Blue Ridge on Patrol in 7th Fleet

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Mel Orr, USS Blue Ridge Public Affairs

USS BLUE RIDGE, At Sea (NNS) -- U.S. 7th Fleet command ship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) departed from Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka for patrol Feb. 21.

Commanded by Capt. Daniel Grieco, Blue Ridge is manned by more than 700 Sailors, including embarked 7th Fleet staff and Marines from Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team Pacific.

Blue Ridge will visit foreign ports to engage allies and strengthen partnerships across the Asia-Pacific region. Sailors and Marines will also participate in several community service projects with partner navies and local aid groups.

"USS Blue Ridge is departing for a deployment throughout the 7th Fleet area of operations and will conduct port calls to strengthen regional ties while training to maintain the crew's sea qualifications," said Blue Ridge Operations Officer Lt. Cmdr. Zachary McCarty.

The Blue Ridge Morale, Welfare and Recreation department offers service members opportunities to visit local markets, theme parks, memorials and other cultural sites during their time off.

"I can't wait to go shopping," said Culinary Specialist Seaman Lorena Cardoza. "Also, I'm looking forward to taking cultural tours and relaxing on the beach."

While Sailors will get the chance to enjoy rest and relaxation opportunities, Blue Ridge will be fully operational during the patrol. Blue Ridge will provide advanced communications capabilities throughout the 7th Fleet, supporting theater security cooperation, fleet coordination and engagement goals during the patrol.

The leader in bold, forward-presence at sea, Blue Ridge has been forward-deployed to Yokosuka, Japan for nearly 33 years. As the flagship for Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, Vice Adm. Scott H. Swift, Blue Ridge is instrumental in forging partnerships in the region while leading the fleet with its advanced shipboard communications systems.

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 21 Feb 2012 - Deltona FL

The following Mode-S intercepts are courtesy of our SE US Mode-S network member and Milcom monitor Jack NeSmith in Deltona, FL. Thanks Jack.

A0616B N12310 --- 2012-02-21 18:10:57 C-27A United States UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF STATE
A0B1CF N144CS --- 2012-02-21 19:21:04 P3B United States UNITED STATES CUSTOMS SERVICE
A1299C N174SC N174SC 2012-02-21 15:39:48 AS 350 B3 United States SEMINOLE COUNTY SHERIFFS OFFICE
A1F7E1 N226G --- 2012-02-21 18:37:22 Boeing 757-23A United States L-3 Capital (COMCO)
A2191E N234U N234U 2012-02-21 16:56:41 206H United States US DOJ | DEA
A2392F N242U N242U 2012-02-21 19:48:35 206H United States DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE 5534 3275
A7F332 N611HP --- 2012-02-21 12:10:13 Cessna 182T United States ---
A9FBD4 N742VA --- 2012-02-21 19:07:04 B734-448 United States Vision Airlines
AAED5E N803DS N803DS 2012-02-21 16:23:16 Bell 407 United States Volusia County
AC7F35 N904NA --- 2012-02-21 15:12:20 T-38A United States NASA 3055 19300
ACC30E N921NA --- 2012-02-21 21:29:06 T-38N United States NASA Johnson [KEFD]
AD9A00 N976AS --- 2012-02-21 16:46:05 MD-83 United States US Marshal JPATS 3663 31025
ADFD88 94-0261 --- 2012-02-21 13:23:30 RC-26B United States ---
ADFED1 85-1263 --- 2012-02-21 16:56:14 C-12U United States OSACOMDet.56PR-ArNG [TJIG] 5726 24975
ADFEEE 160050 JT18700 2012-02-21 16:13:43 C-9B United States USNR | VR-52 [KWRI] 0000 23350
ADFF0C 60-0335 PIRAT21 2012-02-21 20:28:28 KC-135T United States USAF | 6AMW | 91ARS [KMCF]
ADFF0D 62-3559 BOLT22 2012-02-21 23:41:33 KC-135R United States USAF | 22ARW [KIAB]
AE012E (73-1683)/97-01 --- 2012-02-21 17:58:16 C-9C United States AFRC | 932AW | 73AS [KBLV]
AE0379 63-7992 --- 2012-02-21 14:48:10 KC-135R United States OH ANG | 121ARW [KLCK]
AE0410 163918 GOTO FMS 2012-02-21 20:07:04 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] 0000 27000
AE0412 163920 GOTO FMS 2012-02-21 20:07:25 E-6B United States USN | VQ-3 [KTIK] --- 32000
AE0433 02-5001 --- 2012-02-21 23:26:37 C-32B United States USAF | 486FLTS [KVPS]
AE04DA 165832 CNV4832 2012-02-21 18:15:48 C-40A United States USNR | VR-58 [KNIP] 1133 12700
AE04DA 165832 --- 2012-02-21 18:15:48 C-40A United States USNR | VR-58 [KNIP] 1133 12700
AE093D 01-0301 --- 2012-02-21 19:52:47 UC-35a1 United States US Army | OSACOM PATD [KADW]
AE112D 02-3657 --- 2012-02-21 17:40:24 T-6A United States USAF
AE115E 01-0030 --- 2012-02-21 14:18:42 C-37A United States USAF | 6AMW | 310AS [KMCF]
AE1198 03-3115 RULER40 2012-02-21 22:38:49 C-17A United States MS ANG | 172AW | 183AS [KJAN]
AE143F 05-1465 --- 2012-02-21 11:34:03 C-130J-30 United States CA ANG | 146AW | 115AS [KNTD] 2652 26700
B6495C 167956 --- 2012-02-21 15:22:39 P-8A United States USN | VX-1 [KNHK] 0000 12700

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 20 Feb 2012 - Deltona FL

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. The Mode-S intercepts for this day have been sorted by time and then by ICAO24 code. All dates/times are UTC.

Sort by time
AE04A6 63-8033 RCH157 2012-02-20 22:51:58 KC-135R United States USAF | 6AMW | 91ARS [KMCF]
AA90A0 N780BA GTI453 G 2012-02-20 21:38:39 B-747-409 United States Evergreen International 6623 39000
AA90A0 N780BA GTI4532 2012-02-20 21:38:39 B-747-409 United States Evergreen International 6623 39000
AA90A0 N780BA GTI TI45 2012-02-20 21:38:39 B-747-409 United States Evergreen International 6623 39000
AE093C 00-1053 --- 2012-02-20 20:43:26 UC-35a1 United States US Army | OSACOM PATD [KADW] 0000 40000
AE1170 02-1098 RCH548 2012-02-20 20:12:24 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE087E 01-0028 SPAR28 2012-02-20 19:11:19 C-37A United States USAF | 6AMW | 310AS [KMCF] --- 43000
AE1481 166764 OTIS51 2012-02-20 18:41:55 KC-130J United States USMC | VMGR-352 [KNKX]
ADFE4D 94-0321 R40321 2012-02-20 17:52:05 C-12R United States USARC | 6-52 AVN (TA) --- 25000
AE2F9B 168069 --- 2012-02-20 17:29:45 KC-130J United States USMC | VMGR-352 [KNKX]
AE4AF8 08-5683 ??? --- 2012-02-20 16:38:08 C-130J United States ---
AE0184 84-0090 BATTL 11 2012-02-20 16:02:57 C-21A United States MI ANG | 110FW | 172AS [KBTL]
AE115E 01-0030 --- 2012-02-20 15:45:13 C-37A United States USAF | 6AMW | 310AS [KMCF]
AA4CD0 N763BK RYN7452 2012-02-20 11:56:58 B767-379ER United States Ryan Intl Airlines 0000 41050
AE145C 06-6158 RCH188 2012-02-20 03:36:56 C-17A United States USAF | 60AMW | 21AS [KSUU]
AE07ED 96-0003 RCH110 2012-02-20 00:33:44 C-17A United States USAF | 62AW [KTCM]
AE04ED 63-8035 DIXIE81 2012-02-20 00:28:39 KC-135R United States AL ANG | 117ARW | 106ARS [KBHM]
AE016F 84-0077 PACER33 2012-02-20 00:16:24 C-21A United States USAF | 375AW | 457AS [KADW]

Sort by ICAO24 code
AA4CD0 N763BK RYN7452 2012-02-20 11:56:58 B767-379ER United States Ryan Intl Airlines 0000 41050
AA90A0 N780BA GTI4532 2012-02-20 21:38:39 B-747-409 United States Evergreen International 6623 39000
ADFE4D 94-0321 R40321 2012-02-20 17:52:05 C-12R United States USARC | 6-52 AVN (TA) --- 25000
AE016F 84-0077 PACER33 2012-02-20 00:16:24 C-21A United States USAF | 375AW | 457AS [KADW]
AE0184 84-0090 BATTL 11 2012-02-20 16:02:57 C-21A United States MI ANG | 110FW | 172AS [KBTL]
AE04A6 63-8033 RCH157 2012-02-20 22:51:58 KC-135R United States USAF | 6AMW | 91ARS [KMCF]
AE07ED 96-0003 RCH110 2012-02-20 00:33:44 C-17A United States USAF | 62AW [KTCM] AE04ED 63-8035 DIXIE81 2012-02-20 00:28:39 KC-135R United States AL ANG | 117ARW | 106ARS [KBHM]
AE093C 00-1053 --- 2012-02-20 20:43:26 UC-35a1 United States US Army | OSACOM PATD [KADW] 0000 40000
AE115E 01-0030 --- 2012-02-20 15:45:13 C-37A United States USAF | 6AMW | 310AS [KMCF]
AE1170 02-1098 RCH548 2012-02-20 20:12:24 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS] A087E 01-0028 SPAR28 2012-02-20 19:11:19 C-37A United States USAF | 6AMW | 310AS [KMCF] --- 43000
AE145C 06-6158 RCH188 2012-02-20 03:36:56 C-17A United States USAF | 60AMW | 21AS [KSUU]
AE1481 166764 OTIS51 2012-02-20 18:41:55 KC-130J United States USMC | VMGR-352 [KNKX]
AE2F9B 168069 --- 2012-02-20 17:29:45 KC-130J United States USMC | VMGR-352 [KNKX] AE4AF8 08-5683 ??? --- 2012-02-20 16:38:08 C-130J United States ---

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 20 Feb 2012 - Deltona FL

The following Mode-S intercepts are courtesy of our SE US Mode-S network member and Milcom monitor Jack NeSmith in Deltona, FL. Thanks Jack.

ADFDDF 94-7318 SUMIT81 2012-02-20 21:00:05 C-130H United States AFRC | 302AW | 731AS [KCOS]
ADFE4D 94-0321 R40321 2012-02-20 21:08:46 C-12R United States USARC | 6-52 AVN (TA) 1560 19000
AE0160 57-1479 DECEE94 2012-02-20 20:12:55 KC-135R United States AFRC | 459ARW | 756ARS [KADW]
AE0184 84-0090 BATTL 11 2012-02-20 22:55:34 C-21A United States MI ANG | 110FW | 172AS [KBTL]
AE03EB 165314 --- 2012-02-20 21:16:57 C-130T United States USNR | VR-62 [KNIP] 0000 19500
AE115E 01-0030 --- 2012-02-20 22:26:22 C-37A United States USAF | 6AMW | 310AS [KMCF] 0000 17375
AE118A 02-1863 R1863 2012-02-20 21:26:57 C-37A United States US Army 3521 41000
AE146C 07-7174 RCH467T 2012-02-20 20:53:24 C-17A United States USAF | 436AW | 3AS [KDOV]
AE2FAC 08-8200 RCH471T 2012-02-20 23:39:11 C-17A United States USAF | 305AMW | 6AS [KWRI] 7322 29300

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 20 Feb 2012 - Bowling Green KY

Mode S Log from Bowling Green, Kentucky, US 2012-02-20
Military Hex Codes only

480C05 -------- G-781 C130 336sqn --- 2012-02-20 09:44:07.315
A62778 -------- N496MC B744 AtlasAir --- 2012-02-20 17:01:19.008
A9A74E -------- 4235 DH8D US DOJ | FBI HQ [KHEF] --- 2012-02-20 10:37:51.726
AA90A0 GTI TI45 N780BA B744 Evergreen International --- 2012-02-20 15:29:32.139
ADFE4D R40321 94-0321 BE20 USARC | 6-52 AVN (TA) --- 2012-02-20 11:12:54.536
ADFEB8 -------- 98-0002 B752 USAF | 89AW | 1AS [KADW] --- 2012-02-20 18:41:20.938
ADFEF0 CNV6202 161266 DC93 USNR | VR-46 [KNFW ] --- 2012-02-20 16:27:45.080
ADFEF2 VVJS639 161530 DC93 USNR | VR-46 [KNFW ] --- 2012-02-20 18:40:56.688
AE016A -------- 86-0206 GLF3 USAF | 89AW | 99AS [KADW] --- 2012-02-20 21:01:08.822
AE0174 -------- 84-0119 LJ35 USAF | 375AW | 458AS [KBLV] --- 2012-02-20 16:37:49.217
AE0187 SPAR832 84-0093 LJ35 USAF | 375AW | 311AS [KCOS] --- 2012-02-20 17:48:36.861
AE0194 SMOKY88 84-0134 LJ35 USAF | 375AW | 458AS [KBLV] --- 2012-02-20 13:30:35.973
AE01A1 DILLON 1 86-0374 LJ35 CO ANG | 140WG | 200AS [KCOS] --- 2012-02-20 18:07:25.441
AE01FA -------- 98-3034 TEX2 USAF --- 2012-02-20 11:16:41.119
AE03CA -------- 163310 C130 USMCR | VMGR-234 [KNFW] --- 2012-02-20 14:30:42.596
AE04A6 RCH157 63-8033 K35R USAF | 6AMW | 91ARS [KMCF] --- 2012-02-20 16:58:49.392
AE04BB -------- 58-0056 K35R HI ANG | 154Wing | 203ARS [PHIK] --- 2012-02-20 19:28:30.694
AE04F6 GABLESEN 58-0069/84-0167 K35T/BE20 USAF | 92ARW [KSKA] --- 2012-02-20 14:45:54.867
AE05E3 -------- 88-4401 C130 AFRC | 440AW | 95AS [KPOB] --- 2012-02-20 19:01:19.185
AE05E5 DUECE61 88-4403 C130 AFRC | 440AW | 95AS [KPOB] --- 2012-02-20 13:35:06.236
AE087E SPAR28 01-0028 GLF5 USAF | 6AMW | 310AS [KMCF] --- 2012-02-20 13:10:58.924
AE093C -------- 00-1053 C560 US Army | OSACOM PATD [KADW] --- 2012-02-20 15:00:57.510
AE115E -------- 01-0030 GLF5 USAF | 6AMW | 310AS [KMCF] --- 2012-02-20 09:45:04.215
AE1170 RCH548 02-1098 C17 USAF | 437AW [KCHS] --- 2012-02-20 13:46:31.143
AE1240 CLAW66 04-4135 C17 USAF | 305AMW | 6AS [KWRI] --- 2012-02-20 13:01:51.939
AE2F9B -------- 168069 C30J USMC | VMGR-352 [KNKX] --- 2012-02-20 11:52:04.289
AE4AF8 -------- 08-5683 ??? C30J --- --- 2012-02-20 10:27:16.835
E47EF6 CMB505 N637TW B763 Ryan Intl Airlines --- 2012-02-20 19:36:56.351

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 18-19 Feb 2012 - Btown

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

A19146 N20SM --- 2012-02-19 21:14:50 560 United States STATE OF MISSISSIPPI
AE0781 94-00308 --- 2012-02-19 20:07:31 C-23C United States --- 4023 13150
AE04E1 58-0120 UPSET88 2012-02-19 17:40:54 KC-135R United States WI ANG | 128ARW | 126ARS [KMKE] 0000 39000

ADFEBD 96-0107 --- 2012-02-18 19:04:24 UC-35a1 United States USARC | 2-228 AVN
AE49C3 09-9207 VOLT14 2012-02-18 17:10:04 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE059C 60-0350 RCH157 2012-02-18 13:49:39 KC-135R United States USAF | 22ARW [KIAB] 1176 41000
AE016F 84-0077 PACER33 2012-02-18 12:48:55 C-21A United States USAF | 375AW | 457AS [KADW]
AE01BD 84-0131 SPAR807 2012-02-18 12:32:52 C-21A United States USAF | 375AW | 457AS [KADW]
AE010F 94-1569 BOXER543 2012-02-18 02:48:10 C-38A United States DC ANG | 113Wg | 201AS [KADW]

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 19 Feb 2012 - Deltona FL

The following Mode-S intercepts are courtesy of our SE US Mode-S network member and Milcom monitor Jack NeSmith in Deltona, FL. Thanks Jack.

43C0A3 XV106 RRR9301 2012-02-19 17:14:31 VC-10 C1K United Kingdom RAF | 101SQ 7140 34000
43C1D5 ZA613 ASCT9721 2012-02-19 17:13:54 TORNADO GR 4 United Kingdom RAF|
A99DBC N719CP --- 2012-02-19 23:18:24 Cessna 182T United States ---
A9FBD4 N742VA --- 2012-02-19 17:07:03 B734-448 United States Vision Airlines
AA01A6 N744CP --- 2012-02-19 22:22:53 Cessna 182T United States Civil Air Patrol 4206 2650
ADFC8F 92-0334 --- 2012-02-19 15:53:32 T-1A United States USAF | 479FTG | 451FTS [KNPA]
ADFEF0 161266 CNV6202 2012-02-19 15:56:30 C-9B United States USNR | VR-46 [KNFW ]
AE056B 86-0014 RCH6014 2012-02-19 17:16:31 C-5B United States AFRC | 439AW | 337AS [KCEF] 3225 12300
AE0781 94-00308 --- 2012-02-19 22:31:25 C-23C United States ---
AE1EB5 166048 @@@@@@@@ 2012-02-19 17:35:25 T-6B United States USNavy
AE1EB9 166052 @@@@@@@@ 2012-02-19 15:21:14 T-6B United States USNavy
AE2ED2 166085 --- 2012-02-19 19:17:43 T-6B United States ---
AE2EDC 166095 --- 2012-02-19 19:08:16 T-6B United States ---

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 19 Feb 2012 - Bowling Green KY

A very short Sunday log...
Mode S Log from Bowling Green, Kentucky, US 2012-02-19
Military Hex Codes only

A19146 -------- N20SM C560 STATE OF MISSISSIPPI --- 2012-02-19 15:29:59.492
A505AC N4222A N4222A B190 Tenax Air LLC --- 2012-02-19 20:27:40.402
AA90A0 -------- N780BA B744 Evergreen International --- 2012-02-19 17:26:38.796
ADFDC5 EPIC33 93-1458 C130 NC ANG | 145AW | 156AS [KCLT] --- 2012-02-19 13:14:15.193
ADFDE0 SUMIT19 94-7319 C130 AFRC | 302AW | 731AS [KCOS] --- 2012-02-19 10:44:48.372
ADFEE4 -------- 159115 DC93 USNR | VR-61 [KNUW] --- 2012-02-19 13:06:11.796
ADFEF0 CNV6202 161266 DC93 USNR | VR-46 [KNFW ] --- 2012-02-19 16:20:49.424
AE04E1 UPSET88 58-0120 K35R WI ANG | 128ARW | 126ARS [KMKE] --- 2012-02-19 11:21:19.321
AE04ED DIXIE81 63-8035 K35R AL ANG | 117ARW | 106ARS [KBHM] --- 2012-02-19 18:28:30.976
AE07D1 -------- 90-0532 C17 USAF | 62AW [KTCM] --- 2012-02-19 13:17:12.022
AE07ED RCH110 96-0003 C17 USAF | 62AW [KTCM] --- 2012-02-19 18:43:19.561
AE1192 -------- 166474 C560 USMC | VMR-1 [KNKT] --- 2012-02-19 15:40:50.832
AE1196 E33113 03-3113 C17 MS ANG | 172AW | 183AS [KJAN] --- 2012-02-19 17:58:29.260
AE1458 RCH334 06-6154 C17 USAF | 60AMW | 21AS [KSUU] --- 2012-02-19 20:23:10.713
AE145C RCH188 06-6158 C17 USAF | 60AMW | 21AS [KSUU] --- 2012-02-19 21:29:09.559
AE1462 RCH588 06-6164 C17 USAF | 60AMW | 21AS [KSUU] --- 2012-02-19 01:29:34.283
AE1528 -------- 167112 C30J --- --- 2012-02-19 12:55:36.754
AE1E7F -------- 166033 TEX2 --- --- 2012-02-19 16:22:38.031

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 18 Feb 2012 - Deltona FL

The following Mode-S intercepts are courtesy of our SE US Mode-S network member and Milcom monitor Jack NeSmith in Deltona, FL. Thanks Jack.

0D069A ------ --- 2012-02-18 22:41:04 ------ Mexico ---
A05C4F N122NC --- 2012-02-18 17:01:25 550 United States STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
A385CA N326ND --- 2012-02-18 20:58:03 PA-44-180 United States ---
AA01A6 N744CP --- 2012-02-18 12:15:07 Cessna 182T United States Civil Air Patrol
ADFEF0 161266 --- 2012-02-18 19:06:35 C-9B United States USNR | VR-46 [KNFW ]
ADFF0D 62-3559 BOLT14 2012-02-18 17:10:28 KC-135R United States USAF | 22ARW [KIAB] 3163 13600
AE056B 86-0014 --- 2012-02-18 17:52:21 C-5B United States AFRC | 439AW | 337AS [KCEF]
AE066A 62-3549 BOLT13 2012-02-18 16:49:31 KC-135R United States USAF | 6AMW | 91ARS [KMCF] 0000 19100
AE087E 01-0028 SPAR28 2012-02-18 05:41:36 C-37A United States USAF | 6AMW | 310AS [KMCF] 0000 12900
AE13E6 78-23128 --- 2012-02-18 18:15:40 C12C United States --- 1064 11000
AE1E7E 166032 @@@@@@@@ 2012-02-18 21:21:09 T-6B United States USN | TAW-5 | VT-3 2655 24050
AE1ECD 166072 @@@@@@@@ 2012-02-18 21:06:42 T-6B United States USNavy 5537 23975
AE1ED2 166077 --- 2012-02-18 21:24:05 T-6B United States --- 3243 22025
AE2ED4 166087 --- 2012-02-18 22:33:47 T-6B United States --- 0000 15975
AE2EDE 166097 @@@@@@@@ 2012-02-18 21:43:23 T-6B United States --- 3226 22100

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 18 Feb 2012 - Bowling Green KY

The following Mode-S intercepts are courtesy of our SE US Mode-S network member and Milcom monitor DavidP in Bowling Green, KY. Thanks David.

Mode S Log from Bowling Green, Kentucky, US 2012-02-18
Military Hex Codes only

ADFE68 -------- 91-1237 C130 KY ANG | 123AW | 165AS [KSDF] --- 2012-02-18 11:29:20.452
ADFE7A VIKNG61 92-3281 C130 AFRC | 934AW | 96AS [KMSP] --- 2012-02-18 10:04:26.061
ADFEB8 S981 98-0002 B752 USAF | 89AW | 1AS [KADW] --- 2012-02-18 12:47:45.436
ADFEBD -------- 96-0107 C560 USARC | 2-228 AVN --- 2012-02-18 09:12:56.732
ADFEF0 CNV6202 161266 DC93 USNR | VR-46 [KNFW ] --- 2012-02-18 09:04:37.243
AE010F BOXER543 94-1569 ASTR DC ANG | 113Wg | 201AS [KADW] --- 2012-02-18 00:13:11.854
AE0179 SPAR793 84-0140/84-0134 LJ35 USAF | 375AW | 458AS [KBLV] --- 2012-02-18 10:54:06.020
AE01A4 SPAR794 86-0377 LJ35 CO ANG | 140WG | 200AS [KCOS] --- 2012-02-18 12:07:33.557
AE02F3 BREWR79 86-0410 C130 AFRC | 440AW | 95AS [KPOB] --- 2012-02-18 14:30:01.529
AE0433 -------- 02-5001 B752 USAF | 486FLTS [KVPS] --- 2012-02-18 10:29:47.359
AE04EF DUKE54 86-0079 B190 6-52nd AVN --- 2012-02-18 13:18:26.376
AE059C RCH157 60-0350 K35R USAF | 22ARW [KIAB] --- 2012-02-18 15:30:11.142
AE0698 -------- 165153 GLF4 usmc | maw-4 --- 2012-02-18 12:30:10.880
AE0817 RCH0181 00-0181 C17 USAF | 62AW [KTCM] --- 2012-02-18 19:42:23.092
AE1252 CNV4561 165836 B737 USNR | VR-57 [KNZY] --- 2012-02-18 13:41:42.836
AE1449 -------- 05-5139 C17 AFRC | 452AMW | 729AS [KRIV] --- 2012-02-18 10:51:32.012
AE1534 E61438 06-1438 C30J RI ANG | 143AW | 143AS [KOQU] --- 2012-02-18 13:45:32.460
AE29FE CNV4487 166695 B737 USNR | VR-56 [KNTU] --- 2012-02-18 17:22:20.785
AE49C3 VOLT14 09-9207 C17 USAF | 437AW [KCHS] --- 2012-02-18 10:46:15.438

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 17 Feb 2012 - Btown

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. The Mode-S intercepts for this day have been sorted by time and then by ICAO24 code. All dates/times are UTC.

Sort by time
C2B3A5 144615 CFC3022 2012-02-17 23:06:29 CC-144B Canada CFC | 412SQ (TS) [CYOW] --- 35000
AE02CE 91-9142 CODV 01 2012-02-17 22:11:09 C-130H United States AFRC | 914AW | 328AS [KIAG]
AE03F3 84-0176/ 84-015 00000000 2012-02-17 21:59:48 C-12u-3 United States USAF
AE1197 03-3114 RCH114 2012-02-17 21:57:59 C-17A United States MS ANG | 172AW | 183AS [KJAN]
ADFEF2 161530 VVJS639 2012-02-17 21:25:49 C-9B United States USNR | VR-46 [KNFW ]
AE03BF 160626 --- 2012-02-17 21:21:01 KC-130R United States USN | VX-20 [KNHK]
ADFE7A 92-3281 VIKNG61 2012-02-17 21:00:31 C-130H United States AFRC | 934AW | 96AS [KMSP]
AE05E3 88-4401 DEUCE65 2012-02-17 20:44:35 C-130H United States AFRC | 440AW | 95AS [KPOB]
A19146 N20SM --- 2012-02-17 20:21:42 560 United States STATE OF MISSISSIPPI 0000 38000
AE03D2 164441 --- 2012-02-17 19:55:09 KC-130T United States USMCR | VMGR-452 [KSWF]
AE02C8 89-9104 VADER04 2012-02-17 19:46:32 C-130H United States AFRC | 910AW | 757AS [KYNG]
AE03F3 84-0176/ 84-015 00000000 2012-02-17 19:39:12 C-12u-3 United States USAF
ADFC94 92-0339 --- 2012-02-17 19:11:02 T-1A United States USAF | 12FTW | 99FTS [KRND] 0000 22200
ADFEEB 160047 LOBO 663 2012-02-17 19:08:33 C-9B United States USMC | VMR-1 [KNKT]
AE143F 05-1465 OCEAN84 2012-02-17 18:37:27 C-130J-30 United States CA ANG | 146AW | 115AS [KNTD]
AE03BF 160626 --- 2012-02-17 18:31:01 KC-130R United States USN | VX-20 [KNHK]
ADFE4D 94-0321 --- 2012-02-17 17:27:30 C-12R United States USARC | 6-52 AVN (TA) --- 25000
AE04E6 59-1516 SODA82 2012-02-17 17:09:06 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS] 0000 27000
ADFDC5 93-1458 EPIC33 2012-02-17 16:39:07 C-130H United States NC ANG | 145AW | 156AS [KCLT]
AE087F 01-0029 --- 2012-02-17 16:07:09 C-37A United States USAF | 6AMW | 310AS [KMCF]
AE49C3 09-9207 VOLT14 2012-02-17 16:00:37 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]

Sort by ICAO24 code
A19146 N20SM --- 2012-02-17 20:21:42 560 United States STATE OF MISSISSIPPI 0000 38000
ADFC94 92-0339 --- 2012-02-17 19:11:02 T-1A United States USAF | 12FTW | 99FTS [KRND] 0000 22200
ADFDC5 93-1458 EPIC33 2012-02-17 16:39:07 C-130H United States NC ANG | 145AW | 156AS [KCLT]
ADFE4D 94-0321 --- 2012-02-17 17:27:30 C-12R United States USARC | 6-52 AVN (TA) --- 25000
ADFE7A 92-3281 VIKNG61 2012-02-17 21:00:31 C-130H United States AFRC | 934AW | 96AS [KMSP]
ADFEEB 160047 LOBO 663 2012-02-17 19:08:33 C-9B United States USMC | VMR-1 [KNKT]
ADFEF2 161530 VVJS639 2012-02-17 21:25:49 C-9B United States USNR | VR-46 [KNFW ]
AE02C8 89-9104 VADER04 2012-02-17 19:46:32 C-130H United States AFRC | 910AW | 757AS [KYNG]
AE02CE 91-9142 CODV 01 2012-02-17 22:11:09 C-130H United States AFRC | 914AW | 328AS [KIAG]
AE03BF 160626 --- 2012-02-17 18:31:01 KC-130R United States USN | VX-20 [KNHK]
AE03D2 164441 --- 2012-02-17 19:55:09 KC-130T United States USMCR | VMGR-452 [KSWF]
AE03F3 84-0176/ 84-015 00000000 2012-02-17 21:59:48 C-12u-3 United States USAF
AE04E6 59-1516 SODA82 2012-02-17 17:09:06 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS] 0000 27000
AE05E3 88-4401 DEUCE65 2012-02-17 20:44:35 C-130H United States AFRC | 440AW | 95AS [KPOB]
AE087F 01-0029 --- 2012-02-17 16:07:09 C-37A United States USAF | 6AMW | 310AS [KMCF]
AE1197 03-3114 RCH114 2012-02-17 21:57:59 C-17A United States MS ANG | 172AW | 183AS [KJAN]
AE143F 05-1465 OCEAN84 2012-02-17 18:37:27 C-130J-30 United States CA ANG | 146AW | 115AS [KNTD]
AE49C3 09-9207 VOLT14 2012-02-17 16:00:37 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS] C2B3A5 144615 CFC3022 2012-02-17 23:06:29 CC-144B Canada CFC | 412SQ (TS) [CYOW] --- 35000

USS Montpelier Returns Home from Deployment

By Kevin Copeland, Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic Public Affairs

NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- The Los Angeles fast-attack submarine USS Montpelier (SSN 765) returned to Naval Station Norfolk from a regularly scheduled deployment Feb. 17.

Under the command of Cmdr. Thomas A. Winter, Montpelier is returning from the European Command area of responsibility where it executed the nation's maritime strategy in supporting national security interests and maritime security operations.

"Montpelier conducted various independent operations that directly contributed to the combatant commander's theater security operations," said Winter. "Additionally, we participated in a multinational anti-submarine warfare exercise with participants from France, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Portugal."

During the deployment Montpelier steamed more than 36,500 nautical miles. They were able to conduct port visits to Haakonsvern, Norway; Faslane, Scotland; and Rota, Spain.

"Each of these visits provided opportunities for the Montpelier crew to experience the local culture while strengthening relations with our allies in the European theater," said Winter. "The performance of Montpelier's crew was exceptional - inport and at sea. We accomplished all operational tasking, pulled into and out of port as scheduled, remained at sea as scheduled, and was an invaluable asset to the Sixth Fleet commander for more than six months.

"The technical and tactical competence exhibited by this highly trained crew was nothing short of phenomenal. In addition to meeting all operational requirements, we qualified 22 enlisted personnel and five officers in submarine warfare."

After spending several holidays overseas, Montpelier Sailors are ready for their homecoming in Norfolk.

"The crew is excited to return home to Norfolk, and looking forward to reunions with family and friends," said Winter. "After six months under the waves, the crew is especially eager to take advantage of the many outdoor activities available in the Hampton Roads region."

Fast-attack submarines like Montpelier have multi-faceted missions. They use their stealth, persistence, agility and firepower to deploy and support special force operations, disrupt and destroy an adversary's military and economic operations at sea, provide early strike from close proximity, and ensure undersea superiority.

Montpelier is the third ship in the U.S. Navy to be named for the city of Montpelier, Vt. Built by the Newport News Shipbuilding Company and Drydock Company, the "Mighty Monty" was commissioned March 13, 1993. Montpelier was the first submarine to launch Tomahawk cruise missiles in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The submarine has a crew complement of 15 officers and 129 enlisted, 360-feet long, and can travel in excess of 25 knots.

Gunston Hall Tests New Asset, Scan Eagle UAV during CERTEX

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Lauren G. Randall, Amphibious Squadron 8 Public Affairs

USS GUNSTON HALL, At Sea (NNS) -- Amphibious dock-landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) conducted, for the first time aboard, testing of Scan Eagle, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), used in coordination with both Gunston Hall and the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) Feb. 1-14.

Scan Eagle is an Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) asset and the decision to deploy it on Gunston Hall was made shortly after the ship was assigned to the Iwo Jima ARG this past summer. Scan Eagle has been deployed on other LSDs on the West Coast. Installation plans only required minor changes onboard Gunston Hall. Insitu and Boeing contractors installed the system in concert with Gunston Hall's own consolidated maintenance availabilities, completed just before the group departed Norfolk, Va., for the 24th MEU and Iwo Jima ARG's final certification for deployment, certification exercise (CERTEX) and Bold Alligator 2012.

"This training time is the first opportunity since being installed to test the system," said Cmdr. Shawn A. Bohrer, executive officer aboard Gunston Hall. "Additionally, CERTEX and Bold Alligator 2012 are dynamic training events in which the ARG and ships react to differing presentations/vignettes just as they would real life scenarios. Employing Scan Eagle gives the ARG/MEU commanders a tremendous asset in developing the recognized maritime picture to support decision making."

Scan Eagle has already conducted two successful missions and located simulated surface contacts with positive visual identification during the training exercises. Scan Eagle is being used in the scenario to locate any simulated illegal activities during the training exercises such as drug or human trafficking, terrorist activities, or unknown crafts and vehicles within close proximity of the ARG at sea or the Marines on land, with video footage transmitted back to the control system on the ship using a live video feed.

"Scan Eagle is really going to expand the horizon of Gunston Hall, Iwo Jima (Amphibious Ready Group) ARG and 24th MEU," said Capt. John Meier, commanding officer aboard Gunston Hall. "It is state-of-the-art technology and is able to greatly enhance the ship's air capabilities with small equipment providing video information possibilities that the ARG has never had before."

The UAV captures live video footage as it flies up to 78 mph and up to 10,000 feet in altitude for more than 20 hours during a single flight. Scan Eagle has been deployed frequently over the past several years in support of maritime security and overseas contingency operations. It can be deployed ashore or onboard Navy ships such as amphibious dock-landing ships and destroyers.

"Having Scan Eagle aboard Gunston Hall enables the Iwo Jima ARG to have an additional intelligence collection asset which can be used over both land and sea," said Lt. Jabe Lopez, Scan Eagle's detachment officer in charge with Amphibious Squadron 8 (PHIBRON 8). "This is definitely a great blue-green data collection asset to have."

Insitu and Boeing contractors worked with Navy and Marine units during Bold Alligator 2012 and CERTEX to build a working relationship to fully integrate the Scan Eagle program aboard Gunston Hall. This UAV system is unique because it only requires four personnel to operate; the pilot, two air crewmen for lift-off and landing, and an information analyst to relay the data collected. The Scan Eagle aids in getting real-time, full mission video, from a stealthy package with an extremely long on-station time.

"It is really a robust capability ideally suited for remote locations," said Meier. "With the distance Scan Eagle can cover, it doesn't put our air crew in harms way. The ability to get vital information with live video coverage, without endangering our Sailors, will greatly enhance the Navy's mission."

Gunston Hall is underway participating in Bold Alligator 2012 as well as CERTEX, the final certification for the 24th MEU and Iwo Jima ARG before their scheduled spring deployment.

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 17 Feb 2012 - Deltona FL

The following Mode-S intercepts are courtesy of our SE US Mode-S network member and Milcom monitor Jack NeSmith in Deltona, FL. Thanks Jack.

A2191E N234U N234U 2012-02-17 21:03:54 206H United States US DOJ | DEA 5255 1675
A5D4AA N475LC --- 2012-02-17 14:43:14 Gulfstream IV United States L-3 Info Systems
A979B3 N71 --- 2012-02-17 13:32:32 King Air 300 United States --- 0000 22000
A9FBD4 N742VA --- 2012-02-17 19:01:37 B734-448 United States Vision Airlines
AC8997 N907EF --- 2012-02-17 17:37:44 Dornier 328 United States USAF | 27SOW | 524SOS [KCVS]
ADFEF2 161530 VVJS639 2012-02-17 17:02:44 C-9B United States USNR | VR-46 [KNFW ]
ADFF0C 60-0335 PIRAT51 2012-02-17 16:21:56 KC-135T United States USAF | 6AMW | 91ARS [KMCF]
AE0099 67-14929 --- 2012-02-17 21:05:10 T-38C United States 90thFTS
AE0160 57-1479 DECEE94 2012-02-17 16:15:56 KC-135R United States AFRC | 459ARW | 756ARS [KADW] 0000 37000
AE0184 84-0090 BATTL 11 2012-02-17 19:43:17 C-21A United States MI ANG | 110FW | 172AS [KBTL]
AE01C1 165151 VVJR772 2012-02-17 19:55:14 C-20G United States USNR | VR-48 [KADW] 1533 26650
AE03F8 84-0154 --- 2012-02-17 19:00:20 C-12U United States LA ARNG | OSACOM Det38 [KHDC]
AE06E4 NAS Chambers --- 2012-02-17 14:43:21 UC-12F United States USNAVY
AE06E9 163844 --- 2012-02-17 15:37:02 UC-12M United States Norfolk
AE087E 01-0028 SPAR28 2012-02-17 18:26:26 C-37A United States USAF | 6AMW | 310AS [KMCF] --- 35750
AE087F 01-0029 --- 2012-02-17 16:52:58 C-37A United States USAF | 6AMW | 310AS [KMCF] --- 27000
AE0945 01-0040 S703 2012-02-17 19:42:16 C-40B United States USAF | 89AW | 1AS [KADW]
AE118A 02-1863 R1863 2012-02-17 18:29:47 C-37A United States US Army 0000 40050
AE11E5 78-0577 SCOUT16 2012-02-17 17:42:28 E-3B United States USAF | 552ACW [KTIK] 0000 30000
AE13E6 78-23128 --- 2012-02-17 21:11:58 C12C United States --- 7036 4900
AE143A 166715 --- 2012-02-17 19:05:40 UC-35D United States USMC | VMR-1 [KNKT]
AE143F 05-1465 OCEAN84 2012-02-17 20:54:54 C-130J-30 United States CA ANG | 146AW | 115AS [KNTD]
AE1493 96-0043 --- 2012-02-17 16:22:47 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE1EB9 166052 --- 2012-02-17 18:26:12 T-6B United States USNavy
AE20C5 07-7184 RCH397 2012-02-17 17:54:42 C-17a United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS] 1661 36000
AE29FE 166695 --- 2012-02-17 17:55:24 C-40A United States USNR | VR-56 [KNTU]
AE4A0D ------ --- 2012-02-17 16:58:59 ------ United States ---
AE4DDD 11-0550 --- 2012-02-17 18:54:01 C-37B United States USAF | 89AW | 99AS [KADW]
C03177 C-FSTA --- 2012-02-17 13:41:23 Alpha Jet Canada TOPACESCONSULTINGINC. 5730 27000
E94045 ------ --- 2012-02-17 19:26:46 ------ Bolivia --- 1322 32025

Mode-S/ADS-B Intercepts 17 Feb 2012 - Bowling Green KY

The following Mode-S intercepts are courtesy of our SE US Mode-S network member and Milcom monitor DavidP in Bowling Green, KY. Thanks David.

Mode S Log from Bowling Green, Kentucky, US 2012-02-17
Military Hex Codes only

0D069E XALOB ------ ---- --- --- 2012-02-17 15:06:47.378
249249 ID Various var --- --- 2012-02-17 10:52:03.025
4A8188 -------- 84008 C130 F7 --- 2012-02-17 13:23:28.045
6E0000 ID ------ ---- --- --- 2012-02-17 11:56:55.964
A62778 -------- N496MC B744 AtlasAir --- 2012-02-17 21:17:15.959
A71AB8 -------- N557PG C560 FBI --- 2012-02-17 09:45:15.881
ACB947 -------- N919NA T38 NASA --- 2012-02-17 10:14:32.720
ADFCEB -------- 94-0140 BE40 USAF | 14FTW | 48FTS --- 2012-02-17 11:18:42.127
ADFE4D -------- 94-0321 BE20 USARC | 6-52 AVN (TA) --- 2012-02-17 17:54:27.882
ADFE4D R40321 94-0321 BE20 USARC | 6-52 AVN (TA) --- 2012-02-17 11:08:28.359
ADFE4D R40321 94-0321 BE20 USARC | 6-52 AVN (TA) --- 2012-02-17 10:42:05.728
ADFE67 -------- 91-1236 C130 KY ANG | 123AW | 165AS [KSDF] --- 2012-02-17 15:22:27.565
ADFEEB LOBO 663 160047 DC93 USMC | VMR-1 [KNKT] --- 2012-02-17 13:04:47.972
ADFEEF JT 723 160051 DC93 USNR | VR-52 [KWRI] --- 2012-02-17 17:16:39.986
ADFEF0 CNV6202 161266 DC93 USNR | VR-46 [KNFW ] --- 2012-02-17 12:03:55.846
ADFEF2 VVJS639 161530 DC93 USNR | VR-46 [KNFW ] --- 2012-02-17 15:28:59.864
ADFEFF -------- 86-0089 BE20 IL ARNG | OSACOM DET-36 [KDEC] --- 2012-02-17 11:40:45.161
AE010F BOXER543 94-1569 ASTR DC ANG | 113Wg | 201AS [KADW] --- 2012-02-17 21:00:57.454
AE012E -------- (73-1683)/97-01 DC93 AFRC | 932AW | 73AS [KBLV] --- 2012-02-17 17:14:08.041
AE016A -------- 86-0206 GLF3 USAF | 89AW | 99AS [KADW] --- 2012-02-17 10:26:29.377
AE0184 BATTL 11 84-0090 LJ35 MI ANG | 110FW | 172AS [KBTL] --- 2012-02-17 16:11:17.109
AE0195 JOSA621 84-0135 LJ35 USAF | 375AW | 458AS [KBLV] --- 2012-02-17 16:42:41.527
AE01A4 SPAR794 86-0377 LJ35 CO ANG | 140WG | 200AS [KCOS] --- 2012-02-17 07:28:21.008
AE02ED ROPER 64 85-1364 C130 TX ANG | 136AW | 181AS [KFWH] --- 2012-02-17 12:02:27.572
AE0364 SLUFF61 60-0347 K35R OH ANG | 121ARW [KLCK] --- 2012-02-17 14:25:47.849
AE036D -------- 98-0007 ??? C550 USAF --- 2012-02-17 18:34:06.298
AE0372 -------- 60-0367 K35R OH ANG | 121ARW [KLCK] --- 2012-02-17 12:19:20.391
AE03D2 -------- 164441 C130 USMCR | VMGR-452 [KSWF] --- 2012-02-17 14:41:25.713
AE03E5 -------- 164998 C130 USNR | VR-53 [KADW] --- 2012-02-17 09:56:32.369
AE03F3 00000000 84-0176/ 84-015 BE20 USAF --- 2012-02-17 16:52:34.293
AE041D TAZZ51 57-1486 K35R AZ ANG | 161ARW | 197ARS [KPHX] --- 2012-02-17 11:34:15.594
AE049C SODA81 59-1517 K35R TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS] --- 2012-02-17 09:05:29.181
AE04E6 SODA82 59-1516 K35R TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS] --- 2012-02-17 11:09:19.189
AE0533 -------- 69-0013 C5 TN ANG | 164AW | 155AS [KMEM] --- 2012-02-17 12:30:29.881
AE05E3 -------- 88-4401 C130 AFRC | 440AW | 95AS [KPOB] --- 2012-02-17 15:07:27.413
AE0811 RCH453T 00-0175 C17 USAF | 62AW [KTCM] --- 2012-02-17 16:31:33.238
AE087F SPAR26 01-0029 GLF5 USAF | 6AMW | 310AS [KMCF] --- 2012-02-17 09:47:19.489
AE117B -------- 02-1109 C17 USAF | 62AW [KTCM] --- 2012-02-17 16:37:30.222
AE1197 RCH114 03-3114 C17 MS ANG | 172AW | 183AS [KJAN] --- 2012-02-17 15:57:17.363
AE143F OCEAN84 05-1465 C30J CA ANG | 146AW | 115AS [KNTD] --- 2012-02-17 12:20:57.176
AE1448 RCH999 04-4138 C17 AFRC | 452AMW | 729AS [KRIV] --- 2012-02-17 18:36:00.310
AE144B E55141 05-5141 C17 AFRC | 452AMW | 729AS [KRIV] --- 2012-02-17 19:12:07.787
AE1458 RCH153 06-6154 C17 USAF | 60AMW | 21AS [KSUU] --- 2012-02-17 16:33:46.783
AE146A -------- 07-7172 C17 USAF | 60AMW [KSUU] --- 2012-02-17 16:52:49.350
AE17EF SPAR13 05-0730 B737 AFRC | 932AW | 73AS [KBLV] --- 2012-02-17 14:37:58.849
AE189A SPAR12 05-4613 B737 AFRC | 932AW | 73AS [KBLV] --- 2012-02-17 14:56:42.115
AE49C3 VOLT14 09-9207 C17 USAF | 437AW [KCHS] --- 2012-02-17 19:32:15.505
C2B3D7 CFC3622 177701 C17 CFC | 429SQN [CYTR] --- 2012-02-17 10:40:34.148

Peleliu Completes Iron Fist 2012

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist (SW/EXW) Jeremy L. Wood, USS Peleliu (LHA 5) Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5) conducted beach and flight operations Feb. 13, to conclude the seventh annual exercise Iron Fist 2012 off the coast of San Clemente Island, with elements from 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force.

The exercise demonstrated the interoperability and enhanced amphibious capability of Japanese and American forces. Peleliu provided amphibious lift and a flight platform, while the cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) provided supporting naval gunfire. The amphibious assault phase of Iron Fist 2012 showed that Peleliu was able to act as a single focal point for surface, air and amphibious operations, while nearly 900 U.S. Marines and Japanese personnel joined more than 1,000 Sailors aboard.

The first phase of Iron Fist was conducted at the Marine Corps' Camp Pendleton, Calif., base from Jan. 24 through Feb. 1. The at-sea phase focused on a surface and air effort and included launching to San Clemente Island's beaches. Assault Craft Units 1 and 5 safely conducted 38 hours of utility landing craft and 28 hours of air cushion landing craft operations.

From the air, squadrons conducted deck landing qualifications and both fixed and rotary wing close air support. The pilots and aircraft handlers used the time to become more proficient with numerous types of helicopters and the Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier "Jump Jet."

Distinguished leaders from across the Pacific region met aboard Peleliu to observe the exercise firsthand. United States Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Melvin G. Spiese, deputy commanding general, I Marine Expeditionary Force and United States Navy Rear Adm. Patrick E. McGrath, deputy commander, U.S. Third Fleet boarded Peleliu to meet with Japanese Maj. Gen. Katsuki Takata, Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, Western Army and Japanese Rear Adm. Fumiyuki Kitagawa, Commander, Escort Flotilla Three.

Both Japanese and Marine forces conducted individual and combined arms live fire and maneuver training on San Clemente Island. The exercise wrapped up with the components of 15th MEU and Japanese maritime and ground self-defense forces departing via air and sea back to Camp Pendleton.

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

NCR 22 Assumes Authority in CENTCOM AOR; Operations Begin

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Jason Carter, Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 7 Public Affairs

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan (NNS) -- The 30th Naval Construction Regiment (NCR), Task Force Forager, transitioned to the 22nd NCR, Task Force Stethem, during a transfer of authority (TOA) ceremony, Feb. 16, 2012, on Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan.

The 30th NCR, from Port Hueneme, Calif., served as the command and control element for Task Force Forager, which was responsible for construction engineering and engineering support in Southern, Southwestern and Western Afghanistan.

The TOA's officiating officer, U.S. Army Maj. Gen. William E. Rapp, deputy commanding general for Support, commended the task force for its many successes during its six-month deployment.

"You need to be extremely proud of your accomplishments," Rapp said.

Task Force Forager and 30th NCR Chief Staff Officer, U.S. Navy Cmdr. Erik Karlson, said the task force did an amazing job supporting the mission in Afghanistan and the Afghan people, and thanked all of his subordinate commands for their hard work.

"It has been an absolute honor to have served with you," Karlson said.

Task Force Forager performed numerous engineering missions such as water wells, which provided clean water for Afghan villages, placed and repaired bridges and partnered with Afghan military engineers to aid in the smooth transition to Afghan leadership.

U.S. Navy Capt. Kathryn A. Donovan, Task Force Stethem and 22nd NCR Commodore, said her team was honored to take over such an important mission from such a classy command.

"We are very excited to work with the coalition and our service partners," Donovan said.

The 22nd NCR, from Gulfport, Miss., was previously deployed to Afghanistan from February to August 2010. The regiment is made up of approximately 90 U.S. Navy Seabees and support staff.

Lincoln Begins Air Missions in Support of Operation Enduring Freedom

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jonathan P. Idle, USS Abraham Lincoln Public Affairs

USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN, At Sea (NNS) -- The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group (ALCSG) launched its first combat sorties this deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), Feb. 16.

The ALCSG, which was last in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) in March 2011, is comprised of the most effective collection of assets in the Navy, said Capt. David Silkey, commander, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2.

"Having been deployed out here twice in a year and a half, we've played a huge role in the Navy's persistent presence in the AOR over the last couple of years," Silkey said. "Another trip out here is just business as usual for our guys. U.S. Navy assets have been in this region for more than 60 years, and we'll be here for decades to come, even long after the OEF mission is complete."

Lt. Troy Teasdale, a pilot assigned to the Bounty Hunters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 2, said the OEF mission suits the professionals of CVW 2 quite well.

"We train our entire careers to properly execute what is asked of us," Teasdale said. "All of our aircrew are prepared to support coalition forces working hard to ensure security and stability throughout the region. We have the best maintenance team and aviators in the world to ensure we accomplish this demanding mission."

Rear Adm. Mike Shoemaker, commander, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 9, said the strike group is well-equipped to assume the challenges of the OEF mission.

"The strike group's surface ships and aircraft squadrons are all manned, trained and ready," Shoemaker said. "We've done the preparation, now it's time to get to work."

CSG 9 consists of Lincoln, CVW 2, guided-missile cruiser USS Cape St. George (CG 71) and embarked Destroyer Squadron 9, comprised of guided-missile destroyers USS Momsen (DDG 92) and USS Sterett (DDG 104). The CVW 2 squadrons are the Bounty Hunters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 2; the Vigilantes of VFA-151; the Kestrels of VFA-137; the Blue Blasters of VFA-34; the Sun Kings of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 116; the Lancers of Electronic Attack Squadron 131; the Golden Falcons of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 12; the Saberhawks of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 77; and the Providers of Carrier Logistics Support Squadron 30.

The ALCSG deployed Dec. 7, 2011, and is operating in the 5th Fleet AOR conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. Following deployment, Lincoln will change homeports from Everett, Wash., to Norfolk, Va., for a periodic refueling complex overhaul.

Sterett Completes Strait of Hormuz Transit

By Ensign Steven Mulherin, USS Sterett Public Affairs

USS STERETT, At Sea (NNS) -- Guided-missile destroyer USS Sterett (DDG 104) led the ships of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 9 during a routine, scheduled transit through the Strait of Hormuz to the North Arabian Sea, Feb. 14.

Sterett, the lead ship during the outbound transit, was followed by the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) and guided-missile cruiser USS Cape St. George (CG 71). The CSG 9 ships transited the strait to begin conducting flights in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF).

Cmdr. Rich McDaniel, Sterett's commanding officer, said the transit was routine and professional in nature and was carried out without interference.

"Tuesday's transit played out as expected and was completed on schedule," McDaniel said. "I continue to be impressed with the performance of Sterett Sailors on this deployment."

An important element to any strait transit is the preparation conducted by a ship's navigation team, McDaniel added. He said Sterett's navigation team was well-prepared to lead CSG 9 through the Strait of Hormuz.

Lt. j.g. William Pappas, Sterett's navigator, and his contingent of six quartermasters spent hours combing through charts to ensure the ship's safe passage through the strait. They completed the transit without incident.

"My navigation team, comprised largely of junior Sailors, put a lot of time and effort into all of our preparations, especially for transiting the Strait of Hormuz," said Pappas. "Sterett's navigation team was able to plan and execute a safe transit through the strait, and I am proud of their performance."

Sterett and USS Momsen (DDG 92) are part of Destroyer Squadron 9, embarked aboard Lincoln. CSG 9 also includes Cape St. George and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2. CSG 9 is deployed to the 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions as part of OEF.

Navy Names Forward Deployed Ships to Rota, Spain

Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus announced today the four Arleigh Burke class guided-missile destroyers which will be forward deployed to Rota, Spain. The four include three from Norfolk, Va; the USS Ross, the USS Donald Cook, and the USS Porter, and one from Mayport, Fla., the USS Carney. The ships are in support of President Obama's European Phased Adaptive Approach to enhance the security of the European region.

"We welcome Spain's partnership in stationing four U.S. Navy Aegis ships at Naval Station Rota," said Mabus. "We have a long history of cooperation between our two countries and we have developed significant interoperability between our naval forces."

These multi-mission ships will perform a myriad of tasks, including the full spectrum of maritime security operations, bi-lateral and multi-lateral training exercises, NATO operations and deployments, and NATO missile defense.

Ross and Donald Cook will arrive in fiscal 2014 and Carney and Porter in fiscal 2015.

Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta initially announced the stationing of four Aegis ships to Rota Oct. 5, 2011, in Brussels, Belgium.

"By hosting these ships, Spain will continue its vital role in enhancing the security of the European region, the Mediterranean Basin, and the Atlantic Ocean," said Panetta in an Oct. 5, 2011, statement. "The agreement also enables the United States to provide rapid and responsive support to the U.S. Africa and U.S. Central Commands, as needed."