Fleet Forward News Watch Archives - Page 6 of 7 - Americans for a Stronger Navy

March 20, 2023March 21, 2023

U.S. Navy’s Readiness Questioned – Admiral Samuel Paparo Provides Key Insights

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.

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.

Source: US Navy

March 19, 2023March 20, 2023

Si vis pacem, para bellum – Peace Through Strength

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.”

March 14, 2023March 14, 2023

Fast Warship Building

The article “How Fast Can We Build Warships Today?” discusses the challenges of rapidly building warships in times of crisis, specifically in response to China’s increasing naval power. The author notes that the US Navy’s shipbuilding process is currently slow and inefficient, with complex procurement procedures and limited shipyards.

Key takeaways from the article include:

The US Navy needs to be able to rapidly increase its shipbuilding capabilities to counter China’s growing naval power.
Current shipbuilding processes are slow and inefficient, and the Navy needs to streamline its procurement procedures and expand its shipyard capacity.
Private shipyards could play a larger role in building warships for the Navy.
Building a large number of smaller, simpler warships may be a more effective strategy than building a few large, complex ones.

Credit: The National Review, a conservative media outlet that covers politics, policy, and culture. The article was written by Jerry Hendrix, a retired Navy captain and former director of the Naval History and Heritage Command.

March 12, 2023March 12, 2023

USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group Completes Multi-Week Exercise to Ensure Combat Readiness

The United States Navy’s newest and most advanced aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, recently led a multi-week exercise to fully certify the carrier strike group’s combat readiness. The exercise, which took place in the Pacific Ocean, involved a fleet of warships that were tested in scenarios simulating real-world combat situations.

The USS Gerald R. Ford, which was commissioned in 2017, is the lead ship of the Gerald R. Ford class of aircraft carriers. It is the first new carrier design in over 40 years and incorporates advanced technologies that enhance its operational capabilities.

During the exercise, the carrier’s crew worked around the clock to ensure everything was functioning perfectly. Planes were launched and retrieved on the flight deck, weapons were loaded onto aircraft, and communications equipment was tested. The other ships in the strike group were engaged in their own exercises, focusing on anti-submarine warfare tactics, air defense scenarios, surface warfare, and anti-piracy exercises.

As the exercise progressed, the scenarios became more complex and intense, testing the strike group’s readiness to respond to any threat. Despite the intensity of the training, morale remained high among the crew. They knew that the skills they were honing could one day save lives and protect their country.

The strike group was tested in a variety of scenarios, from air attacks to submarine warfare. The sailors were constantly on high alert, ready to respond to any threat. The exercises were designed to fully certify the carrier strike group’s combat readiness, ensuring that they were prepared for any situation they may face in the future.

Finally, after weeks of intense training, the strike group returned to port. The sailors were exhausted but proud of what they had accomplished. They had proven their readiness to take on any challenge that came their way, and they knew that they were part of one of the most formidable fighting forces in the world.

The USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group’s multi-week exercise to fully certify their combat readiness demonstrates the United States Navy’s commitment to maintaining a strong and capable fighting force. The advanced technologies and skills honed during the exercise will ensure that the Navy is prepared to face any threat to national security.

March 10, 2023March 10, 2023

Navy Tech Bridge Matters

The United States Navy has long been at the forefront of technological innovation and advancement. However, in recent years, it has become clear that the Navy needs to adapt to new technologies more quickly and efficiently in order to remain competitive in an increasingly complex and rapidly evolving global security environment. That is where the Navy Tech Bridge program comes in.

The Navy Tech Bridge program, which is part of the larger Navy Agility Office, is a collaborative effort that aims to connect the Navy with private sector companies and academic institutions to accelerate the adoption of new technologies. The program currently operates in six different regions across the United States: New England, the Mid-Atlantic, the South, the Midwest, the Southwest, and the West Coast.

The program’s focus is on developing partnerships between the Navy and private sector entities that have expertise in areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and cybersecurity. Through these partnerships, the Navy is able to leverage the knowledge and resources of these organizations to more quickly and effectively develop and implement new technologies that can enhance its operational capabilities.

One of the key reasons why the Navy Tech Bridge program matters is that it helps the Navy to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to technological innovation. As new technologies emerge and evolve at an increasingly rapid pace, it is crucial for the Navy to be able to identify and adopt those technologies quickly in order to maintain its edge over potential adversaries. The Navy Tech Bridge program helps to facilitate that process by connecting the Navy with private sector entities that are on the cutting edge of technological innovation.

In addition to its benefits for the Navy, the Navy Tech Bridge program also has positive implications for the broader economy. By facilitating partnerships between the Navy and private sector companies, the program creates opportunities for innovation and collaboration that can lead to new jobs and economic growth in the regions where it operates.

Americans for a Stronger Navy, a non-profit education and advocacy organization that supports a strong and technologically advanced United States Navy, has been a vocal supporter of the Navy Tech Bridge program. In a statement, the organization said that it “applauds the Navy’s efforts to build bridges with the private sector and academia to accelerate the adoption of new technologies that can enhance the Navy’s operational capabilities.” Americans for a Stronger Navy recognizes the importance of staying ahead of potential adversaries and believes that the Navy Tech Bridge program is an important step in that direction.

Overall, the Navy Tech Bridge program is an innovative and important initiative that has the potential to significantly enhance the Navy’s technological capabilities. By facilitating partnerships between the Navy and private sector entities, the program helps to ensure that the Navy remains at the forefront of technological innovation and is able to adapt quickly to new challenges and opportunities.

Most Common Focus Areas

Artificial Intelligence, Unmanned Systems, CyberMachine Learning, Modeling and Simulation, Autonomous Systems, Advanced manufacturing, Additive Manufacturing, Digitalis EngineeringpHigh Performance, Computing Command, and Control, Data Analytics.

As a naval organization, the United States Navy has an interest in a wide range of topics related to maritime operations, national security, and defense. Some of the key areas of interest for the Navy include:

Naval warfare and tactics
Naval aviation and air defense
Surface ship operations and maintenance
Undersea operations, including submarines and unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs)
Cybersecurity and information technology
Space operations and satellite communications
Maritime security and counterterrorism
Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR)
Logistics and supply chain management
Environmental sustainability and conservation
Medical and health services for naval personnel
Research and development of new technologies for naval operations
International partnerships and cooperation with allied navies
Education and training for naval personnel.
These topics are all critical to the Navy’s mission of defending the United States and its allies, maintaining global security and stability, and ensuring freedom of navigation on the world’s oceans.

March 10, 2023March 10, 2023

USS Springfield’s Indo-Pacific Patrol Strengthens Partnerships in Republic of Korea

BUSAN, Republic of Korea (Feb. 23, 2023) Tugboats assist the Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Springfield (SSN 761) as it pulls into port in Busan, Feb. 23. Springfield is one of four Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarines forward deployed to the island of Guam and assigned to Commander, Submarine Squadron (CSS) 15. CSS-15 is responsible for providing training, material and personnel readiness support to multiple Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarines and is located at Polaris Point, Naval Base Guam. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Adam Craft)

The USS Springfield, a United States Navy submarine, recently visited the Republic of Korea as part of its Indo-Pacific patrol. During the visit, the submarine’s commanding officer, Cmdr. Brett A. Sechrist, expressed gratitude for the warm welcome they received from their Republic of Korea hosts. He emphasized the importance of building and maintaining strong partnerships and alliances in the region, saying, “It’s important that we continue to strengthen our partnerships and alliances in the region, and visits like this one help us to do that.”

The USS Springfield’s visit to the Republic of Korea is part of a larger mission to promote stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region. As tensions continue to rise in the region, the United States and its allies have increased their naval presence in the area to deter potential threats and maintain peace. Capt. Michael D. Luckett, commodore of Submarine Squadron 11, noted the critical role that submarines play in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific, saying, “Our submarines play a critical role in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific, and we are committed to working with our allies and partners in the region to achieve this goal.”

The United States has long-standing partnerships and alliances with countries in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Republic of Korea, which is an important ally in the region. The visit of the USS Springfield to the Republic of Korea reinforces the strong partnership between the two countries and their commitment to working together to maintain stability and security in the region.

Overall, the USS Springfield’s visit to the Republic of Korea highlights the importance of maintaining strong partnerships and alliances in the Indo-Pacific region. It also emphasizes the role that the United States Navy plays in promoting stability and security in the area. As tensions continue to rise, the need for these partnerships and alliances becomes even more crucial.

March 10, 2023March 10, 2023

The Unsung Heroes of World War II: The Collaborative Effort of the U.S., the U.K., and Australia in Defeating the Axis Powers

Press reports from Politico reflect that a plan by the United States, Australia, and the U.K are to share submarine technology as part of a strategic effort to counter Chinese naval power in the Pacific. The three countries have agreed to deepen their defense cooperation and share information on the development of new submarines, including advanced propulsion systems and stealth technology. The plan is aimed at strengthening the allies’ ability to detect and deter Chinese submarines, which have become increasingly active in the region. The article also notes that the plan is likely to further strain the already tense relationship between the three allies and China.

Takeaways:

The US, Australia, and the UK plan to share submarine technology as a strategic effort to counter Chinese naval power in the Pacific.
The plan includes deepening defense cooperation and sharing information on the development of new submarines with advanced propulsion systems and stealth technology.
The aim is to strengthen the allies’ ability to detect and deter Chinese submarines that have become increasingly active in the region.
The plan is likely to further strain the already tense relationship between the three allies and China.

The Power of Collaboration: The Story of the U.S., the U.K., and Australia in World War

Historical Context

The U.S., the U.K., and Australia collaborated in World War II to defeat the Axis powers.
The allies faced significant challenges, including the threat posed by German U-boats in the Atlantic.
The U.S. and the U.K. developed a plan to build aircraft carriers capable of tracking and destroying enemy subs
Australia provided the necessary shipbuilding expertise to build two carriers, which played a key role in the final months of the war.
The collaboration between the three nations continued after the war and remains strong today, reflecting the enduring power of collaboration and shared values.
In the early days of World War II, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia came together in a collaborative effort to defeat the Axis powers. The three nations formed an alliance that would prove to be instrumental in turning the tide of the war.

As the war raged on, the Allies faced numerous challenges and setbacks. One of the most significant was the threat posed by German U-boats, which were wreaking havoc on Allied shipping in the Atlantic. To combat this threat, the U.S. and the U.K. came up with a plan to build a new type of vessel – an aircraft carrier that could launch planes capable of tracking and destroying enemy subs.

The U.S. and the U.K. quickly realized that they didn’t have the resources to build these carriers on their own. They needed help from a nation with a strong naval tradition and the necessary shipbuilding expertise. That nation was Australia.

Australia eagerly joined the project and quickly set to work building two of these new carriers – the HMAS Melbourne and the HMAS Sydney. The carriers were launched in 1945 and played a key role in the final months of the war, helping to track down and destroy numerous German U-boats.

The collaboration between the U.S., the U.K., and Australia didn’t end with the war, however. In the years that followed, the three nations continued to work closely together on a wide range of issues, from defense to trade and beyond.

Today, the bond between the U.S., the U.K., and Australia remains strong, a testament to the enduring power of collaboration and the shared values that unite us all.

March 8, 2023March 8, 2023

Secretary of the Navy warns China’s warship production outpacing US, emphasizes need for acceleration

The Secretary of the Navy, Carlos Del Toro, has expressed concerns over China’s faster production of warships, which could impact the future of the US Navy. Del Toro has called for an acceleration of efforts to keep up with China’s naval modernization by building more warships and expanding its fleet. The report emphasizes the significance of the US Navy’s industrial base in supporting the production of advanced naval technologies. Del Toro made these remarks during a speech at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.

Takeaways

The Secretary of the Navy has warned that China is outpacing the US in warship production, posing a threat to American naval supremacy.

The US needs to accelerate its efforts to keep up with China’s naval modernization, including building more warships and expanding its fleet.

The US Navy’s industrial base is crucial in supporting the production of advanced naval technologies.

These remarks were made by the Secretary of the Navy during a speech at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.

March 7, 2023March 7, 2023

Navy Adopts Augmented Reality and Awards Contract

ThirdEye Gen, a provider of augmented and mixed reality solutions, has won a contract from the US Navy to enhance its operations with augmented reality technology. The company will provide its X2 MR Glasses and software platform to enable hands-free access to critical information in real-time. The technology will improve situational awareness, reduce errors, and enhance the overall performance of Navy personnel. The contract marks a significant milestone for ThirdEye Gen as it expands its presence in the defense industry.

Why does this matter?

The US Navy has recognized the potential benefits of augmented reality technology in enhancing its operations. With the use of ThirdEye Gen’s X2 MR Glasses and software platform, Navy personnel can access critical information in real-time and hands-free, which improves their situational awareness and reduces errors. The technology can also enhance the overall performance of Navy personnel, thereby improving the efficiency and effectiveness of their operations.

How does Augmented Reality work?

Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that overlays digital information or virtual objects onto the real-world environment in real-time. It’s different from virtual reality (VR) which creates a completely immersive, computer-generated environment.

AR can be experienced through devices like smartphones, tablets, or special glasses that use cameras, sensors, and software to superimpose digital content on the user’s view of the physical world. This can include anything from 3D models and animations to text, images, and videos.

AR has a wide range of applications, from gaming and entertainment to education, healthcare, and manufacturing. It can also be used for training and simulation purposes, as well as in military and defense operations to enhance situational awareness and decision-making capabilities.

March 7, 2023March 7, 2023

Retention award for USS George Washington

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday officiates a re-enlistment aboard USS George Washington. The ship received the FY-22 Retention Excellence Best in Class award for U.S. Pacific Fleet.

The USS George Washington, a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, has been awarded the Distinguished Retention Excellence Award for the 2020 retention cycle. The award recognizes the ship’s outstanding performance in retaining its talented sailors and ensuring that they are able to serve at their highest potential. The ship’s commanding officer praised the crew’s hard work and dedication in achieving this honor, and emphasized the importance of retaining top talent to maintain the ship’s readiness and effectiveness.

The USS George Washington is the fourth United States Navy ship to be named after George Washington, the first president of the United States. Its commissioning in 1992 marked the first time a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier had been built in over a decade, and it has since played a significant role in various military operations and humanitarian missions around the world. The ship can carry up to 90 aircraft and has a crew of over 5,000 personnel, making it one of the largest and most powerful warships in the world.