Robert Luster, Author at Americans for a Stronger Navy

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:

Iran Seizes Second Oil Tanker in the Gulf – U.S. Navy Responds

Introduction

Protecting American interests abroad is critical, and the Americans for a Stronger Navy organization recognizes the importance of maritime security. The recent seizure of the Panama-flagged oil tanker Niovi by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy in the Gulf waters raises concerns about the safety and security of commercial vessels. The incident highlights the critical role that the U.S. Navy plays in maintaining maritime security, and the need for the Navy to remain prepared to protect American interests.

Key Takeaways

Iran’s seizure of the Niovi oil tanker in the Gulf waters is the second such incident in a week, and it once again raises concerns about maritime security.
The Americans for a Stronger Navy organization recognizes the importance of maintaining readiness to protect American interests abroad.

The U.S. State Department has called for the release of the Niovi and the crew, and the international community has joined in condemning Iran’s actions.
The incident highlights the critical role that the U.S. Navy plays in maintaining maritime security in the Gulf waters and protecting American interests.
Iran’s Seizure of Niovi Oil Tanker

On Wednesday, May 3, Iran seized the Panama-flagged oil tanker Niovi while passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The incident marks the second such seizure in a week, raising concerns about the safety and security of commercial vessels in the Gulf waters. The U.S. Navy has condemned Iran’s actions and called for the release of the Niovi and its crew.

The Role of the U.S. Navy in Maintaining Maritime Security

The recent seizure of the Niovi oil tanker by Iran highlights the critical role that the U.S. Navy plays in maintaining maritime security in the Gulf waters and protecting American interests. The Navy remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of American vessels and personnel, and the Americans for a Stronger Navy organization recognizes the importance of supporting the Navy in its mission.

Conclusion:

The seizure of the Niovi oil tanker by Iran is a reminder of the critical importance of maritime security and the need for the U.S. Navy to maintain readiness to protect American interests abroad. The Americans for a Stronger Navy organization is proud to be part of the Navy community and recognizes the critical role that the Navy plays in ensuring the safety and security of American vessels and personnel. We urge all Americans to support our mission and join us in advocating for a stronger Navy. Together, we can ensure that American interests are protected, and our maritime security remains strong

May 3, 2023May 3, 2023

US Navy Contracts Update – America Strong

The US Navy recently awarded four contracts worth a total of $104 million to various defense contractors. These contracts cover a range of activities, from procurement of aircraft parts to development of digital tools for naval platforms. While these may seem like routine activities, they play a critical role in ensuring the readiness and effectiveness of the US Navy in protecting American interests.

The first contract, awarded to Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., is worth $60 million and covers the procurement of long lead parts and associated support for two E-2D Advanced Hawkeye plus up aircraft for the Navy.

The second contract, awarded to Lockheed Martin Corp., is worth $25.3 million and covers continued program management, logistics, sustainment, and system engineering support for an undisclosed country’s integration as a Foreign Military Sales (FMS) customer into the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program.

The third contract, awarded to BAE Systems Land & Armaments L.P., is worth $11.3 million and covers the manufacture and delivery of Virginia Class propulsor components and assembly.

The fourth and final contract, awarded to Raytheon BBN Technologies Corp., is worth $7.9 million and covers the development of digital threads for naval platforms.

Overall, these contracts highlight the critical role that defense contractors play in supporting the readiness and effectiveness of the US Navy. They also demonstrate the importance of investing in defense technology and capabilities to protect American interests and promote global stability. By maintaining a strong and capable Navy, the US can deter potential adversaries and protect its allies and partners around the world.

May 3, 2023May 3, 2023

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.

May 3, 2023May 3, 2023

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.

May 2, 2023May 2, 2023

Strengthening the US Navy: Updates and Contracts

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.

May 2, 2023May 2, 2023

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.

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May 2, 2023May 2, 2023

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.