Category: U.S. Navy News

Covering U.S. naval news is crucial for the members of the Americans for a Stronger Navy as it keeps them informed of the latest developments, initiatives, and challenges faced by the Navy. This information enables them to advocate for policies that support a stronger and more capable Navy, including increased funding, modernization, and recruitment efforts. Additionally, following naval news helps them to engage with the public and raise awareness about the critical role the Navy plays in protecting national security interests and promoting global stability.

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Honoring the Best: Enlisted Person of the Year Banquet

Introduction

The American Navy has been instrumental in keeping the nation safe and secure. The Americans for a Stronger Navy is proud to report on recent developments and innovations that promote a stronger and more effective Navy. This blog post will focus on the Enlisted Person of the Year Banquet, held during Fleet Week, which honors the service members’ accomplishments and hard work.

Summary

The Fort Lauderdale Council of the Navy League hosted the Enlisted Person of the Year banquet to honor Sailors and Marines during Fleet Week Port Everglades. The event recognized service members from visiting Fleet Week commands as well as those from military commands in the Fort Lauderdale and Miami areas. Each Sailor and Marine was announced, and their Command Master Chief or Leading Chief Petty Officer would describe the accomplishments that earned their selection as Sailor of the Year for the command. This year is the 32nd time the Navy has come down for Fleet Week Port Everglades to showcase naval technology and the Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen who defend the nation.

Recognition

The Enlisted Person of the Year Banquet is a vital event that recognizes the hard work and accomplishments of Sailors and Marines. This event offers several key benefits that strengthen the Navy and the nation, including:

Service members are recognized for their hard work and dedication, which promotes morale and motivates them to continue to excel in their service.

The service members recognized include:

  • Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Kristin Stoops from USS Cole (DDG 67)
  • Navy Counselor 1st Class Amarachi Abiodun from Navy Recruiting District Miami
  • Personnel Specialist 1st Class Steve Ortega from Navy Reserve Center Miami
  • Culinary Specialist 1st Class Rodrick Sheridan from Navy Region Southeast
  • Machinist’s Mate (Auxillary) 3rd Class Fernando Villarreal from USS Indiana (SSN 789)
  • Aviation Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class Ernesto Rivera
  • Culinary Specialist 1st Class Michael Brown
  • Boatswain’s Mate 2nd Class Charmae Peria
  • Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Sydney Thayer from USS New York (LPD 2)
  • U.S. Marine Cpl. Navarre Kemp from Second Assault Amphibian Battlion

Learning tool

Recognized Sailors and Marines can use the experience as a learning tool to motivate junior Sailors in the future.

Realistic Testing or Implementation:
The Enlisted Person of the Year Banquet was held during Fleet Week Port Everglades. The event recognized service members from visiting Fleet Week commands as well as those from military commands in the Fort Lauderdale and Miami areas.

Conclusion

The Enlisted Person of the Year Banquet is an event that promotes a stronger Navy and honors the accomplishments and hard work of Sailors and Marines. The Americans for a Stronger Navy encourages readers to support the Navy and the nation by promoting the importance of the Navy and its service members. Let us rally together and support our Navy, which is instrumental in keeping our nation safe and secure.

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Revolutionary Diving Suit System Offers Enhanced Safety and Flexibility for Navy Divers

Introduction:

A U.S. Navy diver (center) tests the Office of Naval Research-sponsored Deep Sea Expeditionary with No Decompression (DSEND) system at the Navy Experimental Diving Unit in Florida. DSEND includes a hardened yet lightweight atmospheric dive suit featuring rotating, detachable joints allowing for greater dexterity, flexibility and maneuverability. Credit: U.S. Navy photo by Ronnie N.

Introduction

Greetings to our members and subscribers! At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we’re committed to promoting Peace Through Strength. In line with our mission, we’re excited to share a revolutionary new dive suit system, Deep Sea Expeditionary with No Decompression (DSEND), recently tested by the U.S. Navy. The DSEND system offers enhanced safety and flexibility for deep-sea divers, a crucial component in the Navy’s mission to secure the seas and protect our nation. We hope this story will inspire you to learn more about the innovations and advances in the Navy and join us in supporting our mission.

Summary:

The U.S. Navy has successfully tested the Deep Sea Expeditionary with No Decompression (DSEND), a revolutionary dive suit system that offers enhanced flexibility and safety for deep-sea divers. The suit system maintains steady internal pressure, reducing the risk of decompression sickness and allowing divers to work for extended periods at great depths. Sponsored by the Office of Naval Research (ONR) in partnership with other naval entities, the DSEND system is a game-changer for the Navy’s mission to secure the seas and protect the nation.

Innovative Design and Enhanced Safety Features:

The DSEND system includes a unique, hardened yet lightweight atmospheric dive suit featuring rotating, detachable joints for greater dexterity, flexibility, and maneuverability. The suit maintains one consistent pressure atmosphere, eliminating the risk of decompression sickness and reducing exposure to negative physiological effects associated with deep diving, such as cold and wet exposure.

Self-Contained Pressure Cocoon Increases Diving Time:

DSEND’s one-atmosphere environment encloses a diver in a stabilized pressure cocoon during the entire dive, allowing them to work at great depths for many hours and ascend without lengthy decompression. With a self-contained life support system, the suit system presents a solution to the limitations of traditional saturation systems used by the Navy, enabling divers to conduct harder missions by going deeper, executing faster, and operating longer.

Increased Flexibility and Reduced Fatigue:

The suit system features joints, grippers, and hand attachments made from novel materials that are strong, lightweight, and mirror the natural movements of human joints, reducing diver fatigue. The suit is also easier to don and remove and can be adjusted to diver size.

Realistic Operating Environment Testing:

During demonstrations at the Navy Experimental Diving Unit in Florida and NSWC Carderock Division in Maryland, DSEND divers completed various exercises, including pulling a mannequin from an aircraft fuselage, rigging wreckage for salvage, and traversing makeshift tunnels representing sunken vessels. In the next year, DSEND is set to undergo additional development, including at-sea demos in realistic operating environments.

Conclusion:

The DSEND system is a game-changer for the Navy’s diving missions, offering enhanced flexibility and safety features. By maintaining one consistent pressure atmosphere, DSEND eliminates the risk of decompression sickness and enables divers to work at great depths for many hours. We hope this story inspires you to learn more about the Navy’s innovations and advances and join us in supporting our mission to promote Peace Through Strength.

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The Latest Flag Officer Assignments in the US Navy

The US Navy recently announced several new flag officer assignments. These appointments will see Rear Admirals taking on important roles in various capacities across the Navy, including in Washington, D.C., the United Kingdom, and Japan.

Flag Officer Assignments

Rear Admiral Thomas J. Moreau
Rear Admiral Christopher J. Sweeney
Rear Admiral Thomas S. Wall
Rear Admiral (lower half) Tracy L. Hines
Rear Admiral (lower half) Gregory C. Huffman
Rear Admiral (lower half) Christopher D. Stone
Rear Admiral (lower half) Derek A. Trinque
Rear Admiral (lower half) Kurt J. Rothenhaus
Rear Admiral (lower half) Michael S. Sciretta

Key Takeaways:

Several Rear Admirals have been appointed to key positions within the US Navy
These appointments will see Rear Admirals taking on important roles in various capacities across the Navy, including in Washington, D.C., the United Kingdom, and Japan.
The new appointments demonstrate the Navy’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a strong and capable force.

Conclusion:

The latest flag officer assignments in the US Navy demonstrate the Navy’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a strong and capable force. These Rear Admirals have been appointed to key positions across the Navy, highlighting the importance of their roles in ensuring the Navy remains a formidable force around the world. As Americans, we should be proud of our Navy and the brave men and women who serve in it, and we should continue to support efforts to ensure it remains strong and capable for years to come

Rear Admiral Status in the US Navy.

To become a Rear Admiral in the US Navy, an individual must first be commissioned as an officer. Commissioned officers in the Navy typically start as Ensigns and advance through a series of promotions over the course of their career.

The promotion process for becoming a Rear Admiral is highly competitive and requires outstanding performance evaluations, leadership skills, and a track record of excellence in one’s field. The process also includes a review by a promotion board, which evaluates each candidate’s performance and potential for future success.

Once selected for promotion to Rear Admiral, individuals must complete a rigorous training program at the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island. This program includes courses on leadership, strategic planning, and decision-making, as well as opportunities for hands-on experience in various naval operations.

Overall, becoming a Rear Admiral in the US Navy requires a long and distinguished career of service, leadership, and excellence. It is a significant accomplishment and a testament to an individual’s dedication and commitment to the Navy and the United States.

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Honoring the Legacy: USS Henry B. Wilson DDG-7 Annual Reunion and Visit to Chattanooga, TN.

USS Henry B. Wilson (DDG-7)

USS Henry B. Wilson DDG-7 Annual Reunion and Visit to Chattanooga, TN

The USS Henry B. Wilson DDG-7 annual reunion is a special event that takes place every May, where former crew members gather to share memories, stories and experiences aboard the ship. The reunion offers a great opportunity to connect with old friends and shipmates while creating new memories. This year’s reunion will be held at the Holiday Inn located in downtown Chattanooga, TN, from May 1-5, 2023.

USS Henry B. Wilson DDG-7

The USS Henry B. Wilson DDG-7 is a Adams-class guided missile destroyer that was commissioned in 1961, named after Rear Admiral Henry Braid Wilson, a United States Navy officer who served in World War I and World War II. The ship played a crucial role during the Vietnam War, where it was deployed for escort missions and shore bombardment, earning various accolades for its bravery and performance. The ship was decommissioned in 1993.

Chattanooga, TN

Chattanooga, TN is a vibrant city located in southeastern Tennessee, known for its beautiful scenery, rich history, and cultural attractions. The city boasts several popular tourist destinations, including the Tennessee Aquarium, the Hunter Museum of American Art, and the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway. Chattanooga is also home to various outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking, rock climbing, and river rafting, making it a great place for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

  • The USS Henry B. Wilson DDG-7 is a destroyer class ship that served in the Vietnam War.
  • The ship played a crucial role in escort missions and shore bombardment.
  • The USS Henry B. Wilson DDG-7 annual reunion takes place every May.
  • The reunion offers a great opportunity for former crew members to reconnect with old friends and comrades.
  • Chattanooga, TN is a vibrant city with many popular tourist destinations.
  • Chattanooga is known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor recreational activities.

    In conclusion, the USS Henry B. Wilson DDG-7 annual reunion is a great way for former crew members to reconnect and share memories while also honoring the legacy of this brave ship. Additionally, Chattanooga, TN offers a unique and exciting destination for the reunion, with plenty of activities and attractions for attendees to enjoy. If you are a former crew member or just interested in Naval history, be sure to check out the USS Henry B. Wilson DDG-7 website for more information on the reunion and association.

#StrongerNavy

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Celebrating Women’s Contributions to the Military at Fleet Week Port Everglades

Members of the USS Cole (DDG-67), USS New York (LPD-21), USS Indiana (SSN 789), USNS Newport, Marines from the 2nd Assault Amphibious Battalion, Coast Guardsmen from the local area and local citizens stopped for a group photo during the Salute to Women in the Military Luncheon. This luncheon has been an annual event on the Fleet Week Port Everglades schedule since 2017. (Photo by Navy Region Southeast Public Affairs Specialist Twilla Burns/released).

Salute to Women in the Military Luncheon at Lauderdale Yacht Club

Nearly 80 Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen attended a Salute to Women in the Military luncheon at the Lauderdale Yacht Club, honoring the service of women in the military and providing a chance to socialize with professional women in the Fort Lauderdale area.

Speeches by Female Officers

The event featured speeches from two female officers, Lt. Lexie Silva and Lt. Ruth Rivera-Turnewitsch, who shared their experiences as officers in the Navy.

Lt. Lexie Silva’s Experience as a Submariner

Lt. Silva spoke about being a part of the trailblazing groups of women on submarines in the Navy, and how important it is to her to be a good leader. She shared, “Many think to be a female submariner today is exceptional. I feel lucky to be a part of that small group, but even luckier to be a part of something bigger and more impactful. Being a member of the crew of USS Indiana (SSN-789) means I am part of a family – a family of hardworking and humble submariners that don’t see me as a woman submariner but see me more simply as a submariner, just like them.” Silva also stated, “I get to lead and work with a group of the smartest and most caring Sailors I have encountered. I’ve learned about working hard and how to get a “yes” in the face of impossible material issues.”

Lt. Ruth Rivera-Turnewitsch’s Role as a Navy Chaplain

Lt. Rivera-Turnewitsch, who is a Navy Chaplain, spoke about how she knew her job was vital for the Navy, and how she felt about her role onboard and her strongest motivations. She shared, “When I think about my role in service, I’m not only glad to be the first female chaplain on the Cole, but what also brings me joy is the why I am where I am. I remain committed to serve at the forefront of the Navy for the purposes of the Almighty…Who cares for His children wherever they serve to remind them of their identity, their purpose, and the source of their strength.”

Fleet Week Port Everglades Showcases Pride in Service

Fleet Week Port Everglades allows Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen to showcase their pride in service and communicate what they do in defense of our country to local residents. The event will continue until the ships depart Sunday, April 30.

Key Takeaways:

The Salute to Women in the Military luncheon at the Lauderdale Yacht Club provided a chance to honor the service of women in the military and socialize with professional women in the area.
Lt. Lexie Silva spoke about being a part of the trailblazing groups of women on submarines in the Navy and the importance of being a good leader.
Lt. Ruth Rivera-Turnewitsch discussed her role as a Navy Chaplain and her motivation for serving.
Fleet Week Port Everglades allows service members to showcase their pride in service and communicate what they do in defense of our country to local residents.

Conclusion:

The Salute to Women in the Military luncheon at Fleet Week Port Everglades was a powerful reminder of the vital contributions women have made to our armed forces. As Lt. Silva and Lt. Rivera-Turnewitsch shared their experiences, it was clear that they, like many other women in the military, are trailblazers and leaders in their own right. We are grateful for their service and the service of all women in the military. If you would like to learn more about Fleet Week Port Everglades and other events celebrating our military, visit

Fact: Fleet Week Port Everglades is an annual event that allows service members to showcase their pride in service and communicate what they do in defense of our country to local residents. This year’s event took place from April 26 to April 30, 2023, and included a Salute to Women in the Military luncheon at the Lauderdale Yacht Club.

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Honoring Our Seagoing Services: Broward Navy Days Celebrates 30 Years of Service

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (April 25, 2023) Electricians Mate 1st class Stephanie Brunk attached to Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) speaks with a veteran at the Alexander Ninninger Veterans home in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. This year marks the 32nd Port Everglades Fleet Week. Fleet Week has been hosted by Broward Navy Days and other military support organizations since 1990. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nicholas V. Huynh)

Electricians Mate 1st class Stephanie Brunk attached to Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) speaks with a veteran at the Alexander Ninninger Veterans home in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. This year marks the 32nd Port Everglades Fleet Week. Fleet Week has been hosted by Broward Navy Days and other military support organizations since 1990.

History of Broward Navy Days, Inc.

Incorporated in 1990, Broward Navy Days, Inc. (BND), was formed under the leadership of Captain Jean Fitzgerald, USN (Ret.), to host an annual Fleet Week celebration at Port Everglades.

In 2001, Broward Navy Days merged the Fleet Week celebration with the McDonald’s Air & Sea Show and benefited from the professional management of the MDM Group, Ltd. & Pro-Series, Inc. for seven years. The Fleet Week Celebration was known as Fleet Week USA. In 2008 after the Air & Sea Show was discontinued, it reverted to Fleet Week Port Everglades, planned and hosted by BND. Fleet Week Port Everglades remains the signature event for BND each spring, but the organization is equally committed to actively supporting our seagoing services year-round.

Supporting the Seagoing Services Year-round

The organization plans welcoming events and shore leave activities for visiting Navy and Coast Guard ships periodically throughout the year and supports the activities of the U.S. Navy Southern Command and Coast Guard Station Fort Lauderdale. Broward Navy Days also participates in the commissioning ceremonies of new Navy ships and Coast Guard cutters in South Florida and the change of command ceremonies for the local Navy and Coast Guard commands.

Annual Events and Ceremonies

One of the most moving annual events is the Pearl Harbor memorial service held at Coast Guard Station Fort Lauderdale. As the number of survivors continues to dwindle, Broward Navy Days is dedicated to preserving the memory of the infamous attack that catapulted the United States into World War II.

Honorable Advisory Board

Today, 30 years after its founding, the Broward Navy Days organization has gained a highly respected reputation among our sea going services for being a good friend of the “White Hats.” The organization’s Honorable Advisory Board includes distinguished Navy and Coast Guard officials, such as ADM John C. Harvey, Jr., USN (Ret), and CMDR Kirk Lippold, USN (Ret), the former Commander of the USS Cole.

Key takeaways:

Broward Navy Days is a non-profit organization that has been hosting Fleet Week at Port Everglades since 1990.
The organization supports seagoing services year-round by planning welcoming events and shore leave activities.
They participate in commissioning and change of command ceremonies, as well as the annual Pearl Harbor memorial service.
Broward Navy Days is dedicated to preserving the memory of the infamous attack that catapulted the United States into World War II.
The organization has gained a highly respected reputation among seagoing services for being a good friend of the “White Hats.”
The Honorable Advisory Board includes distinguished Navy and Coast Guard officials.

Conclusion:

Broward Navy Days has been honoring the seagoing services for over 30 years through their annual Fleet Week celebration at Port Everglades and their support of visiting Navy and Coast Guard ships year-round. Their dedication to preserving the memory of Pearl Harbor and participating in commissioning and change of command ceremonies has earned them a highly respected reputation among seagoing services. As Americans, we should take pride in supporting organizations like Broward Navy Days that honor and support those who serve our country.

Facts:

  • The Broward Navy Days organization was formed in 1990 by Captain Jean Fitzgerald, USN (Ret.).
  • Fleet Week was merged with the McDonald’s Air & Sea Show in 2001 and known as Fleet Week USA until 2008.
  • Broward Navy Days participates in the commissioning ceremonies of new Navy ships and Coast Guard cutters in South Florida.
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Join the Navy Fleet Week and witness America’s naval power in action!

PORT EVERGLADES, Fla. (April 24, 2023) U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to the Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Indiana (SSN 789) put out a controlled fire during the Resolve Marine Damage Control Olympics as part of Navy Fleet Week Port Everglades. This marks the 18th year that Resolve Academy has held this event for military members to participate in. 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. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Zachary D. Behrend)

The Resolve Academy recently held the Damage Control Olympics, where U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to the Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Indiana (SSN 789) showcased their skills in controlling fires.

This was part of the Navy Fleet Week Port Everglades, which has been hosted for the 32nd time by Broward Navy Days. Fleet Week provides an excellent opportunity to showcase naval technology and the brave Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen who serve the nation.

The Resolve Academy has been organizing the Damage Control Olympics for 18 years now, and it has been a fantastic event for military members to participate in.

The Significance of the Resolve Academy and the Damage Control Olympics

The Resolve Academy has been instrumental in providing training to military members and first responders in damage control and firefighting. Their annual event, the Damage Control Olympics, provides a unique opportunity for participants to showcase their skills and knowledge, making it a must-attend event for military members.

The Virginia-Class Fast-Attack Submarine USS Indiana (SSN 789)

The Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Indiana (SSN 789) is one of the most advanced submarines in the U.S. Navy. It is equipped with advanced technology and weapons systems that make it an essential asset to America’s naval power.

Key Takeaways:

The Resolve Academy has been providing training to military members and first responders in damage control and firefighting.
The Damage Control Olympics is a must-attend event for military members, providing a unique opportunity for participants to showcase their skills and knowledge.
The Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Indiana (SSN 789) is one of the most advanced submarines in the U.S. Navy, equipped with advanced technology and weapons systems.

Conclusion:

Join the Navy Fleet Week and witness America’s naval power in action! The Resolve Academy’s annual event, the Damage Control Olympics, is an excellent opportunity for military members to showcase their skills and knowledge.

The Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Indiana (SSN 789) is just one example of America’s advanced naval technology.

As Americans, we should take pride in our naval power and support the brave men and women who serve in the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard.

The Resolve Academy has been organizing the Damage Control Olympics for 18 years now. Source: https://www.resolveacademy.com/about-us

The Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Indiana (SSN 789) is equipped with advanced technology and weapons systems that make it an essential asset to America’s naval power. Source: https://www.navy.mil/Resources/Fact-Files/Display-FactFiles/Article/2167489/virginia-class-attack-submarine-ssn/

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Iran seizes oil tanker bound for Texas: US Navy

Iran has seized a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker, the Advantage Sweet, in the Gulf of Oman according to the Associated Press

The US Navy’s 5th Fleet called for the vessel’s immediate release, adding that Iran’s actions were contrary to international law and destabilizing to regional security. The vessel had just left Kuwait and was headed to Houston, Texas. Iran did not acknowledge the seizure, and the vessel’s owners were not immediately available for comment. The incident is the latest in a string of tanker seizures and explosions in the region amid heightened tensions over Tehran’s nuclear program.

Key Points:

  • Iran seized a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker, the Advantage Sweet, in the Gulf of Oman.iThe
  • US Navy’s 5th Fleet called for the vessel’s immediate release.
  • The tanker had just left Kuwait and was headed to Houston, Texas.
  • Iran did not acknowledge the seizure, and the vessel’s owners were not immediately available for comment.
  • Tanker seizures and explosions have been a part of a wider shadow war between Iran and the West since 2019

Conclusion:

The seizure of the Advantage Sweet by Iran underscores the need for a strong navy to ensure regional security and stability. Tanker seizures have become a tactic in the shadow war between Iran and the West, and incidents like these only serve to increase tensions. Americans for a Stronger Navy is committed to informing and inspiring readers to support the mission of a strong navy.

By subscribing to our website, you can stay up-to-date on the latest developments and help us rally support for this important cause.

According to a report by the Associated Press, Iran has seized a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman. The incident underscores the need for a strong navy to ensure regional security and stability, as tanker seizures have become a tactic in the shadow war between Iran and the West. Americans for a Stronger Navy is committed to informing and inspiring readers to support the mission of a strong navy, and this incident only reinforces the urgency of our cause.

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USS Indiana (SSN-789): A Modern Virginia-Class Attack Submarine at Fleet Week

Fleet Week is an annual event that celebrates the strength and power of the United States Navy. This year, the USS New York is among the four ships that have arrived at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, offering visitors a chance to see the powerful symbol of strength and sacrifice up close.

The USS Indiana (SSN-789) is a nuclear-powered Virginia-class attack submarine in the United States Navy named after the state of Indiana. It is the sixteenth submarine of its class and the sixth of the redesigned Block III, which features a revised bow and vertical launch system technology from the Ohio-class of guided missile submarines. Here’s everything you need to know about this impressive vessel.

Construction and Commissioning

The construction of the USS Indiana (SSN-789) began on December 22, 2008, and it was built by Huntington Ingalls Industries in partnership with the Electric Boat division of General Dynamics in Newport News, Virginia. The submarine’s keel was laid on May 16, 2015, and it was launched on June 9, 2017. The USS Indiana was christened on April 29, 2017, and sponsored by Diane Donald, wife of Admiral Kirkland H. Donald, USN (ret). The submarine was acquired on June 25, 2018, and commissioned on September 29, 2018, at Port Canaveral, Florida.

General Characteristics

The USS Indiana (SSN-789) has a displacement of 7800 tons when light and 7800 tons when fully loaded. The submarine is 114.9 meters (377 feet) long and 10.3 meters (34 feet) wide, making it a formidable vessel. Its propulsion system consists of a single S9G PWR nuclear reactor generating 280,000 shp (210 MW) and two steam turbines generating 40,000 shp (30 MW). It has a single shaft pump-jet propulsor and a secondary propulsion motor, enabling it to reach a speed of 25 knots (46 km/h). Its range is essentially unlimited, with a maximum lifespan of 33 years. The submarine has a test depth of greater than 800 feet (240 meters) and a complement of 134 officers and men.

Homeport and Motto

The USS Indiana (SSN-789) is currently stationed at its homeport in Groton, Connecticut. The submarine’s motto is “Silent Victors,” which speaks to its stealth capabilities and its ability to carry out missions without detection.

Conclusion

The USS Indiana (SSN-789) is an impressive submarine that showcases the technological advancements of the Virginia-class of submarines. Its nuclear-powered propulsion system, impressive speed, and range make it an essential asset to the United States Navy. With a dedicated crew and state-of-the-art technology, the USS Indiana (SSN-789) is ready to defend the United States against any threat.

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US Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOPs) reveal its security strategy amidst geopolitical tensions

South China Sea, – An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter takes off from the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) as the ship prepares to pull alongside the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Rappahannock (T-AO 204) for an underway replenishment. Credit: DVIDS.

The US Department of Defense has released its annual Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOPs) for the fiscal year 2022, protesting against 22 excessive maritime claims worldwide. FONOPs are protests made by the DoD against “unlawful maritime claims” that challenge the legal foundation of the rules-based order. The FONOP made against Malaysia in the South China Sea seeks to prevent the country from prohibiting military exercises or manoeuvres in its economic exclusive zone without consent. While this is an affront to Malaysia’s self-determination, it is seen as a potential military exercise to be conducted in the SCS in the near future. Similarly, Taiwan is included as a claimant in the SCS, and challenging its prerequisite for prior notification for foreign military or government vessels to enter its territorial sea will give the US more manoeuvrability to contain the PRC and potentially control wider activity in the region such as commerce.

US protests against excessive maritime claims

The US Department of Defense has released its annual Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOPs) protesting against 22 excessive maritime claims for 2022, revealing its security strategy amidst geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region.

Geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific

Countries around the world are jostling to maintain their interests at sea more than ever before, largely due to the geopolitical tensions across the Indo-Pacific. Within this boiling pot of competing interests in the region, the US Department of Defense (DoD) has released its annual FONOPs in its report for the fiscal year 2022.

FONOPs challenge unlawful maritime claims

FONOPs are protests made by the DoD against “unlawful maritime claims” that challenge the legal foundation of the rules-based order.

FONOPs against Malaysia

The FONOP made against Malaysia in the South China Sea seeks to prevent the country from prohibiting military exercises or manoeuvres in its economic exclusive zone without consent. Politically, this is an affront to the country’s self-determination, and it is also hypocritical given the DoD’s claim that its FONOPs aim to “uphold the freedom of navigation as a principle”.

Potential military exercise in the SCS

However, in the broader context of their conflict with the PRC, which we see from the FONOPs made against them, is encroaching upon its neighbouring territories, from India to Taiwan. As tensions rise in the SCS, this FONOP signals a potential military exercise to be conducted in the SCS in the near future. This tactic would follow the large-scale military exercises the US have conducted this year on the Korean peninsula and in the Middle East that were designed to deter their adversaries.

Challenging Taiwan’s prerequisite for prior notification

Similarly, Taiwan is included as a claimant in the SCS as well, as the island country requires prior notification for foreign military or government vessels to enter its territorial sea. Challenging this prerequisite will give the US far more manoeuvrability as the DoD seek to contain the PRC, and potentially control the wider activity in the region such as commerce.

Conclusion

The US Department of Defense’s annual Freedom of Navigation Operations protests against excessive maritime claims and reveals its security strategy amidst geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region. With tensions rising in the South China Sea, the FONOP made against Malaysia and Taiwan seeks to prevent restrictions on military exercises and manoeuvres, giving the US more manoeuvrability to contain the PRC and potentially control wider activity in the region

Key takeaways

  • The US Department of Defense’s annual Freedom of Navigation Operations protests against excessive maritime claims and reveals its security strategy amidst geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region.
    FONOPs challenge unlawful maritime claims that challenge the legal foundation of the rules-based order.
  • The FONOP made against Malaysia seeks to prevent restrictions on military exercises and manoeuvres, giving the US more manoeuvrability to contain the PRC and potentially control wider activity in the region such as commerce.
  • Challenging Taiwan’s prerequisite for prior notification will give the US more manoeuvrability to contain the PRC and potentially control wider activity in the region such as commerce.