Robert Luster, Author at Americans for a Stronger Navy

May 7, 2023May 7, 2023

Satellite Images Show Seized Oil Tankers Anchored Near Iranian Navy Base

This satellite image from Planet Labs PBC shows the seized oil tanker Niovi off the coast of Bandar Abbas, Iran, Saturday, May 6, 2023. Satellite images analyzed Sunday, May 7, 2023, by The Associated Press showed the location of two oil tankers recently seized by Iran amid tensions with the West. (Planet Labs PBC via AP)

Introduction:

The latest ship seizure by Iran near the strategic Strait of Hormuz has once again escalated tensions with the West over its nuclear program. Satellite images recently analyzed by The Associated Press show two oil tankers, the Advantage Sweet and the Niovi, anchored just south of Bandar Abbas near a naval base in Iran’s Hormozgan province. As Americans for a Stronger Navy, we believe in maintaining the strength of our naval forces to ensure peace and stability in the region.

Iran Seizes Two Oil Tankers in the Strait of Hormuz

The photos from Planet Labs PBC showed the Advantage Sweet and the Niovi anchored near a naval base in the port city in Iran’s Hormozgan province Saturday. Their capture represents just the latest ship seizure conducted by Iran amid tensions with the West over its rapidly advancing nuclear program, though it appears the two ships may have been taken for different reasons.

Latest Ship Seizures Escalate Tensions with the West

The recent seizure of two oil tankers by Iran highlights the increasing tensions with the West over its nuclear program. The Advantage Sweet carried Kuwaiti crude oil for American energy firm Chevron Corp. of San Ramon, California, at the time of its capture. Meanwhile, the Niovi was seized by Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard as it left a dry dock in Dubai. Its cargo was suspected to have been sold to firms in China without permission.

Details of the Seized Oil Tankers and Their Cargo

Iran seized the Marshall Islands-flagged Advantage Sweet, staffed by 23 Indians and one Russian, on April 27 as it traveled in the Gulf of Oman. Tehran claimed the vessel had struck another ship, though tracking data for the Advantage Sweet showed no erratic behavior on its trip. The Niovi, a Panama-flagged tanker, was not carrying any cargo, but data from S&P Global Market Intelligence seen by the AP showed the Niovi in July 2020 received oil from a ship known then as the Oman Pride.

Americans for a Stronger Navy: Promoting Peace Through Strength

As tensions rise in the Strait of Hormuz, it is more important than ever to ensure the strength and readiness of our naval forces. Americans for a Stronger Navy stands with the Navy community to ensure that we continue to promote peace through strength. Join us in supporting our mission to maintain a strong Navy, and to help inspire and engage Americans to rally behind our cause.

Conclusion

The latest seizure of two oil tankers by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz highlights the need for a strong Navy to ensure peace and stability in the region. As Americans for a Stronger Navy, we stand with the Navy community to promote peace through strength. We urge all Americans to join us in supporting our mission to maintain a strong Navy, and to help inspire and engage others to rally behind our cause.

May 7, 2023May 7, 2023

US Navy Subs Displayed in Atlantic

USS San Juan off the coast of Iceland on April 26. US Embassy Reykjavik
The US Navy

Introduction:

The US Navy is demonstrating its strength in the North Atlantic by making its submarines more visible in several ports. This move comes amid growing concerns about the increasing activity and sophistication of Russia’s submarines, which are carrying new weapons closer to US shores.

The Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is proud to be part of the US Navy community that is working tirelessly to ensure the readiness of the US Navy.

Demonstrating US Navy’s Strength: Submarines on Rare Public Display in the North Atlantic

Summary:

The US Navy is increasing the visibility of its submarines in several North Atlantic ports to demonstrate its presence in the region.

This move comes as Russia’s submarines are becoming more active and carrying new weapons closer to US shores.

The visits by US submarines to ports in northern Norway, the Faroe Islands, and Iceland reduce the time these submarines have to spend away from their operating areas, according to Vice Adm. William Houston.

This allows the US Navy to exchange people and materials off these submarines quickly, giving them an incredible strategic position.

Key Takeaways:

The US Navy is making its submarines more visible in North Atlantic ports to demonstrate its presence and readiness.
These visits to ports reduce the time that submarines have to spend away from their operating areas.
The increasing activity and sophistication of Russia’s submarines is a driving factor behind the increase in US submarine operations in the high north.

Conclusion:

The Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is proud to be part of the US Navy community that is working tirelessly to ensure the readiness of the US Navy.
By making its submarines more visible in North Atlantic ports, the US Navy is demonstrating its strength and commitment to protecting the United States and its allies.
It is important for Americans to support the US Navy and its mission to maintain peace through strength.

May 7, 2023May 7, 2023

HII Christens Virginia-Class Attack Submarine Massachusetts (SSN 798) – A New Milestone in the Navy’s Pursuit for Defense and Innovation

Introduction:

Celebrating a new milestone in the Navy’s pursuit of defense and innovation, the christening of the Virginia-class submarine Massachusetts (SSN 798) at HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding division on May 6, 2023, showcased the pride, craftsmanship, and patriotism of the shipbuilders, crew, and their families.

The Christening:

The ceremony, attended by more than 2,000 guests, highlighted the progress and innovation achieved by the shipbuilders, crew, and their families. The ship’s sponsor, Sheryl Sandberg, emphasized the significance of progress and the submarine’s intentional design to allow both men and women to serve. Sandberg performed the traditional honor of breaking a bottle of American sparkling wine across the submarine’s bow during the ceremony.

Key Features and Benefits:

The Virginia-class submarine Massachusetts (SSN 798) is the 25th Virginia-class submarine and the 12th to be delivered by NNS. HII is one of only two shipyards capable of designing and building nuclear-powered submarines for the U.S. Navy. The advanced capabilities of Virginia-class submarines increase firepower, maneuverability, and stealth to support critical missions worldwide. The submarine’s intentional design to allow both men and women to serve makes our military stronger and more diverse.

Key Takeaways:

The Virginia-class submarine Massachusetts (SSN 798) was christened at HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding division, showcasing the pride and patriotism of the shipbuilders, crew, and their families.
The submarine’s design intentionally allows both men and women to serve, making our military stronger and more diverse.
HII is one of only two shipyards capable of designing and building nuclear-powered submarines for the U.S. Navy, providing advanced capabilities in firepower, maneuverability, and stealth to support critical missions worldwide.

Conclusion:

The christening of the Virginia-class submarine Massachusetts (SSN 798) is a testament to the Navy’s pursuit of defense and innovation. It showcases the pride, craftsmanship, and patriotism of the shipbuilders, crew, and their families who work tirelessly to deliver critical capabilities and protect peace and freedom around the world. The Americans for a Stronger Navy invites you to support our cause and join us in rallying for a stronger Navy. Together, we can ensure that our nation’s maritime dominance and the freedom we all cherish are maintained for generations to come.

May 5, 2023May 5, 2023

All Hands on Deck: Our Coverage of Navy Week in St. Louis

Attention everyone! Navy Week is coming to St. Louis, Missouri from May 8-14, 2023, and we’ve got you covered! Our team will be blogging to bring you all the latest news and highlights of the week-long event.

During Navy Week, 75 Sailors from across the fleet will be participating in various education and community outreach events throughout the city. There will be opportunities to meet Namesake Sailors from USS Harry S. Truman, USS St. Louis, and USS Constitution, enjoy musical performances by Navy Band Great Lakes, witness exciting demonstrations by various Navy organizations, and even participate in volunteer activities with local organizations.

Our coverage will include interviews with Navy personnel and local leaders, photos and videos of the events, and live updates here on StrongerNavy.org. Stay tuned for more information on Navy Week in St. Louis, and join us in celebrating and honoring the men and women who serve in America’s Navy

The Navy’s senior executive for the week is Rear Admiral Ingrid Rader, Reserve Deputy Director for Maritime Information Warfare, U.S. Pacific Fleet. Rader is participating in community engagements, meeting with students and speaking with local businesses, civic, education, and government leaders.

“I am excited to represent the Navy and engage with the city of St. Louis and surrounding areas,” said Rader. “Being able to share the Navy’s story and interact with the citizens is both an honor and privilege.”

Since 2005, the Navy Week program has served as the Navy’s flagship outreach effort into areas of the country without a significant Navy presence, providing the public a firsthand look at why the Navy matters to cities like St. Louis.

“We are excited to bring the Navy Week program to St. Louis,” said NAVCO’s director, Cmdr. Anthony Falvo. “Seapower and America’s Navy are more important now than ever before. The U.S. Navy remains our nation’s most powerful instrument of military influence and Navy Weeks allow us to showcase how the Navy serves America at sea, in the air, and ashore.”

Throughout the week, Sailors will participate in various community events, including volunteering with organizations such as the Veterans Community Project, Girl Scouts, St. Louis Food Pantry, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital, and the Black Girls Do STEM. Additionally, Rear Admiral Ingrid Rader, Reserve Deputy Director for Maritime Information Warfare, U.S. Pacific Fleet, will serve as the Navy’s senior executive for the week, participating in community engagements, meeting with students, and speaking with local businesses, civic, education, and government leaders.

The Navy Week program has served as the Navy’s flagship outreach effort into areas of the country without a significant Navy presence since 2005. Navy Weeks allow the Navy to showcase how it serves America at sea, in the air, and ashore, and each year the program reaches more than 140 million people, about half the U.S. population.

The calendar of events for St. Louis Navy Week includes various volunteering opportunities, meetings with local leaders and students, performances by Navy Band Great Lakes, and more. The Navy Week concludes with an air show performance by the Blue Angels, which is sure to be a highlight of the week.

May 5, 2023May 5, 2023

Supporting Our Troops: The Brandon Act’s Impact on Mental Health Care for Service Members

Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Brandon Caserta

Introduction:

The mental health and well-being of our service members is of utmost importance. As part of our mission to strengthen the U.S. Navy, Americans for a Stronger Navy is proud to support the Brandon Act, which aims to improve mental health support for service members. The new policy will allow service members to seek help confidentially and improve the referral process for mental health evaluations. By taking care of our people, we ensure that they are ready to serve and protect our nation.

Summary:

The Brandon Act is named after Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Brandon Caserta, who died by suicide in 2018. The legislation was signed into law in 2021 and aims to reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health care. The policy directs the services to establish procedures for service members to request a referral for a mental health evaluation through a commanding officer or supervisor. The implementation of the Brandon Act will occur in two phases, and additional mental health resources will be available to service members worldwide.

Key takeaways:

The Brandon Act aims to improve mental health support for service members.
The policy allows service members to seek help confidentially and reduces the stigma associated with seeking mental health care.
The services will establish procedures for service members to request a referral for a mental health evaluation through a commanding officer or supervisor.
The implementation of the Brandon Act will occur in two phases, and additional mental health resources will be available to service members worldwide.

Conclusion:

We must support our service members who ask for help and ensure that they have access to confidential mental health care.

By supporting the Brandon Act, Americans for a Stronger Navy is taking an important step in strengthening the U.S. Navy. We urge all Americans to join us in supporting our troops and recognizing the importance of mental health care for our service members.

By doing so, we can ensure that our military services are ready and able to protect our nation.

May 4, 2023May 5, 2023

Celebrating the US Navy’s Public Role in Promoting Peace through Strength

USS Ohio, during her commissioning ceremony in 1981.

Introduction

The United States Navy has been a cornerstone of American security and global stability for over 200 years. As a member of the Navy community, we are proud to support the Americans for a Stronger Navy organization in their mission to promote a strong, modern Navy capable of defending America’s interests worldwide. In this article, we explore the recent decision by the US Navy to publicly announce a visit by a nuclear-armed submarine to South Korea, and its significance in promoting peace through strength.

Summary

The US Navy’s decision to publicly announce a visit by a nuclear-armed submarine to South Korea has sparked debate about the wisdom of increased transparency for what has traditionally been known as the “silent service.” Despite concerns about violating the core mission of secrecy, this move by the Navy represents a commitment to promoting Peace Through Strength. By demonstrating America’s resolve and willingness to defend its allies, the Navy is helping to maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Key Takeaways

The US Navy’s decision to publicly announce a visit by a nuclear-armed submarine to South Korea represents a significant shift in the Navy’s traditional “silent service” approach. While there are concerns about the wisdom of increased transparency, this move by the Navy is a commitment to promoting Peace Through Strength. By demonstrating America’s willingness to defend its allies and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region, the Navy is playing a critical role in promoting American security.

Conclusion

As members of the Navy community, we are proud to support the Americans for a Stronger Navy organization in their mission to promote a strong, modern Navy capable of defending America’s interests worldwide. The US Navy’s decision to publicly announce a visit by a nuclear-armed submarine to South Korea is a powerful demonstration of America’s commitment to promoting peace through strength. We urge all Americans to join us in supporting the Navy and its mission to protect America’s interests at home and abroad.

May 4, 2023May 4, 2023

Strong Partnerships with Canada for a Stronger Navy: Proud to be Part of the Community

From right to left, guided-missile destroyer USS Truxtun (DDG 103), Royal Canadian Navy supply ship MV Asterix and Royal Canadian Navy frigate HMCS Montreal (FFH 336) conduct a replenishment-at-sea in the Red Sea,

Introduction:

The United States Navy is not just a national institution but a global one that cooperates with many other navies around the world. One such partner is the Royal Canadian Navy, with whom the US Navy has a long-standing relationship. This partnership is not just a political one but also one that helps ensure the security of the North American continent. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of building strong partnerships with Canada and how it aligns with the mission of Americans for a Stronger Navy.

Summary:

The United States and Canada share the world’s longest border, and both countries recognize the importance of maintaining a stable and secure maritime environment. The partnership between the US Navy and the Royal Canadian Navy plays a critical role in achieving this goal. By working together, both navies can enhance their capabilities and extend their reach, benefitting not just the two countries but also the wider region. Americans for a Stronger Navy recognizes the importance of this partnership and aims to promote it as a key element of a robust and effective Navy.

Key Takeaways:

The US Navy has a longstanding partnership with the Royal Canadian Navy, which is essential to maintaining security in North America.

Strong partnerships with Canada enhance the US Navy’s capabilities and extend its reach.

The partnership between the US Navy and the Royal Canadian Navy benefits both countries and the wider region.

Americans for a Stronger Navy promotes the partnership with Canada as a key element of a robust and effective Navy.

Conclusion:

As Americans, we can take pride in the strong partnership between the US Navy and the Royal Canadian Navy. By supporting Americans for a Stronger Navy and its mission to promote this partnership, we can help ensure the Navy’s readiness and effectiveness. Together, we can build a stronger Navy and a safer, more prosperous North America.

May 4, 2023May 4, 2023

The U.S. Army and Navy recently was awarded contracts worth over $1 billion.

The U.S. Army and Navy continue to strengthen America’s national defense with the recent award of multiple contracts totaling more than $1 billion. Raytheon/Lockheed Martin Javelin JV secured a $1.02 billion contract for the Javelin Weapon System, while A&M Engineering and Environmental Services Inc., LRS-Hill JV LLC., and MSMM Huitt-Zollars JV LLC are set to compete for a $25 million construction phase architect and engineering services contract. Luhr Bros. Inc. also secured a $12.78 million contract for the dredging of shoals along the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. In the Navy, Vectrus-J&J Facilities Support LLC secured a $25.7 million base operating services contract, while multiple contractors, including G2 Software Systems Inc., Sev1Tech LLC, Forward Slope Inc., Solute, and Data Intelligence LLC, secured contracts worth a total of $70.7 million for command and control (C2) technology and experimentation services. These awards are vital to America’s defense readiness and highlight the ongoing commitment of the Americans for a Stronger Navy organization to ensure a strong and capable Navy to protect our nation’s interests.

The contracts awarded to the Navy, including those for base operating services and command and control (C2) technology and experimentation services, highlight the ongoing commitment of the Americans for a Stronger Navy organization to ensure a strong and capable Navy to protect America’s interests.

Key Takeaways:

Recent Army and Navy contracts demonstrate the government’s commitment to modernizing and strengthening the military.
Contracts for construction, equipment, and technology services will enhance the readiness and effectiveness of the Army and Navy.
The contracts will also create job opportunities and stimulate the economy.
Americans for a Stronger Navy encourages all Americans to support our troops and their families.

Conclusion:

The recent award of contracts by the U.S. Army and Navy worth over $1 billion demonstrates the ongoing commitment to strengthen America’s national defense.

These contracts, awarded to companies like Raytheon/Lockheed Martin Javelin JV, A&M Engineering and Environmental Services Inc., LRS-Hill JV LLC., and MSMM Huitt-Zollars JV LLC, will help ensure that our military is well-equipped and ready to respond to any threat.

The Americans for a Stronger Navy organization remains committed to its mission of promoting a strong and capable Navy to protect America’s interests. It is essential that we continue to invest in our military to safeguard our nation’s security and ensure a prosperous future for all Americans.

May 4, 2023May 4, 2023

Americans for a Stronger Navy: Proudly Supporting Our Men and Women in Uniform

Sailor’s aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51) prepare to depart from Naval Station Rota, Spain, April 22, 2023.

Introduction: The Sacrifices Made by the U.S. Navy

The United States Navy is an institution that has been integral to America’s security and defense for centuries. The sailors who serve in the Navy make countless sacrifices to ensure the safety of their fellow citizens at home and abroad. From time away from family and loved ones to dangerous deployments in hostile regions, the men and women of the U.S. Navy put their lives on the line to protect America’s interests. As a nation, we owe it to them to ensure they have the resources and support they need to do their jobs effectively.

The USS Arleigh Burke Departs from Naval Station Rota

The USS Arleigh Burke recently departed from Naval Station Rota, Spain, on a scheduled deployment to the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations. The ship and its crew will be defending U.S., allied, and partner interests in the region. The deployment is a clear demonstration of the Navy’s commitment to protecting America’s interests around the world. The sailors aboard the USS Arleigh Burke are among the many men and women who make up the backbone of America’s defense.

Summary: The Importance of the U.S. Navy’s Readiness

The U.S. Navy is a critical component of America’s defense infrastructure. The men and women who serve in the Navy are responsible for safeguarding America’s interests, both at home and abroad. To do their jobs effectively, the Navy must be adequately equipped and prepared to respond to any threat or challenge that may arise.

This is where organizations like Americans for a Stronger Navy come in. By advocating for a stronger, more prepared navy, we help ensure that America’s sailors have the tools and resources they need to succeed.

The USS Arleigh Burke’s Deployment to Defend American Interests

The deployment of the USS Arleigh Burke is a clear example of the Navy’s commitment to protecting America’s interests. The ship and its crew will be defending U.S., allied, and partner interests in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations. The deployment highlights the important role that the U.S. Navy plays in safeguarding America’s interests around the world. By supporting the Navy and its sailors, we help ensure that America remains safe and secure.

Key Takeaways: The Vital Role of the U.S. Navy in Protecting America

The U.S. Navy is responsible for protecting America’s interests, both at home and abroad.
The sailors who serve in the Navy make significant sacrifices to ensure America’s security.

Organizations like Americans for a Stronger Navy advocate for a stronger, more prepared navy to help ensure that America’s sailors have the tools and resources they need to do their jobs effectively.

Supporting Our Men and Women in Uniform

As Americans, we owe it to the men and women of the U.S. Navy to support them in their mission to protect our nation.

By advocating for a stronger, more prepared navy, we help ensure that America’s sailors have the tools and resources they need to succeed.

Supporting the Navy and its sailors is a critical part of ensuring America’s safety and security.
Conclusion: A Call to Support Our Navy and Its Sailors

The United States Navy is an essential component of America’s security and defense infrastructure. The sailors who serve in the Navy make significant sacrifices to ensure the safety of their fellow citizens. By supporting the Navy and its sailors, we help ensure that America remains safe and secure.

As an organization, Americans for a Stronger Navy is committed to advocating for a stronger, more prepared navy. We urge all Americans to join us in supporting our men and women in uniform and ensuring that we have the resources and tools they need to do their jobs effectively. Together, we can help ensure that America remains safe and secure, and that our sailors are given the respect and support they deserve.

A Stronger Navy for a Safer America

As Americans, we take pride in our nation’s military strength and our ability to defend ourselves against any threat. The United States Navy plays a critical role in this defense, and we must do everything we can to ensure it remains strong and capable. By supporting the Navy and its sailors, we help ensure that America remains safe and secure for generations to come. As an organization, Americans for a Stronger Navy is proud to stand with our men and women in uniform. We urge all Americans to join us in supporting our navy and its sailors, and in working to build a stronger, more prepared navy for a safer America.

May 4, 2023May 8, 2023

Celebrating the Achievements and Excellence of the Navy Community during Fleet Week

Sailors on board the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) pull in mooring lines in preparation of departure from Fleet Week Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Introduction

*Fleet Week 2023 has come to a close, and it was an incredible week of events and activities showcasing the strength and innovation of the U.S. Navy. This year marks the 32nd Port Everglades Fleet Week. Fleet Week has been hosted by Broward Navy Days and the event provides a tremendous opportunity to showcase naval technology and the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen who serve the nation.

As proud members of the Americans for a Stronger Navy organization, we are honored to have covered this event and shone a spotlight on the ships, crews, and individual sailors who make the Navy community so remarkable. In this blog post, we will celebrate the achievements and excellence of the Navy community during Fleet Week.

Enlisted Person of the Year Awards

One of the highlights of our coverage was the Enlisted Person of the Year awards for various ships and submarines. These awards recognized the outstanding dedication and achievement of enlisted personnel in the U.S. Navy, highlighting the crucial role they play in keeping our nation safe. We covered many stories featuring these exceptional sailors, including: