Showing posts with label Ships. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ships. Show all posts
Friday, December 18, 2009
Navy Accepts Delivery of Future USS Independence
Navy Accepts Delivery of Future USS Independence: "The Navy officially accepted delivery of the future USS Independence (LCS 2) Dec. 18 during a short ceremony in Mobile, Ala. Independence is the second littoral combat ship delivered to the Navy, and the first LCS of the General Dynamics variant. LCS is a new breed of U.S. Navy warship with versatile warfighting capabilities, capable of open-ocean operation, but optimized for littoral, or coastal, missions."
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Makin Island Completes First CSSQT, Harrier and AAV Ops
Makin Island Completes First CSSQT, Harrier and AAV Ops: "Sailors and Marines aboard the Navy's newest Amphibious Assault Ship returned to port Dec. 10 after completing three combat critical training evolutions.
During its 11-day underway, USS Makin Island's (LHD 8) focus was on conducting successful Combat Systems Ships Qualification Trials (CSSQT), its first Harrier flight operations and first operations with Amphibious Assault Vehicles.
Command, Control, Computers, Communications and Combat (C5) Department performed four missile shoots against low altitude/high velocity targets and four Close-In Weapons System (CIWS) shoots throughout the underway.
'This was the ship's initial CSSQT evolution, testing all Combat Systems weapon systems against multiple targets,'"
During its 11-day underway, USS Makin Island's (LHD 8) focus was on conducting successful Combat Systems Ships Qualification Trials (CSSQT), its first Harrier flight operations and first operations with Amphibious Assault Vehicles.
Command, Control, Computers, Communications and Combat (C5) Department performed four missile shoots against low altitude/high velocity targets and four Close-In Weapons System (CIWS) shoots throughout the underway.
'This was the ship's initial CSSQT evolution, testing all Combat Systems weapon systems against multiple targets,'"
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Navy to Commission Amphibious Assault Ship LHD-8 USS Makin Island
The Navy will commission the amphibious assault ship Makin Island Oct. 24, during a 10 a.m. PDT ceremony at North Island Naval Air Station, Coronado, Calif.
Makin Island is named for the daring raid carried out by Marine Corps Companies Alpha and Bravo, Second Raider Battalion, on the Japanese-held Makin Island, in the Gilbert Islands, on Aug. 17-18, 1942. The raid was launched from the submarines USS Nautilus and USS Argonaut and succeeded in routing the enemy forces based there, gaining valuable intelligence. Twenty-three Navy Crosses were awarded for actions during the raid, including to the raid's leader, Marine Corps Lt. Col. Evans Carlson, and executive officer, Marine Corps Maj. James Roosevelt (son of President Franklin Roosevelt). Marine Corps Sgt. Clyde Thomason was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously for heroism during the raid and was the first enlisted Marine to be so honored during World War II. One previous ship, a Casablanca-class escort aircraft carrier (1944-1946), has borne the name Makin Island, and received five battle stars for World War II service.
Adm. Patrick Walsh, commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, will deliver the ceremony's principal address. Silke Hagee, wife of former commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Michael Hagee, will serve as ship's sponsor. In the time honored Navy tradition, she will give the first order to "man our ship and bring her to life!"
Makin Island is the eighth Wasp-class amphibious assault ship. Second only to an aircraft carrier in size, LHDs embark, transport, deploy, command and fully support an expeditionary unit of 2,000 Marines. Makin Island can accommodate three landing craft air cushion, a squadron of AV-8B Harrier II aircraft, and a full range of Navy/Marine Corps helicopters and amphibious vehicles to perform sea control and limited power projection missions.
Makin Island is the first Navy amphibious assault ship to replace steam boilers with gas turbines, and the first Navy surface ship to be equipped with both gas turbines and an auxiliary propulsion system. By using this unique propulsion system, the Navy expects over the course of the ship's lifecycle to see fuel savings of more than $250 million, further demonstrating the Navy's commitment to energy awareness and conservation.
Makin Island is fully equipped with command, control, communication, computers and intelligence systems for flagship command duty. The afloat capability of Makin Island's medical facility is second only to the Navy's hospital ships. The ship is armed with two NATO Sea Sparrow surface missile systems for anti-air warfare protection, two rolling airframe missile systems and two Phalanx close-in-weapons systems mounts to counter threats from low flying aircraft. Six missile decoy launchers augment the anti-ship missile defenses.
Capt. Robert Kopas, born in Cleveland and raised in Phoenix, is the ship's commanding officer. Built by Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding, Ingalls Operations in Pascagoula, Miss., the ship is 844 feet in length with a 106-foot beam, and has living areas for nearly 3,200 crewmembers and embarked forces.
Upon commissioning, the ship becomes a member of U.S. Pacific Fleet as part of Expeditionary Strike Group 3 and will be homeported in San Diego.
Makin Island is named for the daring raid carried out by Marine Corps Companies Alpha and Bravo, Second Raider Battalion, on the Japanese-held Makin Island, in the Gilbert Islands, on Aug. 17-18, 1942. The raid was launched from the submarines USS Nautilus and USS Argonaut and succeeded in routing the enemy forces based there, gaining valuable intelligence. Twenty-three Navy Crosses were awarded for actions during the raid, including to the raid's leader, Marine Corps Lt. Col. Evans Carlson, and executive officer, Marine Corps Maj. James Roosevelt (son of President Franklin Roosevelt). Marine Corps Sgt. Clyde Thomason was awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously for heroism during the raid and was the first enlisted Marine to be so honored during World War II. One previous ship, a Casablanca-class escort aircraft carrier (1944-1946), has borne the name Makin Island, and received five battle stars for World War II service.
Adm. Patrick Walsh, commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, will deliver the ceremony's principal address. Silke Hagee, wife of former commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Michael Hagee, will serve as ship's sponsor. In the time honored Navy tradition, she will give the first order to "man our ship and bring her to life!"
Makin Island is the eighth Wasp-class amphibious assault ship. Second only to an aircraft carrier in size, LHDs embark, transport, deploy, command and fully support an expeditionary unit of 2,000 Marines. Makin Island can accommodate three landing craft air cushion, a squadron of AV-8B Harrier II aircraft, and a full range of Navy/Marine Corps helicopters and amphibious vehicles to perform sea control and limited power projection missions.
Makin Island is the first Navy amphibious assault ship to replace steam boilers with gas turbines, and the first Navy surface ship to be equipped with both gas turbines and an auxiliary propulsion system. By using this unique propulsion system, the Navy expects over the course of the ship's lifecycle to see fuel savings of more than $250 million, further demonstrating the Navy's commitment to energy awareness and conservation.
Makin Island is fully equipped with command, control, communication, computers and intelligence systems for flagship command duty. The afloat capability of Makin Island's medical facility is second only to the Navy's hospital ships. The ship is armed with two NATO Sea Sparrow surface missile systems for anti-air warfare protection, two rolling airframe missile systems and two Phalanx close-in-weapons systems mounts to counter threats from low flying aircraft. Six missile decoy launchers augment the anti-ship missile defenses.
Capt. Robert Kopas, born in Cleveland and raised in Phoenix, is the ship's commanding officer. Built by Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding, Ingalls Operations in Pascagoula, Miss., the ship is 844 feet in length with a 106-foot beam, and has living areas for nearly 3,200 crewmembers and embarked forces.
Upon commissioning, the ship becomes a member of U.S. Pacific Fleet as part of Expeditionary Strike Group 3 and will be homeported in San Diego.
# END
Monday, October 5, 2009
New Hull Coating Could Save Navy Millions
Navy engineers announced Oct. 1 that a new underwater hull coating applied to USS Port Royal (CG 73) is being tested to validate the projected saving of more than $180,000 in fuel costs per year. Testing will assess fuel cost savings for the ship while underway.
The special coating is part of Naval Sea Systems Command's (NAVSEA) Fleet Readiness Research & Development Program (FRR&DP) Underwater Hull Coatings initiative to apply new anti-fouling hull coatings on Ticonderoga-class cruisers and Arleigh Burke-class destroyers. Marine fouling causes hydrodynamic drag, significantly impairing fuel efficiency, and coatings to prevent or inhibit this growth are constantly evolving.
"Marine fouling is a chronic and costly problem for Navy ships," said Petter Kristiansen, FRR&DP program manager. "In addition to the increased fuel consumption, cleaning and recoating ship hulls is expensive and time-consuming, and recoating can only be done while a ship is in dry dock. The hull coatings will help reduce marine bio-fouling, build-ups of tubeworms, mussels, barnacles and other shell organisms on the ship's hull."
Port Royal is the U.S. Navy's first guided-missile cruiser, and second ship overall, to receive the new hull coatings, that was applied during a maintenance availability period at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard in September. USS Cole (DDG 67) was the first ship to receive.
"The new process uses a fouling-release coating system. It is a silicone-based, non-toxic technology that provides a very smooth, slick, low friction surface," Kristiansen explained. "Settling marine organisms like barnacles, tunicates and algae can't attach themselves firmly to the slick surface. Those that do attach, do so weakly and are usually washed away when ships are underway, or are removed during regularly scheduled pierside hull inspections and cleanings."
Once fully implemented on the 70-plus active ships across the two classes, the program could potentially deliver fuel consumption cost avoidances of more than $12.6 million per year, based on fuel oil prices of $100 per barrel.
The Port Royal left dry dock Sept. 24 and is scheduled to rejoin the fleet later this year. Kristiansen said FRR&DP will closely monitor the coating's performance over the next 12 to 18 months.
# END
The special coating is part of Naval Sea Systems Command's (NAVSEA) Fleet Readiness Research & Development Program (FRR&DP) Underwater Hull Coatings initiative to apply new anti-fouling hull coatings on Ticonderoga-class cruisers and Arleigh Burke-class destroyers. Marine fouling causes hydrodynamic drag, significantly impairing fuel efficiency, and coatings to prevent or inhibit this growth are constantly evolving.
"Marine fouling is a chronic and costly problem for Navy ships," said Petter Kristiansen, FRR&DP program manager. "In addition to the increased fuel consumption, cleaning and recoating ship hulls is expensive and time-consuming, and recoating can only be done while a ship is in dry dock. The hull coatings will help reduce marine bio-fouling, build-ups of tubeworms, mussels, barnacles and other shell organisms on the ship's hull."
Port Royal is the U.S. Navy's first guided-missile cruiser, and second ship overall, to receive the new hull coatings, that was applied during a maintenance availability period at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard in September. USS Cole (DDG 67) was the first ship to receive.
"The new process uses a fouling-release coating system. It is a silicone-based, non-toxic technology that provides a very smooth, slick, low friction surface," Kristiansen explained. "Settling marine organisms like barnacles, tunicates and algae can't attach themselves firmly to the slick surface. Those that do attach, do so weakly and are usually washed away when ships are underway, or are removed during regularly scheduled pierside hull inspections and cleanings."
Once fully implemented on the 70-plus active ships across the two classes, the program could potentially deliver fuel consumption cost avoidances of more than $12.6 million per year, based on fuel oil prices of $100 per barrel.
The Port Royal left dry dock Sept. 24 and is scheduled to rejoin the fleet later this year. Kristiansen said FRR&DP will closely monitor the coating's performance over the next 12 to 18 months.
# END
Thursday, September 17, 2009
USN to Commit to One LCS Variant in 2010
The Navy announced Sept. 16 it will down select between the two Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) designs in fiscal 2010. The current LCS seaframe construction solicitation will be cancelled and a new solicitation will be issued.
At down select, a single prime contractor and shipyard will be awarded a fixed price incentive contract for up to 10 ships with two ships in fiscal 2010 and options through fiscal 2014.
"This change to increase competition is required so we can build the LCS at an affordable price," said Ray Mabus, secretary of the Navy. "LCS is vital to our Navy's future. It must succeed."
"Both ships meet our operational requirements and we need LCS now to meet the warfighters' needs," said Adm. Gary Roughead, chief of naval operations. "Down selecting now will improve affordability and will allow us to build LCS at a realistic cost and not compromise critical warfighting capabilities."
The Navy cancelled the solicitation to procure up to three LCS Flight 0+ ships in fiscal 2010 due to affordability. The service hopes to lower costs by going with a single contractor and a single ship model.
While the Navy is making no public statements indicating which LCS model has rated higher in current operational evaluations, the majority of analysts expect "bad news" for General Dynamics
.
# END
At down select, a single prime contractor and shipyard will be awarded a fixed price incentive contract for up to 10 ships with two ships in fiscal 2010 and options through fiscal 2014.
"This change to increase competition is required so we can build the LCS at an affordable price," said Ray Mabus, secretary of the Navy. "LCS is vital to our Navy's future. It must succeed."
"Both ships meet our operational requirements and we need LCS now to meet the warfighters' needs," said Adm. Gary Roughead, chief of naval operations. "Down selecting now will improve affordability and will allow us to build LCS at a realistic cost and not compromise critical warfighting capabilities."
The Navy cancelled the solicitation to procure up to three LCS Flight 0+ ships in fiscal 2010 due to affordability. The service hopes to lower costs by going with a single contractor and a single ship model.
While the Navy is making no public statements indicating which LCS model has rated higher in current operational evaluations, the majority of analysts expect "bad news" for General Dynamics
.
# END
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
USS Makin Island Reaches New Homeport
U.S. Navy officials report that the eighth and final Wasp Class amphibious carrier, USS Makin Island (LHD 8), arrived at her homeport of San Diego Sept. 14 after spending nearly two months at sea.
LHD 8 is the first U.S. Navy amphibious assault ship to replace steam boilers with gas turbines, and the first Navy surface ship to be equipped with both gas turbines and an Auxiliary Propulsion System (APS).
By using this unique propulsion system in conjunction with operational awareness of the crew, the ship saved approximately $2 million in fuel costs during transit compared to a ship using steam boilers.
Instead of using gas turbines which are less efficient at lower speeds, the ship will be able to use APS for roughly 75 percent of the time the ship is underway. Over the course of Makin Island's lifecycle, the Navy expects to see a savings of more than $250 million. Because the gas turbines will be used infrequently, the Navy expects to also save on maintenance and lifecycle costs.
Makin Island left the Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding (NGSB) yard in Pascagoula, Miss., July 10 on her maiden voyage, manned for the first time by the ship's crew. The ship sailed through the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea, Strait of Magellan, and both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans during its transit around South America.
Formal commissioning of USS Makin Island is planned for October 24. Once commissioned, the ship and crew will begin a series of post-delivery tests and trials to thoroughly evaluate the ship's systems and to complete certifications in advance of operational deployment.
Second only to aircraft carriers in size, LHDs are the largest amphibious warships in the world. This powerful class is 844 feet long, can reach speeds of more than 20 knots, and has a displacement of more than 41,000 tons. Wasp-class amphibious assault ships are designed to remain off shore near troubled areas of the world, ready to send forces ashore quickly by helicopters, tilt rotor aircraft and Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) hovercraft.
# END
LHD 8 is the first U.S. Navy amphibious assault ship to replace steam boilers with gas turbines, and the first Navy surface ship to be equipped with both gas turbines and an Auxiliary Propulsion System (APS).
By using this unique propulsion system in conjunction with operational awareness of the crew, the ship saved approximately $2 million in fuel costs during transit compared to a ship using steam boilers.
Instead of using gas turbines which are less efficient at lower speeds, the ship will be able to use APS for roughly 75 percent of the time the ship is underway. Over the course of Makin Island's lifecycle, the Navy expects to see a savings of more than $250 million. Because the gas turbines will be used infrequently, the Navy expects to also save on maintenance and lifecycle costs.
Makin Island left the Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding (NGSB) yard in Pascagoula, Miss., July 10 on her maiden voyage, manned for the first time by the ship's crew. The ship sailed through the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea, Strait of Magellan, and both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans during its transit around South America.
Formal commissioning of USS Makin Island is planned for October 24. Once commissioned, the ship and crew will begin a series of post-delivery tests and trials to thoroughly evaluate the ship's systems and to complete certifications in advance of operational deployment.
Second only to aircraft carriers in size, LHDs are the largest amphibious warships in the world. This powerful class is 844 feet long, can reach speeds of more than 20 knots, and has a displacement of more than 41,000 tons. Wasp-class amphibious assault ships are designed to remain off shore near troubled areas of the world, ready to send forces ashore quickly by helicopters, tilt rotor aircraft and Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) hovercraft.
# END
Monday, September 14, 2009
USS Ingraham Gets New Close-In Defense Weapon
USS Ingraham (FFG 61) is the first US Navy frigate to receive the new MK38 MOD II 25mm chain gun.
It uses a state-of-the-art electro-optical sight which enables the operators to see tracks more than 10,000 yards out, and uses a laser range-finder to measure the distance to a target.
The gun's mount is controlled in Ingraham's Combat Information Center (CIC) by the Remote Operator Console (ROC). The gunner sits at the ROC and tracks incoming vessels using the video from the mount. "The system is able to auto-track the oncoming vessel until the tactical action officer gives the gunner orders on the deployment of warning shots or direct fire," said the Ingraham's Assistant Combat Systems Officer, Ensign Brandon Gilstrap.
This system enables Ingraham to defend the ship more effectively even with reduced manpower.
# END
It uses a state-of-the-art electro-optical sight which enables the operators to see tracks more than 10,000 yards out, and uses a laser range-finder to measure the distance to a target.
The gun's mount is controlled in Ingraham's Combat Information Center (CIC) by the Remote Operator Console (ROC). The gunner sits at the ROC and tracks incoming vessels using the video from the mount. "The system is able to auto-track the oncoming vessel until the tactical action officer gives the gunner orders on the deployment of warning shots or direct fire," said the Ingraham's Assistant Combat Systems Officer, Ensign Brandon Gilstrap.
This system enables Ingraham to defend the ship more effectively even with reduced manpower.
# END
Saturday, September 12, 2009
USS Makin Island to Join 3rd Fleet
The Navy's newest multi-purpose amphibious ship, USS Makin Island (LHD 8), is scheduled to arrive at her homeport in San Diego Monday, Sept. 14. The ship will join the US Navy's 3rd Fleet, responsible for operations in the eastern Pacific.
Makin Island is the final amphibious assault ship built in the LHD-1 Wasp-class, but the first of the class built with gas turbine engines and an electric drive. Steam is not used on board for heating or water production as in previous LHDs. Other significant changes from previous LHD-class ships include the Watermist Fire Suppression Systems, a fiber-optic Machinery Control System (which is also integrated with the Damage Control Systems), the SPQ-9B radar and Cooperative Engagement Capability.
"At high speeds it runs on gas turbine engines and at lower speeds it runs on an electric drive -- just like a hybrid car," says Makin Island Commanding Officer, Capt. Bob Kopas, "Combined with this 'gas saving' propulsion plant is a new computerized machinery control system which is the most advanced in the fleet today. It controls everything from ventilation throughout the ship, to the engines, and ballasting systems."
This advancement results in significant fuel conservation. For instance, during transit from Pascagoula, Miss., to Lima, Peru, the ship consumed 673,148 gallons less in fuel than a steam ship completing the same transit, saving American taxpayers more than $1.6 million.
During her transit from Pascagoula, Miss., Makin Island conducted theater security cooperation activities with Brazil, Chile and Peru, which focused on working closely with partner nation civil and maritime forces - sharing methods and training to build on U.S. and partner nations' already strong relations and interoperability.
Makin Island is scheduled to be formally commissioned Oct. 24 in a ceremony in San Diego.
# END
Makin Island is the final amphibious assault ship built in the LHD-1 Wasp-class, but the first of the class built with gas turbine engines and an electric drive. Steam is not used on board for heating or water production as in previous LHDs. Other significant changes from previous LHD-class ships include the Watermist Fire Suppression Systems, a fiber-optic Machinery Control System (which is also integrated with the Damage Control Systems), the SPQ-9B radar and Cooperative Engagement Capability.
"At high speeds it runs on gas turbine engines and at lower speeds it runs on an electric drive -- just like a hybrid car," says Makin Island Commanding Officer, Capt. Bob Kopas, "Combined with this 'gas saving' propulsion plant is a new computerized machinery control system which is the most advanced in the fleet today. It controls everything from ventilation throughout the ship, to the engines, and ballasting systems."
This advancement results in significant fuel conservation. For instance, during transit from Pascagoula, Miss., to Lima, Peru, the ship consumed 673,148 gallons less in fuel than a steam ship completing the same transit, saving American taxpayers more than $1.6 million.
During her transit from Pascagoula, Miss., Makin Island conducted theater security cooperation activities with Brazil, Chile and Peru, which focused on working closely with partner nation civil and maritime forces - sharing methods and training to build on U.S. and partner nations' already strong relations and interoperability.
Makin Island is scheduled to be formally commissioned Oct. 24 in a ceremony in San Diego.
# END
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Research Vessel R/V Hihimanu Joins NOAA Fleet in Hawaii
Personnel assigned to various areas of the Oahu-region gathered at Rainbow Bay Marina on Pearl Harbor for a ceremony to unveil the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) newest research vessel, the R/V Hihimanu on Sept. 3.
The Hihimanu joined the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries Pacific Island Region's fleet, as the second research vessel for the Papahanaum kuakea Marine National Monument.
"We are here to bless and dedicate this great new boat that NOAA has brought out here today," said U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka, the guest of honor. "The Hihimanu looks sleek in design and is very powerful. It will help out the Hawaiian Islands tremendously."
Dan Basta, director of the National Marine Sanctuaries Program for NOAA, was also on hand at the ceremony to say a few words about the Hihimanu.
"We want to be safe and effective. The Hihimanu will allow us to do both," said Basta. "This boat may be small but it's able to bring great things to help NOAA continue the research of marine life."
With the Hihimanu on display in front of the audience, Kahu Kimokeo Kapahulehua performed a traditional Hawaiian blessing to conclude the ceremony.
The Hihimanu serves as a platform for the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary on Maui where it is used for disentanglement and ship-strike response, tagging, observation, and health assessment of whales.
The Hihimanu's primary mission is research and conservation. Other key missions include local research dives on various islands with other agencies and proficiency skills testing.
NOAA is a scientific agency within the Department of Commerce focused on the conditions of the oceans and the atmosphere. NOAA warns of dangerous weather, charts seas and skies, guides the use and protection of ocean and coastal resources, and conducts research to improve understanding and stewardship of the environment.
Robert Stirrup (NNS)
# END
The Hihimanu joined the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries Pacific Island Region's fleet, as the second research vessel for the Papahanaum kuakea Marine National Monument.
"We are here to bless and dedicate this great new boat that NOAA has brought out here today," said U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka, the guest of honor. "The Hihimanu looks sleek in design and is very powerful. It will help out the Hawaiian Islands tremendously."
Dan Basta, director of the National Marine Sanctuaries Program for NOAA, was also on hand at the ceremony to say a few words about the Hihimanu.
"We want to be safe and effective. The Hihimanu will allow us to do both," said Basta. "This boat may be small but it's able to bring great things to help NOAA continue the research of marine life."
With the Hihimanu on display in front of the audience, Kahu Kimokeo Kapahulehua performed a traditional Hawaiian blessing to conclude the ceremony.
The Hihimanu serves as a platform for the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary on Maui where it is used for disentanglement and ship-strike response, tagging, observation, and health assessment of whales.
The Hihimanu's primary mission is research and conservation. Other key missions include local research dives on various islands with other agencies and proficiency skills testing.
NOAA is a scientific agency within the Department of Commerce focused on the conditions of the oceans and the atmosphere. NOAA warns of dangerous weather, charts seas and skies, guides the use and protection of ocean and coastal resources, and conducts research to improve understanding and stewardship of the environment.
Robert Stirrup (NNS)
# END
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Georgia Departs Kings Bay for Maiden Deployment as Guided Missile Sub
The fourth of the four guided-missile submarines (SSGN) departed for its maiden operational deployment as a newly converted SSGN from Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Ga., Aug. 6.
USS Georgia (SSGN 729), led by Capt. Brian McIlvaine, Blue crew commanding officer, completed its conversion from a ballistic missile submarine to a guided-missile submarine and returned to service March 28, 2008.
Georgia will deploy for approximately one year to the 5th and 6th Fleet Areas of Responsibility before returning to its homeport in Kings Bay. Georgia's two crews, Blue and Gold, will alternate manning the submarine every three months, conducting crew swaps in Diego Garcia.
Georgia's blue and gold crews are well-trained for a wide variety of missions including strike, special operations and irregular warfare. The submarine carries MK48 torpedoes and can carry 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles. There is additional space provided aboard Georgia to accommodate living, working and training of up to 66 special operations forces and their equipment.
"I could not be more pleased with the way the Georgia team has prepared and trained for their deployment," said Rear Adm. Barry Bruner, commander, Submarine Group 10. "I know the forces forward will use USS Georgia wisely and look forward to watching her excel throughout the many real-world and exercise events that she will participate in."
Georgia credits fellow commands at Kings Bay for preparing the boat and crew for the deployment, including the numerous certifications and inspections that the boat has completed in the past 45 days.
"All the support external organizations provided was superb," said Command Master Chief Richard Rose, Blue crew chief of the boat. "Submarine Group 10 and Submarine Squadron 16 staff, Trident Training Facility, Trident Refit Facility, and Naval Submarine Support Command Kings Bay's support during the [pre-deployment] phase has been above board. Every time the ship went to sea was a testament on all the hard work and support these facilities provided." (NNS)
# END
USS Georgia (SSGN 729), led by Capt. Brian McIlvaine, Blue crew commanding officer, completed its conversion from a ballistic missile submarine to a guided-missile submarine and returned to service March 28, 2008.
Georgia will deploy for approximately one year to the 5th and 6th Fleet Areas of Responsibility before returning to its homeport in Kings Bay. Georgia's two crews, Blue and Gold, will alternate manning the submarine every three months, conducting crew swaps in Diego Garcia.
Georgia's blue and gold crews are well-trained for a wide variety of missions including strike, special operations and irregular warfare. The submarine carries MK48 torpedoes and can carry 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles. There is additional space provided aboard Georgia to accommodate living, working and training of up to 66 special operations forces and their equipment.
"I could not be more pleased with the way the Georgia team has prepared and trained for their deployment," said Rear Adm. Barry Bruner, commander, Submarine Group 10. "I know the forces forward will use USS Georgia wisely and look forward to watching her excel throughout the many real-world and exercise events that she will participate in."
Georgia credits fellow commands at Kings Bay for preparing the boat and crew for the deployment, including the numerous certifications and inspections that the boat has completed in the past 45 days.
"All the support external organizations provided was superb," said Command Master Chief Richard Rose, Blue crew chief of the boat. "Submarine Group 10 and Submarine Squadron 16 staff, Trident Training Facility, Trident Refit Facility, and Naval Submarine Support Command Kings Bay's support during the [pre-deployment] phase has been above board. Every time the ship went to sea was a testament on all the hard work and support these facilities provided." (NNS)
# END
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
LHD-8 USS Makin Island Conducts Inaugural Flight Ops
USS Makin Island's (LHD 8) Air Department successfully landed helicopters from four of the five armed services while on its way to its commissioning site and new homeport in San Diego.
During the first three days underway, Makin Island completed nearly 250 "touch and go's" (take-off and landing evolutions) with four different types of aircraft, and achieved Aviation Readiness Qualification (ARQ) Underway flight deck certifications.
The aircraft included the Marine Corps' CH-46E Sea Knight, the Navy's MH-53E Super Stallion and HH-65 Dauphin and the Coast Guard's MH-60J Jayhawk helicopters.
This achievement is a significant step toward the ship's overall flight deck certification, a requirement for Makin Island to conduct regular flight operations.
Just days later, Makin Island continued its inaugural week of aviation events and conducted air operations off the coast of Belize in support of U.S. Army CH-47 Chinooks attached to Joint Task Force Bravo. These aircraft and their pilots may be called upon to provide humanitarian relief to South American countries in the event of a natural disaster such as a hurricane or earthquake. By landing on Makin Island, these pilots can now operate off any other other large deck ship which might be mobilized to support the same operation from a sea base.
"We have a lot of senior people, but we also have a lot of junior people and people coming off of shore duty who are a little rusty, so during our in-port period we were doing a lot of simulated flight quarters just to kind of get all the bugs worked out," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 1st Class Michael Fields, flight deck supervisor.
"When we had the first 'birds' (helicopters) come on deck everyone was on the same page, the communication was flowing well and the rust was knocked off."
Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airmen Patrick Morrison is one of Fields' junior Sailors and offered his feedback about the training.
"I know when we did the simulated flight quarters they just kind of had to explain what the aircraft looked like, but when we actually saw them out here it was a little easier to see," said Morrison "I think it went really well. It was pretty smooth."
"It's nice to see them finally get to see the wealth of all their sweat and tears they [offered] putting the flight deck together. Everyone's starting to bond and seeing it is like poetry in motion," added Fields.
Makin Island is currently circumnavigating South America, via the Strait of Magellan, to its new homeport of San Diego. During its transit, the ship is scheduled to make port visits in Brazil, Chile and Peru to support U.S. Southern Command objectives for enhanced maritime security and to share methods and training that will build on U.S. and partner nations' interoperability and strong relations.
A.J. Noe (NNS)
# END
During the first three days underway, Makin Island completed nearly 250 "touch and go's" (take-off and landing evolutions) with four different types of aircraft, and achieved Aviation Readiness Qualification (ARQ) Underway flight deck certifications.
The aircraft included the Marine Corps' CH-46E Sea Knight, the Navy's MH-53E Super Stallion and HH-65 Dauphin and the Coast Guard's MH-60J Jayhawk helicopters.
This achievement is a significant step toward the ship's overall flight deck certification, a requirement for Makin Island to conduct regular flight operations.
Just days later, Makin Island continued its inaugural week of aviation events and conducted air operations off the coast of Belize in support of U.S. Army CH-47 Chinooks attached to Joint Task Force Bravo. These aircraft and their pilots may be called upon to provide humanitarian relief to South American countries in the event of a natural disaster such as a hurricane or earthquake. By landing on Makin Island, these pilots can now operate off any other other large deck ship which might be mobilized to support the same operation from a sea base.
"We have a lot of senior people, but we also have a lot of junior people and people coming off of shore duty who are a little rusty, so during our in-port period we were doing a lot of simulated flight quarters just to kind of get all the bugs worked out," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 1st Class Michael Fields, flight deck supervisor.
"When we had the first 'birds' (helicopters) come on deck everyone was on the same page, the communication was flowing well and the rust was knocked off."
Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airmen Patrick Morrison is one of Fields' junior Sailors and offered his feedback about the training.
"I know when we did the simulated flight quarters they just kind of had to explain what the aircraft looked like, but when we actually saw them out here it was a little easier to see," said Morrison "I think it went really well. It was pretty smooth."
"It's nice to see them finally get to see the wealth of all their sweat and tears they [offered] putting the flight deck together. Everyone's starting to bond and seeing it is like poetry in motion," added Fields.
Makin Island is currently circumnavigating South America, via the Strait of Magellan, to its new homeport of San Diego. During its transit, the ship is scheduled to make port visits in Brazil, Chile and Peru to support U.S. Southern Command objectives for enhanced maritime security and to share methods and training that will build on U.S. and partner nations' interoperability and strong relations.
A.J. Noe (NNS)
# END
Monday, July 20, 2009
First USN 'America Class' Amphib Warship Begins Construction
A keel laying ceremony for Pre-Commissioning Unit America (LHA 6) was held July 17 at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding's Ingalls shipyard in Pascagoula, Miss.
The keel was authenticated by ship's sponsor Lynne Pace, the wife of retired Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Peter Pace, who confirmed that the keel was truly and fairly laid.
The America Class will replace the aging Tarawa Class and will increase the aviation capacity of future big deck amphibious ships in order to maximize the Navy's investment in future aircraft. LHA 6 will use the same gas turbine propulsion plant, zonal electrical distribution and electric auxiliary systems designed and built for the just-delivered USS Makin Island (LHD 8), replacing the maintenance intensive steam turbines of earlier ships. This unique auxiliary propulsion system (APS) was designed for fuel efficiency. Instead of using main propulsion engines to power the ship's shaft, the APS uses two induction-type auxiliary propulsion motors powered from the ship's electrical grid.
"The future USS America represents a balanced solution to achieve an affordable and capable ship that meets the fleet's needs," said Capt. Jeff Riedel, amphibious ships program manager within the Navy's Program Executive Office, Ships. "She's built without a well deck and includes changes to increase her aviation support capabilities, but because we're reusing the proven auxiliary propulsion system we designed for LHD 8, we're avoiding the kind of design and development costs we would normally see with a new ship class."
By providing a sustainable amphibious ship development program, the America class, or LHA replacement, ensures the nation's amphibious fleet remains the centerpiece of expeditionary warfare in support of the Navy and Marine Corps well into the 21st century.
The LHA Replacement Program is the next step in the incremental development of the "Big Deck Amphib." The class is being designed to accommodate the Marine Corps' future aviation combat element, including F-35B Joint Strike Fighter and MV-22 Osprey with additional aviation maintenance capability and increased fuel capacities, while also providing additional cargo stowage capacities and enabling a broader, more flexible command and control capability.
Amphibious warships are designed to support the Marine Corps tenets of operational maneuver from the sea. They must be able to sail in harm's way and provide a rapid buildup of combat power ashore in the face of opposition. Because of their inherent capabilities, these ships have been and will continue to be called upon to also support humanitarian and other contingency missions on short notice.
PEO Ships is responsible for the development and acquisition of U.S. Navy surface ships and is currently managing the design and construction of a wide range of ship classes and small boats and craft. These platforms range from major warships such as frontline surface combatants and amphibious assault ships to air-cushioned landing craft, oceanographic research ships and special warfare craft. PEO Ships has delivered 32 major warships and hundreds of small boats and craft from more than 30 shipyards and boat builders across the United States. (NNS)
# END
The keel was authenticated by ship's sponsor Lynne Pace, the wife of retired Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Peter Pace, who confirmed that the keel was truly and fairly laid.
The America Class will replace the aging Tarawa Class and will increase the aviation capacity of future big deck amphibious ships in order to maximize the Navy's investment in future aircraft. LHA 6 will use the same gas turbine propulsion plant, zonal electrical distribution and electric auxiliary systems designed and built for the just-delivered USS Makin Island (LHD 8), replacing the maintenance intensive steam turbines of earlier ships. This unique auxiliary propulsion system (APS) was designed for fuel efficiency. Instead of using main propulsion engines to power the ship's shaft, the APS uses two induction-type auxiliary propulsion motors powered from the ship's electrical grid.
"The future USS America represents a balanced solution to achieve an affordable and capable ship that meets the fleet's needs," said Capt. Jeff Riedel, amphibious ships program manager within the Navy's Program Executive Office, Ships. "She's built without a well deck and includes changes to increase her aviation support capabilities, but because we're reusing the proven auxiliary propulsion system we designed for LHD 8, we're avoiding the kind of design and development costs we would normally see with a new ship class."
By providing a sustainable amphibious ship development program, the America class, or LHA replacement, ensures the nation's amphibious fleet remains the centerpiece of expeditionary warfare in support of the Navy and Marine Corps well into the 21st century.
The LHA Replacement Program is the next step in the incremental development of the "Big Deck Amphib." The class is being designed to accommodate the Marine Corps' future aviation combat element, including F-35B Joint Strike Fighter and MV-22 Osprey with additional aviation maintenance capability and increased fuel capacities, while also providing additional cargo stowage capacities and enabling a broader, more flexible command and control capability.
Amphibious warships are designed to support the Marine Corps tenets of operational maneuver from the sea. They must be able to sail in harm's way and provide a rapid buildup of combat power ashore in the face of opposition. Because of their inherent capabilities, these ships have been and will continue to be called upon to also support humanitarian and other contingency missions on short notice.
PEO Ships is responsible for the development and acquisition of U.S. Navy surface ships and is currently managing the design and construction of a wide range of ship classes and small boats and craft. These platforms range from major warships such as frontline surface combatants and amphibious assault ships to air-cushioned landing craft, oceanographic research ships and special warfare craft. PEO Ships has delivered 32 major warships and hundreds of small boats and craft from more than 30 shipyards and boat builders across the United States. (NNS)
# END
Thursday, July 16, 2009
USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Hosts North Atlantic Council Day at Sea
Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) welcomed nearly 100 senior military leaders and officials from the North Atlantic Council (NAC) and Military Committee for NAC at Sea day July 14.
This annual event demonstrates the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) maritime capabilities to assembled leadership.
"This is a wonderful opportunity for us to bring all the senior leadership of the North Atlantic Council – NATO's governing body – out to visit USS Dwight D. Eisenhower and observe exactly how we do our mission," said Rear Adm. Kurt W. Tidd, commander, Carrier Strike Group 8.
The embarked guests included the NATO Secretary General, Jaap de Hoop Scheffer, NATO ambassadors and the Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) Adm. James Stavridis. SACEUR serves a dual role as the leader of all NATO military operations and commanding officer of U.S. European Command, including the 6th Fleet.
"The U.S. Navy is really part of a global coalition of navies carrying out important missions all over the world from antipiracy, counter-narcotics, deterrents and strikes to exercises and training. All of those missions are really part of a global effort and the U.S. Navy fits terrifically in that," said Stavridis.
The embarked guests enjoyed an information brief, static displays and a pass and review from five ships from various navies. The group then moved to the flight deck via an aircraft elevator to observe an air power demonstration.
Stavridis, the first admiral to assume the position of SACEUR, visited the aircraft carrier whose namesake was appointed the very first Supreme Allied Commander Europe in December 1950.
"When I heard that, literally, the first operational thing I would do as the Supreme Allied Commander Europe would be to come to the decks of the ship named after the first SACEUR, I felt surprised and humbled," explained Stavridis. "Standing here aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower makes me very proud of our U.S. Navy's contribution to this larger, global effort, of which NATO is an extraordinary part."
This visit by the SACEUR and members of the NAC helps build relationships among members of the NATO Alliance nations and in turn promotes stability, crisis management and strategies for effective defense.
"Our maritime strategy is all about building partnerships with other maritime forces all around the world to provide security and stability in international waters," said Tidd. "We have decades of experience working with our North Atlantic Treaty Organization partners at sea, and we've had an opportunity to develop all of the procedures that we use today and that we share now with partners all around the world."
"Carrier strike groups are in a position to do everything from projecting power to providing humanitarian assistance wherever it is necessary in the world," said de Hoop Scheffer.
According to Stavridis, the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group has helped promote the NATO mission during its 2009 deployment.
"The men and women of Ike have been contributing wonderfully these last six months," said Stavridis.
"The eyes of the Navy are on the men and women of Ike, and we thank every single one of them for their extraordinary service. They've done a terrific job on this cruise, from everything to working with NATO to operational missions over Afghanistan – the performance of the entire Eisenhower Strike Group has been superb."
The Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group is currently operating in the U.S. 6th Fleet Area of Responsibility after a regularly-scheduled five month deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Maritime Security Operations.
Jeff McDowell (NNS)
# END
This annual event demonstrates the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) maritime capabilities to assembled leadership.
"This is a wonderful opportunity for us to bring all the senior leadership of the North Atlantic Council – NATO's governing body – out to visit USS Dwight D. Eisenhower and observe exactly how we do our mission," said Rear Adm. Kurt W. Tidd, commander, Carrier Strike Group 8.
The embarked guests included the NATO Secretary General, Jaap de Hoop Scheffer, NATO ambassadors and the Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) Adm. James Stavridis. SACEUR serves a dual role as the leader of all NATO military operations and commanding officer of U.S. European Command, including the 6th Fleet.
"The U.S. Navy is really part of a global coalition of navies carrying out important missions all over the world from antipiracy, counter-narcotics, deterrents and strikes to exercises and training. All of those missions are really part of a global effort and the U.S. Navy fits terrifically in that," said Stavridis.
The embarked guests enjoyed an information brief, static displays and a pass and review from five ships from various navies. The group then moved to the flight deck via an aircraft elevator to observe an air power demonstration.
Stavridis, the first admiral to assume the position of SACEUR, visited the aircraft carrier whose namesake was appointed the very first Supreme Allied Commander Europe in December 1950.
"When I heard that, literally, the first operational thing I would do as the Supreme Allied Commander Europe would be to come to the decks of the ship named after the first SACEUR, I felt surprised and humbled," explained Stavridis. "Standing here aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower makes me very proud of our U.S. Navy's contribution to this larger, global effort, of which NATO is an extraordinary part."
This visit by the SACEUR and members of the NAC helps build relationships among members of the NATO Alliance nations and in turn promotes stability, crisis management and strategies for effective defense.
"Our maritime strategy is all about building partnerships with other maritime forces all around the world to provide security and stability in international waters," said Tidd. "We have decades of experience working with our North Atlantic Treaty Organization partners at sea, and we've had an opportunity to develop all of the procedures that we use today and that we share now with partners all around the world."
"Carrier strike groups are in a position to do everything from projecting power to providing humanitarian assistance wherever it is necessary in the world," said de Hoop Scheffer.
According to Stavridis, the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group has helped promote the NATO mission during its 2009 deployment.
"The men and women of Ike have been contributing wonderfully these last six months," said Stavridis.
"The eyes of the Navy are on the men and women of Ike, and we thank every single one of them for their extraordinary service. They've done a terrific job on this cruise, from everything to working with NATO to operational missions over Afghanistan – the performance of the entire Eisenhower Strike Group has been superb."
The Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group is currently operating in the U.S. 6th Fleet Area of Responsibility after a regularly-scheduled five month deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Maritime Security Operations.
Jeff McDowell (NNS)
# END
Monday, July 13, 2009
US, Allied Warships Cooperate in Southern Seas
USS Doyle (FFG 39) hosted a closing ceremony to commemorate the end of a two-week Team Work South (TWS) 2009 exercise July 8.
Exercise participants from Brazil, Chile, France, the United Kingdom and the United States were in attendance at the ceremony.
TWS 2009 is a multinational exercise that includes surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, anti-air warfare, maritime interdiction operations, littoral operations and anti-piracy events. The exercise is focused on creating a multinational task group that operates together in a multi-threat environment.
"During this exercise, you realized what a group effort many of the warfare exercises are. I was able to see different tactics thanks to participating with other navies and observed warfare from a different viewpoint," said Ensign Tasha Bernhardt, Doyle's assistant operations officer.
French Midshipman Lucille Gaultier was aboard Doyle during the exercise.
"It was a long week, but the experience was incredible. I saw everything from a different perspective. There were many differences between the French and U.S. Navy. I feel extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to do this," said Gaultier.
TWS 2009 enhanced friendly relationships and mutual cooperation among participating Navies.
TWS 2009 is part of the Southern Seas deployment being conducted by Task Group 40.0. The task group, commanded by Destroyer Squadron 40, consists of Doyle, USS Kauffman (FFG 59) and USS Ford (FFG 54) with embarked Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (Light) 43 Detachment 4.
Southern Seas is part of U.S. Southern Command's Partnership of the America's strategy and focuses on conducting exercises to enhance relationships with partner nations in the region.
Kassandra Richardt (NNS)
# END
Exercise participants from Brazil, Chile, France, the United Kingdom and the United States were in attendance at the ceremony.
TWS 2009 is a multinational exercise that includes surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, anti-air warfare, maritime interdiction operations, littoral operations and anti-piracy events. The exercise is focused on creating a multinational task group that operates together in a multi-threat environment.
"During this exercise, you realized what a group effort many of the warfare exercises are. I was able to see different tactics thanks to participating with other navies and observed warfare from a different viewpoint," said Ensign Tasha Bernhardt, Doyle's assistant operations officer.
French Midshipman Lucille Gaultier was aboard Doyle during the exercise.
"It was a long week, but the experience was incredible. I saw everything from a different perspective. There were many differences between the French and U.S. Navy. I feel extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to do this," said Gaultier.
TWS 2009 enhanced friendly relationships and mutual cooperation among participating Navies.
TWS 2009 is part of the Southern Seas deployment being conducted by Task Group 40.0. The task group, commanded by Destroyer Squadron 40, consists of Doyle, USS Kauffman (FFG 59) and USS Ford (FFG 54) with embarked Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (Light) 43 Detachment 4.
Southern Seas is part of U.S. Southern Command's Partnership of the America's strategy and focuses on conducting exercises to enhance relationships with partner nations in the region.
Kassandra Richardt (NNS)
# END
Friday, July 10, 2009
USS Fort Worth (LCS 3) Keel Laying Saturday
The keel for the future littoral combat ship, USS Fort Worth (LCS 3), will be laid July 11 during a ceremony at Marinette Marine Shipyard in Marinette, Wisc.
Keel-laying has traditionally been the first step in ship construction, when shipbuilders laid down the lengthwise timber that would become the ship's backbone.
During the scheduled event, a shipyard welder will attach the future ship's plaque to the keel, and U.S. Rep. Kay Granger will confirm that the keel was laid "straight and true."
"Starting construction on the third ship is an exciting milestone to reach," said Capt. Jim Murdoch, LCS program manager within the Navy's Program Executive Office, Ships.
"Reaching the Navy's goal of a 55-ship class depends on getting LCS into serial production, which will lead to high quality ships being delivered to the fleet on cost and on schedule."
LCS is a new breed of U.S. Navy warship, capable of open-ocean operation but optimized for littoral or coastal missions. Operational experience and analyses indicate that potential adversaries will employ asymmetric means to deny U.S. and allied forces access into critical coastal regions, such as strategic chokepoints and vital economic sea lanes. LCS is specifically designed to defeat such "anti-access" threats, which include fast surface craft, quiet diesel submarines and various types of mines.
Fort Worth is expected to be delivered to the Navy in 2012, when she will join sister ships USS Freedom (LCS 1) and USS Independence (LCS 2). Freedom was commissioned by the Navy in November 2008. Independence is currently undergoing builder's sea trials in the Gulf of Mexico and is scheduled to be delivered to the Navy later this year. A contract was awarded to General Dynamics-Bath Iron Works in May for the construction of LCS 4, the future USS Coronado.
The future USS Fort Worth, named in honor of the Texas city, will be 378 feet in length, have a waterline beam of 57 feet, displace approximately 3,000 tons and will make speed in excess of 40 knots.
PEO Ships is responsible for the development and acquisition of U.S. Navy surface ships and is currently managing the design and construction of a wide range of ship classes and small boats and craft. These platforms range from major warships such as frontline surface combatants and amphibious assault ships to air-cushioned landing craft, oceanographic research ships and special warfare craft. PEO Ships has delivered 31 major warships and hundreds of small boats and craft from more than 30 shipyards and boat builders across the United States. (NNS)
# END
Keel-laying has traditionally been the first step in ship construction, when shipbuilders laid down the lengthwise timber that would become the ship's backbone.
During the scheduled event, a shipyard welder will attach the future ship's plaque to the keel, and U.S. Rep. Kay Granger will confirm that the keel was laid "straight and true."
"Starting construction on the third ship is an exciting milestone to reach," said Capt. Jim Murdoch, LCS program manager within the Navy's Program Executive Office, Ships.
"Reaching the Navy's goal of a 55-ship class depends on getting LCS into serial production, which will lead to high quality ships being delivered to the fleet on cost and on schedule."
LCS is a new breed of U.S. Navy warship, capable of open-ocean operation but optimized for littoral or coastal missions. Operational experience and analyses indicate that potential adversaries will employ asymmetric means to deny U.S. and allied forces access into critical coastal regions, such as strategic chokepoints and vital economic sea lanes. LCS is specifically designed to defeat such "anti-access" threats, which include fast surface craft, quiet diesel submarines and various types of mines.
Fort Worth is expected to be delivered to the Navy in 2012, when she will join sister ships USS Freedom (LCS 1) and USS Independence (LCS 2). Freedom was commissioned by the Navy in November 2008. Independence is currently undergoing builder's sea trials in the Gulf of Mexico and is scheduled to be delivered to the Navy later this year. A contract was awarded to General Dynamics-Bath Iron Works in May for the construction of LCS 4, the future USS Coronado.
The future USS Fort Worth, named in honor of the Texas city, will be 378 feet in length, have a waterline beam of 57 feet, displace approximately 3,000 tons and will make speed in excess of 40 knots.
PEO Ships is responsible for the development and acquisition of U.S. Navy surface ships and is currently managing the design and construction of a wide range of ship classes and small boats and craft. These platforms range from major warships such as frontline surface combatants and amphibious assault ships to air-cushioned landing craft, oceanographic research ships and special warfare craft. PEO Ships has delivered 31 major warships and hundreds of small boats and craft from more than 30 shipyards and boat builders across the United States. (NNS)
# END
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Unmanned Underwater Vehicles Seek Mines, Secure Ports
Naval Oceanography Mine Warfare Center (NOMWC) Sailors took advantage of the Corpus Christi Maritime Homeland Security Limited Objective Experiment (CC MHS LOE) to learn a little bit more about operating their unmanned vehicles in ports and about working with other mine warfare assets.
The CC MHS LOE took place in the Port of Corpus Christi May 11-15.
NOMWC works hand-in-hand with Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO) operating unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), collecting and analyzing data.
Lt. Scott Parker, NOMWC UUV officer, said they took away a lot of lessons from the exercise and experimented with some new technology and operational techniques.
"Every time we get a chance to operate the vehicles, we learn a little more about the best way to operate them, particularly in exercises and experiments because you must adapt to changing conditions," Parker said.
The Corpus Christi exercise marked the first time NOMWC Sailors recovered vehicles at the pier to mimic a real-world situation, according to Parker. His team had always recovered the vehicles while in a boat.
"If there are mines in the water, we don't want to be operating from boats," he said.
Also, for the first time, NOMWC worked with the Navy's mine warfare marine mammals unit, which uses dolphins to help classify mine-like contacts.
The Sailors were able to work with emerging technologies – a UUV with the next-generation sonar that can not only cover a wider swath in a pass but also emit varying frequencies that penetrate the harbor floor, allowing units to detect buried mines.
NOMWC operates UUVs in shallow water – 40 to 200 feet – in harbors, ports and other confined areas. Consequently, they do most of the UUV operation for mine warfare and for homeland defense. So they were part of the experiment because of their expertise, but they also benefited.
"The beauty of working in a port and harbor area in the U.S. is that we learn specifics about this particular area and hone our skill sets. Those skills and lessons learned apply equally well in any overseas operation – the 'home and away game.' We can be prepared for a homeland event while staying ready for anything overseas," said Cmdr. Paul Oosterling, NOMWC commander.
George Lammons (NNS)
# END
The CC MHS LOE took place in the Port of Corpus Christi May 11-15.
NOMWC works hand-in-hand with Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO) operating unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), collecting and analyzing data.
Lt. Scott Parker, NOMWC UUV officer, said they took away a lot of lessons from the exercise and experimented with some new technology and operational techniques.
"Every time we get a chance to operate the vehicles, we learn a little more about the best way to operate them, particularly in exercises and experiments because you must adapt to changing conditions," Parker said.
The Corpus Christi exercise marked the first time NOMWC Sailors recovered vehicles at the pier to mimic a real-world situation, according to Parker. His team had always recovered the vehicles while in a boat.
"If there are mines in the water, we don't want to be operating from boats," he said.
Also, for the first time, NOMWC worked with the Navy's mine warfare marine mammals unit, which uses dolphins to help classify mine-like contacts.
The Sailors were able to work with emerging technologies – a UUV with the next-generation sonar that can not only cover a wider swath in a pass but also emit varying frequencies that penetrate the harbor floor, allowing units to detect buried mines.
NOMWC operates UUVs in shallow water – 40 to 200 feet – in harbors, ports and other confined areas. Consequently, they do most of the UUV operation for mine warfare and for homeland defense. So they were part of the experiment because of their expertise, but they also benefited.
"The beauty of working in a port and harbor area in the U.S. is that we learn specifics about this particular area and hone our skill sets. Those skills and lessons learned apply equally well in any overseas operation – the 'home and away game.' We can be prepared for a homeland event while staying ready for anything overseas," said Cmdr. Paul Oosterling, NOMWC commander.
George Lammons (NNS)
# END
Monday, May 25, 2009
Unmanned Underwater Vehicles Hunt Mines
Naval oceanographers used the latest underwater technology to look for mines in Corpus Christi harbor as part of a Limited Objective Experiment (LOE). The Experiment, held May 11 to 15, focused on homeland maritime security.
Elements of the Naval Oceanography Mine Warfare Command (NOMWC) and the Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO) used unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) to survey the harbor and analyzed that data to find dummy mines placed in the ship channel to simulate a terrorist threat to the nation's sixth largest port. The experiment is an interagency exercise with the U.S. Coast Guard and local authorities, and is being conducted by the Naval Mine and Anti-Submarine Warfare Command (NMAWC).
"We operate the UUVs, analyze the data and analyze the environmental conditions that can have an impact on mine countermeasures operations," said Cmdr. Paul Oosterling, NOMWC's commander. "One of the key capabilities our program brings to the fight is the ability to characterize the environment with data from the UUVs, and other sonar sensors including available aviation assets."
Sailors with the Navy Oceanography Program, which includes those assigned to Explosive Ordnance Detachment Mobile Unit (EODMU) 1, are among the Navy's most experienced in the operation of UUVs. NOMWC has been operating UUVs for about two years, but Naval Oceanography has been working with the technology for about a decade.
Change-detection, which involves comparing historic data with current information, is used to determine where a threat may lie. A baseline survey of the Port of Corpus Christi was conducted by NOMWC personnel and their UUVs in March, providing a baseline of data from which to work.
"The work is grueling and tedious, but it saves many hours in mine clearance operations, particularly when we have an earlier survey to compare," Oosterling said.
NOMWC and NAVOCEANO are the first steps in the lengthy mine neutralization process. NOMWC surveys the harbor, then NOMWC and NAVOCEANO personnel analyze the data collected to identify suspected mines. Those contacts are delivered to the mine countermeasures operations center to determine the best method of disposal.
Sailors and NAVOCEANO civilians worked around-the-clock surveying the harbor and analyzing the data to report contacts to the Incident Command Post throughout the Experiment.
Lt. Scott Parker, NOMWC UUV officer, said that in the Corpus Christi scenario that unfolded the week of May 11 the harbor would be cleared to resume ship traffic in four days. In a real world situation, the harbor would be cleared even more quickly.
The Corpus Christi experiment was designed to further interoperability of the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, and civilian authorities in protecting U.S. ports and waterways, while developing and implementing tactics, techniques and procedures and experiment with new technologies. Four other similar exercises have been held in Honolulu, San Diego, Tampa and Portsmouth, N.H.
Navy oceanographers hope to benefit as well.
"We're training and developing tactics, techniques and procedures to become a tactical response asset for homeland defense and overseas confined water work," Oosterling said.
NOMWC and NAVOCEANO are part of the Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command, which employs environmental data in operational decision-making. The Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command, which has about 3,000 officer, enlisted and civilian personnel worldwide, directs the Navy's meteorology and oceanography programs.
George Lammons (NNS)
# END
Elements of the Naval Oceanography Mine Warfare Command (NOMWC) and the Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO) used unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) to survey the harbor and analyzed that data to find dummy mines placed in the ship channel to simulate a terrorist threat to the nation's sixth largest port. The experiment is an interagency exercise with the U.S. Coast Guard and local authorities, and is being conducted by the Naval Mine and Anti-Submarine Warfare Command (NMAWC).
"We operate the UUVs, analyze the data and analyze the environmental conditions that can have an impact on mine countermeasures operations," said Cmdr. Paul Oosterling, NOMWC's commander. "One of the key capabilities our program brings to the fight is the ability to characterize the environment with data from the UUVs, and other sonar sensors including available aviation assets."
Sailors with the Navy Oceanography Program, which includes those assigned to Explosive Ordnance Detachment Mobile Unit (EODMU) 1, are among the Navy's most experienced in the operation of UUVs. NOMWC has been operating UUVs for about two years, but Naval Oceanography has been working with the technology for about a decade.
Change-detection, which involves comparing historic data with current information, is used to determine where a threat may lie. A baseline survey of the Port of Corpus Christi was conducted by NOMWC personnel and their UUVs in March, providing a baseline of data from which to work.
"The work is grueling and tedious, but it saves many hours in mine clearance operations, particularly when we have an earlier survey to compare," Oosterling said.
NOMWC and NAVOCEANO are the first steps in the lengthy mine neutralization process. NOMWC surveys the harbor, then NOMWC and NAVOCEANO personnel analyze the data collected to identify suspected mines. Those contacts are delivered to the mine countermeasures operations center to determine the best method of disposal.
Sailors and NAVOCEANO civilians worked around-the-clock surveying the harbor and analyzing the data to report contacts to the Incident Command Post throughout the Experiment.
Lt. Scott Parker, NOMWC UUV officer, said that in the Corpus Christi scenario that unfolded the week of May 11 the harbor would be cleared to resume ship traffic in four days. In a real world situation, the harbor would be cleared even more quickly.
The Corpus Christi experiment was designed to further interoperability of the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, and civilian authorities in protecting U.S. ports and waterways, while developing and implementing tactics, techniques and procedures and experiment with new technologies. Four other similar exercises have been held in Honolulu, San Diego, Tampa and Portsmouth, N.H.
Navy oceanographers hope to benefit as well.
"We're training and developing tactics, techniques and procedures to become a tactical response asset for homeland defense and overseas confined water work," Oosterling said.
NOMWC and NAVOCEANO are part of the Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command, which employs environmental data in operational decision-making. The Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command, which has about 3,000 officer, enlisted and civilian personnel worldwide, directs the Navy's meteorology and oceanography programs.
George Lammons (NNS)
# END
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Virginia Class Submarines New Launch Tubes Carry 6 Missiles Each
Program Executive Office Submarines' Virginia-class Program Office marked a substantial milestone May 15 with the delivery of the first Virginia payload tube (VPT).
Built by General Dynamics Electric Boat (GDEB), the VPT arrived at GDEB's Virginia-class shipbuilding partner Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding's Newport News (NGSB-NN) facility for inclusion in Pre-Commissioning Unit North Dakota's (SSN 784) bow. As part of a teaming arrangement, NGSB-NN builds all Virginia-class bows while GDEB constructs all of the VPTs.
As the lead submarine being built under the third, or Block III contract, North Dakota will be the first Virginia-class submarine equipped with VPTs.
Unlike the first 10 Virginia-class submarines that housed 12 Tomahawk cruise missiles in individual Vertical Launch System (VLS) tubes, all Virginia-class submarines beginning with North Dakota will utilize two, 87.5-inch diameter, 35-plus ton tubes to house and launch the same number of missiles.
"The VPTs allow us to carry the same number of missiles as VLS-equipped Los Angeles- and Virginia-class submarines in a more economical way," said Virginia-class Program Manager Capt. Michael Jabaley.
"Two VPTs are less expensive to build and maintain than 12 VLS tubes, and when we couple those savings with the new large aperture bow array, we save forty million per ship beginning with SSN 788, the first of two ships we start building in fiscal year (FY) 2012," Jabaley concluded.
In addition to acquisition and life cycle savings, the VPTs provide the submarine force with greater payload flexibility.
"The VPTs provide commonality with the SSGN tubes, so payloads developed for one can go into the other," said Rear Adm. William Hilarides, Program Executive Officer, Submarines. "This affords the submarine force incredible flexibility and versatility to the far future."
In summarizing the Virginia Class' recent accomplishments, Hilarides said that, "The Navy / industry team promised to reach its cost and schedule goals, and we are making good on each and every one of them."
On May 3, Pre-Commissioning Unit Missouri (SSN 780) reached pressure hull complete only 64 weeks after the delivery of the first hull section to the shipyard - 19 weeks earlier than USS New Hampshire (SSN 778) and less than half the time required for USS Virginia (SSN 774). Further, New Hampshire became the third Virginia-class submarine to conduct an operational deployment prior to undergoing its post-shakedown availability.
"We, the Navy-industry team, promised to reach certain cost and schedule goals, and we are making good on each and every one of them," said Hilarides.
(NNS)
# END
Built by General Dynamics Electric Boat (GDEB), the VPT arrived at GDEB's Virginia-class shipbuilding partner Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding's Newport News (NGSB-NN) facility for inclusion in Pre-Commissioning Unit North Dakota's (SSN 784) bow. As part of a teaming arrangement, NGSB-NN builds all Virginia-class bows while GDEB constructs all of the VPTs.
As the lead submarine being built under the third, or Block III contract, North Dakota will be the first Virginia-class submarine equipped with VPTs.
Unlike the first 10 Virginia-class submarines that housed 12 Tomahawk cruise missiles in individual Vertical Launch System (VLS) tubes, all Virginia-class submarines beginning with North Dakota will utilize two, 87.5-inch diameter, 35-plus ton tubes to house and launch the same number of missiles.
"The VPTs allow us to carry the same number of missiles as VLS-equipped Los Angeles- and Virginia-class submarines in a more economical way," said Virginia-class Program Manager Capt. Michael Jabaley.
"Two VPTs are less expensive to build and maintain than 12 VLS tubes, and when we couple those savings with the new large aperture bow array, we save forty million per ship beginning with SSN 788, the first of two ships we start building in fiscal year (FY) 2012," Jabaley concluded.
In addition to acquisition and life cycle savings, the VPTs provide the submarine force with greater payload flexibility.
"The VPTs provide commonality with the SSGN tubes, so payloads developed for one can go into the other," said Rear Adm. William Hilarides, Program Executive Officer, Submarines. "This affords the submarine force incredible flexibility and versatility to the far future."
In summarizing the Virginia Class' recent accomplishments, Hilarides said that, "The Navy / industry team promised to reach its cost and schedule goals, and we are making good on each and every one of them."
On May 3, Pre-Commissioning Unit Missouri (SSN 780) reached pressure hull complete only 64 weeks after the delivery of the first hull section to the shipyard - 19 weeks earlier than USS New Hampshire (SSN 778) and less than half the time required for USS Virginia (SSN 774). Further, New Hampshire became the third Virginia-class submarine to conduct an operational deployment prior to undergoing its post-shakedown availability.
"We, the Navy-industry team, promised to reach certain cost and schedule goals, and we are making good on each and every one of them," said Hilarides.
(NNS)
# END
Thursday, May 14, 2009
African-American Naval Pioneer Honored With "Own" Destroyer
The Navy will christen the newest Arleigh Burke class guided-missile destroyer, Gravely, May 16 during aceremony at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding, Pascagoula, Miss.
The new destroyer honors the late Vice Adm. Samuel L. Gravely Jr. He was born in Richmond, Va., June 4, 1922. After attending Virginia Union University, he enlisted in the Naval Reserve in September 1942.
In 1943 he participated in a Navy program (V-12) designed to select and train highly qualified men for commissioning as officers in the Navy. On Dec. 14, 1944, Gravely successfully completed midshipman training, becoming the first African American commissioned as an officer from the Navy Reserve Officer Training Course. He was released from active duty in April 1946 but remained in the Naval Reserve.
Gravely was recalled to active duty in 1949. As part of the Navy's response to President Harry S. Truman's executive order to desegregate the armed services, Gravely's initial assignment was as a Navy recruiter, recruiting African Americans in the Washington, D.C., area. Gravely went on to a Navy career that lasted 38 years and included many distinguished accomplishments.
Gravely was a true pathfinder whose performance and leadership as an African American naval officer demonstrated to America the value and strength of diversity. Gravely's accomplishments served as watershed events for today's Navy. He was the first African American to command a warship (USS Theodore E. Chandler); to command a major warship (USS Jouett); to achieve flag rank and eventually vice admiral; and to command a numbered fleet (3rd).
Retired Adm. J. Paul Reason will deliver the ceremony's principal address. Alma Gravely will serve as sponsor of the ship named for her late husband. In accordance with Navy tradition, she will break a bottle of champagne across the ship's bow and christen the ship.
Designated DDG 107, the 57th Arleigh Burke class destroyer, Gravely will be able to conduct a variety of operations, from peacetime presence and crisis management to sea control and power projection. Gravely will be capable of fighting air, surface and subsurface battles simultaneously and contains myriad offensive and defensive weapons designed to support maritime warfare in keeping with "A Cooperative Strategy for 21st Century Seapower," the new maritime strategy that postures the sea services to apply maritime power to protect U.S. vital interests in an increasingly interconnected and uncertain world.
Cmdr. Douglas Kunzman is the prospective commanding officer of the ship and will lead the crew of 276 officers and enlisted personnel. The 9,200-ton Gravely is being built by Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding - Gulf Coast in Pascagoula, Miss. The ship is 509 feet in length, has a waterline beam of 59 feet and a navigational draft of 31 feet. Four gas turbine engines will power the ship to speeds in excess of 30 knots.
The christening ceremony will be streamed from the following site at 10 a.m. (CDT) May 16: http://www.sb.northropgrumman.com/events/gravely/.
# END
The new destroyer honors the late Vice Adm. Samuel L. Gravely Jr. He was born in Richmond, Va., June 4, 1922. After attending Virginia Union University, he enlisted in the Naval Reserve in September 1942.
In 1943 he participated in a Navy program (V-12) designed to select and train highly qualified men for commissioning as officers in the Navy. On Dec. 14, 1944, Gravely successfully completed midshipman training, becoming the first African American commissioned as an officer from the Navy Reserve Officer Training Course. He was released from active duty in April 1946 but remained in the Naval Reserve.
Gravely was recalled to active duty in 1949. As part of the Navy's response to President Harry S. Truman's executive order to desegregate the armed services, Gravely's initial assignment was as a Navy recruiter, recruiting African Americans in the Washington, D.C., area. Gravely went on to a Navy career that lasted 38 years and included many distinguished accomplishments.
Gravely was a true pathfinder whose performance and leadership as an African American naval officer demonstrated to America the value and strength of diversity. Gravely's accomplishments served as watershed events for today's Navy. He was the first African American to command a warship (USS Theodore E. Chandler); to command a major warship (USS Jouett); to achieve flag rank and eventually vice admiral; and to command a numbered fleet (3rd).
Retired Adm. J. Paul Reason will deliver the ceremony's principal address. Alma Gravely will serve as sponsor of the ship named for her late husband. In accordance with Navy tradition, she will break a bottle of champagne across the ship's bow and christen the ship.
Designated DDG 107, the 57th Arleigh Burke class destroyer, Gravely will be able to conduct a variety of operations, from peacetime presence and crisis management to sea control and power projection. Gravely will be capable of fighting air, surface and subsurface battles simultaneously and contains myriad offensive and defensive weapons designed to support maritime warfare in keeping with "A Cooperative Strategy for 21st Century Seapower," the new maritime strategy that postures the sea services to apply maritime power to protect U.S. vital interests in an increasingly interconnected and uncertain world.
Cmdr. Douglas Kunzman is the prospective commanding officer of the ship and will lead the crew of 276 officers and enlisted personnel. The 9,200-ton Gravely is being built by Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding - Gulf Coast in Pascagoula, Miss. The ship is 509 feet in length, has a waterline beam of 59 feet and a navigational draft of 31 feet. Four gas turbine engines will power the ship to speeds in excess of 30 knots.
The christening ceremony will be streamed from the following site at 10 a.m. (CDT) May 16: http://www.sb.northropgrumman.com/events/gravely/.
# END
CVN 77, Final Nimitz Class Carrier, Joins Fleet
The Navy took delivery of its newest aircraft carrier, USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), from Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding May 11. George H.W. Bush is the 10th and final Nimitz-class aircraft carrier.
"George H.W. Bush has been eight years in the making, with its keel laid in 2003, followed by christening in 2006 and today's delivery. It's a testament to the dedication and professionalism of both the Navy and our industry partners," said Capt. Frank Simei, Navy program manager for in-service aircraft carriers.
George H.W. Bush is the most advanced ship of its class. Relative to the last aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan substantial design features were modified and new technologies inserted. Examples include a new vacuum marine sanitation system, a new jet fuel distribution system and numerous other new control systems and piping materials. These new features will reduce the lifecycle cost of the carrier.
"George H.W. Bush's delivery completes the construction of Nimitz-class aircraft carriers, but their legacy will continue" said Simei. "This ship will be an important part of our maritime forces for the next 50 years."
George H. W. Bush was commissioned Jan. 10 at Norfolk Naval Base.
# END
"George H.W. Bush has been eight years in the making, with its keel laid in 2003, followed by christening in 2006 and today's delivery. It's a testament to the dedication and professionalism of both the Navy and our industry partners," said Capt. Frank Simei, Navy program manager for in-service aircraft carriers.
George H.W. Bush is the most advanced ship of its class. Relative to the last aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan substantial design features were modified and new technologies inserted. Examples include a new vacuum marine sanitation system, a new jet fuel distribution system and numerous other new control systems and piping materials. These new features will reduce the lifecycle cost of the carrier.
"George H.W. Bush's delivery completes the construction of Nimitz-class aircraft carriers, but their legacy will continue" said Simei. "This ship will be an important part of our maritime forces for the next 50 years."
George H. W. Bush was commissioned Jan. 10 at Norfolk Naval Base.
# END
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)