14EC ------   ---  2013-08-09 14:50:34 ------ United States ---
AE29FE 166695   CNV4503 2013-08-09 13:48:33 C-40A United States USNR | VR-56 [KNTU]
AE1493 96-0043   PEACH98 2013-08-09 13:43:29 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
ADFC6B 90-0408   ---  2013-08-09 01:20:08 T-1A United States USAF | 71FTW | 32FTS [KEND]

X-47B Returns to Pax River Concluding Historic Carrier Demonstration Phase

Blog Editor Note: For Mid Atlantic mil monitors the Navy X-47B mentioned below is using the Salty Dog 502 call sign per this article. This is a VX-23 calling.

PATUXENT RIVER, Md. (NNS) -- The Navy's X-47B Unmanned Combat Air System (UCAS) demonstrator safely returned to Naval Air Station Patuxent River Aug. 8 from NASA's Wallops Flight Facility in Virginia after completing a number of historic firsts for carrier-based unmanned aviation.

The X-47B, known as call sign "Salty Dog 502," was temporarily at Wallops following two successful arrested landings on USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) July 10. The unmanned aircraft diverted to the NASA facility on the third landing attempt when a minor error was detected in one of its three navigation computers.

"This was the first time the X-47B was operated at a divert site and proved to be a great real-time learning event for the test team," said Capt. Jaime Engdahl, Navy UCAS program manager. "Our team worked closely with NASA personnel over the past few weeks to coordinate the return flight to Pax River."

The two X-47B air vehicles will reside at Patuxent River while the Navy UCAS program continues to assess potential opportunities for additional test operations here and at-sea. These efforts will focus on reducing risks for the follow-on Unmanned Carrier Launched Airborne Surveillance and Strike (UCLASS) program and help the Navy to better understand how to operate unmanned systems of this size in the areas of research and development, said Rear Adm. Mat Winter, who oversees the Program Executive Office for Unmanned Aviation and Strike Weapons.

To date, the N-UCAS program has conducted a total of sixteen precision approaches to the carrier flight deck, including five planned tests of X-47B wave-off functions, nine touch-and-go landings, two arrested landings and three catapult launches during three at-sea evolutions in an eight-month period.

131st BW makes history as first ANG bomb wing certified for nuclear operations

During early morning operations, 131st Bomb Wing Missouri Air National Guard mantainers service a B-2 Stealth at Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Robert Trubia/RELEASED)

by Capt. Rachel Savage,  131st Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN Air Force Base, Mo -- The Air National Guard celebrated a historic milestone this week as the 131st Bomb Wing, the nation's only Guard unit to fly and maintain the B-2 Spirit, was certified to conduct the nuclear mission upon completion of their Initial Nuclear Surety Inspection.

With this certification, the 131st BW reached full operational capability with the B-2, bringing to conclusion a six-year journey that began with the unit's transition from the F-15 Eagle mission in 2007, said Maj. Gen. Steve Danner, Adjutant General of Missouri.

"The Airmen of the 131st Bomb Wing have proven they are up to the task in carrying out this critical national security mission," Danner said. "This confirmation is the result of years of hard work and the commencement of a new chapter in Air National Guard history. The 131st Bomb Wing is officially open for business - Col. Michael Francis and his team should be proud."

This momentous event marks the first time in the history of the Guard that a bomb wing has been certified in the delivery of nuclear weapons.

"The 131st Citizen-Airmen have proven they can exceed every stringent challenge posed in the nuclear realm," said Francis, the 131st Bomb Wing commander. "Their countless hours have deservingly evolved in to this success and I couldn't be more proud."

The four-day inspection consisted of assessments in key areas, and graded the wing's ability to be caretakers of an unrivaled combat power.

"The result of the inspection validates the wing's ability to carry out the nuclear mission, which requires adherence to the strictest standards" said Henry Jenkins, Air Force Global Strike Command Inspector General Team chief.

As part of the Air Force's Total Force Integration initiative to combine active duty with Guard Airmen, the two wings were integrated in 2007 when the 131st received its new operational mission. The unit became a classic associate with the active duty's 509th Bomb Wing, enabling the 131st to become the first-ever Guard unit to fly the B-2.

The integration efforts began seven years ago on Feb. 27, 2006, when the Secretary of the Air Force and Chief of Staff of the Air Force approved Total Force Initiative Phase II, which directed the creation of a Classic Association with the 509th and the 131st.

In 2008, the wing had fewer than 60 members stationed at Whiteman when they conducted the first all guard B-2 sortie, which included both the launch and operation of the aircraft. Today, nearly all 800 members are based at Whiteman, with completely integrated maintenance crews and almost three times the number of qualified pilots.

"The Airmen of the 509th Bomb Wing and the 131st Bomb Wing are physically and functionally integrated at every level," said Brig. Gen. Thomas Bussiere, 509th Bomb Wing commander. "When you walk on the flight line at Whiteman, you can't tell the difference between an active-duty or Guard pilot, maintainer, or load crew team. This certification was the last remaining event to align our mission capabilities and we are honored to be defending this great nation with the warriors of the Missouri Air National Guard!"

The first combat total force integration mission the wings conducted came in March 2011 when three B-2s flew over Libya, dropping 45 Joint Direct Attack Munitions to destroy hardened aircraft shelters, crippling Muammar Gaddafi's air forces and helping enforce the United Nations' no-fly zone.

The six aircrew members who flew that mission included both active duty and Guard pilots, demonstrating success in the first real-world combat mission the B-2 conducted since Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003.

"Our certification is a culmination of years of long hours and concentrated effort coupled with each Airman's determination to go above and beyond every day," said Chief Master Sgt. Paul Carney, 131st Bomb Wing command chief. "It was no easy feat logistically to move the wing and take on a new mission, especially one as demanding as the no-fail nuclear mission...but we did it."

In 2008, the 131st Bomb Wing achieved another major milestone by completing the first B-2 sortie flown and launched by Missouri Air National Guard personnel from Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo, June 18. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jessica Snow/RELEASED)

USS Ramage, Ready to Run

By Lt. Naomi Reynolds, USS Ramage Public Affairs

NORFOLK (NNS) -- The guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61) departed Naval Station Norfolk Aug. 7 for an eight-month deployment in support of Maritime Security Operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the 6th Fleet Area of Responsibility (AOR).

"Despite a challenging schedule, the crew has formed an effective and efficient combat team with the invaluable assistance of the Norfolk training and maintenance communities," said Cmdr. Dave Stoner, Ramage commanding officer. "I have no doubt that we are equal to any and all challenges which we will face over the horizon."

The U.S. Navy 6th Fleet AOR covers approximately half of the Atlantic Ocean, from the North Pole to Antarctica; as well as the Adriatic, Baltic, Barents, Black, Caspian, Mediterranean and North Seas.

"As a frequent deployer to the 6th Fleet AOR, the Ramage officers and crew are looking forward to reconnecting with our partners and allies throughout the Mediterranean," said Stoner.

Commissioned in 1995, Ramage is the first ship to carry the name and the 11th destroyer of its class. Ramage is named in honor of Vice Adm. Lawson P. Ramage, the distinguished World War II submarine commander who earned the Medal of Honor when he led the USS Parche (SS 384) on a daring nighttime attack on a Japanese convoy, sinking two enemy ships and damaging another three without sustaining any damage.

This is the 4th time the ship will deploy to the 6th Fleet AOR as part of the ballistic missile defense of Europe. The ship returned from her previous deployment on Jan. 26, 2012.

45th Space Wing launches satellite

CAPE CANAVERAL AIR FORCE STATION, Fla. (AFNS) -- The 45th Space Wing successfully launched a United Launch Alliance-built Delta IV rocket carrying the sixth Wideband Global Satcom (WGS) satellite at 8:29 p.m., Aug. 7 from Space Launch Complex 37B here.

A combined team of military, government civilians and contractors from across the 45th SW provided support to the mission, including weather forecasts, launch and range operations, security, safety and public affairs.

The satellite will provide additional wideband satellite communications coverage for U.S. defense forces and international partners, to include Australia, which supported the cost of the sixth spacecraft under a partnership agreement.

The WGS system provides anytime, anywhere communication for the warfighter through broadcast, multicast, and point-to-point connections.

WGS is the only military satellite communications system that can support simultaneous X and Ka band communications, with crossbanding that makes it transparent to the warfighter to communicate across terminal types.

WGS provides essential communication services, allowing Combatant Commanders to exert command and control of their tactical forces, from peacetime to military operations. Tactical forces will rely on WGS to provide high-capacity connectivity to the Defense Information Systems Network (DISN)

Brig. Gen. Nina Armagno the commander of the 45th SW praised the entire, mission-focused team on the outstanding results.

"I am proud of the hard work of the 45th Space Wing, the Space and Missile Systems Center, United Launch Alliance, Boeing, our industry and mission partners and everyone involved in this
WGS-6 launch," said Armagno, who also served as the Launch Decision Authority for the second time in less than three weeks.

The 45th SW also launched a United Launch Alliance-built Atlas V rocket carrying the second Mobile User Objective System satellite, built by Lockheed Martin, for the U.S. Navy from here July 19.

"Once again, our entire team worked hand-in-hand to make this another successful launch for the U.S. Air Force and our nation," Armagno said.

Mode-S/ADS Milcom Intercepts 8 August 2013 - Btown NC

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts and selected ATC call signs logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

ADFEB3 73-1676   ---  2013-08-08 22:30:18 E-4B United States USAF | 55WG | 1ACCS [KOFF]
AE49C3 09-9207   RCH9207 2013-08-08 22:19:47 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE1173 02-1101   RCH2101 2013-08-08 22:14:34 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE20C8 07-7187   RCH7187 2013-08-08 22:07:37 C-17a United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE04AF 165741   ---  2013-08-08 21:02:37 UC-35 United States MAW-4
AE0330 74-2070   PUMA 71 2013-08-08 19:11:40 C-130H United States USAF | 19AW [KLRF]
AE20C8 07-7187   RCH7187 2013-08-08 18:35:17 C-17a United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE1173 02-1101   RCH2101 2013-08-08 18:21:57 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE49C3 09-9207   RCH9207 2013-08-08 17:21:19 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE0689 61-0300   CODER48 2013-08-08 17:20:26 KC-135R United States IL ANG | 126ARW | 108ARS [KBLV]
AE013E 63-7981   CODER49 2013-08-08 17:20:12 KC-135R United States IL ANG | 126ARW | 108ARS [KBLV]0000  31500   
AE20C5 07-7184   LIFTR35 2013-08-08 16:42:39 C-17a United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]0000  26000   
AE04C8 59-1500   HAPPY61 2013-08-08 16:29:21 KC-135R United States IL ANG | 126ARW | 108ARS [KBLV]2052  27000   
AE1498 00-2000   PEACH99 2013-08-08 16:25:00 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE059C 60-0350   KANZA92 2013-08-08 16:21:57 KC-135R United States USAF | 22ARW [KIAB]
AE04AD 99-0104   ---  2013-08-08 15:45:48 UC-35a1 United States USARC | A/2-228 AVN (TA) [KWRI ]
AE1498 00-2000   PEACH99 2013-08-08 15:45:19 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE04C8 59-1500   HAPPY61 2013-08-08 15:44:56 KC-135R United States IL ANG | 126ARW | 108ARS [KBLV]2052  27000   
AE04E5 59-1478   SODA81 2013-08-08 15:36:59 KC-135R United States AZ ANG | 161ARW | 197ARS [KPHX]
AE093A 00-1051   ---  2013-08-08 14:33:47 UC-35B United States USARC | B/2-228 AVN (TA) [KMGE]
A852BF 10-0257   ---  2013-08-08 13:35:46 C-12V United States US Army
AE04AD 99-0104   ---  2013-08-08 13:21:42 UC-35a1 United States USARC | A/2-228 AVN (TA) [KWRI ]
AE04E5 59-1478   SODA81 2013-08-08 13:06:36 KC-135R United States AZ ANG | 161ARW | 197ARS [KPHX]
AF14EC ------   ---  2013-08-08 04:24:33 ------ United States ------  ---  
AE20C5 07-7184   ---  2013-08-08 02:57:12 C-17a United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AF14EC ------   ---  2013-08-08 01:42:15 ------ United States ---
AE02E2 81-0627   COBB27 2013-08-08 01:22:22 C-130H United States AFRC | 94AW | 700AS [KMGE]
AE12BB 69-5828   ---  2013-08-08 00:40:28 MC-130p United States ---
AE1462 06-6164   RCH183T 2013-08-08 00:29:42 C-17A United States USAF | 60AMW | 21AS [KSUU]

Santa Fe Visits Yokosuka during Western Pacific Deployment

By Lt. Carlisle Catacutan, USS Santa Fe Public Affairs

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- The Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine USS Santa Fe (SSN 763) arrived at Fleet Activities Yokosuka Aug. 8 for a visit as part of its deployment to the Western Pacific.

With a crew of 135 men, Santa Fe will conduct a multitude of missions and showcase the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet.

"Santa Fe is enthusiastic to be on deployment, conducting security and cooperation engagements with our closest allies," said Cmdr. Timothy J. Poe, Santa Fe's commanding officer. "The ship will practice multiple mission areas, while training the next generation of submariners on operations in the Western Pacific."

Santa Fe is a preeminent weapon in the nation's naval arsenal. Exercising dominant control of the littoral and open sea, Santa Fe prepares the battle space, promotes maritime security and deters aggression across the globe.

Master Chief Electronics Technician Juan Gonzalez, chief of the boat, is enthusiastic about the crew responsibly enjoying liberty after an arduous work up period in preparation for deployment.

"Our Sailors are eager to meet with the locals, interact with foreign military members, and learn more about the Japanese culture."

For many of the crew members, this is their first time visiting Japan.

"I'm really looking forward to having some authentic Japanese cuisine and climbing Mount Fuji," said Sonar Technician 3rd Class Jason LeBlanc.

Santa Fe is homeported in Pearl Harbor and is assigned to Commander, Submarine Squadron 7. She is named after the city of Santa Fe, N.M. Measuring more than 360 feet long and weighing more than 6,800 tons when submerged, Santa Fe is among the world's stealthiest platforms.. This 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, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.

USS Philippine Sea Completes SNOOPIE, STEAM and FAC/FIAC Exercise

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian Read Castillo, USS George H.W. Bush Public Affairs

USS PHILIPPINE, At Sea (NNS) -- Guided-missile cruiser USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) completed its second steam formation training exercise (STEAMX), during the George H.W. Bush Group Sail (GHWB GRUSL), Aug. 6.

USS Roosevelt (DDG 80), USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) and USS Truxtun (DDG 103) were also involved in the STEAMX.

During the exercise all four ships aligned themselves one behind another while moving at high speeds and close distances simulating a "Beryl Strait Transit."

"We had 2000 nautical yards of separation between us and maintained a speed of about 15 knots," said Lt. j.g. Molly Hanas, Philippine Sea's navigator. "On deployment we will be transiting through narrow passages like the Strait of Gibraltar and the Suez Canal. This exercise allows us to practice the formations we need in order to get the strike group through safely."

The STEAMX also included a fast attack craft (FAC)/fast inshore attack craft (FIAC) exercise, further testing the strike group's interface and communications.

"Basically FAC's are small militarized boats, whereas FIAC's are small customized commercial boats," said Lt. j.g. Daniel Cho, ship's force protection officer, and port bridge wing sniper during the exercise.

While transiting through narrow passages a ship can often encounter these smaller more agile militarized boats. For this reason formations are vital not only because of the limited space during a strait transit but also because of the safety concerns that come into play when transiting so close to land.

"Formations allow multiple ships to work together to identify each possible threat," said Chow.

When such threats are met the ship's nautical or otherwise photographic intelligence exploitation (SNOOPIE) team is activated. The SNOOPIE team is a reaction force made up of Sailors that have been trained to record and photograph unknown contacts that approach the ship within visual range.

"Typically when a threat enters within visual range the tactical action officer (TAO) will call away the SNOOPIE team," said Chief Intelligence Specialist Raynald P. Lemieux, ship's intelligence officer. "We have two minutes to get up to the bridge from wherever we're at on the ship."

The SNOOPIE team is specially trained in intelligence, collections and analysis of all air, surface and sub-surface threats. This training enables them to can quickly identify a contact and determine if its weapons are manned, unmanned, covered or uncovered.

"We can identify what the contact is and if it's displaying a threatening posture," said Lemieux. "The SNOOPIE team, along with our lookouts, provides the commanding officer (CO) and TAO a positive identification, giving them options."

All imagery captured is then forwarded off the ship for both intelligence gathering and documentation. Visual information (VI) documentation differs from intelligence gathering in that it is used to help defend against false accusations of an engagement.

"The photos and video we use to gather our intelligence plays a dual role," said Lemieux. "If someone is claiming that we fired upon them first then we can pull that video as evidence of the contrary."

The number of personnel on board, their actions, the types of weapons and their approach on the ship are all elements that that need to be recorded, said Lemieux.

"This transit exercise activated a lot more of our warfare components" said the ship's Executive Officer, Cmdr. Paul S. Nagy. "It involved team work on multiple levels between the crew and the ships themselves. I consider this one a win."

The Philippine Sea is participating in the GHWB GRUSL to improve strike group interoperability and prepare for an upcoming deployment.

Mode-S/ADS Milcom Intercepts 7 August 2013 - Btown NC

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts and selected ATC call signs logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

AE01BD 84-0131   JOSA985 2013-08-07 22:45:40 C-21A United States USAF | 375AW | 457AS [KADW]
AE07DD 93-0603   RHINO50 2013-08-07 22:23:51 C-17A United States AFRC | 445AW | 89AS [KFFO]
AE05FF 80-0320   DAWG 01 2013-08-07 22:23:28 C-130H United States GA ANG | 165AW | 158AS [KSAV]
ADFDBA 93-1040   PUMA68 2013-08-07 22:04:12 C-130H United States USAF | 19AW [KLRF]
AE057A 87-0029   ---  2013-08-07 21:32:47 C-5B United States USAF | 60AMW [KSUU]
AE02E2 81-0627   COBB27 2013-08-07 21:15:40 C-130H United States AFRC | 94AW | 700AS [KMGE]
AE093B 00-1052   ---  2013-08-07 19:29:05 UC-35B United States US Army | OSACOM PATD [KADW]0000  27150   
AE02FD 78-0807   RCH331 2013-08-07 18:32:11 C-130H United States AFRC | 911AW | 758AS [KPIT]
ADFC6F 90-0413   ---  2013-08-07 18:10:23 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS
ADFCFF 95-0051   ---  2013-08-07 18:06:30 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS
AE047C 59-1448   SODA81 2013-08-07 17:52:52 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
ADFDC8 93-1562   EPIC62 2013-08-07 17:19:30 C-130H United States NC ANG | 145AW | 156AS [KCLT]
AE04AF 165741   ---  2013-08-07 16:44:25 UC-35 United States MAW-4
AE01BD 84-0131   JOSA985 2013-08-07 16:39:07 C-21A United States USAF | 375AW | 457AS [KADW]
AE2935 78-23140   ---  2013-08-07 16:08:43 C-12 United States ---0776  24000   
AE0663 60-0364   INDY82 2013-08-07 16:00:31 KC-135R United States AFRC | 434ARW [KGUS]5657  27400   
AE04C9 60-0314   MASH81 2013-08-07 16:00:26 KC-135R United States AFRC | 434ARW | 72ARS [KGUS]
AE1211 03-0726   ---  2013-08-07 15:07:22 UC-35C United States USARC | 2-228 AVN
AE0666 61-0305   BOLT31 2013-08-07 14:50:08 KC-135R United States USAF | 6AMW | 91ARS [KMCF]
AE148A 92-3289   KOMODO4 2013-08-07 14:48:18 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]0000  22900   
AE05FF 80-0320   DAWG 01 2013-08-07 13:58:23 C-130H United States GA ANG | 165AW | 158AS [KSAV]
AE0666 61-0305   BOLT31 2013-08-07 13:17:53 KC-135R United States USAF | 6AMW | 91ARS [KMCF]
AE04AF 165741   ---  2013-08-07 11:59:59 UC-35 United States MAW-4
AE1197 03-3114   E33114 2013-08-07 02:52:37 C-17A United States MS ANG | 172AW | 183AS [KJAN]
AE0363 60-0341   SLUFF61 2013-08-07 01:04:23 KC-135R United States OH ANG | 121ARW [KLCK]
AE0363 60-0341   SLUFF61 2013-08-07 00:38:46 KC-135R United States OH ANG | 121ARW [KLCK]

USS Gonzalez Returns to Homeport

By Lt. j.g. Jonathan Bullough, USS Gonzalez Public Affairs

NORFOLK (NNS) -- Guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) returned to its Naval Station Norfolk homeport Aug. 6, marking completion of a seven-month deployment.

In January, Gonzalez deployed to the U.S. 6th Fleet Area of Responsibility to support maritime security operations and promote theater security cooperation efforts.

While in 6th Fleet, the crew participated in a bilateral military-to-military visit board search and seizure training exercise with the Tanzania People's Defense Force. In addition to practicing core skills, the event also served as an opportunity to grow and foster partnership and cooperation between the two navies.

"Events like this one with the Tanzanians advanced the Navy's goals of enhancing interoperability among coalition partners and provided valuable training for the crew," said Lt. Cmdr. Kyle Gantt, Gonzalez's executive officer.

"Our vessel board search and seizure exercise was an excellent opportunity to interact with one of our East African partners," he continued. "Not only were we able to build our technical and tactical skills, we furthered Sailor relationships and enhanced maritime partnership in the AOR [area of responsibility] --certainly time well spent."

Throughout the seven-month deployment, Gonzalez made port visits in the Mediterranean Sea including Augusta Bay, Sicily, and Haifa, Israel, before transiting the Suez Canal to conduct maritime security operations in the Indian Ocean.

"Spending 67 and 91 consecutive days at sea between port visits illustrates the focus and dedication to mission accomplishment our crew was able to sustain over seven months," said Chief Fire Controlman (Select) Daniel Goehner. "We really pushed the envelope of our own endurance."

Commissioned in 1996, Gonzalez is named for Marine Corps Sgt. Alfredo Gonzalez. He received the Congressional Medal of Honor for his leadership in the Battle of Hue City, where he was killed protecting the members of his platoon.

USS Rentz Arrives in 4th Fleet to Conduct Counter Drug Operations and UNITAS

By Mass Communication Specialist 1s Class Sean Allen, 4th Fleet Public Affairs

USS RENTZ, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors and an embarked U.S. Coast Guard Legal Detachment aboard the Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS Rentz (FFG 46) arrived in 4th Fleets area of operations Aug. 7 to join the multinational interagency fight against transnational organized crime as part of Operation Martillo.

Operation Martillo (Spanish for 'hammer') is a U.S., European, and Western Hemisphere partner nation mission headed by Joint Interagency Task Force-South (JIATF-S) currently conducting Counter Transnational Organized Crime (C-TOC) operations to patrol the coastal regions from Colombia to Mexico to detect and apprehend illicit traffic to include drugs, weapons, drug money and human smuggling.  This is not the ship's first deployment to 4th Fleet. Rentz supported counter drug ops in 2011.

"We welcome the men and women of Rentz to 4th Fleet and are eager to get them busy conducting counter transnational organized crime operations and supporting the Joint Interagency Forces South's Operation Martillo," said Rear Adm. Sinclair Harris, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet (COMUSNAVSO/C4F). "Rentz is not a new comer to the region or to the counter drug mission and we welcome the experience and energy she is bringing to 4th Fleet."

The Operation Martillo team on Rentz includes an interagency partnership with the ship's Visit, Board, Search and Seizure team, U.S. Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment Team, and Naval Criminal Investigative Service. Rentz is also supported by Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light 49 (HSL-49), Det. 5.

"Our crew has trained long and hard in preparation for the counter-transnational organized crime operations ongoing in the areas commanded by the U.S. Navy's Fourth Fleet and U.S. Southern Command," said Cmdr. Lance Lantier, commanding officer of Rentz. "We are pleased to assist our brothers and sisters in law enforcement with stemming the flow of illicit narcotics from entering our shores and reaching our nation's communities."

Operation Martillo is a component of the U.S. government's coordinated interagency regional security strategy in support of the White House strategy to combat transnational organized crime and the U.S. Central America Regional Security Initiative.

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

While on deployment to 4th Fleet, Rentz will also participate in the annual multinational UNITAS maritime exercise taking place in the Southern Caribbean Sea off the coast of Colombia from Sept. 7-14. UNITAS is the largest and longest ongoing maritime exercise in the region and is hosted by the Colombian Navy this year and will include naval and coast guard forces from 15 partner nations. Last year the exercise was hosted by 4th Fleet in Key West.

U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet supports U.S. Southern Command joint and combined full-spectrum military operations by providing principally sea-based, forward presence to ensure freedom of maneuver in the maritime domain, to foster and sustain cooperative relationships with international partners and to fully exploit the sea as maneuver space in order to enhance regional security and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Caribbean, Central and South American regions.

Mode-S/ADS Milcom Intercepts 6 August 2013 - Btown NC

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts and selected ATC call signs logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

AE02E1 81-0626   COBB 26 2013-08-06 23:13:01 C-130H United States AFRC | 94AW | 700AS [KMGE]
AE04D7 165829   CNV4442 2013-08-06 22:59:07 C-40A United States USNR | VR-58 [KNIP]
AE0147 57-1462   SLUFF62 2013-08-06 21:31:50 KC-135R United States OH ANG | 121ARW [KLCK]
AE036E 98-0008   ---  2013-08-06 18:52:08 UC-35A United States US Army
AE04AC 99-0103   ---  2013-08-06 18:30:40 UC-35a1 United States USARC | B/2-228 AVN (TA) [KMGE]
AE03F8 84-0154   ---  2013-08-06 18:28:08 C-12U United States LA ARNG | OSACOM Det38 [KHDC]
ADFEDD 86-0087   PAT087 2013-08-06 18:02:34 C-12U United States PA ARNG | OSACOM DET-22 [KMUI]
AE0473 57-1472   MASH61 2013-08-06 17:54:55 KC-135R United States AFRC | 434ARW [KGUS]
ADFEC9 84-0182   GABLESEN 2013-08-06 17:20:36 C-12U United States ARMY
ADFEC9 84-0182   GABLESEN 2013-08-06 17:16:07 C-12U United States ARMY
AE11D5 73-1675   SNTRY06H 2013-08-06 16:58:20 E-3B United States USAF | 552ACW [KTIK]
AE047C 59-1448   SODA81 2013-08-06 15:20:43 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
ADFEC9 84-0182   GABLESEN 2013-08-06 14:53:58 C-12U United States ARMY
AE02E5 81-0630   COBB30 2013-08-06 14:51:11 C-130H United States AFRC | 94AW | 700AS [KMGE]
AE02E1 81-0626   COBB 26 2013-08-06 14:50:58 C-130H United States AFRC | 94AW | 700AS [KMGE]

Team Osan launches first sortie for BM 13-03

An F-16 Fighting Falcon from the 36th Fighter Squadron takes off for the first combat sortie of Operational Readiness Exercise Beverly Midnight 13-03, as an F-16 Fighting Falcon from the 55th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron taxis for takeoff at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Aug. 6, 2013. During the week, Osan Airmen will be tested on their ability to utilize their chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear training, as well as administer self-aid and buddy-care during contingency operations. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Sara Csurilla)

 

by Staff Sgt. Sara Csurilla,  51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs

OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- As part of the fourth operational readiness exercise, Beverly Midnight 13-03, the 51st Fighter Wing launches its first combat sorties at of the week Aug. 6, 2013.

Osan provides combat ready forces for close air support, air strike control, forward air control-airborne, combat search and rescue, counter air and fire, and interdiction in the defense of the ROK.

Wolf Pack takes flight to continue fight

An F-16 Fighting Falcon with the 80th Fighter Squadron takes off during exercise Beverly Midnight 13-3 Aug. 6, 2013. This was one of the first flights for BM 13-3 and tests the capabilities of ground and aircrew during a wartime scenario. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jessica Haas/Released)

KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- The Wolf Pack continues to train to take the fight North as the second full day of exercise Beverly Midnight 13-3 comes to a close, Aug. 6, 2013. Early in the day a group of F-16 Fighting Falcons from both the 80th and 35th Fighter Squadrons took flight in rapid succession, further displaying their ability to respond during a wartime scenario. Adapting to and overcoming obstacles was the theme for later in the day, when simulated ground attacks forced base leadership to move to and operate out of a different location.  

Exercise Evaluation Teams test elements of wartime operations and how efficiently service members activate and respond to enemy forces.

The base's day-to-day operations are carried out along with the base exercises to provide realistic training environments mimicking wartime operations. These exercises include self-aid and buddy care, evacuations, par-sweeps, mass casualty response, aircraft generation and mission oriented protective posture training.

Kentucky ANG joins with Army for Transportation Command earthquake-response exercise

Members of the Kentucky Air National Guard’s 123rd Contingency Response Group offload an all-terrain vehicle at MidAmerica St. Louis Airport in Mascoutah, Ill., on Aug. 5, 2013, as part of Exercise Gateway Relief, a U.S. Transportation Command-directed earthquake-response scenario. The vehicle, which serves as a mobile command post, is equipped with satellite communications gear that allows a Joint Assessment Team to establish secure voice and data communications with USTRANSCOM officials upon landing at a non-functional airfield, reporting the status of facilities and the ability to support relief operations. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Maj. Dale Greer)

by Maj. Dale Greer,  123rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
MASCOUTAH, Ill. -- Nearly 100 members of the Kentucky Air National Guard's 123rd Contingency Response Group and the U.S. Army's 689th Rapid Port Opening Element deployed to MidAmerica St. Louis Airport on Monday to set up a logistics hub as part of Exercise Gateway Relief, an earthquake-response scenario directed by United States Transportation Command.

An additional 37 Kentucky Air Guardsmen are expected to arrive today, completing the mission's full staffing at 135 personnel, said Col. Mark Heiniger, commander of the 123rd CRG.

The two units will work together through Friday to stand up and operate a Joint Task Force-Port Opening, or JTF-PO, which combines an Air Force Aerial Port of Debarkation with an Army trucking and distribution unit. The aerial port ensures the smooth flow of cargo and relief supplies into disaster areas via airlift, while the trucking unit facilitates final distribution over land.

"Our mission is to rapidly establish a Joint Task Force-Port Opening, with the 123rd CRG providing air mobility expertise and the 689th RPOE providing ground surface-movement expertise," said Heiniger, who is also JTF-PO commander.

"We will operate as one team to expedite the movement of cargo from MidAmerica St. Louis Airport to a forward node for further distribution. The goal is the safe and expeditious movement of cargo and passengers with accurate in-transit visibility: getting the right stuff to the right place at the right time."

This combined air-land capability, which exists in only one Unified Combatant Command, USTRANSCOM, is designed to provide key assistance during national or international emergencies, officials said. In the United States, for example, a JTF-PO can help civilian authorities respond to natural disasters like hurricanes or earthquakes.

This week's exercise is based on a scenario in which two major earthquakes have struck the New Madrid Seismic Zone, resulting in mass casualties and widespread destruction across Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky and Tennessee.

The deployed Airmen and Soldiers have been tasked with setting up operations at a notionally inoperative airfield. An initial Joint Assessment Team of 11 personnel arrived Monday morning via a Kentucky Air Guard C-130 to survey the airport, determine whether the infrastructure could support large-scale relief operations, and provide a "go-no go" decision to U.S. Transportation Command within four hours of arrival.

Once the site was approved, the Airmen began accepting follow-on personnel and the multiple planeloads of equipment necessary to execute the mission. The Army and Air Force units bring everything they need to operate a JTF-PO, from all-terrain forklifts, satellite communications gear and sleeping quarters to aircraft mechanics, security forces and power-production specialists.

Heiniger said he was pleased with the progress of the operation so far, noting that all timelines have been met successfully.

"As just one example," he said, "the Joint Assessment Team is required to establish secure data communications with USTRANSCOM within four hours of landing at the airfield. Our personnel accomplished the requirement in just six minutes yesterday. Moreover, the entire assessment is supposed to take up to 24 hours to complete, but we were ready to go in four."

Heiniger also said he is pleased with interoperability between the 123rd, based in Louisville, Ky., and the active-duty 689th, from Fort Eustis, Va.

"The cooperation with the Army folks, the teamwork so far, and their willingness to support us and for us to support them, has been exceptional," he said. "Without a team approach, we can't do this mission."

Army Capt. Charles Greene, commander of the 689th, agreed.

"Yesterday, we were able to jointly set up our clearance yard at the Port of Debarkation and establish our forward node, incorporating security forces from the Kentucky Air Guard," he said.

"We were able to accomplish these tasks quicker than I've ever seen in recent memory. Everyone's working very well together, and we're ready to execute."

Both units are being evaluated by U.S. Transportation Command this week to verify their ability to perform the JTF-PO mission.

Eisenhower Conducts Munitions Offload

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Aug. 6, 2013) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Sea Knights of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 22 offloads ammunition from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). Dwight D. Eisenhower is conducting an ammunition offload in the Atlantic Ocean in preparation for a scheduled docking planned incremental availability at Norfolk Naval Shipyard. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Taylor L. Jackson/Released)

Answering the call: refueling the Spirit

A B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber approaches the rear of a KC-135 Stratotanker in preparation to refuel during a training mission over Midwestern skies, Aug. 1, 2013. The B-2’s unique design has enabled it to travel into enemy territory without being detected by their radar to deploy ordinance. It is one of many aircraft McConnell’s tankers provide fuel to. (U.S. Air Force Photo/Airman 1st Class John Linzmeier)

McConnell Air Force Base is the world’s largest Air Refueling Wing and is the home of 62 KC-135 Stratotankers. McConnell’s primary mission is to provide global reach by conducting air refueling and airlift where and when needed. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class John Linzmeier)

Reserve units link up during refueling mission

A B-52 Stratofortress from the 307th Bomb Wing, Barksdale Air Force Base, La., is positioned to take fuel from a KC-135 Stratotanker flown by the 18th Air Refueling Squadron, Air Force Reserve Command, McConnell AFB, Kan., Aug. 3, 2013, Arkansas. Air refueling training keep 18 ARS members proficient in all essential aspects of air refueling operations. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Jess Lockoski) 

USS Fitzgerald Arrives in Northern Japan

AOMORI, Japan (Aug. 5, 2013) Dancers from the Japan Self-Defense Force Parental Association of Aomori perform a traditional Nebuta dance in honor of the guided-missile destroyer USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62) arriving in Aomori, Japan, for a port visit. Fitzgerald Sailors will take part in Nebuta Festival parades, experience the local culture, and offer assistance at a nearby orphanage while in port. (U.S. Navy photo by Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Daniel Sanford/Released)

 

By Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Daniel Sanford, Naval Air Facility Misawa Public Affairs

AOMORI, Japan (NNS) -- USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62) moored in Aomori, Japan, Aug. 5, for a port visit to the northern Japan city that is in the midst of hosting its annual Nebuta Festival.

While in port, the guided-missile destroyer's crew members will have an opportunity to experience the local culture by taking part in several of the festival's renowned parades and events.

However, the ship also plans to spend time participating in community engagement events.

"Visiting Aomori provides our Sailors with an opportunity to experience a part of Japan that not many Sailors get to experience," said Cmdr. Jonathan Schmitz, Fitzgerald commanding officer, and a native of Huntsville, Ala. "The crew is especially looking forward to experiencing the Nebuta Festival, which should be a lot of fun for them."

While the visit will be a nice break for the ship's crew, it also serves as an outward demonstration of U.S. commitment to the defense of Japan, and to maintain peace and stability throughout the entire East Asia region.

"The significance of this visit and our participation in the Nebuta Festival is not lost upon us," said Schmitz. "We are very proud to be here in this beautiful city, and grateful for the opportunity to experience such an incredible opportunity."

Fitzgerald Command Master Chief Josh Davis said the festival, which attracts millions of tourists each year, is an opportunity that his Sailors should not take for granted.

"I enjoy seeing our Sailors participate in different cultural activities, and this parade is another great opportunity for them to experience," said Davis, who originally hails from Columbus, Ohio. This is an opportunity for these young Sailors to come out here and experience a culture unique to not only Japan, but to this region as well. It's truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I hope they'll all take part in."

Fitzgerald crew members will have the opportunity to participate in both the Tachi Nebuta in Goshogawara, as well as the Aomori Nebuta in downtown Aomori-shi. But in keeping with the ship's namesake selflessness, Fitzgerald Sailors will also me assisting at a local orphanage during their stay in northern Japan.

Fitzpatrick is Arleigh Burke-class, guided-missile destroyer forward deployed out of Fleet Activities Yokosuka, and has a complement of more than 300 Sailors. It was commissioned Oct. 14, 1995 and was named in honor of Lt. William C. Fitzgerald

Truman Arrives In Marseille, France

MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Aug. 5, 2013) The aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) prepares to arrive in Marseille, France. Harry S. Truman, flagship for the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, is deployed supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Haraz N. Ghanbari/Released)

 

USS HARRY S. TRUMAN, At Sea (NNS) -- The aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) arrived in Marseille, France for a scheduled port visit, Aug. 5.

This is the first time Harry S. Truman has pulled into Marseille since its last deployment in 2010 and Sailors and Marines aboard are happy to be here.

"I am really excited to be in France," said Legalman 2nd Class Sidney Williams, non-judicial punishment clerk for the Legal Department. "I have always wanted to come here. I feel like I am destined to be in Marseille. I am looking forward to having a great time here and leaving with lifelong memories."

Williams encouraged everyone to take advantage of the beautiful foreign country.

"Everyone should go out and experience this amazing culture because its not every day you could say you were in Paris one day and Cannes the next. The important thing is to appreciate the little things. I can't wait to get a bite to eat and relax," she said.

For some Sailors, their first visit to France came years after multiple deployments to other places.

"It feels good to have the opportunity to visit France," said Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class Kevin Barnes, technician in the Airframe Shop with the Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 126 "Seahawks". "I spent a majority of my career in Japan, so I've only visited a lot of Asian countries. With this being my first European port visit, I am going to soak up the sun and try the French cuisine."

Harry S. Truman is the flagship of Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HST CSG). The HST CSG includes guided-missile cruisers, USS San Jacinto (CG 56) and USS Gettysburg (CG 64). It also includes guided-missile destroyers USS Mason (DDG 87) and USS Bulkeley (DDG 84).

While in the Mediterranean Sea, HST CSG will be supporting maritime security operations (MSO) and theater security cooperation efforts. MSO are set conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment and complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations.

Boxer Becomes First West Coast Ship to Deploy with Osprey

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kenan O'Connor / Boxer Amphibious Ready Group Public Affairs

PACIFIC OCEAN (NNS) -- Sailors and Marines aboard amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) will become the first West Coast crew to deploy with the MV-22 Osprey this fall.

Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 166 (Reinforced) is embarked on Boxer as a part of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), and will deploy with a complement of 12 Ospreys.

The Osprey is intended to replace the CH-46E Sea Knight, the platform the Marine Corps has used since the Vietnam War. The Osprey can carry more combat troops and has a further flight range than the Sea Knight.

"The incorporation of the MV-22 Osprey greatly expands our area of influence, and increases the speed with which the Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF) Commander is able to respond to crises and mass forces on the Objective," said Maj. Frank Garner, 13th MEU air officer. "The unique flight capabilities of the Osprey provides unprecedented advantage to warfighters, allowing Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) Mission Essential Tasks (METs) to be accomplished more efficiently, while enhancing Marine Expeditionary Unit/Amphibious Ready Group (MEU/ARG) relevance in Combatant Commander (COCOM) Theaters," he added.

The Osprey is a tilt rotor aircraft flown by the U.S. Marine Corps, which utilizes vertical short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) capabilities. Until recently, the Osprey has seen limited use aboard large deck ships due to its unique design and the modifications required for large deck amphibious ships.

Although Boxer will be the first West Coast ship to deploy with Ospreys, the USS Bataan (LHD 5), stationed in Norfolk, became the first ship overall to deploy with Ospreys in an amphibious environment in 2009.

The crew members aboard Boxer and VMM-166 have trained in several technical areas, such as airframes, hydraulics and avionics, electrical systems, maintenance control to prepare for Boxers upcoming deployment.

"The biggest challenge is the amount of training that we had to accomplish," said Cpl. Neal Helfrey, a flight line mechanic attached to VMM-166. "Half the squadron hasn't deployed before, so the most difficult thing was putting all this training into the timeframe allotted."

The Boxer Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) is underway off the coast of Southern California completing a Certification Exercise (CERTEX). CERTEX is the final evaluation of the 13th MEU and Boxer ARG prior to their Fall deployment and is intended to certify their readiness to conduct integrated missions across the full spectrum of military operations.

CVN 77 Begins TSTA/FEP

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Derrik Noack, USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Public Affairs

ATLANTIC OCEAN (NNS) -- The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) departed its homeport of Norfolk to begin the Tailored Ship's Training Availability/Final Evaluation Problem (TSTA/FEP) process, July 30.

TSTA/FEP prepares the ship and crew for full integration into a carrier strike group through a wide range of mission-critical operations, and is assessed by Afloat Training Group (ATG) Atlantic.

The TSTA portion assesses the crew's ability to self-train, and is meant to improve their ability to fight the ship by increasing their medical and damage control knowledge. FEP tests the crew on their ability to handle combat missions while supporting flight operations, along with maintaining casualty control.

The crew keeps active practicing, studying, and training for the drill year-round, but this is the first time in 19 months that they will conduct drills with Carrier Strike Group TWO (CSG 2) onboard.

"It's wonderful to have our whole team assembled," said Commanding Officer Capt. Andrew J. Loiselle. "I know we'll knock this evolution out of the park, just like we've been trained to do so."

Afloat Training Group (ATG) Atlantic inspectors will assess the crew's knowledge and capabilities through life saving, damage control, navigation and weapons drills. General Quarters (GQ) drills allow all of these subjects to be simultaneously graded through training scenarios, and simulated attacks to the ship.

"GQ drills are great because they not only give us time to educate Sailors on basic first aid, but also how to integrate that with damage control," said Lt. Chantel Hurwitz, the ship's nurse. "I'm confident in the crew's capabilities, because I've seen that knowledge in action during our drills and during a few actual emergencies on the ship."

The whole crew will participate in various drills throughout the ship's underway until ATG Atlantic deems them proficient in every graded area. The next step in certifying George H.W. Bush for deployment will be a Composite Unit Training Exercise (COMPUTEX), which will test all warfare mission areas of the ship and CSG 2.

USS Philippine Sea Completes MISSILX

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian Read Castillo, USS George H.W. Bush Public Affairs

USS Philippine Sea, At Sea (NNS) -- The guided-missile cruiser USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) completed a missile exercise (MISSILX), Aug. 4.

Philippine Sea, and USS Truxtun (DDG 103) simultaneously launched Navy Standard Missile-2's (SM-2) while USS Roosevelt (DDG 80) launched shortly afterwards.

The MISSILEX required that all three ships fire SM-2's at a remote controlled, subsonic missile drone, or (BQM). The SM-2 is the U.S Navy's primary surface-to-air air defense weapon and a vital element of the Aegis Weapon System (AWS) aboard Ticonderoga-class cruisers and Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, launched from the MK 41 Vertical Launcher System (VLS).

During the exercise a BQM was flown out to sea by an aircraft and dropped into mid air. The drone is then reverted back towards the ships requiring them to shoot it out of the sky, said Senior Chief Fire Controlman Jeremy R. Rasnick, combat systems fire controlman leading chief petty officer.

"After it was dropped, shore command flew the BQM inbound," said Rasnick. "Once inbound our mission is to get good telemetry data back to shore command so they can evaluate how the missile and its systems preformed."

The missiles fired were not armed with warheads. Instead, each missile attempts to approach the BQM as close as possible simulating an actual intercept.

Each SM-2 has proximity sensors capable of recording the distance from the BQM as it flies by indicating a "hit", said Rasnick.

"The missiles try to get as close as they can to the drone and instead of it exploding it just continues to fly by," said Rasnick. "Once recovered they can figure out whose missiles were within the blast radius.

The MISSILX simulates a cruise missile attack scenario that could be encountered by the George H.W. Bush Strike Group (GHWB CSG) on deployment.

"This missile is specifically designed to simulate a C-802 missile which is an anti-ship cruise missile", said Rasnick.

After two days of "mock" drills involving Learjet fly-by's simulating a BQM, the Philippine Sea was ready to conduct the MISSILX and learn from the experience of an actual launch.

"The rehearsals were very beneficial and went very well," said Master Chief Fire Controlman Craig M. Cotherman, combat systems maintenance manger. "But a couple things were a little bit different today, things we can't rehearse and simulate, things we can't prepare for."

Cotherman feels the MISSILX provided an invaluable experience.

"We definitely have some lessons to take away from the experience," said Cotherman. "Aside from actually having to fire on a target, this is as real as it gets."

The last missile launch aboard the Philippine Sea took place in 2010 making this not just a learning experience, but also a rare and exciting event for the crew.

I was standing in the bridge when it happened," said Quartermaster 3rd Class Cameron A.Wheylan. "It was cool to see what we can actually do and feel the power of it all. It's definitely something I will never forget."

Philippine Sea is participating in the George H.W. Bush Group Sail to improve strike group interoperability and prepare for an upcoming deployment.

Mode-S/ADS Milcom Intercepts 3 August 2013 - Btown NC

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts and selected ATC call signs logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

AE0300 78-0810   CODY 01 2013-08-03 20:19:38 C-130H United States AFRC | 911AW | 758AS [KPIT]
AE10BF 01-0196   RCH125 2013-08-03 19:01:07 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE0570 86-0019   ---  2013-08-03 18:46:14 C-5B United States AFRC | 439AW | 337AS [KCEF]
ADFE65 91-1234   SHARK 07 2013-08-03 18:43:36 C-130H United States KY ANG | 123AW | 165AS [KSDF]
ADFE63 91-1232   DERBY 83 2013-08-03 18:27:47 C-130H United States KY ANG | 123AW | 165AS [KSDF]
ADFE56 92-0375   ---  2013-08-03 17:46:27 C-20h United States USAFE | 86AW | 76AS [ETAR]
AE02EF 85-1366   CROME 94 2013-08-03 16:08:48 C-130H United States TX ANG | 136AW | 181AS [KNFW]
AE1492 96-0042 ???   PEACH88 2013-08-03 15:57:07 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE0440 ------   ---  2013-08-03 15:19:32 ------ United States USAF Hanging Dog NC, US ---  ---   
AE1492 96-0042 ???   PEACH88 2013-08-03 14:41:48 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AF14EC ------   ---  2013-08-03 12:41:19 ------ United States ---
AE49C3 09-9207   RCH865 2013-08-03 07:05:40 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE0808 99-0062   RCH580 2013-08-03 05:23:33 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE093A 00-1051   ---  2013-08-03 00:32:32 UC-35B United States USARC | B/2-228 AVN (TA) [KMGE]

Exercise Noble Melinda Concludes

HAIFA, Israel (NNS) -- The U.S. Navy participated in Exercise Noble Melinda, July 22 - Aug. 1, in the Mediterranean Sea near Haifa, Israel. The exercise was an annual training event that was not associated with, or a reaction to, any real-world events.

Noble Melinda is an annual maritime exercise designed to increase interoperability by developing individual and collective maritime proficiencies of the U.S. and Israel, as well as to promote friendship, mutual understanding and cooperation.

The annual bilateral exercise, now in its 11th year, focused on explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), diving and salvage operations, recompression chamber operations, and other underwater operations.

"The exercise has provided valuable training opportunities for both sides, and we are very excited to be here," said Lt. j.g. Steve Link. "We have been able to work together successfully through a variety of scenarios, and I hope we can continue such collaboration in the future."

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 8 (EODMU-8), from Rota, Spain, is the U.S. 6th Fleet unit that participated in the exercise.

U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts a full range of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation missions in concert with coalition, joint, interagency, and other parties in order to advance security and stability in Europe and Africa.

2nd ARS flies training mission, hones AR skills

Airman 1st Class Will Gribauskas, 2nd Air Refueling Squadron boom operator, connects the probe to a 6th Airlift Squadron C-17 Globemaster III during a training sortie July 29, 2013, in the skies above the Atlantic. Practice such as this mission helps maintain skills. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Ryan Throneberry)

Antenna maintenance ensures multi-service communication

Airmen 1st Class David Herrera and Monico Viloria, 374th Communications Squadron cable and antenna maintenance technicians, work together to loosen a bolt on a rotatable log periodic antenna during scheduled maintenance July 26, 2013, at the Tokorozawa Communication Site, Japan. The antennas at Tokorozawa provide communication support to a variety of Department of Defense installations including Misawa Air Base and Yokosuka Naval Base. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Cody H. Ramirez)

Mode-S/ADS Milcom Intercepts 2 August 2013 - Btown NC

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts and selected ATC call signs logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

AE115E 01-0030   ---  2013-08-02 23:51:44 C-37A United States USAF | 6AMW | 310AS [KMCF]
AE1459 06-6155   RCH171T 2013-08-02 22:47:29 C-17A United States USAF | 60AMW | 21AS [KSUU]
AE093A 00-1051   ---  2013-08-02 21:30:18 UC-35B United States USARC | B/2-228 AVN (TA) [KMGE]
AE10D5 165519   ---  2013-08-02 20:19:55 T-39G United States USN | TW-6 | VT-86 [KNPA]
AE1197 03-3114   RCH944 2013-08-02 20:10:28 C-17A United States MS ANG | 172AW | 183AS [KJAN]
AE036D 98-0007 ???   B684D576 2013-08-02 19:45:16 UC-35A United States USAF
AE1ECE 166073   ---  2013-08-02 19:37:01 T-6B United States USNavy
AE4A0F 166134   ---  2013-08-02 19:31:52 T-6B United States ---
AE1ED9 166084   ---  2013-08-02 19:25:33 T-6B United States ---
83AEFC 84-24378   R24378 2013-08-02 19:09:48 C-12U United States USARC | C/2-228 AVN (TA) [KFBG]
AE0300 78-0810   ---  2013-08-02 19:08:31 C-130H United States AFRC | 911AW | 758AS [KPIT]
AF14EC ------   ---  2013-08-02 18:45:42 ------ United States ---
ADFD0A 95-0062   ---  2013-08-02 18:37:00 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS
AE10D5 165519   ---  2013-08-02 18:36:14 T-39G United States USN | TW-6 | VT-86 [KNPA]
ADFC88 91-0100   ---  2013-08-02 18:30:50 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS
ADFD03 95-0055   ---  2013-08-02 18:29:46 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS
AE10D5 165519   ---  2013-08-02 18:07:51 T-39G United States USN | TW-6 | VT-86 [KNPA]
ADFCEF 94-0144   ---  2013-08-02 17:59:39 T-1A United States USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS
AE036D 98-0007 ???   B684D576 2013-08-02 15:35:47 UC-35A United States USAF
AE118A 02-1863   PAT63 2013-08-02 15:31:04 C-37A United States US Army
ADFDD1 92-3329   ---  2013-08-02 15:17:00 C-12R United States USARC | A/2-228 AVN (TA) [KWRI ]
AE047C 59-1448   SODA81 2013-08-02 14:57:21 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
AE143A 166715   ---  2013-08-02 14:41:50 UC-35D United States USMC | VMR-1 [KNKT]
AE1498 00-2000   PEACH99 2013-08-02 13:36:38 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AF14EC ------   ---  2013-08-02 13:30:53 ------ United States ---
AE07D0 89-1192   RCH438 2013-08-02 13:27:37 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE4EB5 168431   ---  2013-08-02 13:02:17 P-8A United States VP-30
AE047C 59-1448   SODA81 2013-08-02 13:00:56 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
AE143A 166715   ---  2013-08-02 12:38:55 UC-35D United States USMC | VMR-1 [KNKT]
AE04AC 99-0103   ---  2013-08-02 12:37:51 UC-35a1 United States USARC | B/2-228 AVN (TA) [KMGE]
AE12B4 65-0993   SHADO91 2013-08-02 03:41:43 MC-130P United States USAF | 58SOW | 550SOS [KIKR]
AE128F 85-0011   TALON 11 2013-08-02 02:58:38 MC-130H United States USAF
ADFDBB 93-1041   DEALR24 2013-08-02 02:19:26 C-130H United States USAF | 19AW [KLRF]

Michigan National Guard conducts nuclear response training

By Staff Sgt. Helen Miller
46th Military Police Command

 

Soldiers of Task Force 46 and the 126 Press Camp Headquarters, Michigan Army National Guard, are participating in Exercise Vibrant Response 2013 at Camp Atterbury, Ind. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Helen Miller, Michigan Army National Guard)

 

CAMP ATTERBURY, Ind. (8/2/2013) - Soldiers of Task Force 46 and the 126 Press Camp Headquarters, Michigan Army National Guard, are participating in Exercise Vibrant Response 2013 at Camp Atterbury, Ind.

Vibrant Response is a training exercise that rigorously tests the planning, logistical, operational and other states of readiness of the Michigan Army National Guard and other National Guard units that may respond in the event of a chemical, biological, nuclear or radiological event within the continental United States.

"It is truly an honor and privilege for the Michigan Army National Guard to be selected to participate in Exercise Vibrant Response," said Brig. Gen. Burton Francisco, Commander of Task Force 46. "This is an important training exercise which will help ensure that the Michigan Army National Guard and other intergovernmental agencies are able to provide effective and timely support to civil authorities in the event of a chemical, nuclear, biological or radiological attack anywhere in the United States."

Task Force 46, the 126 PCH and other soldiers from the Michigan Army National Guard arrived at Camp Atterbury on July 30, 2013, and will complete their participation in Vibrant Response in early August.

Mode-S/ADS Milcom Intercepts 1 August 2013 - Btown NC

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts and selected ATC call signs logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

AE1498 00-2000   PEACH88 2013-08-01 23:30:10 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE1496 97-0201   PHENOM2 2013-08-01 18:06:19 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE1498 00-2000   PEACH32 2013-08-01 18:04:40 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE0480 60-0324   BOLT42 2013-08-01 18:02:09 KC-135R United States USAF | 22ARW [KIAB]
AE222D 167952   00000000 2013-08-01 17:30:18 P-8A United States USN | VX-1 [KNHK]
AE1498 00-2000   PEACH32 2013-08-01 16:54:08 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE1401 05-3778   ---  2013-08-01 16:50:30 T-6a United States USAF | 71FTW [KEND]
AE0480 60-0324   BOLT42 2013-08-01 16:44:00 KC-135R United States USAF | 22ARW [KIAB]
AE1E5D 07-3893   ---  2013-08-01 16:42:58 T-6A United States ---
AE1723 06-3817   ---  2013-08-01 16:40:24 T-6A United States USAF
AE0265 57-1436   ---  2013-08-01 16:33:17 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
AE047B 58-0117   HAPPY51 2013-08-01 15:43:10 KC-135T United States PA ANG | 171ARW [KPIT]
00000A Various   ---  2013-08-01 13:48:20 Various Various ---
AE08F9 84-24376   2316 2013-08-01 13:34:03 C-12R United States OSACOM/PAT
A852BF 10-0257   ---  2013-08-01 12:45:20 C-12V United States US Army
AE02CD 91-9141   FUZZY44 2013-08-01 12:34:54 C-130H United States AFRC | 914AW | 328AS [KIAG]
AE07F8 97-0046   RCH340 2013-08-01 05:39:32 C-17A United States TN ANG | 164AW | 155AS [KMEM]
ADFEEF 160051   RS382 2013-08-01 03:37:57 C-9B United States USNR | VR-61 [KNUW]

Monterey Conducts Exercise with US Air Force

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Billy Ho, USS Nimitz Public Affairs

USS MONTEREY, At Sea (NNS) -- Guided-missile cruiser USS Monterey (CG 61) conducted an air operations for maritime surface warfare exercise in the Arabian Gulf, July 17.

The exercise was a joint operation between Monterey and aircraft from U.S. Air Force, Central Command.

"This was an excellent opportunity for Monterey to improve interoperability with U.S. Air Force assets deployed to the Central Command area of responsibility," said Lt. Cmdr. Robert Watts, the ship's operations officer. "It also allowed Monterey to practice joint tactics, techniques, and procedures in the dynamic maritime environment."

Monterey launched two rigid-hull inflatable boats to simulate small boat threats that were detected by an Air Force E-8 Joint Surveillance and Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS) aircraft. Two U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle aircraft were then directed to investigate, identify, target, and destroy the targets. Monterey and the JSTARS aircraft took turns controlling and directing the Strike Eagles while practicing joint procedures to defend Monterey from small craft attack.

"It was a very successful exercise," said Watts. "Both Monterey and U.S. Air Force participants met or exceeded all training objectives. This exercise improves our ability to operate more effectively and efficiently with joint partners in the region."

The two-hour exercise concluded with a fly-by of Monterey after the F-15E Strike Eagles had eliminated all simulated targets during multiple inbound runs.

 Monterey is currently deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Responsibility.

USS Bulkeley, USS San Jacinto Transit Strait of Gibraltar

By By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Shane A. Jackson, Carrier Strike Group 10 Public Affairs

MEDITERRANEAN SEA (NNS) -- Guided-missile destroyer USS Bulkeley (DDG 84) and guided-missile cruiser USS San Jacinto (CG 56) transited safely through the Strait of Gibraltar to enter the Mediterranean Sea July 31.

The Strait of Gibraltar is a narrow transit which separates Europe and Africa by seven miles at its most narrow point, connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. The strait routinely accommodates a significant amount of commercial traffic.

"It was a full pilot house but the conning officer and officer of the deck handled the traffic well, operating the maneuvering boards," said Quartermaster 1st Class (SW) Carlos Ruben Gonzalez, a Bulkeley Sailor.

Bulkeley and San Jacinto encountered higher than normal winds while approaching the strait but were not overly affected by them.

"I've been through the strait about a dozen times now and it's usually calmer, but the approach was windier than usual", said Cdr. Matthew Phillips, commanding officer, USS Bulkeley. "Even with the winds, the bridge team handled it very well and divided up their duties responsibly."

Bulkeley and San Jacinto are underway as part of Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HST CSG). Upon completing their time in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR), both ships will transit to the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR to conduct maritime security operations and to support theater security cooperation efforts.

HST CSG also includes guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64), guided-missile destroyer USS Mason (DDG 87), embarked Carrier Air Wing 3 and its squadrons; Strike Fighter Squadrons (VFA) 32 "Swordsmen," VFA-37 "Ragin' Bulls," and VFA-105 "Gunslingers;" Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 312 "Checkerboards;" Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 126 "Seahawks;" Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 130 "Zappers;" Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 7 "Dusty Dogs;" Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 74 "Swamp Foxes;" embarked 1st Combined Destroyer Squadron staff and Military Sealift Command, fast combat support ship USNS Arctic (T-AOE 8).

Mode-S/ADS Milcom Intercepts 31 July 2013 - Btown NC

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts and selected ATC call signs logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC.

ADFE82 92-0547   DEALER21 2013-07-31 22:51:19 C-130H United States USAF | 19AW [KLRF]
AE036E 98-0008   ---  2013-07-31 22:41:21 UC-35A United States US Army
83AEFC 84-24378   R24378 2013-07-31 21:45:33 C-12U United States USARC | C/2-228 AVN (TA) [KFBG]
AE01BD 84-0131   SPAR621 2013-07-31 21:43:20 C-21A United States USAF | 375AW | 457AS [KADW]
AE4E08 08-5712   E85712 2013-07-31 21:05:00 C-130J United States USAF | 317AG [KDYS]
ADFC7B 91-0087   ---  2013-07-31 20:20:44 T-1A United States USAF | 47FTW | 86FTS [KDLF]
83AEFC 84-24378   R24378 2013-07-31 19:50:54 C-12U United States USARC | C/2-228 AVN (TA) [KFBG]
ADFD6C 90-00527   ---  2013-07-31 19:30:23 C-26D United States ---
AF14EC ------   ---  2013-07-31 18:43:05 ------ United States ---
ADFD75 91-0505   ---  2013-07-31 18:13:21 C-26D United States OSACOMDet.17NCArNG
AE0174 84-0119   COUGR44 2013-07-31 18:10:06 C-21A United States USAF | 375AW | 458AS [KBLV]
AE01BD 84-0131   SPAR621 2013-07-31 17:23:46 C-21A United States USAF | 375AW | 457AS [KADW]
AE0818 00-0182   ---  2013-07-31 17:20:01 C-17A United States USAF | 62AW [KTCM]
ADFE82 92-0547   DEALER21 2013-07-31 16:43:53 C-130H United States USAF | 19AW [KLRF]
AE04C9 60-0314   ---  2013-07-31 16:35:36 KC-135R United States AFRC | 434ARW | 72ARS [KGUS]
AE04C9 60-0314   MASH81 2013-07-31 16:01:37 KC-135R United States AFRC | 434ARW | 72ARS [KGUS]
ADFDBB 93-1041   DEALR24 2013-07-31 15:19:38 C-130H United States USAF | 19AW [KLRF]
ADFC96 92-0341   ---  2013-07-31 15:16:52 T-1A United States USAF | 12FTW | 99FTS [KRND]
AE093A 00-1051   ---  2013-07-31 15:07:47 UC-35B United States USARC | B/2-228 AVN (TA) [KMGE]
ADFD6C 90-00527   ---  2013-07-31 14:51:33 C-26D United States ---
AE123F 04-4134   RCH174T 2013-07-31 13:59:40 C-17A United States USAF | 305AMW | 6AS [KWRI]
AE036E 98-0008   ---  2013-07-31 13:43:06 UC-35A United States US Army
AE1294 89-0283   TALON 11 2013-07-31 04:44:36 MC-130h United States USAF | 1SOW | 15SOS [KHRT]
AE49C3 09-9207   RCH865 2013-07-31 04:32:39 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE04D8 165830   CNV4746 2013-07-31 01:33:40 C-40A United States USNR | VR-59 [KNFW]

USS Roosevelt Departs for Group Sail

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Samantha Thorpe, USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Public Affairs

USS ROOSEVELT, At Sea (NNS) -- The Arleigh-Burke class destroyer USS Roosevelt (DDG 80) departed its homeport of Mayport, Fla., to participate in the George H.W. Bush Group Sail (GHWB GRUSL), July 29.

During the approximately month long at-sea period, Roosevelt will be part of the Group Sail in order to improve interoperability with the other ships in the strike group.

"This is the first time we will be operating with the George H.W. Bush Strike Group for the upcoming deployment," said Commanding Officer Cmdr. Frankie J. Clark. "We have completed our unit level training, which is specific for our platform, but now we are joining the other ships in the strike group to complete group-training exercises as well as prepare for deployment."

Lt. LeAndra Kissinger, the ship's operations officer, said this at-sea period is the first opportunity for the ships in the strike group to work on becoming a functional unit.

"It is an extremely important training phase that will ensure that during the actual assessment phase, Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX), all the ships in the Strike Group can get certified for deployment," said Kissinger.

The five ships participating in the GHWB GRUSL are the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), the Arleigh-Burke class destroyers USS Truxtun (DDG 103) and USS Roosevelt, and the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruisers USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) and USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55).

"It is our first event working together as a Strike Group so we have a lot of events scheduled for the at-sea period," said Clark. "We will mainly be testing all the system operability between the different ships working together as one battle group. It is important that we learn how to work well with each other now so during COMPTUEX we can focus on getting the certification."

For the past 90 days, Roosevelt has been in port and the crew looks toward this underway as a time to continue to maintain the proficiency of the crew and equipment.

"During this at-sea period, we need to make sure that we, as a ship, are operating at the level necessary to work together as a team with the Strike Group," said Kissinger. "We will be deploying as a team and it is imperative that we are prepared in case something happens when we deploy. We train for every possibility in order for it to become a matter of muscle memory in case of an emergency."

Clark said this group sail will be the first impression Roosevelt will make on the strike group and he believes the ship and crew will do extremely well.

"I am very excited because Roosevelt has always been a ship with a crew that gets things done and this is our first opportunity to show the battle group that we are ready to meet all assigned tasking," said Clark.

Navy Turns to UAVs for Help with Radar, Communications

By Eric Beidel, Office of Naval Research

ARLINGTON, Va. (NNS) -- Scientists launched unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) from a research vessel July 13-18 in a significant experiment that could help boost the Navy's radar and communications performance at sea.

Sailing off Virginia Beach, Va., the Office of Naval Research's (ONR) Research Vessel (R/V) Knorr explored ocean and atmospheric weather variations that can change the angle that radar and radio waves bend, making it more difficult for ships to remain undetected and hindering their ability to communicate or locate adversaries.

Sponsored by ONR's Ocean Battlespace Sensing Department and the Oceanographer of the Navy, the initiative was part of Trident Warrior-a large annual fleet experiment organized by Navy Warfare Development Command.

Researchers used ONR-owned ScanEagle UAVs-along with unmanned undersea and surface vehicles-to obtain accurate, real-time measurements of variations in atmospheric and ocean conditions. Fluxes and turbulence caused by the interaction between the air and sea can significantly alter the path of electromagnetic waves in radar and communications systems.

Atmospheric "ducts" can trap energy in the lowest layer of the atmosphere, allowing radar and communications to travel over much longer distances, increasing the chances that information could reach unintended audiences. Energy also could be trapped aloft, preventing Navy radars from seeing things even if they normally would be well within range.

"We need to understand where we are in relation to this ducting environment and understand the energy we're emitting and the energy an adversary is emitting," said Dr. Dan Eleuterio, program officer for ONR's Ocean Battlespace Sensing Department. "If we don't know these things, it's like rolling the dice. If we do know them, it can give us a tactical advantage."

Smaller, light unmanned aircraft are ideal for the task, because they can launch from a ship, get close to the ocean's surface and fly for extended periods of time. During the experiment, the UAVs flew as close as 100 feet above the ocean's surface, allowing for more precise measurements.

Developed by the Marine Physical Laboratory at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, the sensor packages used on the ScanEagles measured everything from surface waves, winds, humidity and temperature to fluxes in mass, momentum and energy. Once collected, the data was delivered to personnel aboard a destroyer and an amphibious assault ship participating in the experiment.

"In the old days, we launched weather balloons to give us the best data on the real environment, but that only happened in one place and at one time of day," said Cmdr. Rob Witzleb, head of capabilities and requirements on the staff of the Oceanographer of the Navy. "Many miles and hours later, we were often left looking for answers when weapon systems didn't perform the way we thought they would. Using UAVs is giant leap forward in that they can give us near-continuous data, across multiple parameters where the atmosphere is the most unpredictable."

The recent research aboard R/V Knorr is in keeping with Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jonathan Greenert's call for the Navy to expand the reach of its sensors and platforms with unmanned and autonomous systems. He has described these assets as critical for the Navy to dominate the new arenas of the electromagnetic spectrum and cyberspace.

In addition to ONR and Scripps, the experiment aboard R/V Knorr included representatives from the Naval Research Laboratory, Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren, Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Pacific, Naval Postgraduate School, Oregon State University and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute, which operates the research vessel, also part of the University-National Oceanographic Laboratory System.

ONR provides the science and technology necessary to maintain the Navy and Marine Corps' technological advantage. Through its affiliates, ONR is a leader in science and technology with engagement in 50 states, 70 countries, 1,035 institutions of higher learning and 914 industry partners. ONR employs approximately 1,400 people, comprising uniformed, civilian and contract personnel, with additional employees at the Naval Research Lab in Washington, D.C.

US 3rd Fleet Wraps Up Participation in Talisman Saber 2013

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet completed biennial joint-training exercise Talisman Saber 2013 (TS13) July 28.

The two-week exercise is the second largest maritime exercise in the world jointly led by U.S. Pacific Command and the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

Military assets from both nations conducted various types of training at sea, ashore and in the air off the Australian coast and in the United States 7th and 3rd Fleet areas of responsibility based on a simulated mid-intensity war environment.

Third Fleet served as Combined Force Maritime Component Commander (CFMCC) for the exercise. In the joint-task force construct, CFMCC is one of four functional components: Combined Forces Maritime Component Commander, Combined Forces Air Component Commander, Combined Forces Land Component Commander and Combined Forces Special Operations Component Commander.

"Talisman Saber 2013 provided a great training experience for our team here at Third Fleet, which included a contingent of outstanding professionals from the Royal Australian Navy led by Cdre. Greg Sammut," said Vice Adm. Kenneth Floyd, Commander U.S. 3rd Fleet. "We had the chance to exercise command and control with U.S. and Australian ships halfway around the world in realistic and relevant scenarios. Just as importantly, we strengthened key joint and international partnerships that we rely on every day."

All component commanders reported to 7th Fleet, who served as Commander of the Combined Task Force (CCTF). The exercise served as 7th Fleet's Joint Task Force (JTF) certification.

"TS13 is a bilateral exercise between the Australian navy and the U.S. Navy, and this year it's grown to include U.S. Army First Corps and some U.S. Air Force components," said Capt. Jay Mills, deputy director Maritime Operations Center for CFMCC during TS13. "CFMCC is in command of all maritime forces that may be used to respond in the event of a crisis. Practicing our role of CFMCC allows us to utilize the tactics, techniques and procedures we would use as a combined force."

U.S. 3rd Fleet staff managed a combined force of geographically dispersed Australian and U.S. ships that showed the fleet's ability to manage multinational assets from 3rd Fleet headquarters in San Diego, which added to the realistic, relevant training that is necessary for an effective global Navy.

"This is a tremendous opportunity for the staff in terms of operating as a maritime operations center and exercising those cross-functional teams that make it possible," said Mills. "When we go to a contingency operation or major combat operations as we simulate this exercise, we stand up a maritime operations center, which has a different construct, and we have what are called bureaus, boards, cells and working groups."

Joint interagency and international relationships strengthen U.S. 3rd Fleet's ability to respond to crises and protect the collective maritime interests of the U.S. and its allies and partners.