Sailors from USS Porter (DDG 78) and USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) teams participated in comprehensive fleet irregular warfare training March 11, during a Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 24 Group Sail in the Atlantic Ocean.
The group sail's primary function is to augment the battle group's abilities to execute U.S. Navy maritime strategy. Various scenarios provide individual unit commanding officers the opportunity to practice flexible responses to emerging threats. It is a precursor to the upcoming Joint Warrior Exercise that will encompass thorough training in less traditional areas, like counter-piracy and theater security.
"We've always rehearsed normal warfare techniques, but we have new emergent threats," said Fire Controlman 1st Class (SW) Ben Hostetler, mechanical breacher and security team leader for Porter's VBSS team. "Every chance we get to rehearse the execution and fundamentals for these emergent tasks is a big benefit in making our teams dynamic assets for any real-life occurrences."
Because current worldwide scenarios like piracy, hostage situations and drug trafficking usually require means other than traditional engagement for optimal results, boarding exercises are an invaluable tool for the Navy.
"All of the exercises employed during the group sail allow us to get away from the normal, core fighting tactics," said Lt. j.g. Samuel Robinson, a Porter VBSS boarding officer. "Right now, we're completely focused on the more detailed functional aspects of new warfare."
Both the Porter and Philippine Sea VBSS teams focused on essential mission areas that include positioning, approach, apprehension and protocol. Personnel from each team boarded the opposing team's vessel and conducted fast-paced, hands-on training, while leadership observed the drills to note their performance and efficiency.
"We went through some great training," said Ensign Rob Ackerman, Porter's first lieutenant and VBSS boarding officer.
"The experience and lessons learned today will help us train for our future at sea. Really, it's all about being prepared to flex and meet any mission, at any time."
Candice Villareal (NNS)
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