Author: Robert Luster

Posted on

United States and the Philippines Agree to Strengthen Their Alliance

Introduction:

The United States and the Philippines have come to an agreement to continue the vital work required to modernize and strengthen the alliance between the two nations. This agreement was reached between Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during a ceremony at the Pentagon, where the U.S. reiterated its commitment to the Mutual Defense Treaty. This commitment applies to armed attacks on the armed forces, coast guard vessels, public vessels, or aircraft in the Pacific, including the South China Sea.

The Importance of the Alliance:

The alliance between the United States and the Philippines is of utmost importance, and the two nations have agreed to continue working together to ensure its success. The recent visit by Marcos to the Pentagon has furthered the efforts to strengthen the relationship between the two nations. The U.S. is supporting the Philippines’ defense modernization efforts and is helping to build their interoperability, information sharing, and planning to address conventional and nonconventional threats.

Deepening Coordination and Interoperability:

The two nations are deepening their coordination and interoperability, which is crucial to ensuring that the alliance is effective. The recent Balikatan exercise was the largest in history, with 17,000 troops from the Philippines, the United States, and Australia, covering land, sea, air, and cyber scenarios. Following on that effort is Cope Thunder, an exercise testing air power interoperability. The U.S. is committed to supporting the Philippines’ defense modernization efforts, and this will help to build interoperability, information sharing, and planning to address conventional and nonconventional threats.

Expanding Operational Cooperation in the Maritime Domain:

The U.S. is committed to expanding its operational cooperation with the Philippines in the maritime domain, including the South China Sea. The two defense leaders discussed U.S. support for Philippine defense modernization efforts and the ongoing plans to continue to operationalize the agreement sites. These efforts will help to build interoperability, information sharing, and planning to address conventional and nonconventional threats.

New Bilateral Defense Guidelines:

Marcos and Austin also discussed new bilateral defense guidelines. This item reflects the unprecedented effort behind modernizing the alliance to bring it into a new era of cooperation. The emphasis is to look at how threats arise in the various domains and what form those threats will take. This will enable Philippine and U.S. officials to chart a bilateral way forward to help build interoperability, information sharing, planning, etc., around how they address these conventional and nonconventional threats.

Key Takeaways:

The United States and the Philippines are committed to strengthening and modernizing their alliance.
Deepening coordination and interoperability are crucial to ensuring the alliance’s effectiveness.
The U.S. is committed to supporting the Philippines’ defense modernization efforts.
The two nations are expanding their operational cooperation in the maritime domain, including the South China Sea.
New bilateral defense guidelines are being developed to address conventional and nonconventional threats.

Conclusion:

The recent agreement between the United States and the Philippines to modernize and strengthen their alliance is a positive step towards ensuring the readiness of the U.S. Navy and the security of the people of America. As Americans for a Stronger Navy, we are proud to be a part of the Navy community and support efforts to strengthen alliances and ensure national security. We encourage all Americans to rally behind this cause and support the efforts to build a stronger and more secure future.

Posted on

Supporting America’s Naval Readiness: Our Role in the Navy Community

Blue Diamonds” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 146 launches from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz is in U.S. 7th Fleet conducting routine operations

The United States Navy is a key pillar of national security and a source of pride for Americans. As members of the Navy community, we are committed to strengthening its capabilities and ensuring its readiness to protect the nation’s interests.

At Americans for a Stronger Navy, our mission is to inform and inspire readers to support the Navy and its operations. In this article, we will explore the vital role of the Navy in the Indo-Pacific region and how our collective efforts can bolster its effectiveness.

Summary

The article highlights the importance of the United States Navy’s presence in the Indo-Pacific region for ensuring regional stability and security.

Through routine operations and partnerships with allies, the Navy contributes to preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

As members of the Navy community, our support is essential for maintaining the Navy’s readiness to respond to threats and protect American interests.

Key Takeaways:

The United States Navy’s presence in the Indo-Pacific region is crucial for maintaining regional stability and security.Routine operations and partnerships with allies are essential for preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Our collective efforts as members of the Navy community are vital for ensuring the Navy’s readiness to respond to threats and protect American interests.

Conclusion

As Americans, it is our duty to support the United States Navy and its mission to preserve the nation’s interests. By subscribing to Americans for a Stronger Navy, we can stay informed about the Navy’s operations and contribute to its readiness through advocacy and support. Our collective efforts can ensure that the Navy remains a powerful force for protecting American values and promoting stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Let us rally together to strengthen America’s naval capabilities and demonstrate our unwavering commitment to national security.

Posted on

Strengthening the US Navy: Updates and Contracts

US Navy F35

Introduction:

The Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is committed to promoting and inspiring support for the US Navy’s mission. With recent updates and contracts, we continue to see progress in the development of critical warfighting capabilities that will enhance the Navy’s readiness. In this article, we will delve into the latest contracts and updates that highlight the importance of a strong Navy for America’s security.

Summary

This article provides an update on recent Navy contracts, including the following:

Lockheed Martin Corp. has been awarded a $1,439,135,764 undefinitized contract for the continued development of critical F-35 warfighting capabilities.
Lockheed Martin Corp. has also been awarded a $35,646,196 fixed-price incentive (firm target) modification contract for Navy equipment and engineering services.
Federated Maritime LLC has been awarded a $33,476,761 firm-fixed-price contract for the time charter of one clean, approved upon delivery U.S. Flag, double hull tanker.
General Dynamics Electric Boat Co. has been awarded a $15,715,111 cost-plus-fixed-fee modification contract for lead yard support and development studies and design efforts related to Virginia class submarines.

These contracts emphasize the Navy’s focus on enhancing its warfighting capabilities and readiness. With a strong Navy, America’s security and safety are better protected, and we can continue to advance our national interests worldwide.

Key Takeaways

The recent contracts for the Navy total approximately $1.5 billion, highlighting the importance of investing in critical warfighting capabilities and technology, such as the F-35 and Virginia class submarines.
The Navy’s readiness and ability to defend the country are critical to America’s security and safety, as seen in the recent contracts for equipment and engineering services and time charter of a tanker.

The lead yard support and development studies contract is an essential investment in the Navy’s future, ensuring that it can continue to innovate and advance its capabilities to maintain its dominance.

Conclusion:

As Americans, we should be proud of our Navy’s accomplishments and its ongoing efforts to enhance its warfighting capabilities. These recent contracts demonstrate that the Navy is dedicated to maintaining its readiness and dominance in today’s complex security environment.

We urge all Americans to support the mission of a Stronger Navy and the vital role it plays in ensuring our nation’s security and prosperity.

Posted on

Makin Island ARG Conducts Balikatan Exercise with the Armed Forces of the Philippines

Introduction

The Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) completed Exercise Balikatan 2023 (BK23), highlighting their commitment to regional peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. In this joint exercise, both the AFP and the Makin Island ARG worked together to address challenges related to the Mutual Defense Treaty, counter-terrorism threats, humanitarian assistance and disaster response. The exercise showcased the interoperability of the U.S. and Philippine forces, and their readiness to respond to crisis and contingencies at short notice.

Shared Commitment to Democracy and Human Rights

The U.S. and Philippine alliance is based on strong historical and cultural linkages and a shared commitment to democracy and human rights. Balikatan presented an opportunity for personnel from the AFP and the Makin Island ARG comprised of USS Makin Island (LHD 8), USS Anchorage (LPD 23) and USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26), to work together to address challenges related to the Mutual Defense Treaty, counter-terrorism threats, humanitarian assistance and disaster response.

Enhancing Interoperability and Readiness

The Makin Island ARG participated in Combined Joint Logistics Over the Shore, in which heavy supplies and equipment were loaded onto landing craft, air cushions and transported to the beach. A temporary bilateral, multifunctioning team was established on shore to transfer fuel to and from ships, stage and operate heavy equipment, and conduct vehicle convoys. The ability to execute amphibious offload operations ensures the AFP and U.S. military are ready to respond to crisis and contingencies at short notice.

Anchorage’s Sailors, and Marines assigned to 1st Reconnaissance, 13th MEU, conducted a Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) exercise on expeditionary mobile base USS Miguel Keith (ESB 5). VBSS provides a variety of scenario injects that require situational analysis, communication, and bilateral decision making. This exercise provided unparalleled opportunities to demonstrate the strength and readiness of the U.S.- Philippine security alliance.

The Makin Island ARG participated in a group sail alongside Miguel Keith, and Philippine navy ships BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (PS 15), and BRP Tarlac (FF 601) in the South China Sea. This event enhances our forces’ communication, techniques and procedures across a wide range of operations while assuring a high degree of interoperability.

Strengthening Defense Capabilities

Makin Island and AFP conducted a sink exercise which consisted of AFP staging a floating target with the goal of capsizing it. Makin Island launched their 6 F-35B Lightning IIs—fifth generation strike fighters assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 122, 13th MEU—and employed 4 GPS guided munitions onto the target, successfully capsizing it.

For the final phase of Balikatan 23, Makin Island conducted a simulated amphibious raid at Brooke’s Point, offloading U.S. Marines to conduct live fire training, and bilateral long-range fires in a coastal defense training scenario. Field training exercises create valuable training opportunities for both partners to develop proficiency in coastal defense concepts, as well as build camaraderie and respect among service members at every level.

Benefits to the US Navy and the American People

Exercise Balikatan 2023 provided an opportunity for the U.S. and Philippine forces to work together and address challenges related to the Mutual Defense Treaty, counter-terrorism threats, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response. The joint exercise showcased the readiness and interoperability of the Makin Island ARG and the Armed Forces of the Philippines to respond to crisis and contingencies at short notice. The exercise provided valuable training opportunities for both partners to develop proficiency in coastal defense concepts, as well as build camaraderie and respect among service members at every level.

Conclusion

The Makin Island ARG and the Armed Forces of the Philippines demonstrated their commitment to regional peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific through Exercise Balikatan 2023.

Their joint efforts showcased the readiness and interoperability of the U.S. and Philippine forces to respond to crisis and contingencies at short notice.

As Americans for a Stronger Navy, we recognize the importance of strong partnerships with our allies and partners, and the vital role the U.S. Navy plays in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

By working together, the U.S. and Philippine forces can strengthen their defense capabilities, enhance their interoperability, and ultimately benefit the US Navy’s readiness and the American people who support them.

Send a message.

Posted on

CrabEx: How the US Navy’s EOD Teams are Prepared for Any Threat

Petty Officer 2nd Class Jeremy Boan | Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group Two | Date

Introduction

As part of the Navy Expeditionary Combat Force (NECF), the US Navy’s explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams play a critical role in clearing and protecting the battlespace from a range of explosive hazards. To ensure these teams are prepared for any threat, they regularly participate in exercises like Crab Exercise (CrabEx). Hosted by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Training and Evaluation Unit 2 (EODTEU 2), CrabEx is a training exercise that requires EOD units to clear a range of simulated explosive threats using special operations mobility tactics and advanced technologies. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at CrabEx and how it helps to keep the US Navy’s EOD teams ready for action.

Summary

Crab Exercise (CrabEx) is a training exercise hosted by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Training and Evaluation Unit 2 (EODTEU 2) that helps the US Navy’s EOD teams prepare for any threat. During CrabEx, EOD units must clear a range of simulated explosive threats using special operations mobility tactics and advanced technologies. The exercise ensures that the US Navy’s EOD teams are ready to clear and protect the battlespace from a range of explosive hazards.

Key Takeaways

Crab Exercise (CrabEx) is a training exercise that helps the US Navy’s explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams prepare for any threat.
EOD units participate in CrabEx to clear a range of simulated explosive threats using special operations mobility tactics and advanced technologies.

The exercise ensures that the US Navy’s EOD teams are ready to clear and protect the battlespace from a range of explosive hazards.

Conclusion

The US Navy’s EOD teams are a critical component of the Navy Expeditionary Combat Force (NECF), responsible for clearing and protecting the battlespace from a range of explosive hazards. Through exercises like Crab Exercise (CrabEx), these teams are trained to be ready for any threat that may arise.

As Americans, we should take pride in the US Navy’s dedication to keeping our country safe and support the mission of Americans for a Stronger Navy to ensure that the Navy has the resources it needs to maintain readiness and protect our freedom at home.

Posted on

Strengthening the US Navy: Supporting the Redesign of the MQ-4C Triton Aircraft and the MK 45 Gun Mount

Introduction:

The Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is committed to supporting and advocating for a stronger and more capable US Navy. In recent developments, Northrop Grumman Systems Corp. and BAE Systems Land & Armaments L.P. have been awarded contracts to support the redesign of the MQ-4C Triton aircraft and the MK 45 gun mount. These contracts will enhance the Navy’s capabilities and ensure its readiness for future challenges.

Summary:

The US Navy has recently awarded contracts to Northrop Grumman Systems Corp. and BAE Systems Land & Armaments L.P. to support the redesign of the MQ-4C Triton aircraft and the MK 45 gun mount. The contracts aim to enhance the Navy’s capabilities and readiness for future challenges.

Key Takeaways:

Northrop Grumman Systems Corp. and BAE Systems Land & Armaments L.P. have been awarded contracts to support the redesign of the MQ-4C Triton aircraft and the MK 45 gun mount.
The redesigns will enhance the Navy’s capabilities and readiness for future challenges.
These contracts demonstrate the US Navy’s commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements and maintaining its competitive edge.

Conclusion:

The Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is proud to support the US Navy in its efforts to enhance its capabilities and maintain its readiness for future challenges. We urge all Americans to recognize the importance of a strong and capable Navy and to support its mission. With the support of the American people, the US Navy will continue to serve as a vital asset in protecting our nation’s interests both at home and abroad.

Posted on

US Stands with Philippines Against Chinese Harassment in South China Sea

A Chinese Coast Guard vessel is pictured on the disputed Second Thomas Shoal, part of the Spratly Islands, in the South China Sea, March 29, 2014. REUTERS/Erik De Castro

Introduction

The South China Sea remains a point of contention between the Philippines and China. Recently, the US has issued a warning to China’s Coast Guard to stop harassing Philippine vessels. As a strong advocate for a robust Navy, Americans for a Stronger Navy stands with the US in upholding the rules-based international maritime order and supports the Philippines in their efforts to protect their sovereignty.

The Situation in the South China Sea

Last week, the Philippines accused China’s Coast Guard of “aggressive tactics” and “dangerous maneuvers” in the South China Sea. China’s foreign ministry had said that the Philippine vessels had intruded into Chinese waters and made deliberate provocative moves. The Philippines has filed more than 200 diplomatic protests against China since last year.

Chinese Coast Guard’s Provocative and Unsafe Conduct

The US has warned the Chinese Coast Guard to stop harassing Philippine vessels in the South China Sea. The US state department said in a statement: “We call upon Beijing to desist from its provocative and unsafe conduct.” China has angered the Philippines by repeatedly harassing its navy and coast guard patrols and chasing away fishermen in the waters close to Philippine shores but which Beijing claims as its own.

US Stands with the Philippines

The US state department said Washington “stands with our Philippine allies in upholding the rules-based international maritime order.” In Washington, the US and Philippine defence and foreign secretaries met earlier in April to discuss the development of nine Philippine military camps, where American forces have been allowed to stay indefinitely under the 2014 Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement. The US is allocating more than $100m to build infrastructure at the sites, where Americans would be stationed.

Building a Strong Navy to Ensure Regional Peace and Stability

Americans for a Stronger Navy supports the US in its efforts to maintain stability and security in the South China Sea. We advocate for a strong Navy to protect American interests and promote peace and stability worldwide. The ongoing tensions in the South China Sea demonstrate the need for a strong and capable Navy to ensure regional security and stability. We encourage readers to stay informed about developments in the South China Sea and to support efforts to promote a rules-based international maritime order.

Posted on

Retired Navy Captain Royce Williams: A Heroic Tale of Bravery and Valor

Captain Royce Williams in 1973

Introduction

The story of retired Navy Captain Royce Williams is an inspiring tale of bravery and valor that epitomizes the dedication of the Americans for a Stronger Navy organization. Williams’ declassified story of his epic 35-minute dogfight with Russian MiGs during the Korean War is a testament to the courage and bravery of the men and women who serve in the U.S. Navy.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the heroic tale of Captain Williams and how his story fits into the mission of the Americans for a Stronger Navy organization.

Summary

Captain Royce Williams’ story is one of the most impressive airborne battles in naval aviation history. He engaged in a 35-minute dogfight with Russian MiGs during the Korean War, taking down at least five MiGs. Williams’ story was classified as top secret for over 65 years, and it was only in 2017 that the details of his heroic battle were declassified. Now, retired Navy Captain Williams is being recognized for his accomplishments, and his story serves as an inspiration to all Americans.

Key Takeaways

Retired Navy Captain Royce Williams engaged in a 35-minute dogfight with Russian MiGs during the Korean War, taking down at least five MiGs.

Williams’ story was classified as top secret for over 65 years, and it was only in 2017 that the details of his heroic battle were declassified.
Williams’ story serves as an inspiration to all Americans, and he is being recognized for his accomplishments.

Conclusion

The story of retired Navy Captain Royce Williams is an inspiring tale of bravery and valor that embodies the dedication of the Americans for a Stronger Navy organization. Williams’ story serves as a reminder of the courage and sacrifice of the men and women who serve in the U.S. Navy.

We encourage all Americans to support our mission to strengthen the Navy and to honor the brave men and women who serve our country.

Elmer Royce Williams. (born 4 April 1925)is a retired United States Naval Aviator. He is known for his solo dogfight with seven Soviet pilots during the Korean War, which, according to The San Diego Union-Tribune, has been called “one of the greatest feats in aviation history” by military experts. A retired admiral and multiple members of Congress have been campaigning for him to receive the Medal of Honor for his exploit. On January 20, 2023, he received the Navy Cross – the highest military decoration given by the U.S. Navy – from Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro.

Elmer Royce Williams
Williams in 1973
Nickname(s)
Royce
Born
4 April 1925 (age 98)
Wilmot, South Dakota, U.S.
Service/branch

Years of service
1943–1980
Rank
Captain
Commands held
USS Eldorado
Known for
Downing four Soviet MiG-15s in one engagement during the Korean War
Battles/wars
Korean War
Vietnam War
Awards
Navy Cross
Distinguished Flying Cross
Legion of Merit with “V”
Bronze Star Medal
Meritorious Service Medal
Air Medal
Alma mater
University of Minnesota
Early life and military career
Medal of Honor campaign
Awards and decorations
In popular culture

Source: Wikipedia

Posted on

Celebrating the Accomplishments of the Enlisted Person of the Year: A Proud Moment for the Navy Community

Culinary Specialist 1st Class Michael Brown, who was recently announced as one of the Enlisted Persons of the Year for the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21).

Introduction

The United States Navy has always been a vital pillar in securing the nation’s interests and protecting its shores. At the heart of this defense force are the brave men and women who dedicate their lives to serving our country. The Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is proud to be part of this community that upholds the highest standards of excellence. We celebrate the achievements of one of our own, Culinary Specialist 1st Class Michael Brown, who was recently announced as one of the Enlisted Persons of the Year for the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21). This accomplishment highlights the commitment and dedication of our sailors, and we want to share it with our readers.

Summary

The San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) recently announced Culinary Specialist 1st Class Michael Brown as one of the Enlisted Persons of the Year. This honor was awarded during the 32nd Port Everglades Fleet Week, hosted by Broward Navy Days, which showcased naval technology and the dedicated men and women who serve our country. The accomplishment of Culinary Specialist 1st Class Michael Brown highlights the exceptional caliber of individuals who serve in the Navy and their unwavering commitment to excellence.

Key Takeaways

The San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) recently announced Culinary Specialist 1st Class Michael Brown as one of the Enlisted Persons of the Year.
The announcement was made during the 32nd Port Everglades Fleet Week, providing an opportunity to showcase naval technology and the dedicated men and women who serve our country.
This accomplishment highlights the exceptional caliber of individuals who serve in the Navy and their unwavering commitment to excellence.

Conclusion

We at Americans for a Stronger Navy are proud to celebrate the accomplishments of Culinary Specialist 1st Class Culinary Specialist 1st Class Michael Brown as one of the Enlisted Persons of the Year.

Posted on

Celebrating the Achievements of the Navy Community During Fleet Week

U.S. Marine Cpl. Navarre Kemp was awarded Enlisted Person of the Year for the Second Assault Amphibian Battalion

Introduction

The Navy is an essential part of America’s national security and plays a crucial role in maintaining peace through strength. Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is proud to celebrate the achievements of the Navy community during Fleet Week, where we showcase the latest naval technology and honor the brave men and women who serve our nation.

Summary

Fleet Week provides an excellent opportunity to showcase naval technology and honor the Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen who serve our nation. This year, the Enlisted Person of the Year for the Second Assault Amphibian Battalion was awarded to U.S. Marine Cpl. Navarre Kemp. Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is proud to be a part of this celebration and to support the Navy community.

Key Takeaways

Fleet Week provides an opportunity to showcase the latest naval technology
The event honors the Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen who serve our nation
U.S. Marine Cpl. Navarre Kemp was awarded Enlisted Person of the Year for the Second Assault Amphibian Battalion

Conclusion

We must continue to support and strengthen our Navy to maintain America’s national security and protect our interests around the world. We encourage all Americans to show their support for our brave men and women in uniform and to join us in celebrating the achievements of the Navy community during Fleet Week.

: