TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (AFPN) -- Air Forces Northern officials are deploying an air component coordination element to support firefighting operations in Southern California.
The air component coordination element, or ACCE, is an Air Force team designed to perform the command and control function for Air Force assets supporting the efforts.
When the Federal Emergency Management Agency requested Defense Department resources to help with the relief operations in Southern California, AFNORTH officials sent the eight-person element to coordinate any airlift, aeromedical evacuation, medical support, aerial assessment and civil engineering capabilities as needed.
"Like all citizens, we are saddened by the loss of life and property," said Maj. Gen. Henry C. "Hank" Morrow, the AFNORTH commander. "America's Air Force has answered the call for assistance to the California wildfire crisis. Our folks are working long hours to help Americans in need."
"Defense support to civil authorities is a total team and interagency effort," said Brig. Gen. Robert O. Tarter, the ACCE team commander. "We coordinate all Air Force capabilities for the task force, and work directly with civilian experts to support their operations. Due to the cooperation of military and civil authorities we will be able to save lives and mitigate property damage."
The ACCE is helping to provide critical Air Force assistance in areas needing it most; delivering essential supplies, conducting vital command and control of rescues and evacuation of survivors from the disaster area.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Russian Long Range Bomber Missions Are Spiking Again
The following is a translation from Russian into English by the Old Crow taken off the Russian Ministry of Defense website. The article was dated 24 October 2007. It appears that the spike in the number of missions for the Russian Long Range Aviation units continues.
Long Range Aviaition activities continue...within the framework of Command-Staff training by units of Long Range Aviation. The training is scheduled to run from 16th to 30th October under the direction of CinC Air Forces - Colonel-General Aleksandr Zelin. Today, 24th October and tomorrow 25th October, as many as 10 aircraft: TU-160 (Blackjack), TU-95MS (Bear H) and IL-78 Tankers will carry out flights over the Arctic, Atlantic, and Pacific Oceans and also the Black Sea. The flights will occur at night and during the day and will include in-flight refuelling.
The Russian Strategic Aviation flights will be accomplished in observance of the schedule for combat training and will be carried out strictly in accordance with International rules governing military flights over international waters and will not violate the airspace of other nations.
Previous articles on this subject here on the Milcom blog include:
http://mt-milcom.blogspot.com/2007/08/raf-typhoon-intercepts-russian-bear.html
http://mt-milcom.blogspot.com/2007/08/russia-strategic-forces-conduct-6.html
http://mt-milcom.blogspot.com/2007/03/us-overflightsrussian-long-range-air.html
Blog Editor's Note: Recently reported Russian Long Range Air Force frequencies from REA4 Moscow 1000/50 include: 2721.0 4179.0 4706.0 5157.0 7018.0 9193.0 11408.0 23961.0 kHz.
Military Personnel, Assets Help to Battle California Fires
By Jim Garamone, American Forces Press Service
An MH-60S Seahawk assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 85, lifts a full 420-gallon extinguishing trough from a local reservoir near the raging wildfires in San Diego County. The trough is used to dump water to help fend off the fires that have already forced more than 250,000 people from their homes. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Chris Fahey)
Military personnel and assets are helping out in the most serious outbreak of wildfires in California in years.
California National Guard and California-based active-duty personnel are providing some of the muscle needed to contain the fires, which have driven more than 300,000 people from their homes in 12 counties.
Officials at the National Interagency Fire Center in Boise, Idaho, are working with representatives from U.S. Northern Command to coordinate requests for DoD personnel and assets. Northern Command also has personnel working in Southern California directly with local authorities.
With 11 fires burning out of control from Los Angeles to the Mexican border, some DoD installations are themselves in danger from the wildfires. Camp Pendleton, the San Diego Marine Recruit Depot and Marine Corps Air Station Miramar are among the installations asking only essential personnel to come in to work.
A total of 17,031 California National Guardsmen are available for employment if the situation calls for it, said officials at U.S. Northern Command. Some 33 active duty, 79 Defense civilian personnel and 1,500 California National Guardsmen are actively engaged or directly supporting firefighting response, security and relief operations.
Another 550 Marines from Camp Pendleton have volunteered to help local authorities fight the fires in San Diego County.
California authorities have requested and the DoD has sent significant firefighting assets to the area. Helicopters are the most effective airborne asset, as the Santa Ana winds -- which are driving the fire -- make flying fixed-wing aircraft dangerous. California Guardsmen are flying a CH-47 and five UH-60 helicopters in the effort.
Navy pilots are flying two MH-60 aircraft in support of local firefighting efforts. The Marine Corps have a CH-46 and three CH-53 helicopters on standby at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, and one additional helicopter on standby at Camp Pendleton. All of the choppers can drop water using buckets.
On Oct. 22, the National Interagency Fire Center requested six C-130 Hercules aircraft fitted with modular air firefighting systems.
The Air National Guard will deploy four of these aircraft to Naval Air Station Point Mugu, Calif. They should arrive today. In addition, two C-130s from the 153rd Airlift Wing of the Wyoming Air National Guard, and two from the 145th Airlift Wing, North Carolina Air National Guard, are on alert.
Two C-130s from the Air Force Reserve's 302nd Airlift Wing Peterson Air Force Base, Colo., also will arrive at Point Mugu Oct 23.
On the ground, the Marine Corps and Navy have deployed six fire trucks each to support local fire fighting efforts. The Navy has also provided a brush truck. All these moves are under mutual aid agreements signed with local authorities.
San Diego has a significantly large Navy population, and an Aegis cruiser, a guided-missile destroyer and two fast frigates will remain in port to support evacuation and movement of family members if necessary.
Officials also have set up the Naval Base San Diego gymnasium as an evacuation center, with room for about 500 people. Sailors also are setting up a 500-person tent city at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, and space for 442 persons is being prepared at Naval Air Station El Centro.
Commanders have issued orders that all sailors ashore in barracks will move aboard ships to provide room for evacuees. The Navy also also providing 500 cots for a shelter at Qualcomm Stadium, home of the National Football League's San Diego Chargers.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency has asked the Defense Department to identify a military installation in Southern California to be the forward staging area for supplies flowing south from the FEMA logistics center at Moffitt Field, Calif.
The California National Guard is doing heavy lifting in the effort. The 40th Special Troops Battalion, 40th Brigade Support Battalion and a military police battalion headquarters are providing command and control and logistics support at the Qualcomm Stadium shelter.
The 40th Infantry Brigade Combat Team has alerted two 500-person rapid reaction battalions and two 100-person quick reaction companies. About 100 National Guard medical personnel are augmenting the staff at the San Diego Veteran's Center, which is experiencing critical staffing shortfalls resulting from voluntary and mandatory evacuation.
As the sun begins to rise over Naval Base San Diego, the smoke from the fires hangs overhead. Currently, the numerous fires in San Diego County threaten no Navy facilities. However, Navy Region Southwest has established several Military Evacuation Centers for Navy families (and their pets) who have been forced to evacuate their homes. (U.S. Navy photo by CDR Jane Campbell)
An MH-60S Seahawk assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 85, lifts a full 420-gallon extinguishing trough from a local reservoir near the raging wildfires in San Diego County. The trough is used to dump water to help fend off the fires that have already forced more than 250,000 people from their homes. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Chris Fahey) Military personnel and assets are helping out in the most serious outbreak of wildfires in California in years.
California National Guard and California-based active-duty personnel are providing some of the muscle needed to contain the fires, which have driven more than 300,000 people from their homes in 12 counties.
Officials at the National Interagency Fire Center in Boise, Idaho, are working with representatives from U.S. Northern Command to coordinate requests for DoD personnel and assets. Northern Command also has personnel working in Southern California directly with local authorities.
With 11 fires burning out of control from Los Angeles to the Mexican border, some DoD installations are themselves in danger from the wildfires. Camp Pendleton, the San Diego Marine Recruit Depot and Marine Corps Air Station Miramar are among the installations asking only essential personnel to come in to work.
A total of 17,031 California National Guardsmen are available for employment if the situation calls for it, said officials at U.S. Northern Command. Some 33 active duty, 79 Defense civilian personnel and 1,500 California National Guardsmen are actively engaged or directly supporting firefighting response, security and relief operations.
Another 550 Marines from Camp Pendleton have volunteered to help local authorities fight the fires in San Diego County.
California authorities have requested and the DoD has sent significant firefighting assets to the area. Helicopters are the most effective airborne asset, as the Santa Ana winds -- which are driving the fire -- make flying fixed-wing aircraft dangerous. California Guardsmen are flying a CH-47 and five UH-60 helicopters in the effort.
Navy pilots are flying two MH-60 aircraft in support of local firefighting efforts. The Marine Corps have a CH-46 and three CH-53 helicopters on standby at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, and one additional helicopter on standby at Camp Pendleton. All of the choppers can drop water using buckets.
On Oct. 22, the National Interagency Fire Center requested six C-130 Hercules aircraft fitted with modular air firefighting systems.
The Air National Guard will deploy four of these aircraft to Naval Air Station Point Mugu, Calif. They should arrive today. In addition, two C-130s from the 153rd Airlift Wing of the Wyoming Air National Guard, and two from the 145th Airlift Wing, North Carolina Air National Guard, are on alert.
Two C-130s from the Air Force Reserve's 302nd Airlift Wing Peterson Air Force Base, Colo., also will arrive at Point Mugu Oct 23.
On the ground, the Marine Corps and Navy have deployed six fire trucks each to support local fire fighting efforts. The Navy has also provided a brush truck. All these moves are under mutual aid agreements signed with local authorities.
San Diego has a significantly large Navy population, and an Aegis cruiser, a guided-missile destroyer and two fast frigates will remain in port to support evacuation and movement of family members if necessary.
Officials also have set up the Naval Base San Diego gymnasium as an evacuation center, with room for about 500 people. Sailors also are setting up a 500-person tent city at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, and space for 442 persons is being prepared at Naval Air Station El Centro.
Commanders have issued orders that all sailors ashore in barracks will move aboard ships to provide room for evacuees. The Navy also also providing 500 cots for a shelter at Qualcomm Stadium, home of the National Football League's San Diego Chargers.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency has asked the Defense Department to identify a military installation in Southern California to be the forward staging area for supplies flowing south from the FEMA logistics center at Moffitt Field, Calif.
The California National Guard is doing heavy lifting in the effort. The 40th Special Troops Battalion, 40th Brigade Support Battalion and a military police battalion headquarters are providing command and control and logistics support at the Qualcomm Stadium shelter.
The 40th Infantry Brigade Combat Team has alerted two 500-person rapid reaction battalions and two 100-person quick reaction companies. About 100 National Guard medical personnel are augmenting the staff at the San Diego Veteran's Center, which is experiencing critical staffing shortfalls resulting from voluntary and mandatory evacuation.
As the sun begins to rise over Naval Base San Diego, the smoke from the fires hangs overhead. Currently, the numerous fires in San Diego County threaten no Navy facilities. However, Navy Region Southwest has established several Military Evacuation Centers for Navy families (and their pets) who have been forced to evacuate their homes. (U.S. Navy photo by CDR Jane Campbell)
Airmen support STS-120 space shuttle launch
by Ken Warren, 45th Space Wing Public Affairs
Members of the 45th Space Wing here supported NASA's successful launch of Space Shuttle Discovery Oct. 23 from Space Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center on the 23rd mission to the International Space Station.
The wing's support included providing weather forecasts, helping organize and train Department of Defense contingency response forces and assuring a safe launch by tracking the vehicle with an array of radar, telemetry, communications and optical instrumentation via its Eastern Range.
"The Air Force's Eastern Range is a national treasure," said Brig. Gen. Susan J. Helms, the 45th SW commander. "It serves as our East Coast flightline for assuring safe access to space for the shuttle and our expendable vehicles.
The general said the shuttle launch is the third major space launch within 13 days.
"The Air Force/NASA partnership continues to reap huge benefits for our nation" she said. "Nobody does space better."
The Eastern Range supported the launches of an Atlas V carrying the first Wideband Global SATCOM satellite Oct. 10 and a Delta II carrying a Global Positioning Satellite Oct. 17. Discovery will deliver a connecting module that will increase the space station's interior space. Retired Air Force Col. Pamela Melroy is commanding the shuttle mission.
Members of the 45th Space Wing here supported NASA's successful launch of Space Shuttle Discovery Oct. 23 from Space Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center on the 23rd mission to the International Space Station.
The wing's support included providing weather forecasts, helping organize and train Department of Defense contingency response forces and assuring a safe launch by tracking the vehicle with an array of radar, telemetry, communications and optical instrumentation via its Eastern Range.
"The Air Force's Eastern Range is a national treasure," said Brig. Gen. Susan J. Helms, the 45th SW commander. "It serves as our East Coast flightline for assuring safe access to space for the shuttle and our expendable vehicles.
The general said the shuttle launch is the third major space launch within 13 days.
"The Air Force/NASA partnership continues to reap huge benefits for our nation" she said. "Nobody does space better."
The Eastern Range supported the launches of an Atlas V carrying the first Wideband Global SATCOM satellite Oct. 10 and a Delta II carrying a Global Positioning Satellite Oct. 17. Discovery will deliver a connecting module that will increase the space station's interior space. Retired Air Force Col. Pamela Melroy is commanding the shuttle mission.
Reserve C-130s helping fight California fires
Two Air Force Reserve Command C-130 Hercules aircraft, equipped with Modular Airborne Firefighting Systems like this C-130 dropping water during annual MAFFS training in New Mexico, have been dispatched to help battle wildfires in California. The aircraft are from the 302nd Airlift Wing at Peterson Air Force Base, Colo. (U.S Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Rick Sforza)
Air Force Reserve Command's 302nd Airlift Wing here has launched two firefighting C-130 Hercules aircraft to battle the raging wildfires in southern California.
Two additional C-130s also are going to support the operation.
National Interagency Fire Center officials in Boise, Idaho, requested Department of Defense assistance in fighting the fires which put the wheels in motion for mobilization of the reservists from Peterson.
Crews from the 302nd AW loaded the Modular Airborne Firefighting System equipment onto two of their C-130 cargo aircraft. The unit will furnish enough crews to sustain its two firefighting aircraft throughout each daylight hour to help battle wildland fires currently ravaging national forest and private properties in California.
Last year, the 302nd's MAFFS mission at Peterson was activated by the U.S. Forest Service to fight wildfires in the Pacific Northwest. The 302nd flew 18 sorties against fires in Idaho, Nevada and Oregon, dropping 48,600 gallons of retardant.
Navy Supports Firefighting Efforts and Families
A specially equipped MH-60S Seahawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 85 launches from Naval Air Station North Island to conduct operations supporting the California Department of Forestry's efforts in combating the San Diego wildfires. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Ahron Arendes) Navy firefighting efforts in support of CalFire (California Department of Forestry) continued into their second day for ground crews battling the Witch and Harris Ranch Fires in San Diego County Oct. 22, while Navy firefighting helicopters from Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 85 based at North Island Naval Air Station began flying missions today once requested by CalFire.
As firefighting efforts continued, many of the 165,000 Navy, Navy civilian and family members that live in San Diego County became subject to evacuation orders as Santa Ana wind conditions drove eight separate fires across the county.
All Navy personnel were directed to muster through their parent commands and online at: https://twms.nmci.navy.mil/emuster/.
Additionally, a hotline number for evacuation housing referrals and general assistance was established at: 619-556-9399.
Key and essential personnel including all Naval Medical Center San Diego personnel should report for duty as directed by their respective commands.
Emergency shelter and evacuation centers for military personnel are available at Naval Base San Diego Prout Field House (Dry Side of Naval Base SD), and at Naval Base Coronado.
USS Whidbey Island Arrives in 5th Fleet
USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41) entered the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations Oct. 21 to conduct Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in regional waters.
Cmdr. Michael Junge, commanding officer of Whidbey Island, said he and his crew look forward to helping maintain security and stability in the region.
“These Sailors are ready and prepared for any task our commanders assign to us,” he said.
“This area is important to the new maritime strategy. Security in the maritime environment helps maintain continued global commerce and a secure future for other nations,” Junge said.
Whidbey Island, homeported in Norfolk, is on a regularly scheduled deployment.
U.S. 5th Fleet, headquartered in Manama, Bahrain, is responsible for an area encompassing approximately 2.5 million square miles of water including the Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman and parts of the Indian Ocean.
MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations seek to disrupt violent extremists’ use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.
Cmdr. Michael Junge, commanding officer of Whidbey Island, said he and his crew look forward to helping maintain security and stability in the region.
“These Sailors are ready and prepared for any task our commanders assign to us,” he said.
“This area is important to the new maritime strategy. Security in the maritime environment helps maintain continued global commerce and a secure future for other nations,” Junge said.
Whidbey Island, homeported in Norfolk, is on a regularly scheduled deployment.
U.S. 5th Fleet, headquartered in Manama, Bahrain, is responsible for an area encompassing approximately 2.5 million square miles of water including the Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman and parts of the Indian Ocean.
MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations seek to disrupt violent extremists’ use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.
NASSG Completes Two Exercises
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class David Wyscaver, Nassau Strike Group Public Affairs
NORFOLK (NNS) -- With the Expeditionary Strike Group Integration exercise completed, the Nassau Strike Group (NASSG) continued its training and readiness operations by successfully completing the Fleet Synthetic Training-Joint (FST-J) 08-2 exercise from Oct. 9-19.
With oversight by Commander, 2nd Fleet, FST-J was a distribution training exercise that utilized the Navy’s continuous training environment to provide realistic operational and tactical-level training in a synthetic environment simultaneously at different fleet concentration areas including Mayport, Fla. and Norfolk.
The exercise provided the NASSG a dedicated opportunity to train its decision makers, promote coordination between warfare commanders, execute battle force operations, and familiarize its crews with real-time operations and terminology, all while in an inport training environment.
While FST-J marked the 12th time one or more Atlantic Fleet strike groups trained via a network, it was the first time that an Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) conducted the training from aboard their respective ships. In the past, ESG’s had conducted all or some of the scenario from classrooms at Tactical Training Group Atlantic (TTGL) at Naval Air Station Oceana’s Dam Neck Annex. Here, the scenario was facilitated aboard the strike group ships pierside at Naval Station Norfolk.
"Sailors and Marines had completed their ESG integrated training event and immediately prepared to begin two weeks of a Fleet Synthetic Training scenario," said Capt. Robert G. Lineberry, Commander, Nassau Strike Group.
"Nassau Strike Group was the first Expeditionary Strike Group to conduct this training from aboard their own ships simulating at-sea conditions. The Sailors and Marines looked forward to this challenging and realistic simulation training that provided a wide range of scenarios to train our Blue/Green team in a coalition partnership environment," Lineberry explained.
The exercise was an evolution encompassing classroom instruction, tactical and operational planning, and scenario execution using Joint Semi-Automated Forces and Battle Force Team Trainer architecture. It was comprised of both scripted and dynamic events driven by participant actions. Training events were also leveraged to realize efficiencies during advanced phase training increasing the quality of underway time.
Additionally, conducting training in-port, provides high quality training at low cost. Inport simulation allows the Navy to train with much less stress on equipment while balancing employability/deployability requirements for Sailors. It also allows trainers the opportunity to apply more variety to an exercise. Adversary activity can be added as well as additional aircraft, ships, and submarines without burning fuel or adding wear and tear to ships and equipment.
The NASSG also benefited from mentoring from members of Commander, Strike Force Training, Atlantic; TTGL, and Expeditionary Warfare Training Group, Atlantic staffs, particularly for joint and coalition operations.
Lineberry noted exercises like FST-J are crucial to the readiness of an overall naval force.
"FST-J is an important part of the Fleet Response Program which is designed to provide a naval force that can maintain meaningful forward presence while generating the ability to surge additional combat power as needed to meet regional combatant commander requirements," he explained. "Along with ensuring and testing our overall readiness, also provided some training opportunities throughout the strike group."
"The purpose of any of these training evolutions is to make the Navy and Marine Corps function as one well-oiled machine," said Gunnery Sgt. Anthony Bargallo, USS Nassau (LHA 4) combat cargo operations officer. "The reason we train is so we can learn each other’s standard operating procedures while preparing for deployment."
From NASSG, Nassau, USS Nashville (LPD 13), USS Philippine Sea (CG 58), USS Bulkeley (DDG 84), USS Ashland (LSD 48), USS Ross (DDG 71), USS Albany (SSN 753), Amphibious Squadron 6 and 24 Marine Expeditionary Unit all participated in FST-J 08-2, along with coalition crews from ship simulators in the United Kingdom and Germany.
Currently preparing for its regularly scheduled 2008 deployment, the NASSG is made up of more than 5,000 Sailors and Marines.
NORFOLK (NNS) -- With the Expeditionary Strike Group Integration exercise completed, the Nassau Strike Group (NASSG) continued its training and readiness operations by successfully completing the Fleet Synthetic Training-Joint (FST-J) 08-2 exercise from Oct. 9-19.
With oversight by Commander, 2nd Fleet, FST-J was a distribution training exercise that utilized the Navy’s continuous training environment to provide realistic operational and tactical-level training in a synthetic environment simultaneously at different fleet concentration areas including Mayport, Fla. and Norfolk.
The exercise provided the NASSG a dedicated opportunity to train its decision makers, promote coordination between warfare commanders, execute battle force operations, and familiarize its crews with real-time operations and terminology, all while in an inport training environment.
While FST-J marked the 12th time one or more Atlantic Fleet strike groups trained via a network, it was the first time that an Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) conducted the training from aboard their respective ships. In the past, ESG’s had conducted all or some of the scenario from classrooms at Tactical Training Group Atlantic (TTGL) at Naval Air Station Oceana’s Dam Neck Annex. Here, the scenario was facilitated aboard the strike group ships pierside at Naval Station Norfolk.
"Sailors and Marines had completed their ESG integrated training event and immediately prepared to begin two weeks of a Fleet Synthetic Training scenario," said Capt. Robert G. Lineberry, Commander, Nassau Strike Group.
"Nassau Strike Group was the first Expeditionary Strike Group to conduct this training from aboard their own ships simulating at-sea conditions. The Sailors and Marines looked forward to this challenging and realistic simulation training that provided a wide range of scenarios to train our Blue/Green team in a coalition partnership environment," Lineberry explained.
The exercise was an evolution encompassing classroom instruction, tactical and operational planning, and scenario execution using Joint Semi-Automated Forces and Battle Force Team Trainer architecture. It was comprised of both scripted and dynamic events driven by participant actions. Training events were also leveraged to realize efficiencies during advanced phase training increasing the quality of underway time.
Additionally, conducting training in-port, provides high quality training at low cost. Inport simulation allows the Navy to train with much less stress on equipment while balancing employability/deployability requirements for Sailors. It also allows trainers the opportunity to apply more variety to an exercise. Adversary activity can be added as well as additional aircraft, ships, and submarines without burning fuel or adding wear and tear to ships and equipment.
The NASSG also benefited from mentoring from members of Commander, Strike Force Training, Atlantic; TTGL, and Expeditionary Warfare Training Group, Atlantic staffs, particularly for joint and coalition operations.
Lineberry noted exercises like FST-J are crucial to the readiness of an overall naval force.
"FST-J is an important part of the Fleet Response Program which is designed to provide a naval force that can maintain meaningful forward presence while generating the ability to surge additional combat power as needed to meet regional combatant commander requirements," he explained. "Along with ensuring and testing our overall readiness, also provided some training opportunities throughout the strike group."
"The purpose of any of these training evolutions is to make the Navy and Marine Corps function as one well-oiled machine," said Gunnery Sgt. Anthony Bargallo, USS Nassau (LHA 4) combat cargo operations officer. "The reason we train is so we can learn each other’s standard operating procedures while preparing for deployment."
From NASSG, Nassau, USS Nashville (LPD 13), USS Philippine Sea (CG 58), USS Bulkeley (DDG 84), USS Ashland (LSD 48), USS Ross (DDG 71), USS Albany (SSN 753), Amphibious Squadron 6 and 24 Marine Expeditionary Unit all participated in FST-J 08-2, along with coalition crews from ship simulators in the United Kingdom and Germany.
Currently preparing for its regularly scheduled 2008 deployment, the NASSG is made up of more than 5,000 Sailors and Marines.
NAVSUP Announces 2007 Holiday Season Mailing Dates
For all my military friends and thir families, don't forget to remember your soldier, salior, marine or airmen this holiday season. Our hearts and prayers go out to each and everyone of them.
The Naval Supply Systems Command's (NAVSUP) Postal Policy Division recommends mailing 2007 holiday cards, letters, and packages early to ensure delivery by Dec. 25.
Suggested mailing dates for military mail addressed "to" APO/FPO addresses [APO/FPO AE zip codes 090-098 (except 093); AA zip codes 340; AP zip codes 962-966]:
Express Mail Military Service (EMMS): Dec. 18
First-class and priority mail, letters, cards: Dec. 11
Parcel Airlift Mail (PAL): Dec. 4
Space Available Mail (SAM): Nov. 27
Parcel Post: Nov. 13
Suggested mailing dates for military mail addressed "to" APO/FPO AE zip codes 093:
First-class and priority mail, letters, cards: Dec. 4
PAL: Dec. 1
SAM: Nov. 27
Parcel Post: Nov. 13
Suggested mailing dates for military mail "from" APO and FPO addresses:
EMMS: Dec. 18
First-class and priority mail, letters, cards: Dec. 11
PAL: Dec. 4
SAM: Nov. 27
EMMS is available from selected military post offices. If mailing to an APO/FPO address check with your local post office to determine if this service is available.
PAL is a service that provides air transportation for parcels on a space available basis. It is available for parcel post items not exceeding 30 pounds in weight or 60 inches in length and girth combined. The applicable PAL fee must be paid in addition to the regular surface rate of postage for each addressed piece sent by PAL service.
SAM refers to parcels mailed to APO/FPO addresses at parcel post rates that are first transported domestically by surface and then to overseas destinations by air on a space available basis. The maximum weight and size limits are 15 pounds and 60 inches in length and girth combined. From overseas locations, items mailed at parcel post rates are sent to CONUS by air on a space available basis. The maximum weight and size limit are 70 pounds and 130 inches in length and girth combined.
It is also recommended that customers check with their local civilian or military post office for information on size restrictions and possible need for customs declaration forms.
Additionally, customers are advised that certain mail restrictions apply and some items are non-mailable. Examples are: switchblade knives, pornography, controlled substances, and explosive or incendiary devices. If in doubt as to what can or cannot be sent through the mail, contact your local post office or military post office.
Customers are cautioned that packages must not be mailed in boxes that have markings related to any type of hazardous material, such as bleach, alcohol, or cleaning fluids. Parcels found by the U.S. Postal Service with such markings or labels on the outside of the box will not be processed. Instead, they will be handled as "non-mailable matter," regardless of the contents or what is listed on the U.S. Customs form.
The Naval Supply Systems Command's (NAVSUP) Postal Policy Division recommends mailing 2007 holiday cards, letters, and packages early to ensure delivery by Dec. 25.
Suggested mailing dates for military mail addressed "to" APO/FPO addresses [APO/FPO AE zip codes 090-098 (except 093); AA zip codes 340; AP zip codes 962-966]:
Express Mail Military Service (EMMS): Dec. 18
First-class and priority mail, letters, cards: Dec. 11
Parcel Airlift Mail (PAL): Dec. 4
Space Available Mail (SAM): Nov. 27
Parcel Post: Nov. 13
Suggested mailing dates for military mail addressed "to" APO/FPO AE zip codes 093:
First-class and priority mail, letters, cards: Dec. 4
PAL: Dec. 1
SAM: Nov. 27
Parcel Post: Nov. 13
Suggested mailing dates for military mail "from" APO and FPO addresses:
EMMS: Dec. 18
First-class and priority mail, letters, cards: Dec. 11
PAL: Dec. 4
SAM: Nov. 27
EMMS is available from selected military post offices. If mailing to an APO/FPO address check with your local post office to determine if this service is available.
PAL is a service that provides air transportation for parcels on a space available basis. It is available for parcel post items not exceeding 30 pounds in weight or 60 inches in length and girth combined. The applicable PAL fee must be paid in addition to the regular surface rate of postage for each addressed piece sent by PAL service.
SAM refers to parcels mailed to APO/FPO addresses at parcel post rates that are first transported domestically by surface and then to overseas destinations by air on a space available basis. The maximum weight and size limits are 15 pounds and 60 inches in length and girth combined. From overseas locations, items mailed at parcel post rates are sent to CONUS by air on a space available basis. The maximum weight and size limit are 70 pounds and 130 inches in length and girth combined.
It is also recommended that customers check with their local civilian or military post office for information on size restrictions and possible need for customs declaration forms.
Additionally, customers are advised that certain mail restrictions apply and some items are non-mailable. Examples are: switchblade knives, pornography, controlled substances, and explosive or incendiary devices. If in doubt as to what can or cannot be sent through the mail, contact your local post office or military post office.
Customers are cautioned that packages must not be mailed in boxes that have markings related to any type of hazardous material, such as bleach, alcohol, or cleaning fluids. Parcels found by the U.S. Postal Service with such markings or labels on the outside of the box will not be processed. Instead, they will be handled as "non-mailable matter," regardless of the contents or what is listed on the U.S. Customs form.
RIVRON 1 Sailors Return Home
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman John Suits, Fleet Public Affairs Center Atlantic
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (NNS) -- Approximately 150 Sailors from Riverine Squadron (RIVRON) 1 returned to Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek (NABLC), Oct. 22, following a seven-month deployment to Iraq.
RIVRON 1 deployed there earlier this year to conduct Maritime Security Operations (MSO). The squadron's primary mission was to deny the use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or as a haven for insurgent activities or illegal transportation of weapons, people or material.
This also marks RIVRON 1’s first deployment since Vietnam.
RIVRON 1, led by Commanding Officer Cmdr. William Guarini, worked with Marines from the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force (II MEF) to conduct MSO in Iraq.
“Our squadron’s mission was successful because we made a huge impact on the war in Iraq,” said Guarini. “We were very effective in our mission. We operated with the Marines, Army and Iraqis. As we come off this deployment, I believe the Navy Riverines have a bright future ahead of them. Riverines have a unique capability to operate with foreign navies who don’t have large ships, but have a large navy based off patrol boats.”
Sailors shared their experiences while mobilized in a combat environment.
“I’m glad to get back from this deployment,” said Boatswain’s Mate 2nd Class(SW/AW/EXW) Erik Kenchin. “I wasn’t sure what to expect going into it. Once we got out there, we knew what we had to do. We worked with the Marines, Army and Special Forces and everybody worked well together, in my opinion. Every mission we set out for, we achieved.”
Information Systems Technician 3rd Class (EXW) Lamar Gordon expressed his thoughts on what he felt he learned while deployed.
“I gained a lot of in-rate knowledge and the fact that we performed a lot in combat situations,” said Gordon. “We had a lot of training on how to talk to the citizens and react with them in certain ways.”
RIVRON 1 is part of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC), a global force provider of adaptive force packages of expeditionary capabilities to joint war-fighting commanders.
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (NNS) -- Approximately 150 Sailors from Riverine Squadron (RIVRON) 1 returned to Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek (NABLC), Oct. 22, following a seven-month deployment to Iraq.
RIVRON 1 deployed there earlier this year to conduct Maritime Security Operations (MSO). The squadron's primary mission was to deny the use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or as a haven for insurgent activities or illegal transportation of weapons, people or material.
This also marks RIVRON 1’s first deployment since Vietnam.
RIVRON 1, led by Commanding Officer Cmdr. William Guarini, worked with Marines from the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force (II MEF) to conduct MSO in Iraq.
“Our squadron’s mission was successful because we made a huge impact on the war in Iraq,” said Guarini. “We were very effective in our mission. We operated with the Marines, Army and Iraqis. As we come off this deployment, I believe the Navy Riverines have a bright future ahead of them. Riverines have a unique capability to operate with foreign navies who don’t have large ships, but have a large navy based off patrol boats.”
Sailors shared their experiences while mobilized in a combat environment.
“I’m glad to get back from this deployment,” said Boatswain’s Mate 2nd Class(SW/AW/EXW) Erik Kenchin. “I wasn’t sure what to expect going into it. Once we got out there, we knew what we had to do. We worked with the Marines, Army and Special Forces and everybody worked well together, in my opinion. Every mission we set out for, we achieved.”
Information Systems Technician 3rd Class (EXW) Lamar Gordon expressed his thoughts on what he felt he learned while deployed.
“I gained a lot of in-rate knowledge and the fact that we performed a lot in combat situations,” said Gordon. “We had a lot of training on how to talk to the citizens and react with them in certain ways.”
RIVRON 1 is part of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC), a global force provider of adaptive force packages of expeditionary capabilities to joint war-fighting commanders.
Bonhomme Richard ESG Departs Australia
By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jefferey Gabriel, Commander, Amphibious Force U.S. 7th Fleet Public Affairs
PERTH, Australia (NNS) -- Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG), which includes USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), USS Denver (LPD 9) and USS Rushmore (LSD 47) completed a scheduled port visit to Fremantle and Perth on Oct. 21.
During the five-day visit, Sailors and Marines were involved in friendship-building activities, met local citizens, experienced local customs and traditions, and enjoyed recreational activities offered in Perth.
“This was a great opportunity for our Sailors and Marines to enjoy the rewards of a long and successful deployment,” said Capt. Neil Parrott, commanding officer of Bonhomme Richard. “Australia is a favorite place for us to visit. The crew always enjoys opportunities to visit cities such as Perth and Fremantle. This port visit offered our Sailors and Marines the opportunity to experience the culture of this wonderful city.”
Sailors and Marines participated in various Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) and community relations events, allowing the Sailors and Marines a chance to journey through shopping malls and mingle with locals.
“I feel that the Australian locals were very pleased with our visit to Perth,” said Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class (SW/AW) Horace Reid. “Going the extra mile is an understatement in this case. You could see it in their smiles that they wanted to make an everlasting impression on us as tourists.”
Sailors and Marines met with members of local civic organizations, including the Western Australian Tourism Commission, Fremantle’s Chamber of Commerce, and the Australian-American Association, at a welcoming reception at a local restaurant in Fremantle.
“We got the warmest welcome from the Australians,” said Air Traffic Controller 2nd Class (AW/SW) Christopher Ollinger. “While being served food and drinks, we also entertained each other with questions about our lifestyles. The hospitality was second to none.”
MWR events also opened the door to the region’s culture. According to Chief Yeoman Lovie Rush, the MWR-sponsored Sun Valley Wine, Cheese and Chocolate tour was a good way to learn about Australia’s oldest wine growing region.
“I’m not a wine drinker, but I still attended this tour and ended up having the time of my life,” said Rush. “We visited five wineries and with each wine, we got a sample to go along with the synopsis of them. We also got to sample a variety of chocolates and enjoy[ed] a gourmet platter lunch.”
According to Ship’s Serviceman Seaman Timothy Long, the koalas, kangaroos and sharks tour gave everyone a chance to experience a pleasant side of wildlife.
“Once you see a shark in person, you will immediately notice that they are larger than the television makes them out to be,” said Long. “I also got a chance to feed and touch koalas. Still, my highlight of the tour was when I saw what I think is the fastest kangaroo in the world.”
Sailors and Marines also volunteered time to show their appreciation to their hosts through a variety of community outreach projects benefiting the local community and environment, including assisting the elders at the Perth Hebrew Congregation; planting trees and shrubs to regenerate wetlands with the Conservation Volunteers Australia, Bushland Project; gardening and painting for Valued Independent People, Inc.; and visiting children at the Princess Margaret Hospital.
“I really enjoyed myself,” said Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 2nd Class Corey Willis, who volunteered to help at WEST Australian, Care, Accommodation, Rehabilitation, and Employment, an organization that helps disabled individuals to be independent. “This is a very constructive and rewarding way to spend your day.”
PERTH, Australia (NNS) -- Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG), which includes USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), USS Denver (LPD 9) and USS Rushmore (LSD 47) completed a scheduled port visit to Fremantle and Perth on Oct. 21.
During the five-day visit, Sailors and Marines were involved in friendship-building activities, met local citizens, experienced local customs and traditions, and enjoyed recreational activities offered in Perth.
“This was a great opportunity for our Sailors and Marines to enjoy the rewards of a long and successful deployment,” said Capt. Neil Parrott, commanding officer of Bonhomme Richard. “Australia is a favorite place for us to visit. The crew always enjoys opportunities to visit cities such as Perth and Fremantle. This port visit offered our Sailors and Marines the opportunity to experience the culture of this wonderful city.”
Sailors and Marines participated in various Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) and community relations events, allowing the Sailors and Marines a chance to journey through shopping malls and mingle with locals.
“I feel that the Australian locals were very pleased with our visit to Perth,” said Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class (SW/AW) Horace Reid. “Going the extra mile is an understatement in this case. You could see it in their smiles that they wanted to make an everlasting impression on us as tourists.”
Sailors and Marines met with members of local civic organizations, including the Western Australian Tourism Commission, Fremantle’s Chamber of Commerce, and the Australian-American Association, at a welcoming reception at a local restaurant in Fremantle.
“We got the warmest welcome from the Australians,” said Air Traffic Controller 2nd Class (AW/SW) Christopher Ollinger. “While being served food and drinks, we also entertained each other with questions about our lifestyles. The hospitality was second to none.”
MWR events also opened the door to the region’s culture. According to Chief Yeoman Lovie Rush, the MWR-sponsored Sun Valley Wine, Cheese and Chocolate tour was a good way to learn about Australia’s oldest wine growing region.
“I’m not a wine drinker, but I still attended this tour and ended up having the time of my life,” said Rush. “We visited five wineries and with each wine, we got a sample to go along with the synopsis of them. We also got to sample a variety of chocolates and enjoy[ed] a gourmet platter lunch.”
According to Ship’s Serviceman Seaman Timothy Long, the koalas, kangaroos and sharks tour gave everyone a chance to experience a pleasant side of wildlife.
“Once you see a shark in person, you will immediately notice that they are larger than the television makes them out to be,” said Long. “I also got a chance to feed and touch koalas. Still, my highlight of the tour was when I saw what I think is the fastest kangaroo in the world.”
Sailors and Marines also volunteered time to show their appreciation to their hosts through a variety of community outreach projects benefiting the local community and environment, including assisting the elders at the Perth Hebrew Congregation; planting trees and shrubs to regenerate wetlands with the Conservation Volunteers Australia, Bushland Project; gardening and painting for Valued Independent People, Inc.; and visiting children at the Princess Margaret Hospital.
“I really enjoyed myself,” said Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 2nd Class Corey Willis, who volunteered to help at WEST Australian, Care, Accommodation, Rehabilitation, and Employment, an organization that helps disabled individuals to be independent. “This is a very constructive and rewarding way to spend your day.”
USS Porter Visits Mombassa
The guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) stands watch in the Indian Ocean. Porter is conducting Maritime Operations (MO) in the 5th Fleet area of operations with the USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Patrick Gearhiser)
By Lt. Jim Hoeft, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet Public Affairs
MOMBASSA, Kenya (NNS) -- The U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) departed Mombassa Oct. 19 after a port visit that aimed to continue developing a bilateral partnership.
Porter's port call to Mombasa is the first visit of a U.S. Navy ship to the port city since guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) in 2005 and only the third ship visit since 1999.
“I couldn’t be more pleased over the visit to the port of Mombassa,” said Porter’s Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Robert Hall. “I spent several days meeting key leadership and discussed our ongoing cooperation to improve stability in the region. Our entire crew enjoyed Mombasa’s rich culture.”
Based in Norfolk, Porter has been supporting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the region since arriving in early September. Coalition maritime forces operate throughout international waters in the Persian Gulf, Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, Indian Ocean and the Red Sea.
Coalition forces conduct MSO under international maritime conventions to ensure security and safety in international waters so that commercial shipping and fishing can occur safely.
By Lt. Jim Hoeft, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet Public Affairs
MOMBASSA, Kenya (NNS) -- The U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) departed Mombassa Oct. 19 after a port visit that aimed to continue developing a bilateral partnership.
Porter's port call to Mombasa is the first visit of a U.S. Navy ship to the port city since guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) in 2005 and only the third ship visit since 1999.
“I couldn’t be more pleased over the visit to the port of Mombassa,” said Porter’s Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Robert Hall. “I spent several days meeting key leadership and discussed our ongoing cooperation to improve stability in the region. Our entire crew enjoyed Mombasa’s rich culture.”
Based in Norfolk, Porter has been supporting Maritime Security Operations (MSO) in the region since arriving in early September. Coalition maritime forces operate throughout international waters in the Persian Gulf, Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, Indian Ocean and the Red Sea.
Coalition forces conduct MSO under international maritime conventions to ensure security and safety in international waters so that commercial shipping and fishing can occur safely.
USS Miami Completes Undersea Exercise with UK Submarine
By Lt. Cmdr. Greg A. Kuntz, Task Force 54 Public Affairs
NORTH ARABIAN SEA (NNS) -- USS Miami (SSN 755) and HMS Talent (S92) participated in a submarine exercise in the North Arabian Sea Oct. 6-11.
Exercise Sandstone, a bilateral exercise focused on boosting operator confidence with sonar systems, tested the capabilities and tactics of U.S. and U.K. submarines. The navies trained together in a series of exercises designed to provide both units with experience in detecting, tracking and engaging hostile submarines while conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO).
Miami’s Engineer Officer, Lt. Cmdr. Todd Santala, said the exercise was mutually beneficial.
“This exercise was very even—we got as much free play as they did,” Santala said. “While we were running the points for them to test their sonar system, we were able to maneuver and develop our own solutions in the process. This exercise really provided the maximum benefit to both navies.”
The six-day event presented both crews the opportunity to test the operational performance of sonar systems in a warm-water environment. During the exercise, the submarines practiced numerous tactics, taking turns as both hunter and target submarine. In the simulated combat environment, each crew worked to hone the skills necessary to track and evade enemies.
“We don’t often get an opportunity to do these things,” Santala said. “It was very helpful in that respect.”
MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment and complement the counterterrorism and security efforts in regional nations’ littoral waters. Coalition forces also conduct MSO under international maritime conventions to ensure security and safety in international waters so that commercial shipping and fishing can occur safely in the region.
NORTH ARABIAN SEA (NNS) -- USS Miami (SSN 755) and HMS Talent (S92) participated in a submarine exercise in the North Arabian Sea Oct. 6-11.
Exercise Sandstone, a bilateral exercise focused on boosting operator confidence with sonar systems, tested the capabilities and tactics of U.S. and U.K. submarines. The navies trained together in a series of exercises designed to provide both units with experience in detecting, tracking and engaging hostile submarines while conducting Maritime Security Operations (MSO).
Miami’s Engineer Officer, Lt. Cmdr. Todd Santala, said the exercise was mutually beneficial.
“This exercise was very even—we got as much free play as they did,” Santala said. “While we were running the points for them to test their sonar system, we were able to maneuver and develop our own solutions in the process. This exercise really provided the maximum benefit to both navies.”
The six-day event presented both crews the opportunity to test the operational performance of sonar systems in a warm-water environment. During the exercise, the submarines practiced numerous tactics, taking turns as both hunter and target submarine. In the simulated combat environment, each crew worked to hone the skills necessary to track and evade enemies.
“We don’t often get an opportunity to do these things,” Santala said. “It was very helpful in that respect.”
MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment and complement the counterterrorism and security efforts in regional nations’ littoral waters. Coalition forces also conduct MSO under international maritime conventions to ensure security and safety in international waters so that commercial shipping and fishing can occur safely in the region.
Essex Wraps Successful SRA
SASEBO, Japan (NNS) -- Amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) finished its Selected Restricted Availability period Oct. 10.
Essex's summer-long SRA improved operational readiness in every department on the ship.
“It was an absolute success,” said SRA Administrative Assistant Lt. John P. Richerson. “This yard period gave us the time we needed to overhaul a number of key systems and make some quality of life upgrades to the crew’s accommodations.”
Some of the major work included several hardware and software upgrades to Essex’s combat systems, a complete resurfacing of the flight deck, replacement of the wood planking in the well deck, repairs to the air conditioning units, crew berthing refurbishing and the installation of the Navy Cash Card system throughout the ship.
Contractors and SRA personnel were not the only ones working diligently to complete the repairs. Essex Sailors worked long hours cleaning and preserving spaces to improve the materiel readiness of the ship. Engineering personnel worked day and night in the main spaces to ensure the success of an all important Light Off Assessment (LOA).
LOA, a major check of the ship’s engineering plant, is a thorough demonstration of everything the ship needs to get underway, from main engines to evaporators, as well as the ship’s ability to fight a main space fire.
“The overall success of the assessment is one more example of the hard work and devotion Essex Sailors display as they perform their jobs,” said Damage Control Assistant Lt. Cmdr. Chris Van Avery.
Essex’s forward-deployed status creates a high level of operational commitments, which is why the command took this SRA as an opportunity to send their Sailors to school.
“The 11 week [SRA] provided Essex the opportunity to raise our operational excellence through NECs, schools and shipboard training,” said Essex Training Officer Lt. Cmdr. Dianne Quattrone. “At the completion of FY07, our school's percentage was the highest out of all LHDs, [at] 97 percent. That is a significant accomplishment for a forward deployed ship.”
Knowing that Essex would remain in port for an extended period of time enabled their school's coordinator and assistant school's coordinator, to send Sailors to stateside schools and plan for watch teams to attend stateside based trainers.
“We sent 536 Sailors to 88 schools,” said Quattrone.
Sea trials mark the beginning of a busy fall underway period for Essex Sailors. Now they have new combat systems to test, a new way to use money onboard and new racks to sleep in heading to Fall Patrol 2007. Essex Sailors will continue their mission of forward-deployed presence and engagement while getting familiar with all the new tools in their arsenal.
Essex's summer-long SRA improved operational readiness in every department on the ship.
“It was an absolute success,” said SRA Administrative Assistant Lt. John P. Richerson. “This yard period gave us the time we needed to overhaul a number of key systems and make some quality of life upgrades to the crew’s accommodations.”
Some of the major work included several hardware and software upgrades to Essex’s combat systems, a complete resurfacing of the flight deck, replacement of the wood planking in the well deck, repairs to the air conditioning units, crew berthing refurbishing and the installation of the Navy Cash Card system throughout the ship.
Contractors and SRA personnel were not the only ones working diligently to complete the repairs. Essex Sailors worked long hours cleaning and preserving spaces to improve the materiel readiness of the ship. Engineering personnel worked day and night in the main spaces to ensure the success of an all important Light Off Assessment (LOA).
LOA, a major check of the ship’s engineering plant, is a thorough demonstration of everything the ship needs to get underway, from main engines to evaporators, as well as the ship’s ability to fight a main space fire.
“The overall success of the assessment is one more example of the hard work and devotion Essex Sailors display as they perform their jobs,” said Damage Control Assistant Lt. Cmdr. Chris Van Avery.
Essex’s forward-deployed status creates a high level of operational commitments, which is why the command took this SRA as an opportunity to send their Sailors to school.
“The 11 week [SRA] provided Essex the opportunity to raise our operational excellence through NECs, schools and shipboard training,” said Essex Training Officer Lt. Cmdr. Dianne Quattrone. “At the completion of FY07, our school's percentage was the highest out of all LHDs, [at] 97 percent. That is a significant accomplishment for a forward deployed ship.”
Knowing that Essex would remain in port for an extended period of time enabled their school's coordinator and assistant school's coordinator, to send Sailors to stateside schools and plan for watch teams to attend stateside based trainers.
“We sent 536 Sailors to 88 schools,” said Quattrone.
Sea trials mark the beginning of a busy fall underway period for Essex Sailors. Now they have new combat systems to test, a new way to use money onboard and new racks to sleep in heading to Fall Patrol 2007. Essex Sailors will continue their mission of forward-deployed presence and engagement while getting familiar with all the new tools in their arsenal.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
STS-120 Countdown Underway - Intercepts Update
The countdown for the launch of STS-120 continues. Here is a summary of the latest intercepts.
5.711 NASA Cape Radio w Liberty Star - working frequency(USB)
10.780 NASA Cape Radio w Liberty Star (USB)
118.625 USAF CCAFS Tower
123.475 Civilian Contractor Air Scan Inc Bat##
126.650 NASA Tower / STA
133.750 USAF Patrick AFB Tower
133.800 NASA CAPE CONTROL
138.150 CCAFS Radio Maintenance (AM mode)
138.450 USAF Jolly aircraft
138.450 DoD CAPE (AM mode)
141.300 VARIETY (AM mode)
143.150 USAF CCAFS Tower (AM mode)
149.500 Radio Maintenance(AM mode)
156.800 USCG Channel 16
157.175 USCG and CG Auxiliary
239.050 USAF CCAFS Tower
243.000 Guard
252.000 NORAD Combat Air Patrol: Arrow ## 33FW/58FS Eglin AFB, FL
259.700 NASA KSC Shuttle A-G 1
264.800 CAPE CONTROL
270.000 CCAFS Projects
282.800 SAR Common
285.000 USN NAS Jacksonville TSC Fiddle
294.600 VARIETY
321.000 USAF Patrick AFB King Ops
344.600 CAPE METRO
348.700 FAA ARTCC Miami - Melbourne RCAG
349.600 DoD CAPE
381.800 USCG
416.500 USAF CCAFS Command destruct testing
463.125 Med 6
463.175 Med 8
5.711 NASA Cape Radio w Liberty Star - working frequency(USB)
10.780 NASA Cape Radio w Liberty Star (USB)
118.625 USAF CCAFS Tower
123.475 Civilian Contractor Air Scan Inc Bat##
126.650 NASA Tower / STA
133.750 USAF Patrick AFB Tower
133.800 NASA CAPE CONTROL
138.150 CCAFS Radio Maintenance (AM mode)
138.450 USAF Jolly aircraft
138.450 DoD CAPE (AM mode)
141.300 VARIETY (AM mode)
143.150 USAF CCAFS Tower (AM mode)
149.500 Radio Maintenance(AM mode)
156.800 USCG Channel 16
157.175 USCG and CG Auxiliary
239.050 USAF CCAFS Tower
243.000 Guard
252.000 NORAD Combat Air Patrol: Arrow ## 33FW/58FS Eglin AFB, FL
259.700 NASA KSC Shuttle A-G 1
264.800 CAPE CONTROL
270.000 CCAFS Projects
282.800 SAR Common
285.000 USN NAS Jacksonville TSC Fiddle
294.600 VARIETY
321.000 USAF Patrick AFB King Ops
344.600 CAPE METRO
348.700 FAA ARTCC Miami - Melbourne RCAG
349.600 DoD CAPE
381.800 USCG
416.500 USAF CCAFS Command destruct testing
463.125 Med 6
463.175 Med 8
Sunday, October 21, 2007
STS-120 Countdown Underway - UHF Milsat Up
At 1800 UTC on 10-20-2007, the countdown for the STS-120 mission was begun. STS-120 using the shuttle Discovery is scheduled for liftoff from Pad 39A at 1538 UTC on 10-23-2007. The crew is expected to return 11-6-2007 at approximately 1045 UTC at the Kennedy Space Center Shuttle Landing Facility.
Courtesy of Ronald Rensen in Holland, the Hearsat newsgroup and Nils in Germany:
The Space Shuttle Support network is up on 261.575 MHz (FM). Wolfs Den, Cape Osbourne, and Herky 624 have all been heard this morning Eastern daylight Time.
More on this mission and frequencies as we move down the timeline.
Courtesy of Ronald Rensen in Holland, the Hearsat newsgroup and Nils in Germany:
The Space Shuttle Support network is up on 261.575 MHz (FM). Wolfs Den, Cape Osbourne, and Herky 624 have all been heard this morning Eastern daylight Time.
More on this mission and frequencies as we move down the timeline.
Saturday, October 20, 2007
NORAD exercise planned for Washington D.C.
Courtesy of Alan Henney and the Scan-DC newsgroup. Possbile frequencies to monitor are listed at the end of this article.The North American Aerospace Defense Command and its geographical component, the Continental United States NORAD Region (CONR), will conduct Exercise Falcon Virgo 08-01 from Tuesday through Thursday (October 23-25, 2007) in the National Capital Region (Washington, D.C.).
This exercise comprises a series of training flights held in coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration, the National Capital Region Command Center, the Joint Air Defense Operations Center, Civil Air Patrol, and NORAD’s Northeast Air Defense Sector.
Exercise Falcon Virgo 08-01 is designed to test NORAD’s intercept and identification operations, as well as procedural tests of the NCR Visual Warning System. Civil Air Patrol aircraft, Air Force F-16s and C-38s, and Coast Guard HH-65 Dolphin helicopters, will participate in the exercise. Residents in the area can expect flights to occur throughout the day, including late night and early morning hours, on
scheduled exercise dates.
In the event of inclement weather, the exercise will push to the next day. Further weather delays will result in rescheduling or cancellation of the exercise.
These exercises are carefully planned and closely controlled to ensure NORAD’s rapid response capability. NORAD has conducted exercise flights of this nature throughout the U.S. and Canada since the start of Operation Noble Eagle, the command’s response to the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.
As the Continental United States (CONUS) geographical component of the bi-national command NORAD, CONR provides airspace surveillance and control, and directs air sovereignty activities for the CONUS region. CONR and its assigned Air Force assets throughout the country ensure air safety and security against potential air threats.
Since Sept. 11, 2001, NORAD fighters have responded to more than 2,300 possible air threats in the United States, Canada and Alaska, and have flown more than 46,780 sorties with the support of Airborne Warning and Control System and air-to-air-refueling aircraft.
Eastern Air Defense Sector (Callsign: Huntress)
VHF
Aircraft Air-to-Air 138.000 138.025 138.200 138.225 138.425 138.475 139.150
NORAD CAP/Scramble Discrete 138.200 139.700
NORAD Air Defense Alert/Air-to-Ground 148.125
UHF
AICC 364.200
Alert/Air Defense Tactical 276.400 276.650 279.400 285.900 298.300
AWACS/ACM 278.400 288.400 293.600
AWACS/SOCC Coordination/Calling Frequency 277.600
CAP Refueling 295.800
--DC CAP 293.600 318.400 320.600
CAP Tactical
-- Boston Patriot CAP 259.600 260.900 271.000 282.800
-- Chicago 282.800
-- Detroit/Kennebunkport/Twin Cities 260.900 360.150
-- New York 260.900 282.800 320.600 320.900 324.000 358.850 360.150 364.800 386.000 387.000 387.800
-- Philadelphia CAP 235.900 260.900
-- SE US CAPs 252.000 265.400 (Primary) 282.800 328.000
-- Washington DC CAP Guard Dog (ZDC) 350.250
-- Washington DC/Mid Atlantic CAP - AWACS 234.600 254.200 255.800 260.900 262.150 271.000 362.300
Command and Control Common 387.800
Tactical All Sectors
--Autocat Tac-1 228.800
--Autocat Tac-2 306.400
Worldwide Emergency and Calling: 243.000
NORAD ADX CMD (AWACS) 335.950
Possible Additional NORAD Tacticals (any and all current intercept reports on these frequencies are requested, please no older list):
225.000 225.600 225.800 227.600 228.000 228.400 228.700 229.100 233.600 234.700 235.800 238.500 239.200 239.400 250.800 251.000 251.250 251.800 256.600 258.000 263.200 263.600 264.400 270.200 273.400 274.400 275.000 278.300 278.600 282.400 282.500 284.800 287.800 288.000 288.700 288.900 292.400 292.700 282.800 297.700 298.500 298.800 300.125 302.400 303.900 309.500 312.000 312.800 316.200 316.300 318.100 325.500 326.400 327.200 327.900 338.400 338.800 342.100 342.600 344.000 347.400 348.800 351.600 356.000 357.100 357.200 369.000 369.900 371.000 375.100 376.200 379.000 379.800 384.000 386.200 392.800
Air Force releases B-52 munitions transfer investigation results
by Staff Sgt. Monique Randolph, Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs
A senior Air Force official released results of the command-directed investigation stemming from a weapons transfer incident that occurred Aug. 30 when cruise missiles were loaded onto a B-52 Stratofortress at Minot Air Force Base, N.D., and transported to Barksdale AFB, La.
The Barksdale-assigned B-52 was prepared to transport 12 cruise missiles to Louisiana as part of a tactical ferry mission; however, six of the 12 missiles were not properly prepared for transport, said Maj. Gen. Richard Newton III, assistant deputy chief of staff for operations, plans and requirements at the Pentagon.
General Newton attributed the loading and transport of the weapons to "a series of procedural breakdowns and human errors," stating that the six cruise missiles on that particular pylon "were not supposed to be moved."
"The extensive, six-week investigation found that this was an isolated event and the weapons never left the custody of Airmen and were never unsecured," General Newton said. "However, this incident is unacceptable to the people of the United States and to the United States Air Force."
Following the incident, Gen. Ronald Keys, Air Combat Command commander, ordered an immediate investigation to be conducted by Maj. Gen. Douglas Raaberg, ACC director of Air and Space Operations. The investigation lasted six weeks.
Immediately following the incident, one ACC commander was relieved of command, and the 5th Bomb Wing at Minot was decertified from specific missions and suspended from performing tactical ferry operations.
Since the investigation, several other officers have received administrative action and were relieved of command. Additionally, the Air Force conducted a service-wide stockpile inventory to verify there were no additional discrepancies, and enhanced management directives regarding the storage, tracking and labeling of all weapons.
Secretary of the Air Force Michael W. Wynne also directed nuclear security inspections for nuclear-capable units with oversight from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency.
As a result of the investigation, Air Combat Command officials will recertify the tactical ferry program prior to reinitiating B-52 ferry operations, General Newton said.
"We are aggressively examining and implementing corrective measures to our weapons handling and transfer process," he said. "Corrective action will ensure our munitions are handled precisely and safely 100 percent of the time.
"This was a serious error caused by a breakdown of procedural discipline by our Airmen," General Newton added. "We're accountable and we reassure the American people that the Air Force standards they expect are being met."
Milcom editorial comment from the blog editor: My question to the Air Force and General Newton: How did this story get into the public domain in the first place? Did you bother to investigate the leak and who has been disciplined for this obvious violation of security? When I was associated with the nuc program back in the day, we could neither confirm or deny the existence of nucs on any platform. If the people conducting this investigation didn't investigate the leak, then these people are no better than those who messed up the weapon ferry mission. The investigators of this incident now need to be disciplined for their incompetence.
A senior Air Force official released results of the command-directed investigation stemming from a weapons transfer incident that occurred Aug. 30 when cruise missiles were loaded onto a B-52 Stratofortress at Minot Air Force Base, N.D., and transported to Barksdale AFB, La.
The Barksdale-assigned B-52 was prepared to transport 12 cruise missiles to Louisiana as part of a tactical ferry mission; however, six of the 12 missiles were not properly prepared for transport, said Maj. Gen. Richard Newton III, assistant deputy chief of staff for operations, plans and requirements at the Pentagon.
General Newton attributed the loading and transport of the weapons to "a series of procedural breakdowns and human errors," stating that the six cruise missiles on that particular pylon "were not supposed to be moved."
"The extensive, six-week investigation found that this was an isolated event and the weapons never left the custody of Airmen and were never unsecured," General Newton said. "However, this incident is unacceptable to the people of the United States and to the United States Air Force."
Following the incident, Gen. Ronald Keys, Air Combat Command commander, ordered an immediate investigation to be conducted by Maj. Gen. Douglas Raaberg, ACC director of Air and Space Operations. The investigation lasted six weeks.
Immediately following the incident, one ACC commander was relieved of command, and the 5th Bomb Wing at Minot was decertified from specific missions and suspended from performing tactical ferry operations.
Since the investigation, several other officers have received administrative action and were relieved of command. Additionally, the Air Force conducted a service-wide stockpile inventory to verify there were no additional discrepancies, and enhanced management directives regarding the storage, tracking and labeling of all weapons.
Secretary of the Air Force Michael W. Wynne also directed nuclear security inspections for nuclear-capable units with oversight from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency.
As a result of the investigation, Air Combat Command officials will recertify the tactical ferry program prior to reinitiating B-52 ferry operations, General Newton said.
"We are aggressively examining and implementing corrective measures to our weapons handling and transfer process," he said. "Corrective action will ensure our munitions are handled precisely and safely 100 percent of the time.
"This was a serious error caused by a breakdown of procedural discipline by our Airmen," General Newton added. "We're accountable and we reassure the American people that the Air Force standards they expect are being met."
Milcom editorial comment from the blog editor: My question to the Air Force and General Newton: How did this story get into the public domain in the first place? Did you bother to investigate the leak and who has been disciplined for this obvious violation of security? When I was associated with the nuc program back in the day, we could neither confirm or deny the existence of nucs on any platform. If the people conducting this investigation didn't investigate the leak, then these people are no better than those who messed up the weapon ferry mission. The investigators of this incident now need to be disciplined for their incompetence.
HSL-43 Returns from 6-month Deployment
By Lt. j.g. Brendan O’Dea Negle, Helicopter Anti-Submarine Light 43 & Naval Air Forces Public Affairs
“Los Gatos Locos” of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Light (HSL) 43, Det. 2, returned to San Diego, Oct. 6, following a successful six-month Western Pacific deployment.
Attached to the Pearl Harbor-based USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93), an Arleigh Burke-class Aegis destroyer, with the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 5, HSL-43 conducted maritime security operations in the 5th Fleet area of responsibility.
"The logistical hurdles of a San Diego-based detachment and a Pearl Harbor-based ship presented unique challenges,” said HSL-43 Det. 2 Maintenance Officer Lt. Greg Lembo. “Through an exceptionally long workup cycle, a pre-cruise maintenance inspection away from our home unit and the cross-deck of aircraft on the USS Bonhomme Richard, Det. 2’s maintainers and aircrew performed exceptionally."
Det. 2 departed San Diego for deployment April 10. Once off the coast of Hawaii, the strike group conducted anti-submarine exercises before Chung-Hoon and HSL-43 detached from ESG-5 and chopped into the Persian Gulf.
Upon arrival, Chung-Hoon and Los Gatos Locos locked arms with Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 – a multinational naval coalition established near the beginning of Operation Enduring Freedom and comprised of naval ships from Canada, France, Germany, Pakistan, the United Kingdom and the U.S. Together they conducted maritime security operations in the Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea, Red Sea and the Indian Ocean.
Operations with theater CTFs allow better coverage of the geographical area. In addition, communications are streamlined leading to enhanced cooperation with coalition nations, said Lembo.
HSL-43 aided CTF-150 with anti-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia by gathering intelligence, flying armed surveillance and reconnaissance missions, and providing humanitarian relief.
During this time, Los Gatos Locos were asked by Somalia’s Prime Minister Ali Mohamed Gedi to provide assistance to a commercial cargo vessel in distress. Despite a high sea state, the vessel’s inability to maneuver, and several large hazards scattered along the length of the ship, the aircrew successfully lowered several weeks’ worth of food, water and supplies, giving the stranded crew the time it needed to eventually return to port under its own power.
“[Aiding the Somalian vessel was] a great opportunity to help others in need as well as put my training and skills to good use,” said HSL-43 Aircrew Member, Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyler Brock.
The squadron soon detached from CTF-150 to join CTF-158 – the task force responsible for training Iraq’s Navy and Marines to safeguard their territorial waters and protect two off-shore oil platforms, the Al Basra and Khawr al Amaya oil terminals – in the Northern Arabian Gulf.
The aircrews monitored maritime traffic and supported 31 boardings performed by Chung-Hoon’s visit, board, search and seizure teams, while logging a total of 350 flight hours.
“We were only a few hundred yards from those oil platforms,” said Lt. Cmdr. Chris Herr, Det. 2 officer in charge. “Every member of the detachment could see what we were defending and put forth an incredible effort to accomplish the mission.”
According to Lembo, the work accomplished on the deployment could be described in two words, “truly inspiring.”
“The Sailors of HSL-43 Det. 2 endured a demanding deployment schedule, a multitude of aircraft and equipment challenges, and prolonged operations in the extreme conditions of the Northern Arabian Gulf,” Lembo said. "Their combined efforts and teamwork allowed for the execution of 930 mishap-free flight hours in support of Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom.”
“Los Gatos Locos” of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Light (HSL) 43, Det. 2, returned to San Diego, Oct. 6, following a successful six-month Western Pacific deployment.
Attached to the Pearl Harbor-based USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93), an Arleigh Burke-class Aegis destroyer, with the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 5, HSL-43 conducted maritime security operations in the 5th Fleet area of responsibility.
"The logistical hurdles of a San Diego-based detachment and a Pearl Harbor-based ship presented unique challenges,” said HSL-43 Det. 2 Maintenance Officer Lt. Greg Lembo. “Through an exceptionally long workup cycle, a pre-cruise maintenance inspection away from our home unit and the cross-deck of aircraft on the USS Bonhomme Richard, Det. 2’s maintainers and aircrew performed exceptionally."
Det. 2 departed San Diego for deployment April 10. Once off the coast of Hawaii, the strike group conducted anti-submarine exercises before Chung-Hoon and HSL-43 detached from ESG-5 and chopped into the Persian Gulf.
Upon arrival, Chung-Hoon and Los Gatos Locos locked arms with Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 – a multinational naval coalition established near the beginning of Operation Enduring Freedom and comprised of naval ships from Canada, France, Germany, Pakistan, the United Kingdom and the U.S. Together they conducted maritime security operations in the Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea, Red Sea and the Indian Ocean.
Operations with theater CTFs allow better coverage of the geographical area. In addition, communications are streamlined leading to enhanced cooperation with coalition nations, said Lembo.
HSL-43 aided CTF-150 with anti-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia by gathering intelligence, flying armed surveillance and reconnaissance missions, and providing humanitarian relief.
During this time, Los Gatos Locos were asked by Somalia’s Prime Minister Ali Mohamed Gedi to provide assistance to a commercial cargo vessel in distress. Despite a high sea state, the vessel’s inability to maneuver, and several large hazards scattered along the length of the ship, the aircrew successfully lowered several weeks’ worth of food, water and supplies, giving the stranded crew the time it needed to eventually return to port under its own power.
“[Aiding the Somalian vessel was] a great opportunity to help others in need as well as put my training and skills to good use,” said HSL-43 Aircrew Member, Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyler Brock.
The squadron soon detached from CTF-150 to join CTF-158 – the task force responsible for training Iraq’s Navy and Marines to safeguard their territorial waters and protect two off-shore oil platforms, the Al Basra and Khawr al Amaya oil terminals – in the Northern Arabian Gulf.
The aircrews monitored maritime traffic and supported 31 boardings performed by Chung-Hoon’s visit, board, search and seizure teams, while logging a total of 350 flight hours.
“We were only a few hundred yards from those oil platforms,” said Lt. Cmdr. Chris Herr, Det. 2 officer in charge. “Every member of the detachment could see what we were defending and put forth an incredible effort to accomplish the mission.”
According to Lembo, the work accomplished on the deployment could be described in two words, “truly inspiring.”
“The Sailors of HSL-43 Det. 2 endured a demanding deployment schedule, a multitude of aircraft and equipment challenges, and prolonged operations in the extreme conditions of the Northern Arabian Gulf,” Lembo said. "Their combined efforts and teamwork allowed for the execution of 930 mishap-free flight hours in support of Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom.”
AFIT students conduct payload testing for space shuttle
by Kim Curry, Air Force Institute of Technology Public Affairs
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio (AFPN) -- Air Force Institute of Technology students from the graduate school of engineering and management's department of aeronautics and astronautics recently completed testing of their flight hardware experiment in preparation for an upcoming space shuttle mission, STS-123.
Rigidizable Inflatable Get-Away-Special Experiment, or RIGEX, is a space shuttle experiment that will study the behavior of structures built using rigidizable/inflatable technology.
The structural characteristics of three test specimens when deployed in a zero-gravity space environment will be investigated.
The overall goal is to demonstrate the feasibility of using rigidizable/inflatable materials to create lightweight space structures, which can then be used for a variety of Defense Department remote sensing applications. Current payloads are often limited in size due to limited launch vehicle dimensions. Success of this technology would help alleviate size limitations for future missions.
The RIGEX program is being accomplished by combining the efforts of student research theses completed as part of their Master of Science programs at AFIT. Participants included students from a variety of programs offered, including astronautics, space systems, aeronautics, systems engineering, and electrical engineering.
The project began in 2001 with a single student and a handful of experiment objectives, and it slowly developed into a set of preliminary designs and test plans.
With each year, the students involved refined the designs, built and tested prototypes, and settled on a final design. A unique aspect of the experiment, according to primary research advisor Dr. Richard Cobb, is that each student was fully responsible for his or her contribution to the overall design, including all phases of the design, build, test and qualification process. The students led the design reviews and presented to the DOD Space Experiment Review Board to get manifested for launch, and presented to the NASA Flight Safety Review Board to qualify the design.
As a result, the effects of every engineering decision, both good and some not so good, became apparent as the build and testing proceeded. For a space-qualified design suitable for manned spaceflight, every last detail needed to be worked out, documented, and then presented to the NASA engineering team during flight safety reviews.
This process provided the students with invaluable hands-on engineering experience they will undoubtedly put to good use in their future jobs.
Testing RIGEX at the Johnson Space Center represents the transition from the design/prototype/test phase of RIGEX to the flight qualify and launch readiness phase.
To date, 13 AFIT students, plus the work of several summer intern students and laboratory support technicians including members from the U.S. Air Force Academy, Wright State University, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology and the Ohio State University, were involved in the project.
RIGEX represents the first-ever designed, built and qualified space flight experiment for AFIT. Along the way, AFIT has developed in-house expertise and implemented facility upgrades for development and flight qualification testing for future AFIT space payloads, enhancing both space research and space curriculum development.
The testing at the Johnson Space Center involved random vibration and electromagnetic testing designed to verify that the flight hardware will survive the trip to and from orbit and that it will function properly in the space environment. According to Capt. Jeremy Owens, a current AFIT student in the astronautical engineering program, all scheduled testing at Johnson was successfully completed. Final testing of the RIGEX payload has now been completed at AFIT, and the hardware will now be delivered to the Kennedy Space Center for a launch on the shuttle in February.
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio (AFPN) -- Air Force Institute of Technology students from the graduate school of engineering and management's department of aeronautics and astronautics recently completed testing of their flight hardware experiment in preparation for an upcoming space shuttle mission, STS-123.
Rigidizable Inflatable Get-Away-Special Experiment, or RIGEX, is a space shuttle experiment that will study the behavior of structures built using rigidizable/inflatable technology.
The structural characteristics of three test specimens when deployed in a zero-gravity space environment will be investigated.
The overall goal is to demonstrate the feasibility of using rigidizable/inflatable materials to create lightweight space structures, which can then be used for a variety of Defense Department remote sensing applications. Current payloads are often limited in size due to limited launch vehicle dimensions. Success of this technology would help alleviate size limitations for future missions.
The RIGEX program is being accomplished by combining the efforts of student research theses completed as part of their Master of Science programs at AFIT. Participants included students from a variety of programs offered, including astronautics, space systems, aeronautics, systems engineering, and electrical engineering.
The project began in 2001 with a single student and a handful of experiment objectives, and it slowly developed into a set of preliminary designs and test plans.
With each year, the students involved refined the designs, built and tested prototypes, and settled on a final design. A unique aspect of the experiment, according to primary research advisor Dr. Richard Cobb, is that each student was fully responsible for his or her contribution to the overall design, including all phases of the design, build, test and qualification process. The students led the design reviews and presented to the DOD Space Experiment Review Board to get manifested for launch, and presented to the NASA Flight Safety Review Board to qualify the design.
As a result, the effects of every engineering decision, both good and some not so good, became apparent as the build and testing proceeded. For a space-qualified design suitable for manned spaceflight, every last detail needed to be worked out, documented, and then presented to the NASA engineering team during flight safety reviews.
This process provided the students with invaluable hands-on engineering experience they will undoubtedly put to good use in their future jobs.
Testing RIGEX at the Johnson Space Center represents the transition from the design/prototype/test phase of RIGEX to the flight qualify and launch readiness phase.
To date, 13 AFIT students, plus the work of several summer intern students and laboratory support technicians including members from the U.S. Air Force Academy, Wright State University, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology and the Ohio State University, were involved in the project.
RIGEX represents the first-ever designed, built and qualified space flight experiment for AFIT. Along the way, AFIT has developed in-house expertise and implemented facility upgrades for development and flight qualification testing for future AFIT space payloads, enhancing both space research and space curriculum development.
The testing at the Johnson Space Center involved random vibration and electromagnetic testing designed to verify that the flight hardware will survive the trip to and from orbit and that it will function properly in the space environment. According to Capt. Jeremy Owens, a current AFIT student in the astronautical engineering program, all scheduled testing at Johnson was successfully completed. Final testing of the RIGEX payload has now been completed at AFIT, and the hardware will now be delivered to the Kennedy Space Center for a launch on the shuttle in February.
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