Milcom Monitoring Post

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Thursday, September 19, 2013

Mode-S/ADS Milcom Intercepts 18 September 2013 - Btown NC

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

AE1488 86-0416   KOMODO4 2013-09-18 23:36:00 TE-8a United States 330thCTS
AE1196 03-3113   --- 2013-09-18 23:15:33 C-17A United States MS ANG | 172AW | 183AS [KJAN]
AE07DB 93-0601   RCH112 2013-09-18 21:38:53 C-17A United States USAF | 62AW [KTCM]
AE4E05 02   C102 2013-09-18 21:36:25 C-37A United States USCG | CGAS Washington [KDCA]
AE152F 06-4631   PUMA72 2013-09-18 20:27:17 C-130J-30 United States USAF | 19AW [KLRF]
AE018C 84-0098   JOSA141 2013-09-18 20:09:48 C-21A United States USAF | 375AW | 457AS [KADW]
AE08FE 92-13121   SUNNY22 2013-09-18 19:15:20 RC-12P United States 16MIB
AE4E0F ------   --- 2013-09-18 19:05:12 ------ United States ---
AE08FE 92-13121   SUNNY22 2013-09-18 18:49:56 RC-12P United States 16MIB
ADFCE0 94-0129   --- 2013-09-18 18:43:40 T-1A United States USAF | 479FTG | 451FTS [KNPA]
AE1BEF 07-4636   PUMA70 2013-09-18 17:42:58 C-130J-30 United States USAF | 19AW [KLRF]
AE04EE 63-8041   MASH81 2013-09-18 16:09:54 KC-135R United States AFRC | 434ARW | 72ARS [KGUS]
AE0604 80-0325   --- 2013-09-18 15:47:43 C-130H United States GA ANG | 165AW | 158AS [KSAV]
AE047F 59-1509   SODA81 2013-09-18 15:46:55 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
AE04EE 63-8041   MASH81 2013-09-18 15:30:52 KC-135R United States AFRC | 434ARW | 72ARS [KGUS]
AE07B7 62-3528   BACKY92 2013-09-18 15:06:06 KC-135R United States AFRC | 916ARW | 77ARS [KGSB]
AE07CF 89-1191   --- 2013-09-18 14:54:34 C-17A United States NY ANG | 105AW | 137AS [KSWF]
AE06C6 161326   --- 2013-09-18 14:51:51 UC-12B United States USN | AOD PATUXENT RIVER [KNHK]
AE1242 04-4137   RCH507 2013-09-18 14:33:39 C-17A United States USAF | 305AMW | 6AS [KWRI]
AE10D2 165516   --- 2013-09-18 14:33:33 T-39G United States USN | TW-6 | VT-86 [KNPA]
AE123B 04-4130   RCH508 2013-09-18 14:28:09 C-17A United States USAF | 305AMW | 6AS [KWRI]
AE047F 59-1509   SODA81 2013-09-18 13:16:50 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
AE0157 58-0083   SLUFF62 2013-09-18 01:55:31 KC-135R United States UT ANG | 151ARW | 191ARS [KSLC]
AE0157 58-0083   SLUFF62 2013-09-18 00:41:53 KC-135R United States UT ANG | 151ARW | 191ARS [KSLC]

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

537th Airlift Squadron inactivates

by Airman 1st Class Tammie Ramsouer, JBER Public Affairs

JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- The 537th Airlift Squadron inactivated Wednesday in a ceremony at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.

The inactivation was a result of the 2013 National Defense Authorization Act, which determines the Department of Defense budget for 2013.

The squadron was notified of their fate last year. Inactivation, as opposed to deactivation, means the squadron could be reactivated at some point.

"Although our time here was short and our manning levels topped out at only four of the intended 12 crews, we feel we have made an impact in Alaska and around the world," said Air Force Maj. Ryan Hendrickson, 537th AS director of operations. "In this short time, we reinvigorated the Long Range Radar Site resupply missions. This is a highly challenging mission only flown by a handful of skilled and certified Airmen."

Shortly after the squadron members learned about their inactivation, personnel received reassignments and inbound personnel were diverted.

The 537th AS was inactive for more than 40 years before being activated as the Air Force's newest Total Force Unit operating C-130 Hercules in April of 2011.

"The unit was designed to bring four C-130s to Alaska and 12 fully capable combat crews to complement the eight C-130s and crews the [Alaska] Air National Guard's 144th [Airlift Squadron] possessed," Hendrickson said.

The squadron originally stood up during World War II as the 537th Troop Carrier Squadron - an Air Force Reserve unit flying P-47 Thunderbolts. It later became the 537th Tactical Airlift Squadron, flying C-7 Caribou and providing mission support to all branches of the military in South Vietnam during the Vietnam War.

Once activated on JBER, the mission was primarily to support Army airborne training, along with the 144th Airlift Squadron.

"The C-130 was built to be in Alaska," Hendrickson said. "The terrain, airspace, close proximity to Army airborne assets and training opportunities make it an unbeatable training ground for the C-130 aircrews. Airmen who have spent any amount of time operating the C-130s in the Alaska environment are confidently prepared to deploy to the harshest environments in the world at a moments notice with ease."

Together, the two units flew C-130s that carried government and emergency equipment, supplies and food.

The squadron has fulfilled more than half of U.S. Army Alaska's annual jump requirements for this fiscal year, engaging in combat support operations in the Philippines - all while having less than 50 percent manning. The missions the 537th AS supported will now fall on other JBER units.

4th Fleet Frigate Offloads $78 Million in Drugs

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Sean Allen, U.S. 4th Fleet Public Affairs

NAVAL STATION MAYPORT, Fla. (NNS) -- The Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS Rentz (FFG-46) and its embarked Coast Guard law enforcement detachment transferred $78 Million in confiscated cocaine Sept. 15 to the U.S. Coast Guard cutter Forward (WMEC 911) in the Western Caribbean Sea while assigned to the U.S. 4th Fleet.

The 2,123 pounds of cocaine were seized in early August from a fishing vessel north of the Galapagos Islands while the Rentz was conducting Counter Transnational Organized Crime Operations (C-TOC) in the 4th Fleet area of operations in support of Operation Martillo.

Operation Martillo, Spanish for "hammer," is a partner-nation effort targeting illicit trafficking routes in coastal waters along the Central American isthmus.

"The flow of illegal drugs has a destabilizing effect on our partner nations, and together, we are determined to prevent it," said Rear Adm. Sinclair M. Harris, the commander of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet. "The hard work of the Rentz and Forward crews is essential to this effort."

U.S. military participation in Operation Martillo is led by Joint Interagency Task Force-South, a component of U.S. Southern Command

U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet employ maritime forces in cooperative maritime security operations in order to maintain access, enhance interoperability and build enduring partnerships that foster regional security in the U.S. Southern Command Area of Responsibility.

Mode-S/ADS Milcom Intercepts 17 September 2013 - Btown NC

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

AE119B 03-3118   --- 2013-09-17 23:46:03 C-17A United States MS ANG | 172AW | 183AS [KJAN]
AE093A 00-1051   --- 2013-09-17 23:28:14 UC-35B United States USARC | B/2-228 AVN (TA) [KMGE]
AE119B 03-3118   RCH941 2013-09-17 23:24:59 C-17A United States MS ANG | 172AW | 183AS [KJAN]
AE02E7 84-0204   COBB61 2013-09-17 23:22:09 C-130H United States AFRC | 94AW | 700AS [KMGE]
AE02E1 81-0626   COBB 26 2013-09-17 23:19:50 C-130H United States AFRC | 94AW | 700AS [KMGE]
00000A Various   --- 2013-09-17 22:52:43 Various Various ---
AE0806 99-0060   RHINO50 2013-09-17 22:31:55 C-17A United States AFRC | 445AW | 89AS [KFFO]
AE4D69 10-0216   RCH0216 2013-09-17 22:02:41 C-17A United States USAF | 62AW [KTCM]
AE0E04 ------   --- 2013-09-17 21:56:32 UH-60A United States USArmy
AE01D4 64-14847   COBRA23 2013-09-17 21:05:56 RC-135U United States USAF | 55WG | 45RS [KOFF]
AE10D5 165519   --- 2013-09-17 20:16:41 T-39G United States USN | TW-6 | VT-86 [KNPA]
AE1220 64-14853   --- 2013-09-17 20:04:06 HC-130P United States USAF | 563RQG | 79RQS [KDMA]
AE01D4 64-14847   COBRA23 2013-09-17 19:19:33 RC-135U United States USAF | 55WG | 45RS [KOFF]
AE053A 69-0020   --- 2013-09-17 19:16:28 C-5A United States AFRC | 433AW | 68AS [KSKF]
AE0816 00-0180   COHO51 2013-09-17 19:09:03 C-17A United States USAF | 62AW [KTCM]
AE4E0E ------   FIXER55 2013-09-17 19:03:00 ------ United States ---
AE03BF 160626   --- 2013-09-17 18:35:12 KC-130R United States USN | VX-20 [KNHK]
ADFEBD 96-0107   --- 2013-09-17 18:12:43 UC-35a1 United States USARC | C/2-228 AVN (TA) [KFBG]
AE4E0E ------   FIXER55 2013-09-17 18:04:57 ------ United States ---
AE10D5 165519   --- 2013-09-17 17:39:13 T-39G United States USN | TW-6 | VT-86 [KNPA]
AE07B7 62-3528   --- 2013-09-17 16:14:37 KC-135R United States AFRC | 916ARW | 77ARS [KGSB]
ADFC8F 92-0334   --- 2013-09-17 15:47:52 T-1A United States USAF | 479FTG | 451FTS [KNPA]
AE026A 62-3504   SODA81 2013-09-17 15:39:24 KC-135R United States UT ANG | 151ARW | 191ARS [KSLC]
ADFE7C 92-3283   VIKNG83 2013-09-17 15:10:03 C-130H United States AFRC | 934AW | 96AS [KMSP]
AE10D2 165516   --- 2013-09-17 14:31:51 T-39G United States USN | TW-6 | VT-86 [KNPA]
AE07EE 96-0004   RCH755 2013-09-17 13:55:02 C-17A United States AFRC | 445AW | 89AS [KFFO]
AE026A 62-3504   SODA81 2013-09-17 13:36:57 KC-135R United States UT ANG | 151ARW | 191ARS [KSLC]
AE04AD 99-0104   --- 2013-09-17 12:09:20 UC-35a1 United States USARC | A/2-228 AVN (TA) [KWRI ]
AE1220 64-14853   KING21 2013-09-17 01:57:35 HC-130P United States USAF | 563RQG | 79RQS [KDMA]
AE07CD 89-1189   RCH310 2013-09-17 00:09:00 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

Mode-S/ADS Milcom Intercepts 16 September 2013 - Btown NC

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts and selected ATC call signs logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC. Another day with my mystery Mode-S address (AF14EC) flying but did not transit this area.

AE025F 61-0280 /63-801   RCH789 2013-09-16 23:39:37 KC-135R United States AFRC | 452AMW | 336ARS [KRIV]
AE03EB 165314   --- 2013-09-16 23:37:48 C-130T United States USNR | VR-62 [KNIP]
AE11E3 77-0356   SNTRY30H 2013-09-16 22:47:10 E-3B United States USAF | 552ACW [KTIK]
AE14B2 160973   --- 2013-09-16 21:22:09 T-44A United States USN | TW-4 | VT-31 [KNGP]
AE1496 97-0201   LEGEND3 2013-09-16 20:19:56 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE11E3 77-0356   SNTRY30H 2013-09-16 19:23:05 E-3B United States USAF | 552ACW [KTIK]
AE14B2 160973   --- 2013-09-16 18:50:05 T-44A United States USN | TW-4 | VT-31 [KNGP]
AE10D4 165518   --- 2013-09-16 18:44:05 T-39G United States USN | TW-6 | VT-86 [KNPA]
AE0415 164388   GOTO FMS 2013-09-16 18:05:42 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK]
AE0687 60-0349   BACKY91 2013-09-16 16:53:17 KC-135R United States AFRC | 916ARW | 77ARS [KGSB]
AE0480 60-0324   PIRAT14 2013-09-16 16:46:18 KC-135R United States USAF | 22ARW [KIAB]
AE4F16 10-0222   RCH808 2013-09-16 16:01:21 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE0480 60-0324   PIRAT14 2013-09-16 15:57:24 KC-135R United States USAF | 22ARW [KIAB]
AB146A 10-0261   --- 2013-09-16 15:53:44 C-12 United States U S ARMY
AE1496 97-0201   LEGEND3 2013-09-16 15:43:48 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE4EB5 168431   --- 2013-09-16 15:38:45 P-8A United States VP-30
AE10D4 165518   --- 2013-09-16 14:54:47 T-39G United States USN | TW-6 | VT-86 [KNPA]
AE04AD 99-0104   --- 2013-09-16 14:28:52 UC-35a1 United States USARC | A/2-228 AVN (TA) [KWRI ]
AE0606 80-0332   CROME 31 2013-09-16 13:00:42 C-130H United States GA ANG | 165AW | 158AS [KSAV]
AE1439 166714   --- 2013-09-16 00:30:22 UC-35D United States USMC | VMR-1 [KNKT]
AE0444 96-6042 ???   --- 2013-09-16 00:20:37 CN-235 United States USAF | 427SOS [KPOB]

Theodore Roosevelt Completes Flight Deck Certification

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Heath Zeigler, USS Theodore Roosevelt Public Affairs

USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1, successfully completed flight deck certification, Sept. 14, fulfilling an important milestone of getting the ship and its embarked airwing combat ready.

The Red Rippers of Fighter Attack Squadron (VFA) 11, Knighthawks of VFA 136, Checkmates of VFA 211, Screwtops of Carrier Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 123, and Dragonslayers of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron (HS) 11 all took part in the certification, and were instrumental in the success and safety of the flight operations.

The flight deck certification consisted of 160 total carrier landings, during both the day and night. Certification drills included rigging the emergency barricade, flight deck firefighting and crash and salvage operations.

"We worked hard to make sure that all expectations were met," said Chief Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Frank E. Gardner, flight deck leading chief petty officer. "We out performed what was expected of us."

This is a monumental achievement for Theodore Roosevelt since it is the first time it has landed aircraft on its deck in four years.

"It's amazing to see so many Sailors who have never seen a deployment come together to accomplish this task," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 1st Class Terry Keyes. "It took a lot of work and long days to get things done and accomplished, but the end result was more than what we expected."

Before the flight deck crew left the shipyard, they spent many hours training on all aspects of how the flight deck operates under all conditions.

"We spent long hours training our crew," said Gardner. "We wanted to make sure that everything could go as smoothly as we could possibly make it."

Time management and teamwork were both keys to the success of the flight deck certification process.

"We have to manage our time while on station," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 1st Class Raymond Gross, leading petty officer of fly two, a division of Air department. "We have to work with other sections of Air Department to be able to take breaks and get food because our job requires us to be on deck when jets are moving about."

Keyes added that flexibility was also important in the event of last minute changes, such as catapult repairs or aircraft reorganization for launch.

"No matter how well we worked together, we had to remain flexible because anything could happen," said Keyes. "Equipment may go down or a jet may need fuel, so we had to constantly make changes in a safe but efficient manner."

The success of flight deck certification marks one step closer for Theodore Roosevelt to becoming, once again, a ready-for-tasking carrier.

Theodore Roosevelt will continue carrier qualifications during the current underway period.

Annual UNITAS Naval Exercise Wraps Up in Colombia

NAVAL STATION MAYPORT, Fla. (NNS) -- Naval forces from 15 partner nations concluded UNITAS 2013, the 54th annual multinational maritime exercise, Sept. 15 in Cartagena, Colombia.

Hosted this year by the Colombian navy, UNITAS included naval forces from Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Honduras, Peru, the United Kingdom and the United States, with observers from Belize, El Salvador, Germany, Jamaica, Panama and Mexico.

UNITAS, the longest-running exercise of its type in the world, has evolved and now includes training for many of the threats encountered in the 21st-century maritime environment, along with essential seamanship and navigational skills that are core competencies for maritime services in the Americas.

During 10 days at sea, 19 ships conducted a full spectrum of maritime operations, including electronic warfare, anti-air warfare and air defense, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare and maritime interdiction operations.

U.S. 4th Fleet was represented by USS Rentz (FFG 46) and other naval units, including Patrol Squadron 10 (VP-10) and Destroyer Squadron 40.

"This was a robust schedule of events, packed with a myriad of warfare areas that stressed the multi-national forces and their ability to interoperate and work together towards common goals," said Cmdr. Lance Lantier, the commanding officer of the Rentz.

"Rentz could not have been prouder to represent the United States as the sole U.S. Navy ship to participate in UNITAS, and we could not be prouder to have successfully completed all events with enthusiasm and devastating firepower," he said. "Any ship invited to participate in this robust exercise in the future should be excited at the opportunity."

The immediate purpose of the exercise was to train participating forces in a variety of high-end maritime scenarios to test command and control of forces at sea, while operating as a multinational force to provide the maximum opportunity to improve interoperability.

"The training objectives of each one of the participating navies were incorporated during several planning conferences conducted before the exercise, allowing this year's UNITAS to provide effective training to increase interoperability while supporting the training requirements of all participating nations," said Rear Adm. Sinclair M. Harris, the commander of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet.

At the same time, the intense training resulted in coalition building, multilateral security cooperation and promoting friendship, professionalism and mutual understanding among the participating partner nations.

"UNITAS is undoubtedly a top-shelf training opportunity, but it much more than that," Harris said. "UNITAS builds lasting friendships, bonds and confidence among the participants, so when we are called to respond to a region or global crisis, we can do so as a coordinated and experienced team."

The next UNITAS exercise is scheduled for summer 2014.

U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet employ maritime forces in cooperative maritime security operations in order to maintain access, enhance interoperability, and build enduring partnerships that foster regional security in the U.S. Southern Command Area of Responsibility.

NASA Visits USS San Diego in Preparation for Space Capsule Recovery

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Corey T. Jones, Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Senior project managers from NASA managing the Orion spacecraft's Exploration Flight Test (EFT-1) visited San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22), Sept. 12 in preparation for a test to retrieve the Orion space capsule in January off the coast of Southern California.

NASA representatives met with Rear Adm. Frank Ponds, commander Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 3 and Capt. William R. Grotewold, the ship's commanding officer to discuss plans for the upcoming recovery mission.

"We had a chance to display the ship's capability, show the crew's enthusiasm and demonstrate that our amphibious capability is multi-dimensional - just one more thing that our Navy can do," said Ponds. "The LPD 17-class ships have one of the most robust command and control communications systems in our Navy inventory."

The uncrewed EFT-1 flight will take Orion to an altitude of approximately 3,600 miles above the Earth's surface,, After the test flight, Orion will reenter the atmosphere at a speed of more than 20,000 miles per hour, returning to Earth faster than any current human spacecraft. Orion will land in the Pacific, where the U.S. Navy will locate and recover the craft into the ship's well-deck. The test flight is intended to test the capsule's avionics, heat shield and parachutes.

"It's all about relationships, to make sure our priorities are the same and clearly everyone is on the same page and we're excited about it," said Mark Geyer, NASA Orion program manager. "This ship that is going to support our mission possesses an incredible capability."

NASA and the Navy have a long history of working together, notably with the recent stationary recovery of Orion in the well-deck of the USS Arlington (LPD 24) while berthed at Naval Station Norfolk's Pier 12 Aug. 15.

"NASA did a trade study whether they wanted Orion to land on the ground or in the water," said Andy Quiett, Detachment 3 deputy operations lead for the Orion program and DoD liaison for NASA, "and because of the size, weight and the deep space requirements of the vehicle, they determined it needed to land in water."

Orion's unique life support, propulsion, thermal protection and avionics systems enable extended duration for deep space missions with the goal to eventually land on Mars.

"We are working hard to go to Mars and EFT-1 is our first step in that direction," said Dan Dumbacher, deputy associate administrator for NASA's exploration systems. "EFT-1 will be the furthest we've sent a human spacecraft since our moon travels in 1972, so we need to get the design experience, we need to get the test experience and we need to get the operations experience such as the recovery operations that we're looking at here."

EFT-1 is to be the first of many such future recovery missions.

"It's important to participate in an event that's bigger than us," said Grotewold. "This is going to go on for the entire life of this ship and to be able to get in on the ground floor for something like this in an awesome opportunity for all of us."

ESG 3 and USS San Diego operate within Third Fleet's area of responsibility.

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

Carrier Air Wing 5 Reunites with George Washington for 2013 Patrol

PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 14, 2013) Landing signal officers observe an E-2C Hawkeye from the Liberty Bells of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 115 as it lands aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) during the Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5 fly-on. George Washington and its embarked air wing, CVW 5, provide a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interest of the U.S. and its allies and partners in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Paolo Bayas/Released)

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ramon G. Go, USS George Washington Public Affairs

PACIFIC OCEAN (NNS) -- The U.S. Navy's forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) welcomed aboard Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5 to continue its 2013 patrol, Sept. 14.

Carrier Air Wing 5 is the nation's only "911" air wing and is a critical combat strike element of Battle Force 7th Fleet, the only forward-deployed carrier strike group in the U.S. Navy.

"Our goals are to support our operational chain of command's engagement strategy in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations while remaining ready to dissuade or react to any adversary that may threaten our interests in the region," said Capt. Michael Boyle, CVW-5's commanding officer.

During the first half of George Washington's patrol, CVW-5 participated in exercise Talisman Saber (TS), which is a biennial training event aimed to improve Australian Defence Force and U.S. combat readiness and interoperability as a Combined Joint Task Force.

"The combined work the carrier strike group [CSG] and the Australians accomplished during Talisman Saber helped promote greater international relations and train our aircrew for a variety of missions," said Lt. j.g. Eric Valdez, an aviator assigned to the "Liberty Bells" of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 115. "As we progress into our patrol, we will continue to support and train with the CSG and our allied forces."

CVW-5 is comprised of nine squadrons with approximately 1,900 Sailors and 67 aircraft, which complete the full capacity of operations and manning for George Washington.

"We will initially focus on night landing currency," said Boyle. "Each pilot needs two-days of landings before landing at night, and each night recovery has to be accomplished within 29 days of the last night carrier landing or field carrier landing practice would be required at Iwo To."

CVW-5 commenced their first day of flight operations soon after their return.

"CVW-5 will conduct air-to-air and air-to-surface training exercises with our allied forces," said Boyle. "The air wing will continue to support these evolutions and demonstrate the capabilities of a carrier at sea."

CVW-5 is a collection of aircraft designed to perform various functions and exercises. The aircraft are attached to: the "Diamondbacks" of Strike Fight Squadron (VFA) 102 flying the F/A-18F Super Hornet; the "Royal Maces" of VFA-27, the "Eagles" of VFA-115 and the "Dambusters" VFA-195 each flying the F/A-18E Super Hornet; the "Shadowhawks" of Electronic Attack Squadron 141 flying the EA-18G Growler; VAW-115 flying the E-2C Hawkeye; the "Providers" of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 30, Detachment 5, flying the C-2A Greyhound; the "Golden Falcons" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 12 flying the MH-60S Seahawk; and the "Saberhawks" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 77 flying the MH-60R Seahawk.

George Washington and CVW 5 provide a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interest of the U.S. and its allies and partners in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

Monday, September 16, 2013

Mode-S Airborne Command Post Intercepts 15-16 Sep 2013

USAF E-8C JStars (USAF Photo)

NAOC

ADFEB6 75-0125 GORDO 15 2013-09-15 23:15:43 E-4B United States USAF | 55WG | 1ACCS [KOFF] Hanging Dog NC, US --- ---

TACAMO

AE0419 164407 GOTO FMS 2013-09-16 01:14:55 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Fairfax, VA, US --- ---

AE0419 164407 GOTO FMS 2013-09-16 01:10:45 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Magnolia, DE, US --- ---

AE0419 164407 GOTO FMS 2013-09-16 01:05:11 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Baltimore MD, US 4633 14700

AE0419 164407 GOTO FMS 2013-09-16 00:58:02 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Northeast MD, US --- 26000

AE0419 164407 GOTO FMS 2013-09-16 00:53:13 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Wrightstown NJ, US --- 26000

AE0419 164407 GOTO FMS 2013-09-16 00:43:36 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Guilford, Connecticut, US --- 27000

AE0419 164407 GOTO FMS 2013-09-16 00:35:27 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Albany NY, US --- 27000

AE0419 164407 GOTO FMS 2013-09-16 00:34:49 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Northville NY, US --- 27000

AE0419 164407 GOTO FMS 2013-09-16 00:32:43 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Villas NJ, US 4633 6800

AE0419 164407 GOTO FMS 2013-09-16 00:14:14 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Kingston ON, Canada --- 27000

AE0419 164407 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 23:34:51 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Villas NJ, US 4633 6800

AE0419 164407 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 23:34:30 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Baltimore MD, US 4633 14700

AE0419 164407 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 22:24:51 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Fairfax, VA, US --- ---

AE0419 164407 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 22:16:39 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Baltimore MD, US 4633 14700

AE0419 164407 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 22:01:47 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Villas NJ, US 4633 6800

AE040F 162784 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 21:56:12 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Lathrop CA, US 6276 18125

AE040F 162784 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 21:54:48 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] SF Mission District CA, US --- 20000

AE040F 162784 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 21:46:42 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Phil NV, US --- 37150

AE040F 162784 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 21:42:08 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] McClellan CA, US --- 39275

AE040F 162784 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 21:06:07 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Spanish Fork UT, US --- 40000

AE040F 162784 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 20:25:00 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Grand Junction CO, US --- ---

AE040F 162784 --- 2013-09-15 20:24:45 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Glenwood Springs CO, US --- 38000

AE040F 162784 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 20:19:46 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Montrose CO, US 6276 38000

AE040F 162784 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 20:07:33 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Monticello UT, US 6276 38000

AE0413 164386 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 20:01:43 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Salida CO, US 3606 27000

AE0413 164386 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 20:00:52 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Montrose CO, US 3606 27000

AE040F 162784 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 19:49:08 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Salida CO, US --- 38000

AE0413 164386 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 19:19:20 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Monticello UT, US --- 27000

AE0413 164386 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 19:11:55 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Spanish Fork UT, US 3606 27000

AE0413 164386 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 18:06:53 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Phil NV, US --- 31700

AE0413 164386 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 17:50:26 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] SF Mission District CA, US --- 12050

AE0413 164386 --- 2013-09-15 17:47:27 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] San Jose CA, US --- ---

AE0413 164386 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 17:47:24 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] McClellan CA, US --- 11225

AE0413 164386 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 17:46:08 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Lathrop CA, US 3606 2900

AE0419 164407 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 17:33:54 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Baltimore MD, US 4633 14700

AE0419 164407 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 17:27:57 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Villas NJ, US 4633 6800

AE040F 162784 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 15:45:02 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Baltimore MD, US --- 9500

AE040F 162784 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 15:43:01 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Villas NJ, US 3601 4875

AE0413 164386 --- 2013-09-15 01:26:09 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] San Jose CA, US --- ---

AE0413 164386 --- 2013-09-15 00:56:59 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] San Jose CA, US --- ---

AE0413 164386 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 00:24:18 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Lathrop CA, US 1155 7975

AE0413 164386 --- 2013-09-15 00:20:05 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] San Jose CA, US --- ---

AE0413 164386 GOTO FMS 2013-09-15 00:17:24 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Phil NV, US --- 31700

J-STARS

AE1494 97-0100 PEACH68 2013-09-15 06:54:10 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB] Pafos, CY --- ---

AE1494 97-0100 PEACH68 2013-09-15 06:12:06 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB] Jerusalem, IL 3264 32000

Mode-S/ADS Milcom Intercepts 16 September 2013 - Btown NC

USAF T-6A Texan (USAF Photo)

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts and selected ATC call signs logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC. Another day with my mystery Mode-S address (AF14EC) transiting the area.

AB146A 10-0261   --- 2013-09-16 15:53:44 C-12 United States U S ARMY
AE1496 97-0201   LEGEND3 2013-09-16 15:43:48 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB]
AE4EB5 168431   --- 2013-09-16 15:38:45 P-8A United States VP-30
AE10D4 165518   --- 2013-09-16 14:54:47 T-39G United States USN | TW-6 | VT-86 [KNPA]
AE04AD 99-0104   --- 2013-09-16 14:28:52 UC-35a1 United States USARC | A/2-228 AVN (TA) [KWRI ]
AE0606 80-0332   CROME 31 2013-09-16 13:00:42 C-130H United States GA ANG | 165AW | 158AS [KSAV]
AE1439 166714   --- 2013-09-16 00:30:22 UC-35D United States USMC | VMR-1 [KNKT]
AE0444 96-6042 ???   --- 2013-09-16 00:20:37 CN-235 United States USAF | 427SOS [KPOB]
AE1252 165836   CNV4042 2013-09-15 23:46:14 C-40A United States USNR | VR-57 [KNZY]
AE2EDF 166098   --- 2013-09-15 23:20:33 T-6B United States ---
ADFEB6 75-0125   GORDO 15 2013-09-15 23:15:43 E-4B United States USAF | 55WG | 1ACCS [KOFF]
A4325C ------   --- 2013-09-15 21:35:31 --- United States ---
AF14EC ------   --- 2013-09-15 20:12:01 ------ United States ---
AE2F9B 168069   OTIS08 2013-09-15 19:29:37 KC-130J United States USMC | VMGR-252 [KNKT]
AE0194 84-0134   SPAR539 2013-09-15 19:18:35 C-21A United States USAF | 375AW | 311AS [KCOS]
AE10D0 165514   --- 2013-09-15 18:43:53 T-39G United States USN | TW-6 | VT-86 [KNPA]
ADFE4D 94-0321   PAT446 2013-09-15 17:26:18 C-12R United States USARC | 6-52 AVN (TA)
AE015F 58-0119   SODA53 2013-09-15 16:54:01 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
AE0624 89-1055   FUZZY42 2013-09-15 16:25:15 C-130H United States AFRC | 914AW | 328AS [KIAG]
AE0977 165834   CNV4967 2013-09-15 16:25:03 C-40A United States USNR | VR-58 [KNIP]
AE1104 01-3616   --- 2013-09-15 16:18:07 T-6A United States USAF
AE01FD 98-3037   --- 2013-09-15 16:10:34 T-6A United States USAF
AE0252 97-1931   HAVOC91 2013-09-15 15:44:27 EC-130J United States PA ANG | 193SOW | 193SOS [KMDT]
AE2EF6 166121   --- 2013-09-15 15:28:35 T-6B United States ---
83AEFC 84-24378   PAT461 2013-09-15 12:46:16 C-12U United States USARC | C/2-228 AVN (TA) [KFBG]
AE13C2 04-3748   --- 2013-09-15 00:52:50 T-6A United States USAF | 14FTW | 37FTS [KCBM]

Sunday, September 15, 2013

USAF B-2A Conducted an Atlantic Round Robin on 13 Sep

Our friend Topol-M picked up an interesting intercept about an USAF B-2A Atlantic round robin mission on 13 Sep 2013. Thank you for sharing that with the rest of us.

On the 13th, two B2As transited the Atlantic in a round-robin mission, supported by four KC-135Rs, two this side of the European ocean (SPUR57 and SPUR58) and two on the US side (ETHYL 1 and 2). Also involved was E6B 164387 operating from Stuttgart, using an ATC call sign of RAZZ02.

Once things cleared up a bit the following was noted:

11175.0 kHz USB - HFGCS

Call Signs: Audio Kit = E6B 164387 and HAMAL11/12 = B2A

1330z Audio Kit standing by for traffic
1333z Mainsail - SkyKing JE3 T33 Auth NV
1335z HAMAL11 this is Audio Kit in receipt message, 1 gp, CF9Q
1342z Audio Kit with EAM - FVFWJL
1404z Audio Kit Standing-by for traffic (repeats)
1405z HAMAL12 this is Audio Kit in receipt message, 1 gp, ERTC
1430z Audio Kit with EAM - FVFWJL
1449z HAMAL12 calls Lajes Control, who replies simulated destroyed
1459z HAMAL11 flight, this is Audio Kit. Stand-by for high precedence traffic
1500z Audio Kit with EAM - FVFWJL
1513z Skymaster this is HAMAL12 with message, 7RRP HAMAL12 this is Audio Kit in receipt message, 1 gp, 7RRP
1520z HAMAL12 this is Audio Kit in receipt message, 1 gp, QDLC HAMAL12, Audio Kit, we did not receive message AZZ4
1521z HAMAL12, Audio KIt. Message AZZ4, has this been transmitted already?
1530z Audio Kit with EAM - FVFWJL
1534z HAMAL12 this is Audio Kit in receipt message, 1 gp, 65I9
1550z HAMAL11 this is Audio Kit in receipt message, 1 gp, KBKL
1600z Audio Kit with EAM - FVFWJL
1605z Skymaster this is HAMAL12 with message, 1 gp, 44LF HAMAL12 this is Audio Kit in receipt message, 1 gp, 44LF
1620z HAMAL11 this is Audio Kit in receipt message, 1 gp, HMOL
1629z SkyKing UTL T28 Auth WU
1635z Audio Kit in receipt message, 1 gp, KQ5T. Confirm callsign? (stepped on....) Mainsail - SkyKing QBR T35 BC
1637z HAMAL11 this is Audio Kit, copy all
1657z HAMAL11 this is Audio Kit in receipt message, 1 gp, IL4M
1659z HAMAL11 this is Audio Kit. Have you weak and broken. Were you asking for the message sent at 1530z?
1700z HAMAL11, message was FVFWJL and no longer in queue
1705z HAMAL12 this is Audio Kit in receipt message, 1 gp, 3IMV
2155z Mainsail - SkyKing NQH T55 Auth LS
2159z Mainsail - EAM FVFXXN

Mode-S/ADS Milcom Intercepts 14 September 2013 - Btown NC

USAF C-130 shooting off chaff flares (USAF Photo)

Here is another round of Mode-S/ADS-B intercepts and selected ATC call signs logged from here on the radio ranch in WNC. All dates/times are UTC. Mostly cargo and tanker activity. Monitored the Soda boyz on 303.025 and their other CP on 311.0 MHz. AF14EC was not spotted on our Mode-S box today. It was spotted flying from Huntsville to Dallas in 1 hour and 5 minutes.

AE1252 165836   CNV4042 2013-09-14 22:36:06 C-40A United States USNR | VR-57 [KNZY]
AE074E 163836   --- 2013-09-14 21:52:19 UC-12M United States USN | Oceana
AE498B 08-0037   @@@@@@@@ 2013-09-14 19:59:50 CV-22B United States USAF| 27SOW | 20SOS
AE1252 165836   CNV4042 2013-09-14 19:28:42 C-40A United States USNR | VR-57 [KNZY]
ADFE84 92-0549   RAVEN21 2013-09-14 18:49:34 C-130H United States USAF | 19AW | 50AS [KLRF]
ADFEAB 96-1008   GOFER08 2013-09-14 18:15:49 C-130H United States MN ANG | 133AW | 109AS [KMSP]
ADFEA7 96-1004   GOFER04 2013-09-14 17:59:48 C-130H United States MN ANG | 133AW | 109AS [KMSP]
AE0265 57-1436   SODA52 2013-09-14 16:55:29 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
AE015F 58-0119   SODA53 2013-09-14 16:38:29 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
AE0265 57-1436   SODA52 2013-09-14 14:24:47 KC-135R United States TN ANG | 134ARW | 151ARS [KTYS]
ADFEAA 96-1007   GOFER02 2013-09-14 13:29:28 C-130H United States MN ANG | 133AW | 109AS [KMSP]
ADFEA6 96-1003   GOFER03 2013-09-14 13:09:08 C-130H United States MN ANG | 133AW | 109AS [KMSP]
AE07DB 93-0601   RCH697 2013-09-14 10:07:43 C-17A United States USAF | 62AW [KTCM]
AE1239 04-4129   RCH737 2013-09-14 06:39:14 C-17A United States USAF | 437AW [KCHS]
AE540C ------   RAVEN81 2013-09-14 04:01:14 ------ United States ---
AE26F8 09-0044 ???   00000000 2013-09-14 04:00:49 CV-22B United States ---
AE13B2 04-3732   --- 2013-09-14 01:30:13 T-6A United States USAF | 14FTW | 37FTS [KCBM]
AE4EBB 168437   --- 2013-09-14 01:12:39 P-8A United States ---
AE0891 99-3564   --- 2013-09-14 00:55:13 T-6A United States USAF
AE1EB6 166049   --- 2013-09-14 00:01:38 T-6B United States USN | TAW-5 | VT-3 1

USS Mahan Returns Home

By Ensign Alexander Washofsky, USS Mahan Public Affairs

NORFOLK, Va. (NNS) -- The guided-missile destroyer USS Mahan (DDG 72) returned to Naval Station Norfolk Sep. 13th after an eight-and a half-month deployment to the 6th Fleet area of responsibility.

Mahan traveled more than 42,391 nautical miles under the leadership of Cmdr. Adam Aycock, then Cmdr. Zoah Scheneman, who in May became the ship's commanding officer. The crew conducted 26 underway replenishments, 50 weapons exercises, 53 small boat operations, and 15 flight operations with 147 landings and recoveries of helicopters.

"I couldn't be more proud of the crew. They set the standard for excellence and established a great reputation for themselves out here," said Scheneman. "The successes we achieved are many, and the crew overcame every challenge they met with poise and precision."

Mahan deployed Dec. 28, 2012 in support of theater security cooperation efforts and maritime security operations in the Mediterranean Sea.

"The majority of the world's commerce moves by way of the sea," said Cmdr. Joe Matison, Mahan's executive officer. "We were out there ensuring safety and freedom of navigation, which is in the interest of all nations, by conducting theater security operations and working with our maritime partners."

While in 6th Fleet, the crew participated in a bilateral exercise with the Israeli Defense Forces. In addition to practicing core skills, the event also served as an opportunity to grow and foster partnership and cooperation between the two navies.

Mahan also participated in joint naval exercises and operations with France, Great Britain, Greece, Spain, and other NATO partners, highlighting the importance of working with coalitions to preserve the sea lines of communication.

After his first Mediterranean deployment, Chief Gas Turbine Systems Technician Daniel Hunt said he feels he has returned a better Sailor.

"I got to see so many interesting places and see so many cultures while serving our nation on the high seas," said Hunt. "It has been a fantastic and productive deployment."

Hunt was one of 10 first class petty officers selected for chief petty officer (CPO). The selectees were pinned in a ceremony on the pier soon after the ship moored. Chief Electrician's Mate Gregory Holcombe said that the ceremony felt different than all the other pinning ceremonies he has been to.

"Becoming a chief petty officer right after pulling in from such a successful deployment with the officers and chief petty officers wearing khakis was a great culmination of all the hard work and training we accomplished since being selected."

Command Master Chief Lewis Wilson added, "I would like to thank all the chief petty officers that provided all of the logistics support that allowed us to march down the pier into a ready stage to conduct our CPO Pinning Ceremony as part of the return to homeport events. Without the Chief's Mess, this would not have been possible."

While in theater, the ship made port visits to Augusta Bay and Naples, Italy; Israel; Cyprus; Rhodes and Souda Bay, Greece and Spain, where the crew enjoyed liberty, conducted maintenance on the ship, and participated in numerous community relations projects.

"The crew returns from deployment with their heads held high," said Wilson. "We accomplished our goal of a safe, sound and successful deployment."

Last month, the ship made headlines around the world when she headed east to be ready to conduct prompt and sustained combat operations after being directed by the Secretary of Defense in response to the alleged chemical weapons attack in Syria the day before.

Sailors anxiously endured the hours as homecoming drew near. The homecoming is especially exciting for Sonar Technician Surface 3rd Class Mark Brown, who is used to seeing ships returning due to growing up in the Norfolk area.

"I can't wait to see my family and to show them the great ship I've called home these last eight months," he said. Brown met the ship in Naples after completing boot camp and follow-on schools, and will return to his hometown a surface warfare-qualified Sailor.

Mahan is the 4th ship named after Rear Adm. Alfred Thayer Mahan, a naval theorist on seapower whose book 'The Influence of Sea Power Upon History 1660-1763' shaped naval strategy to this day.

The ship, whose motto is "Built to Fight" was commissioned in 1998 as the 21st Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, and the first Flight II variant of the class. She carries a complement of 236 Sailors and 29 Officers.

Reflecting on his 26 years of Naval service, Scheneman said that this deployment, his sixth, was by far his favorite. "It truly is an honor to lead these incredible men and women," he said.

Mode-S Airborne Command Post Intercepts 14-15 Sep 2013

Here is our daily report of airborne command post aircraft (NAOC/TACAMO/JSTARS) activity spotted yesterday by Mode-S boxes worldwide.

NAOC

ADFEB6 75-0125 GORDO 15 2013-09-14 14:26:36 E-4B United States USAF | 55WG | 1ACCS [KOFF] Omaha NE, US --- ---

TACAMO

AE0413 164386 GOTO FMS 2013-09-14 19:50:04 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] McClellan CA, US --- 6750

AE0413 164386 GOTO FMS 2013-09-14 19:48:40 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Lathrop CA, US 1155 7975

053977 164406 COUGR23 2013-09-14 05:23:09 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] McClellan CA, US --- 6575

053977 164406 COUGR23 2013-09-14 04:50:32 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Lathrop CA, US --- ---

053977 164406 COUGR23 2013-09-14 04:29:34 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Lathrop CA, US --- ---

053977 164406 COUGR23 2013-09-14 04:08:03 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Lathrop CA, US --- ---

053977 164406 COUGR23 2013-09-14 03:46:25 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Lathrop CA, US --- ---

053977 164406 COUGR23 2013-09-14 03:41:25 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] McClellan CA, US --- 6575

053977 164406 COUGR23 2013-09-14 03:25:22 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Lathrop CA, US --- ---

AE0413 164386 GOTO FMS 2013-09-14 01:55:13 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] San Jose CA, US --- ---

AE0413 164386 GOTO FMS 2013-09-14 01:46:53 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] SF Mission District CA, US --- 14225

AE0413 164386 GOTO FMS 2013-09-14 01:28:58 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Lathrop CA, US 4514 9550

AE0413 164386 GOTO FMS 2013-09-14 01:23:22 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] McClellan CA, US --- 9275

AE0413 164386 GOTO FMS 2013-09-14 00:19:56 E-6B United States USN | VQ-4 [KTIK] Las Vegas NV, US --- 19000

J-STARS

AE1494 97-0100 PEACH68 2013-09-15 06:12:06 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB] Jerusalem, IL 3264 32000

AE1492 96-0042 ??? PEACH68 2013-09-14 23:50:41 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB] Jerusalem, IL 5521 33000

AE1492 96-0042 ??? PEACH68 2013-09-14 23:34:18 E-8C United States GA ANG | 116ACW [KWRB] Pafos, CY 0000 0

Saturday, September 14, 2013

Fleet Complete: Joint Base Charleston welcomes last C-17

The final U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III, P-223, gets hosed down Sept. 12, 2013, during the beginning of the delivery ceremony at Joint Base Charleston - Air Base, S.C. This historical event comes more than 20 years after the 437th Airlift Wing and the 315th Airlift Wing took delivery of the very first C-17 to enter the Air Force inventory June 14,1993 and marks the successful completion of C-17 production for the U.S. Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Rasheen Douglas)

by 2nd Lt. Alexandra Trobe, Joint Base Charleston Public Affairs

JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. -- A long-awaited milestone was reached at Joint Base Charleston Thursday, as the last U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III, arrived home where C-17 operations first began.

The arrival of the last U.S. Air Force C-17, P-223, represented a landmark day and offered a moment for reflection on more than 20 years of successful global airlift, whenever and wherever duty calls.

The first C-17, The Spirit of Charleston, landed at Charleston Air Force Base June 14, 1993 and was piloted by Gen. Merrill McPeak, the Chief of Staff of the Air Force at the time.

P-223 was piloted by Gen. Paul Selva, Air Mobility Command commander, Lt. Gen. James Jackson, Air Force Reserve Command commander, and Lt. Gen. Stanley Clarke III, Air National Guard director.

Col. Jeff DeVore, Joint Base Charleston commander, began the ceremony by marking this day in history as one that "highlights the heritage of the men, women and industry partners who contributed to the significant milestones over the last 20 years."

Whose legacy has enabled Joint Base Charleston to become a "worldwide leader continuing to move people, vehicles, munitions and supplies in support of global reach aircraft capability worldwide."

The delivery ceremony celebrated not only the closing of this chapter of Air Force history but also the hard work and innovation of the original cadre and all of the Airmen since then who helped make this day possible.

"There's nothing we won't do with this airplane. It is a tribute to the men and women who built it, a tribute to the men and women who had the vision to field it. Men like Tom Mikolajcik, Bud Engersoll, Steve Roser and a whole variety of others... who said 'not only are we going to build it, but we are going to use it for everything it was designed to do," said Selva.

Since its inception, the C-17 Globemaster III is capable of rapid strategic delivery of troops and all types of cargo to main operating bases or directly to forward bases in remote locations. The C-17 can perform airlift and airdrop missions and can also transport patients during aeromedical evacuations.

During the ceremony, Clarke highlighted the versatility of the C-17, "Out of necessity, we plan for a lot of things we never do, we have to. Conversely, we do a lot of things we never plan for. This aircraft gives us that opportunity. It gives our national leadership the opportunity to do many things whether it's humanitarian aid or global strike capability."

Col. Darren Hartford, 437th Airlift Wing commander, reinforced the adaptability of the C-17 aircraft and ingenuity of Airmen in pursuit of the mission.

"The Airmen of the 437th continue to find new ways to maximize the capabilities of this aircraft and to make sure we are always ready to answer the nation's call," said Hartford.

Threats to U.S. interests will continue to change in the future. Consequently, the demand for newer and more flexible aircraft is needed to meet a wide variety of mission requirements around the globe.

Col. James Fontanella, 315th Airlift Wing commander, added that, "Over the past 20 years, the Charleston tail flash and the American flag that's just above it represents a symbol of American might, American reach, and American innovation. However, the people behind that symbol are what we really need to celebrate, the men and women of the 315th, the 437th and the 628th Air Base Wing."

The ceremony ended with Hartford and Fontanella receiving the keys to the C-17.

"She's all yours, take good care of her," said Gen. Selva to the receiving party.

Jackson reminded all the members of the audience that "Wherever our citizen Airmen in the C-17 are, they are an impressive team, and while this may be the last aircraft delivery to Charleston, this proud bird has many more flights to go."

Before the ceremony concluded members of the audience were reminded of the true source of airpower.

"The crews that fly this airplane, the maintainers who maintain the aerial porters that feed cargo into it," said Selva. "They give it life, they give it a conscious, they are its heart and soul."

USS George Washington Continues 2013 Patrol

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Chris Cavagnaro, USS George Washington Public Affairs

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- The forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) departed Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, Sept. 13, to continue its 2013 patrol of the 7th Fleet area of operations.

George Washington has spent the last three weeks in port to conduct a scheduled maintenance period after two months at sea.

"George Washington and its crew are ready for the second half of our patrol," said Capt. Greg Fenton, George Washington's commanding officer. "Although this mid-patrol maintenance period was important, it's crucial that we return to sea to build upon the success we had during the first half of our patrol."

The George Washington Strike Group participated during the first half of its patrol with Australian Defense Forces in exercise Talisman Saber (TS) 2013. TS is a bilateral exercise designed to train Australian and U.S. forces to plan and conduct combined task force operations in order to improve combat readiness and interoperability.

"Talisman Saber demonstrated the strong alliance between the U.S. and Australia," said Fenton. "Talisman Saber improved both nations' ability to work multilaterally and prepared us to be poised to provide security regionally and globally."

Sailors assigned to George Washington and its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, also enjoyed a five-day port visit to Brisbane, Australia, where they participated in 10 community service projects and three sporting events against local teams, and conducted ship tours for more than 1,200 Australian guests.

The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier also completed flight and damage control training exercises, and a Naval Air Forces Maintenance and Material Management Inspection (3MI).

"All of the hard work we've accomplished over the past few weeks has set the bar high for the second half of our patrol," said Fenton. "But I know that the George Washington team is ready to meet that challenge."

George Washington and CVW 5 provide a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interest of the U.S. and its allies and partners in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

HS-11 Arrives Aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71)

NORFOLK (Aug. 29, 2013) The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) returns to homeport at Naval Station Norfolk for the first time in four years. Theodore Roosevelt was redelivered to the U.S. Navy today following successful sea trials that tested the ship's systems after its refueling and complex overhaul at Newport News Shipbuilding. (U.S. Navy photo courtesy of Huntington Ingalls Industries by Ricky Thompson/Released)

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Kris R. Lindstrom, USS Theodore Roosevelt Public Affairs

ATLANTIC OCEAN (NNS) -- Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 11 (HS-11) from Naval Air Station Jacksonville, known as the Dragonslayers, arrived aboard aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Sept. 11.

HS-11 is part of Carrier Air Wing One (CVW-1) and is the first squadron of CVW-1 to come aboard Theodore Roosevelt for flight operations.

HS-11's capabilities include combat search and rescue (CSAR), special warfare, anti-submarine warfare, vertical replenishment, anti-ship missile defense and passenger and cargo transfer.

The Dragonslayers operate two variations of the Sea Hawk helicopter to carry out their various missions. They are SH-60F (Foxtrot) and HH-60H (Hotel) helicopters.

"The Foxtrot has a dipping sonar system that is used to find submarines and the Hotel can carry HELLFIRE missiles on it for force protection," said Lt. Daniel Foose, a pilot for the Dragonslayers.

HELLFIRE stands for Helicopter Launched, Fire and Forget missile. It is a short-range, laser or radar-guided, air-to-ground missile system.

With the helicopters now aboard the Big Stick, HS-11 will focus on flight deck qualifications needed for CVW 1 to be fully operational.

"Each mission is different," said Senior Chief Aviation Machinist's Mate Charwin Carrington, acting command master chief of HS-11. "We have to get all of our aircrew and aircraft on the same page as far as having our systems up at all times."

Carrington said that it takes everyone, from the lowest ranking airman to the commanding officer, for the Dragonslayers to be operational.

"I'm excited to be aboard the [Theodore] Roosevelt," said Carrington. "I'm looking forward to the challenges ahead."

Among the previous commands that HS-11 has been a part of, the most recent was with USS Enterprise (CVN 65) which is similar to a number of other Sailors aboard from the same command.

The Dragonslayers are just one squadron of the air wing to bring their aircraft aboard. Other aircraft may include F/A-18 Super Hornets, F/A-18 Hornets, E2-C Hawkeyes and E/A-18G Growlers.

Carrier Air Wing 5 Welcomes HSM-77

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Shannon Heavin, Commander, Task Force 70 Public Affairs

USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, At Sea (NNS) -- The "Saberhawks" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 77 moved into the Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5 neighborhood, as the newest addition embarked on board Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) prior to their 2013 patrol.

The Saberhawks' missions are to conduct Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and Surface Warfare (SUW,) as well as Search and Rescue (SAR), Vertical Replenishment (VERTREP), Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC), Naval Surface Fire Support (NSFS), and Communications Relay (COMREL).

"We spend the majority of our time flying over the horizon, away from the Strike Group, to expand the radar search range and look for surface and submerged contacts," said Cmdr. Rich Whitfield, commanding officer of the Saberhawks. "We fly MH-60 Romeo's; not to be confused with the Sierras. We can fit two personnel in the back when fully loaded."

Whitfield explained that MH-60 Romeos bring the tactical maritime mission capability to an entire new level, surpassing previous fleet capability. MH-60R Seahawk helicopters have a high-tech avionics, mission systems, and cockpit, making it one of the world's most capable naval helicopter.

The aircraft features a glass cockpit and significant mission system improvements over the SH-60B helicopter, which gives the MH-60R unmatched capability as an airborne multi-mission naval platform. The MH-60R is tasked with Over-the-Horizon Targeting (OTH-T) on board George Washington and Navy surface combatant ships.

HSM-77 has five MH-60R helicopters on board George Washington and two helicopters on the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Antietam (CG 54).

The Saberhawks packed up their helicopters, gear, and family members in a hurry to meet their next mission attached to the 7th Fleet area of operation. Saberhawks are proud to be the first 'bravo to sea' squadron, establishing the Navy's Helicopter Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for deploying two helicopter squadrons, with Helicopter Sea Combat (HSC) 12, within a single Carrier Air Wing and providing the momentum necessary for the transition to carrier based operations.

"I think we're adjusting pretty well," said Chief Aviation Ordnanceman James Botting, leading chief petty officer of HSM-77. "A lot of that has to do with the interaction we face on the ship. We came originally from San Diego, not knowing how it was going to turn out; however, since arriving it's been nothing but outstanding."

Botting said that with his experience attached to HSM-77, there has been a great mentality.

"The personalities here and the mindset of the crew help us succeed in every aspect. We've had a good integration along with great morale," added Botting.

Saberhawks were commissioned Sept. 25, 1987 at Naval Air Station North Island in Coronado, Calif. Later, HSM-77 was renamed from Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 47 in April of 2009.

"Transferring here was different," said Naval Aircrewman (Tactical Helicopter) 3rd Class Mark Mendoza.

"It was a lot of work. Especially, since Japan is so different than San Diego. I'm actually from San Diego, so for me I was more excited to be in a new place. We've done a good job interacting with all the squadrons and getting accustomed to how George Washington runs things verses [our previous aircraft carrier], USS Abraham Lincoln," said Mendoza.

Prior to this patrol the Saberhawks were deployed with CVW-2 on board Abraham Lincoln in June 2012.

"This is my third time being new to an Air Wing, and I can tell you what the difference is," said Whitfield. "Air Wing Five, from Sailors on the flight deck to the Handler all the way up to the Air Boss, and Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department (AIMD) in the hangar bay, have received us with ridiculously open arms. It's absolutely phenomenal."

The Saberhawks cannot go unnoticed without the mention of the Department of Defense winner of the 2012 Phoenix Award. The Phoenix Award honors military maintenance organizations for outstanding performance.

"We're just doing what we're supposed to do," said Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 1st Class David Gonzalez, maintenance leading petty officer of HSM-77. "Everything really fell into place because we have the right team and the right attitude."

Saberhawks' skipper concluded that the success of the squadron lies in the crew's core as a one family.

"This squadron has a long history of being pretty close-knit and having one heck of family atmosphere," said Whitfield. "You don't get to pick your brothers and sisters. You don't get to pick your shipmates, but you've got them and you find the best in each one. We make the best of it."

Saberhawks are one of the nine squadrons of CVW-5 embarked on U.S. Navy's forward-deployed aircraft carrier George Washington to provide a combat-ready force that protects the collective maritime interest of the U.S. and its partners and allies in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

Mode-S NAOC/TACAMO/JStars Intercepts 13-14 Sep 2013

Here is a list of NAOC/TACAMO/JSTARS aircraft activity spotted yesterday by Mode-S boxes worldwide.

NAOC

None logged.