The Seven teams chosen for $2.5bn of US naval defence work according to Global Construction Review. The article reports that seven teams have been selected by the US Navy to compete for a series of design and construction contracts worth up to $2.5 billion over the next five years.
Here are some key takeaways from the article:
The US Navy has selected seven teams to compete for a series of design and construction contracts worth up to $2.5 billion over the next five years. The contracts will focus on infrastructure and facility construction projects at US Navy and Marine Corps locations throughout the continental US and Hawaii. The seven teams selected include some of the largest construction companies in the US, including Fluor, Hensel Phelps, and Jacobs. The contracts will be awarded through a competitive selection process, with each team given the opportunity to bid on individual projects as they are announced. The goal of the contracts is to improve the infrastructure and facilities that support the US Navy and Marine Corps, allowing them to better carry out their missions and operate effectively.
SASEBO, Japan — The dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) departed Sasebo March 22, 2023 for its new homeport of San Diego, California. Ashland had been stationed in Sasebo since August 2013, during which time it participated in numerous exercises and operation.
This will be a permanent change of station for the crew and family members.
“I can’t thank the wonderful city of Sasebo enough for all their warm hospitality,” said Cmdr. Dirk Sonnenberg, the commanding officer of Ashland. “I’ve done multiple tours in Japan, but Sasebo will always be special to me as the warmest and most welcoming city to be hosted at. The experience will never be forgotten by the Sailors who served here. It has been an extreme privilege for Ashland to have served the U.S./Japan Alliance for nearly 10 years from Sasebo.”
Ashland arrived at Sasebo in August of 2013 and conducted operations under Expeditionary Strike Group 7.
The ship participated in numerous exercises and operations, to include Iron Fist, Balikatan, and Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) series events. Additionally, the crew conducted humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations in Saipan and Tinian in 2015 and 2018.
Ashland’s operations included first-in-class and proof of concept tasking to increase the interoperability of the U.S. Navy with Allies and partners in the region.
“Coming from Shelbyville, Kentucky, it was amazing to come half-way around the world to experience Sasebo and everything the Western Pacific has to offer,” said Hull Maintenance Technician 3rd Class Stephen Ruddy. “Everyone in Sasebo was so helpful and friendly. I’ll miss the camaraderie of being stationed in such a great town.”
Maintaining a forward-deployed naval force capability with the most advanced ships supports the United States’ commitment to the defense of Japan and the security and stability of the Indo-Pacific region.
Ashland’s homeport change complies with the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which mandates that U.S. Navy ships forward deployed to Japan not exceed 10 years. The ship expects to arrive in San Diego in mid-Spring, following her Trans-Pacific voyage.
CDR Dirk Sonnenberg
CDR Dirk Sonnenberg is the Commanding Officer of USS ASHLAND (LSD 48). He hails from Tucson, Arizona. He received his commission in 2004 from the University of Arizona NROTC program in Tucson, Arizona. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology with a minor in History, as well as a Master of Arts in Security Studies for Homeland Defense and Security from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California. He is also Amphibious Warfare Tactics Instructor (WTI).
CDR Sonnenberg has served at sea as Executive Officer in USS ASHLAND (LSD 48), as Operations Officer and Combat Systems Officer in USS NEW YORK (LPD 21) in Norfolk, VA and Mayport, FL, Navigation Officer in onboard USS CURTIS WILBUR (DDG 54) in Yokosuka, Japan, and Strike Officer in USS CHANCELLORSVILLE (CG 62) and USS SHILOH (CG 67) also in Yokosuka, Japan.
Ashore, he served as Director, Military Sealift Command (MSC) Ship Support Unit Japan, in Yokohama, Japan, Deputy Operations Officer for Commander, Task Force 76/Expeditionary Strike Group Seven in Okinawa, Japan and as Exercise/Staff Officer in Naval Forces Korea in Seoul, South Korea.
He attended SMWDC’s inaugural Amphibious Warfare Tactics Instructor course becoming one of the first Amphibious Warfare Tactics Instructors.
Awards and achievements include: COMNAVSURFLANT Finalist for Surface Warfare Officer of the Year and earned Navy and Marine Association Peer Leadership Award. Other awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, the Navy Commendation Medals (5 awards), the Navy Achievement Medals (3 awards) and the Battle “E” Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon (9 awards), and the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (5 awards), as well as various unit and campaign awards.
The Shreveport Time reports that Rear Admiral Dion D. English, (RDML) with the United States Navy. met with Caddo Parish, Louisiana residents to discuss potential plans for a training site. Navy representatives addressed concerns about noise, environmental impact, and potential land acquisition. The meeting was part of a larger process to gather public input and assess potential sites for training operations.
Key takeaways:
The United States Navy is considering potential sites for a training facility and held a meeting with Caddo Parish residents to gather public input
Navy representatives discussed concerns about noise, environmental impact, and potential land acquisition.
The meeting was part of a larger process to assess potential sites for training operations.
About Caddo Parish, Louisiana
Caddo Parish is a parish located in the northwest corner of the U.S. state of Louisiana. According to the 2020 U.S. census, the parish had a population of 237,848. The parish seat is Shreveport, which developed along the Red River.
About Admiral Dion D. English, (RDML) with the United States Navy
Rear Adm. Dion English
Rear Adm. Dion English is a native of Monroeville, Alabama and Slidell, Louisiana. English entered the Navy’s Broadened Opportunity for Officer Selection Training program in 1987. In 1993, he graduated from Louisiana State University and was subsequently commissioned through the Navy Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program at Southern University. He earned master’s degrees in business administration from Old Dominion University and in national security and strategic studies from the Naval War College. He is also a 2007 graduate of the Joint Forces Staff College, and attended the Executive Program in Strategy and Organization at the Stanford Graduate School of Business.
His afloat assignments include disbursing and sales officer, USS Scott (DDG 995); cargo and stock control officer, USNS San Diego (T-AFS 6); supply officer, USS Barry (DDG 52); and commanding officer, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Expeditionary Support Unit One.
His shore assignment include ship force support officer, Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Newport News, Virginia; executive assistant to the Commander, Defense Supply Center Columbus, Ohio; deputy logistics operations officer, Joint Task Force Civil Support (JTF-CS), Fort Monroe Virginia; Logistics readiness officer, Logistics Current Operations Division, Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet; director, Supply Corps Detailing, Navy Personnel Command (PERS-4412); commanding officer, Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) Sigonella; deputy director, supply and distribution, J44, Joint Staff, Washington, District of Columbia; and director, Logistics, Fleet Supply and Ordnance, N4, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
English is designated as a Surface Warfare Supply Corps Officer and as a Navy Expeditionary Supply Corps Officer. He is a member of the Defense Acquisition Corps and is a Joint Qualified Officer. While under his command, NAVSUP FLC Sigonella earned recognition in partnership with the team that received the prestigious Admiral Stan Arthur Award for 2018 Logistics Team of the Year.
His personal decorations include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, and Navy Achievement Medal.
The United States and the Philippines have issued a joint statement condemning China’s “gray zone” activities in the South China Sea. These activities include the deployment of maritime militia and the harassment of Philippine vessels and fishermen. The two countries also reaffirmed their commitment to upholding international law and called for a peaceful resolution to the disputes in the region. The statement was issued after the conclusion of the annual joint military exercises between the US and the Philippines.
Key takeaways:
The US and the Philippines have condemned China’s “gray zone” activities in the South China Sea.
China’s activities include the deployment of maritime militia and the harassment of Philippine vessels and fishermen.
The two countries reaffirmed their commitment to upholding international law and called for a peaceful resolution to the disputes in the region.
The statement was issued after the conclusion of the annual joint military exercises between the US and the Philippines.
Source: The Manila Times
What are the Gray Zones?
U.S. Position on Maritime Claims in the South China Sea:
In a 2020 U.S. Secretary of Defense the statement, the PRC has no lawful territorial or maritime claim to (or derived from) James Shoal, an entirely submerged feature only 50 nautical miles from Malaysia and some 1,000 nautical miles from China’s coast. James Shoal is often cited in PRC propaganda as the “southernmost territory of China.” International law is clear: An underwater feature like James Shoal cannot be claimed by any state and is incapable of generating maritime zones. James Shoal (roughly 20 meters below the surface) is not and never was PRC territory, nor can Beijing assert any lawful maritime rights from it.
The world will not allow Beijing to treat the South China Sea as its maritime empire. America stands with our Southeast Asian allies and partners in protecting their sovereign rights to offshore resources, consistent with their rights and obligations under international law. We stand with the international community in defense of freedom of the seas and respect for sovereignty and reject any push to impose “might makes right” in the South China Sea or the wider region.
The U.S. Navy’s readiness is being tested as China continues to build up its naval forces and threatens Taiwan. These concerns were highlighted in a recent 60 Minutes story featuring Admiral Samuel Paparo, onboard the USS Nimitz, deployed near the U.S. territory of Guam, southeast of Taiwan and the People’s Republic of China, or PRC.
Admiral Samuel Paparo commands the U.S. Pacific Fleet, whose 200 ships and 150,000 sailors and civilians make up 60% of the entire U.S. Navy.
“The Navy’s always on alert. One third of the Navy is always deployed and operating at all times. The Navy’s mustering right now about 300 ships, and there are about 100 ships at sea right now all around the globe.” – Admiral Samuel Paparo.
The story emphasized the challenge posed by China’s rapidly growing navy, which now boasts the world’s largest fleet of ships.
CBS 60 minutes with Admiral Samuel Paparo
“The Chinese have made a great effort over the last decade-plus to modernize their navy, and in many cases to achieve parity with us.” – Admiral Samuel Paparo.
The 60 Minutes story also emphasized the need for the U.S. to maintain a strong and capable navy in the face of China’s rise, while also working with its allies in the region to counter China’s ambitions. The story also discussed the situation in Taiwan, where tensions have been rising as China increases its military activities in the region.
“I’ll tell you this: we are here to stay, right, in the South China Sea, and in this part of the world. And I think that’s the message that we really want to convey to not only China, but the entire world. We will sail wherever international law allows.” – Lt. Cmdr. David Ash.
Key takeaways from the story include:
The need to increase the Navy’s readiness through more training and better equipment, as well as concerns about a shortage of ships and the impact of budget cuts on the Navy’s ability to maintain its readiness.
The saying, which is, “Si Pacem, Para Bellum,” which is, “If you want peace, prepare for war.” Admiral Samuel Paparo.
About Si vis pacem, para bellum
This ancient Latin adage means “If you want peace, prepare for war.” For additional information on this topic click here for earlier post from the Americans for a Stronger Navy blog.
Amidst these challenges, organizations such as the Americans for a Stronger Navy will advocate for a stronger and better-equipped Navy.
The mission of the Americans for a Stronger Navy is to educate the public and policymakers about the importance of a strong Navy to national security and economic prosperity.
On behalf of the members of the Americans for Stronger Navy, we would like to salute both Admiral Samuel Paparo, Lt. Cmdr. David Ash, the entire crew for their service and CBS 60 Minutes for covering this important story.
“It is crucial to raise awareness about the threats facing the U.S. Navy and the need to maintain a strong and capable naval presence in the Indo-Pacific region.” – Americans for a Stronger Navy.
Admiral Samuel Paparo
More about Adm. Samuel Paparo
Adm. Samuel Paparo, a native of Morton, Pennsylvania graduated from Villanova University and was commissioned in 1987. He is the son of a former enlisted Marine and the grandson of a World War II enlisted Sailor. He has earned a Master of Arts in International Studies from Old Dominion University and a Master of Science in Systems Analysis from the Naval Postgraduate School.
A U.S. Naval Aviator, he is a TOPGUN graduate and has flown over 6,000 hours in the F-14, F-15 and F/A-18 and 1,100 carrier landings.
Operational command tours at sea include Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 195 in the Forward Deployed Naval Forces, Yokosuka, Japan, deploying in Kitty Hawk Strike Group; VFA 106, NAS Oceana, Va; Commander, Carrier Air Wing 7, embarked in Dwight D. Eisenhower Strike Group and Commander, Carrier Strike Group 10.
Other operational assignments at sea include Fighter Squadron (VF) 14, flying the F-14 Tomcat with USS John F. Kennedy and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Strike Groups and VFA-15, flying the F/A-18 Hornet with USS Theodore Roosevelt and USS Enterprise Strike Groups.
In joint operational service, he was Director of Operations (J3) at U.S. Central Command, Tampa, Florida; Battle Director at the Combined Air and Space Operations Center, Al Udeid, Qatar; and Commanding Officer of Provincial Reconstruction Team, Nuristan Province, Afghanistan with the 3rd Brigade, 10th Mountain Division and the 173rd Airborne Brigade. He served also on exchange duty with the U.S. Air Force flying the F-15C Eagle with the 71st Fighter Squadron, deploying multiple times to Saudi Arabia and Keflavik, Iceland.
Shore assignments include the staff of Commander, Naval Air Forces, as F/A-18 training, readiness and requirements officer. He was Programming Division (OPNAV N80), Strategy and Resource and Requirements Review Board branch head.
Executive staff tours include service as executive assistant to Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, and executive assistant to the 31st Chief of Naval Operations.
His most recent assignment was commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, U.S. 5th Fleet and Combined Maritime Forces, Manama, Bahrain.
The title “Si vis pacem, para bellum – Peace Through Strength” accurately reflects the central message of Americans for a Stronger Navy and its philosophy that by preparing for war, nations can achieve a lasting peace. This message is deeply rooted in the history of the phrase “Si vis pacem, para bellum,” which has been adopted and adapted by many different groups over the centuries.
For Americans for a Stronger Navy, the idea of preparing for war in order to secure peace is central to their mission. We believe that a strong and capable Navy is essential to protecting the United States and its interests, both at home and abroad. By investing in military programs and promoting policies that support veterans and their families, Americans for a Stronger Navy seeks to ensure that the US Navy remains the most powerful and effective naval force in the world.
The philosophy of Americans for a Stronger Navy is embodied in the phrase “Si vis pacem, para bellum.” This ancient Latin adage means “If you want peace, prepare for war,” and it has become a guiding principle for the organization. We also believe that by deterring potential adversaries and projecting military power when necessary, the US Navy can help to maintain stability and prevent conflicts from escalating. Moreover, a strong Navy can enable the US to provide humanitarian assistance and support to its allies, further promoting peace and stability around the world.
In this way, the message of “Si vis pacem, para bellum” is at the core of the philosophy of Americans for a Stronger Navy. By preparing for war, we hope to achieve a lasting peace that is maintained through strength and deterrence, rather than through conflict and violence. The title “Si vis pacem, para bellum – Peace Through Strength.”
Welcome home! On behalf of Americans for a Stronger Navy, we want to express our deepest appreciation and gratitude for your service to our country over the past six years.
The USS Barry has accomplished so much during its time in Japan, including participating in several multinational exercises and conducting numerous successful operations in the Indo-Pacific region. Your service has helped to promote stability, peace, and security in the region, and we are all incredibly proud of the contributions you have made to the defense of our nation.
Serving your country is an incredible honor and a cherished responsibility that is respected and admired by those at home. Your efforts to protect our freedoms and values, and we are grateful for your unwavering dedication and commitment to duty. Your service and sacrifice remind us of the importance of the Navy’s mission and the vital role it plays in ensuring the safety and security of our nation.
We know that the past six years have been challenging, with long deployments and time away from family and loved ones. We are grateful for the sacrifices you have made and the personal challenges you have overcome to serve our country.
We hope that as you reunite with your families and loved ones, you feel the gratitude and appreciation of a grateful nation. Thank you for your service, and your dedication to the Navy and to our country.
Sincerely, Americans for a Stronger Navy
Barry’s namesake honors Commodore John Barry, the Father of the American Navy, Revolutionary War hero, and first commissioned officer in the United States Navy. Barry is assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force.
MUSCAT, Oman (March 16, 2023) International Maritime Exercise (IMX) 2023 participants conclude the exercise during a final briefing and ceremony in Muscat, Oman, with virtual attendees watching via video teleconference from the IMX Maritime Operations Center in Manama, Bahrain, March 16, 2023. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Jacob Vernier)
The International Maritime Exercise (IMX) 2023, a multinational naval exercise, has concluded with a closing ceremony in Oman. The exercise involved naval forces from 35 countries, including the United States, and aimed to enhance maritime security, stability, and interoperability among participating nations. The exercise featured a variety of drills, including anti-piracy operations, mine countermeasures, and maritime interdiction operations. Key takeaways from the exercise include the importance of cooperation and communication among international naval forces, the need for effective coordination and planning in joint operations, and the value of training and preparation for potential real-world scenarios.
Why does this matter
The International Maritime Exercise (IMX) 2023 was a significant event because it brought together naval forces from 35 different countries to work together towards the common goal of enhancing maritime security, stability, and interoperability. The exercise provided an opportunity for participating countries to share best practices, build relationships, and improve their collective ability to respond to potential maritime security threats. Additionally, the exercise highlighted the importance of effective communication and coordination among international naval forces, which is crucial for responding to complex security challenges in today’s interconnected world. Ultimately, the IMX 2023 demonstrated the value of multilateral cooperation and preparation for real-world scenarios, making the world safer for everyone.
The crew of the Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Annapolis (SSN 760) successfully launches Tomahawk cruise missiles off the coast of southern California in 2018.
The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has announced a possible sale of Tomahawk cruise missile systems to Australia. The proposed deal is worth an estimated $1.5 billion and would involve the sale of 200 Tomahawk Block V All-Up-Round missiles, along with associated equipment, spare parts, and support services.
The Tomahawk missile system is a long-range, all-weather, subsonic cruise missile that is designed for precision strike missions against heavily defended targets. It is a proven weapon system that has been used extensively in combat operations, most recently in the strikes against Syrian chemical weapon facilities in 2018.
The proposed sale would enhance Australia’s capability to deter regional threats and strengthen its interoperability with the US. It would also support Australia’s maritime security and provide it with an enhanced ability to conduct naval operations independently or in coordination with other allies.
The sale of the Tomahawk missile system to Australia is part of a broader trend of increasing defense cooperation between the US and its allies in the Indo-Pacific region, as they seek to counterbalance China’s growing military power and assertiveness in the region.
The proposed sale is still subject to approval by the US Congress, and it remains to be seen how Australia’s neighbors, particularly China, will respond to the move. However, if approved, the sale could have significant implications for the balance of power in the region and could potentially escalate tensions between the US and China.
Overall, the proposed sale of the Tomahawk missile system to Australia highlights the increasing importance of the Indo-Pacific region in global affairs and the growing significance of defense cooperation among allies in the region. It also underscores the continued rivalry between the US and China, which is likely to shape the region’s security landscape in the years to come.
CNN reports that:
So far only the UK has bought Tomahawks from the US, but recently Japan announced its intention to buy hundreds of the missiles, which cover a distance of more than 1,000 kilometers (621 miles), to boost its defense capabilities.
About Tomahawks
First deployed in the Gulf War in 1991, Tomahawk missiles fly at extremely low altitudes at high subsonic speeds and are controlled by several mission-tailored guidance systems. According to the US Navy, they can be launched from submarines made by the US and the UK, as well as from US Navy ships.
The Tomahawk Land Attack Missile is a long-range, all-weather, jet-powered, subsonic cruise missile that is primarily used by the United States Navy and Royal Navy in ship and submarine-based land-attack operations. Source: Wikipedia
Maximum speed: Subsonic; ~Mach 0.74. about 567.7 mph (493.3 kn; 913.6 km/h)
Engine: Williams International F107-WR-402 turbofan; using TH-dimer fuel; and a solid-fuel rocket booster
Manufacturer: General Dynamics (initially); McDonnell Douglas; Hughes Aircraft Corporation; Raytheon Missiles & Defense Length: Without booster: 18 ft 3 in (5.56 m) With booster: 20 ft 6 in (6.25 m)
Diameter: 20.4 in (0.52 m) Mass: 2,900 lb (1,300 kg), 3,500 lb (1,600 kg) with booster Unit cost: : $1.87M (FY2017) (Block IV); $2M (FY2022) (Block V);
Ships and aircraft from Nimitz Carrier Strike Group (NIMCSG) and Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group (MKI ARG), with embarked 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), operate in formation in the South China Sea.
The U.S. Navy reports on the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit’s (MEU) operations in the South China Sea, which were conducted in coordination with the USS Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group.
Here are some key takeaways:
The 13th MEU participated in Expeditionary Strike Force operations in the South China Sea, which included conducting maritime security operations, amphibious assault rehearsals, and live-fire training exercises.
The operations were aimed at demonstrating the U.S. military’s commitment to regional security and stability, as well as enhancing interoperability with allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region.
The article highlights the importance of the South China Sea as a strategic waterway for global commerce and the need to maintain a rules-based international order to ensure free and open access to it.
The article also mentions that the 13th MEU is a highly capable, versatile, and expeditionary force that can rapidly deploy to respond to crises and contingencies around the world.
Here are a couple of quotes from the article that help to emphasize the key points:
“The South China Sea is a vital waterway for global commerce and maintaining a rules-based international order that allows for free and open access to the region is a top priority for the U.S. and its allies and partners.”
“The 13th MEU is highly capable and ready to respond to a range of crises and contingencies, and we remain committed to working with our partners and allies in the Indo-Pacific to ensure regional security and stability.”
