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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Americans for a Stronger Navy: A Partnership for Peace Through Strength- an interview with Captain Marvin, Commanding Officer USS San Jacinto (CG-56)

Introduction

Americans for a Stronger Navy is an organization that focuses on advocating for a stronger Navy to protect American interests and promote national security and Peace Through Strength.

As part of their outreach initiatives, the US Navy hosts Navy Weeks in partnership with various organizations throughout the country.

In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the USS San Jacinto, (CG-56) an active Navy ship that is currently participating in Navy Week in Wilmington, N.C. and with pleasure and opportunity to interview Captain Christopher E. Marvin, the USS San Jacinto Commanding Officer.

Captain Christopher E. Marvin, Commanding Officer,
USS San Jacinto, (CG 56)

Captain Christopher E. Marvin, Commanding Officer,
USS San Jacinto, (CG 56)

Captain Marvin is a native of rural northeastern Pennsylvania. He attended Pennsylvania State University graduating in 1996 with a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Biology. In November 1997, he entered Officer Candidate School in Pensacola Florida, and was commissioned in March of 1998.

His first sea tour of duty was aboard USS JOHN YOUNG (DD-973) in San Diego, California where he served as the Deck Officer from 1999 to 2001. In November 2001, he reported to USS BLACKHAWK (MHC-58) in Ingleside, Texas as the Engineer Officer and served on BLACKHAWK from 2001 to 2003.

Following his initial sea duty tours, Captain Marvin attended The Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California where he earned a Master of Science in Information Systems Technology and completed Joint Professional Military Education Phase I.

In June 2006, following completion of Department Head and Tactical Action Officer training, then Lieutenant Marvin, transferred to Naval Station Pearl Harbor Hawaii and reported for duty as the Engineer Officer aboard USS CHUNG-HOON (DDG-93).

In subsequent sea tours, he served as the Engineer Officer aboard USS CHOSIN (CG-65) in Pearl Harbor Hawaii, Executive Officer aboard USS HALYBURTON (FFG-40) in Mayport, Florida and USS SOMERSET (LPD-25) in San Diego, California and most recently as Commanding Officer of USS DETROIT (LCS-7) Gold Crew in Mayport, FL.

In addition to his shore tour at the Naval Postgraduate School, Captain Marvin also served ashore on the Commander Naval Surface Force Staff in the N8 Directorate from 2009 to 2011 followed by a one-year tour of duty on the Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa Staff in Djibouti, as a student at the Joint Forces Staff College and most recently on the Commander Naval Surface Forces Staff serving as deputy assistant Chief of Staff for future requirements.

Captain Marvin’s awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal; Navy Commendation Medal; Navy Achievement Medal; Iraq Campaign Medal; and various other unit and service awards.

Interview with Captain Christopher E. Marvin

Question and Answer with Bill Cullifer, Founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy and Captain Marvin, Commanding Officer San Jacinto:

Q: Captain Marvin, what would you like the American public to know about the Navy’s mission today, and what they can do to help support that mission?

A: “America remains a global leader with global interests. Households and businesses throughout the United States benefit from the steady flow of resources and goods across oceans. Our modern economy depends on access to the internet, which rides upon undersea fiber-optic cables. This is a critical decade – maintaining the world’s best Navy is an investment in the security and prosperity of the United States. The rules-based international order depends upon free and open oceans. The United States Navy protects the sea lines of communication, which facilitates 98% of the world’s trade and commerce. The American people play the vital role in providing the workforce and industrial support that sends our warships to sea and is the base from which our highly intelligent, industrious and growing technology savvy Sailors enter service to their Navy and Nation. Support for local businesses and industries will effectively translate to direct material support to the increasingly complex and diverse challenges maritime security. Additionally, focus on continuing education in both technologically advanced and classical trade skills will provide the industrial-technological base that will be crucial to maintain peace through vigilance today and win any future battles that threaten our sea, land, air, and space access and interests.”

V/r,
-Chris
Captain Chris Marvin, USN
Commanding Officer, USS SAN JACINTO (CG56) “Victory is Certain”

Navy Weeks

Navy Weeks are a series of events that provide opportunities for the Navy to showcase its assets, equipment, and personnel. These programs are designed to educate Americans on the importance of naval service, increase awareness in cities that might not otherwise see the Navy at work, and showcase the Navy’s global deployment. The USS San Jacinto is currently participating in Navy Week in Wilmington, NC, and the public is invited to take a tour of the ship.

USS San Jacinto (CG-56)

USS San Jacinto (CG-56)

The USS San Jacinto, (CG-56) is an active Navy ship that has been in commission for over three decades. It has traveled across international waters and has been involved in several operations, including firing the opening shots of Operation Desert Storm. In 2020, the ship broke the U.S. Navy record for most consecutive days at sea, with a total of 206 days. It is a formidable vessel that serves to protect American interests and promote national security.

Tours of the USS San Jacinto, (CG-56)

Tours of the USS San Jacinto will be available on Friday, April 14, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The public is encouraged to visit Godwin Stadium, where a security check will occur before a bus transports visitors to the ship. Walk-ins are welcome, and visitors are only asked to bring their ID and wear closed-toed shoes.

This is a unique opportunity to see firsthand the inner workings of an active Navy ship and to learn more about the importance of naval service.

Reflecting on Navy Week in Wilmington, NC

As Navy Week comes to a close in Wilmington, NC, we reflect on the valuable opportunity it provides for the Navy to showcase its assets and educate Americans on the importance of naval service.

Our Interview with Captain Christopher E. Marvin

During our interview with Captain Christopher E. Marvin, Commanding Officer of the USS San Jacinto, we gained valuable insights into the importance of the Navy’s mission in protecting national security and promoting peace through strength. Captain Marvin emphasized the vital role played by the American public in supporting the Navy’s mission through workforce and industrial support. Additionally, he highlighted the crucial role of continuing education in both technologically advanced and classical trade skills for maintaining the Navy’s industrial-technological base, which is essential for maintaining peace through vigilance today and winning any future battles that threaten our sea, land, air, and space access and interests.

Partnership for Peace Through Strength

As an organization that advocates for a stronger Navy, Americans for a Stronger Navy recognizes the importance of a partnership between the Navy and the American public in promoting national security and peace through strength. Events like Navy Week provide valuable opportunities for the Navy to showcase its assets and educate Americans on the importance of naval service.

Gratitude for All Involved

We would like to extend our gratitude to Captain Christopher E. Marvin, Commanding Officer of the USS San Jacinto, the crew of the USS San Jacinto, and all those responsible for managing and organizing the event, including the unsung heroes behind the scenes. We thank them for their service, their dedication to promoting the mission of the Navy, and their service to our country.

Importance of Naval Service

The public was able to tour the USS San Jacinto during Navy Week, gaining a deeper appreciation for the importance of naval service in protecting American interests and promoting national security and Peace Through Strength.

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USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60) Transiting the Suez Canal: A Testimony to the US Navy’s Skill and Expertise

USS Paul Hamilton courtesy US Navy

Hello members and subscribers of Americans for a Stronger Navy!

As an organization dedicated to promoting Peace Through Strength, we strive to highlight the important work of the United States Navy in maintaining global security and stability.

Today, we want to share a story that showcases the skill and expertise of the US Navy’s sailors and pilots in navigating one of the world’s most important waterways – the Suez Canal.

The successful transit of the USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60) through the canal is a testament to the importance of maintaining a strong naval presence in the region. We hope that this story will inspire you to continue supporting our mission of promoting a strong and effective US Navy, as we work towards a safer and more peaceful world.

On April 5th, 2023, the US Navy announced that the USS Paul Hamilton a Guided Missle Destroyer, had successfully transited the Suez Canal as part of its deployment to the Middle East.

The Suez Canal has been an important passage for naval vessels for over a century, and the USS Paul Hamilton successful transit is a testament to the skill and expertise of the US Navy’s sailors and pilots. The Suez Canal is a strategic chokepoint that connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea, allowing naval vessels to quickly move between Europe and Asia. The USS Paul Hamilton transit through the canal highlights the importance of this waterway for the US Navy’s operations in the region.

Transiting through the Suez Canal is not without its challenges. The canal is over 120 miles long and has no locks, which means that vessels must navigate through narrow passages and tight turns. The depth of the canal can also be a concern, as low water levels can cause vessels to run aground. Additionally, the security of the vessels transiting through the canal is a top priority, as the canal has been the target of attacks in the past.

The US Navy works closely with the Egyptian authorities to ensure that all necessary security measures are in place. The USS Paul Hamilton successful transit through the canal is a testament to the strong relationship between the US Navy and the Egyptian government. The U.S. Navy employs skilled pilots who are well-versed in navigating through the canal’s narrow passages, ensuring a smooth and safe transit.

The Suez Canal is an important transit point for the US Navy, allowing it to quickly move its vessels between the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea. The USS Paul Hamilton successful transit through the canal demonstrates the US Navy’s commitment to maintaining a strong presence in the region. The US Navy remains vigilant and ready to respond to any potential threats in the area, ensuring that global trade can continue to flow smoothly through the Suez Canal.

In conclusion, the USS Paul Hamilton successful transit through the Suez Canal is a testament to the US Navy’s skill and expertise in navigating through challenging waterways. The Suez Canal remains an important passage for naval vessels, and the US Navy will continue to rely on it for its operations in the Middle East. With proper planning and execution, the US Navy can safely and efficiently pass through this historic waterway, ensuring that it remains a vital link between Europe and Asia.

“Transiting the Suez Canal: A Testimony to the US Navy’s Skill and Expertise”

This title highlights the central theme of the blog post – the successful transit of the USS Paul Hamilton through the Suez Canal – while also emphasizing the skill and expertise of the US Navy’s sailors and pilots.

Armament
Guns:
5-inch (127 mm)/54 Mk 45 Mod 1/2 (lightweight gun)
2 × 20 mm Phalanx CIWS
2 × 25 mm Mk 38 Machine Gun System
4 × .50 caliber (12.7 mm) guns
Missiles:
2 × Mk 141 Harpoon Anti-Ship Missile Launcher
1 × 29-cell, 1 × 61-cell (90 total cells) Mk 41 Vertical Launching System (VLS):
RIM-66M Surface-to-Air Missile
RIM-156 Surface-to-Air Missile
BGM-109 Tomahawk Cruise Missile
RUM-139 Vertical Launch ASROC
Torpedoes:
2 × Mark 32 triple torpedo tubes:
Mark 46 Lightweight Torpedo
Mark 50 Lightweight Torpedo
Mark 54 Lightweight Torpedo
Aircraft carried
Flight deck can embark 1 Sikorsky MH-60R

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U.S. Navy Week returns to Wilmington, NC after 3 years

The U.S. Navy has announced that Navy Week will bring demonstrations, performances and events to Wilmington, NC for the week of April 10 to 16, 2023.

Americans for a Stronger Navy is proud to support U.S. Navy Week, a community outreach initiative that showcases the brave men and women who serve in our nation’s Navy.

Navy Week provides an opportunity for communities to interact with sailors, learn about the Navy’s mission, and show support for our servicemen and women. As an organization dedicated to promoting peace through strength, we believe that a strong Navy is crucial to ensuring the safety and security of our nation.

This year’s Navy Week in Wilmington, NC is especially exciting as it marks the return of the event after a three-year absence. We hope that this week will inspire more people to become active supporters of the Navy and its mission.

Wilmington will host the city’s first Navy Week since 2019 when the Navy visits the area for a week of events April 10-16, in conjunction with the Azalea Festival.

Wilmington Navy Week brings Sailors from across the fleet to the area to emphasize the importance of the Navy to Wilmington, the state of North Carolina, and the nation.

Participating Navy assets include USS Constitution, USS San Jacinto (CG-56), Navy Reserve Center Raleigh, Navy Talent Acquisition Group Carolina, Naval History & Heritage Command, Navy Band Southeast, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group 2, Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 15, Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command, USS North Carolina (SSN-777), U.S. Navy Parachute Team (Leap Frogs), Navy Medical Center Camp Lejeune, Office of Small Business Programs, and U.S. Fleet Forces.

More than 75 Sailors will participate in education and community outreach events throughout the city, including the Azalea Festival Parade.

The Navy’s senior executive attending is Admiral Daryl Caudle, commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command. Adm. Caudle is a native of Winston-Salem and a graduate of North Carolina State University. During Wilmington Navy Week, he will participate in community engagements, meet leaders in education, and speak with local businesses, veterans, and government leaders.

Navy Weeks are a series of outreach events coordinated by the Navy Office of Community Outreach designed to give Americans an opportunity to learn about the Navy, its people, and its importance to national security and prosperity. Since 2005, the Navy Week program has served as the Navy’s flagship outreach effort into areas of the country without a significant Navy presence, providing the public a firsthand look at why the Navy matters to cities like Wilmington.

“We are excited to bring the Navy Week program to Wilmington,” said NAVCO’s director, Cmdr. Anthony Falvo. “Seapower and America’s Navy are more important now than ever before. The U.S. Navy remains our nation’s most powerful instrument of military influence and Navy Weeks allow us to showcase how the Navy serves America at sea, in the air, and ashore.”

Throughout the week, Sailors will participate in various community events across the area, including engaging with visitors at the Children’s Museum of Wilmington and NC Aquarium Fort Fisher, and volunteering at the Brigade Boys and Girls Club, YMCA, and Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity. Residents will also enjoy free live music by Navy Band Southeast at venues throughout the week.

Wilmington Navy Week is one of 15 Navy Weeks in 2023, which brings a variety of assets, equipment, and personnel to a single city for a weeklong series of engagements designed to bring America’s Navy closer to the people it protects. Each year, the program reaches more than 140 million people — about half the U.S. population.

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U.S. Navy’s Columbia-Class Submarine Program – Awards Leonardo DRS Over $1 Billion Contract

Introduction

Greetings to all members and subscribers of Americans for a Stronger Navy.

As an organization that promotes Peace Through Strength, we are thrilled to share the latest news in the U.S. Navy’s efforts to maintain and advance its capabilities.

We hope that this story will inform and inspire you to support our mission to build a stronger Navy.

Summary

Leonardo DRS, a leading provider of advanced defense technology, has been awarded contracts valued at over $1 billion to provide integrated electric propulsion components for the U.S. Navy’s next-generation Columbia-class submarine. The Columbia-class submarine is a top priority program for the Navy, and it will replace the fleet of Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines. The integrated electric propulsion components will be manufactured in the company’s facilities in Massachusetts, Wisconsin, Connecticut, and Missouri.

Leonardo DRS is known for its market-leading propulsion and power generation technology, with major systems for next-generation submarines and surface ships. The company’s investments in these technologies have created opportunities to use proven electric drive capabilities for future naval platforms.

Key Takeaways

  • Leonardo DRS has been awarded contracts worth over $1 billion to provide integrated electric propulsion components for the U.S Navy’s Columbia-class submarine program.
  • The Columbia-class submarine is a top priority program for the Navy and will replace the fleet of Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines.
  • Leonardo DRS is a leading provider of advanced defense technology, with major systems for next-generation submarines and surface ship.

Conclusion

The U.S. Navy’s investment in the next-generation Columbia-class submarine program represents the importance of maintaining and advancing our national security capabilities. Leonardo DRS’s role in providing integrated electric propulsion components is critical to the success of this program.

As supporters of a Stronger Navy, we encourage our readers to consider subscribing to our organization and helping to build a stronger future for our nation’s defense.

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USS Ralph Johnson Lends a Hand to Local Community

Introduction:

Greetings members and subscribers! Americans for a Stronger Navy values promoting peace through strength, which is our organization’s central theme. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how the USS Ralph Johnson recently assisted a local non-profit organization, Island Girl Power (IGP), in Guam. We hope that this story will inform and inspire our readers to continue supporting a Stronger Navy.

Summary:

Sailors from the USS Ralph Johnson (DDG 116) visited IGP in Dededo, Guam, on March 31 to help organize donations of clothing and furniture for the Kurason i’Sengsong thrift store and assist in the community garden. The proceeds from the thrift store help to fund IGP’s core program, which aims to empower young girls in Guam. The sailors hoped that their work would help the mission of IGP and connected them to the greater good of the island’s community. IGP Executive Director Juanita Blaz thanked the sailors for their assistance, which showed the community and its youth that people care about them.

Key Takeaways:

  • The USS Ralph Johnson recently helped Island Girl Power in Guam.
  • Sailors helped organize donations of clothing and furniture and assisted in the community garden.
  • The proceeds from the thrift store fund IGP’s core program, which young girls in Guam.
  • The sailors hoped to connect with the community and the greater good of the island.
  • IGP Executive Director Juanita Blaz thanked the sailors for their assistance, which showed the community and its youth that people care about them.

Conclusion:

The USS Ralph Johnson’s recent assistance to Island Girl Power is a heartwarming example of how the US Navy can help local communities.

We hope that this story inspires our readers to continue supporting a Stronger Navy, which values promoting peace through strength. By subscribing to Americans for a Stronger Navy, you can stay informed about our mission and help us achieve our goals. #PeaceThroughStrength

Class and type
Arleigh Burke-class destroyer
Displacement
9,217 tons (full load)[6]
Length
513 feet (156 m)[6]
Beam
66 feet (20 m)[6]
Propulsion
4 × General Electric LM2500 gas turbines (100,000 shp)[6]
Speed
30 kn (56 km/h; 35 mph)
Complement
380 officers and enlisted
Armament
Guns:
5-inch (127 mm)/62 Mk 45 Mod 4 (lightweight gun)
1 × 20 mm Phalanx CIWS
2 × 25 mm Mk 38 Machine Gun System
4 × .50 caliber (12.7 mm) guns
Missiles:
1 × 32-cell, 1 × 64-cell (96 total cells) Mk 41 Vertical Launching System (VLS):
RIM-66M Surface-to-Air Missile
RIM-156 Surface-to-Air Missile
RIM-174A Standard ERAM
RIM-161 Anti-Ballistic Missile
RIM-162 ESSM (quad-packed)
BGM-109 Tomahawk Cruise Missile
RUM-139 Vertical Launch ASROC
Torpedoes:
2 × Mark 32 triple torpedo tubes:
Mark 46 Lightweight Torpedo
Mark 50 Lightweight Torpedo
Mark 54 Lightweight Torpedo
Aircraft carried
2 × MH-60R Seahawk helicopters
Aviation facilities
Double hangar and helipad

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US Navy Asserts Navigational Rights in the South China Sea Near China-Militarized Island

Introduction:

Greetings to all members and subscribers of Americans for a Stronger Navy. We believe in promoting peace through strength, which is a valuable central theme of our organization mission.

In this blog post, we will summarize a recent event related to the US Navy in the South China Sea.

Summary:

The US Navy has sent a guided-missile destroyer, the USS Milius, close to Mischief Reef in the Spratly Islands, near the South China Sea. Mischief Reef, which is claimed by the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam, has been militarized by China.

The sailing was consistent with international law, and the US Navy asserts that China’s actions are in violation of the Law of the Sea Convention. China has claimed almost all of the South China Sea as part of its territorial waters, including many distant islands and inlets, and has militarized many of them.

“No member of the international community should be intimidated or coerced into giving up their rights and freedoms,” the US Navy said.

The US Navy announcement came after China’s military simulated precision attacks against key targets in Taiwan.

China called the USS Milius mission “illegal trespassing.”

The US regularly conducts freedom of navigation operations (FONOPs) in the region, defending the rights of vessels of any nation to operate in the area.

Key Takeaways:

  • The US Navy has sent a guided-missile destroyer close to Mischief Reef in the Spratly Islands, near the South China Sea.
  • Mischief Reef has been militarized by China, which is in violation of international law.
  • China claims almost all of the South China Sea as part of its territorial waters and has militarized many of the islands and inlets.
  • The US regularly conducts FONOPs in the region to defend the rights of vessels of any nation to operate in the area.

Conclusion:

It is essential to promote peace through strength, as our organization mission states, and the recent US Navy’s action in the South China Sea is an example of how we can achieve it. By following international law and conducting FONOPs, we can defend the rights of all nations to operate in the region.

We encourage all our readers to support a Stronger Navy by subscribing to our website and staying informed on these critical issues.

source CNN

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US submarine sent to Middle East

The USS Florida U.S. Navy/Photographer’s Mate 2nd Class Lynn Friant

The U.S. Navy has deployed a nuclear-powered guided-missile submarine, USS Florida, to the Middle East in support of the U.S. Fifth Fleet based in Bahrain.

The submarine entered the region on Thursday and transited the Suez Canal on Friday. The USS Florida is capable of carrying up to 154 Tomahawk land-attack cruise missiles and is deployed to ensure regional maritime security and stability.

The Ohio-class guided missile submarine USS Florida (SSGN 728) makes her way through Cumberland Sound to Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay. Florida will be officially welcomed to her new home in Kings Bay with a return to service ceremony scheduled for May 25, 2006, in Mayport, Fla. Florida is the second of four SSBN submarines to be converted to the guided missile SSGN platform.

Armament

4 × 21 in (533 mm) torpedo tubes
154 × BGM-109 Tomahawks in 22 groups of seven

The 5th Fleet patrols the crucial Strait of Hormuz, the narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf through which 20% of all oil transits. Its region includes the Bab el-Mandeb Strait off Yemen and the Red Sea stretching up to the Suez Canal, the Egyptian waterway linking the Mideast to the Mediterranean Sea.

USS Florida
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US Navy Destroys Supersonic Target GQM-163 Coyote in Successful Exercise

Americans for a Stronger Navy is a non profit group advocating for a robust US Navy to maintain the nation’s maritime superiority and safeguard its interests and peace through strength.

As part of its mission, the group highlights the importance of investing in advanced naval technologies and capabilities to ensure that the Navy remains ready and capable of defending against any potential threat.

USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) and USS Mason (DDG 87) engage a GQM-163, supersonic target, launched by the NASA’s Wallops Fight Facility in Virginia using AEGIS combat system and SM-2 missiles.

The exercise took place on 27 March 2023, and the footage of the event was released by the Navy.

https://youtu.be/n6171Y8F15I
Northrop Grumman GQM-163 Coyote

Philippine Sea and Mason are underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting surface warfare advanced tactical training (SWATT) with Carrier Strike Group TWO. SWATT is the surface force’s premiere advanced tactical training exercise, increasing warfighting capability and tactical proficiency across all domains.

Northrop Grumman

The US Navy has successfully destroyed the supersonic target GQM-163 Coyote during an exercise in the Atlantic Ocean near the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Wallops Flight Facility, Virginia.

The GQM-163 Coyote is a high-performance target used for training purposes and was developed by Northrop Grumman for the US Navy to replace the MQM-8 Vandal. It is capable of reaching Mach 2.6 (3,210 km/h) at 5-9 meters and Mach 3-4 (3,700-4940 km/h) at 1.5-16.8 km altitude, with a range of 83km and the ability to reach 17km into the sky.

Lockheed Martin Aegis system

During the exercise, the US Navy used at least two Raytheon Standard Missile 2 (SM-2) interceptors to destroy the GQM-163 Coyote. The missiles were launched by the Ticonderoga-class cruiser USS Philippine Sea (CG-58) and the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Mason (DDG-87), both of which are equipped with the Aegis system.

The Aegis system leverages a combination of software, sensors, and weapons to detect, classify, track, and defeat threats. It integrates the flow of information from multiple ships and aircraft to comprehensively counter large-scale attacks.

The successful exercise demonstrated the effectiveness of the Aegis system and the SM-2 missiles in countering supersonic targets. The Navy’s ability to detect, track and destroy such high-performance targets is crucial for ensuring the safety and security of maritime operations.

Overall, the successful exercise is a testament to the US Navy’s commitment to maintaining a high level of readiness and preparedness in the face of potential threats. The Navy’s continued investment in advanced technologies and training exercises ensures that it remains capable of defending against any potential adversaries.

Source: The War Zone


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DOD Navy Contracts Announced

Huntington Ingalls Inc., Pascagoula, Mississippi, is awarded a $1,295,000,013 fixed-price-incentive modification to previously awarded contract N00024-18-C-2406 for the procurement of the detail design and construction of the Amphibious Transport Dock ship, LPD 32, the third LPD 17 Flight II ship. Work will be performed in Pascagoula, Mississippi (82%); Crozet, Virginia (3%); Beloit, Wisconsin (2%); and New Orleans, Louisiana (2%), with other efforts performed at various sites throughout the U.S. (11%). Work is expected to be completed by September 2029. Fiscal 2023 shipbuilding and conversion (Navy) funding in the amount of $1,295,000,013 will be obligated at award and will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.

Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Linthicum Heights, Maryland, is awarded a $235,904,196 firm-fixed-price modification to previously awarded contract N00024-20-C-5519 to exercise an option for production of Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program Block 3 Hemisphere Systems. Work will be performed in Baltimore, Maryland (55%); Tampa, Florida (8%); Andover, Massachusetts (5%); Chelmsford, Massachusetts (5%); San Diego, California (3%); Rochester, New York (2%); Los Angeles, California (2%); Stafford Springs, Connecticut (2%); Glendale, Arizona (1%); Elk Grove Village, Illinois (1%); White Marsh, Maryland (1%); Tucson, Arizona (1%); Chandler, Arizona (1%); Washington, North Carolina (1%); Woodridge, Illinois (1%); Richardson, Texas (1%); Minneapolis, Minnesota (1%); El Cajon, California (1%); Hiawatha, Iowa (1%); Littleton, Colorado (1%); Glendale, California (1%); Rolling Meadows, Illinois (1%); and other locations each less than 1% (4%), and is expected to be completed by December 2025. Fiscal 2023 shipbuilding and conversion (Navy) funds in the amount of $175,249,445 (74%); and fiscal 2023 other procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $60,654,751 (26%) will be obligated at time of award and will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.

Raytheon Technologies Corp., Pratt and Whitney Military Engines, East Hartford, Connecticut, is awarded a $212,681,084 fixed-price incentive (firm-target) modification (P00031) to a previously awarded contract (N0001921C0011). This modification definitizes the existing contract and extends the period of performance to provide continued recurring sustainment, program management, financial and administrative, propulsion integration, engineering, material management, configuration management, software sustainment, security management, equipment management and product management support activities. Additionally, this modification definitizes and extends the period of performance to continue to provide joint technical publication updates, training, depot level maintenance and repair for all fielded propulsion systems at the F-35 production sites and operational locations for the Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, non-U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) partners, and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) customers. Work will be performed in East Hartford, Connecticut (40%); Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (21%); Indianapolis, Indiana (12%); West Palm Beach, Florida (6%); Windsor Locks, Connecticut (6%); Brekstad, Norway (4%); Leeuwarden, Netherlands (3%); Iwakuni, Japan (3%); Williamtown, Australia (2%); Cameri, Italy (1%); Marham, United Kingdom (1%); and Fort Worth, Texas (1%), and is expected to be completed in November 2023. Fiscal 2023 operation and maintenance (Air Force) funds in the amount of $82,789,319; fiscal 2023 operation and maintenance (Marine Corps) funds in the amount of $35,970,027; fiscal 2023 operation and maintenance (Navy) funds in the amount of $14,356,701; FMS customer funds in the amount of $25,690,292; and non-U.S. DOD participant funds in the amount of $53,300,944 will be obligated at the time of award, $133,116,047 of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Maryland, is the contracting activity.

BAE Systems Land & Armaments L.P., Minneapolis, Minnesota, is awarded a $132,485,525 firm-fixed-price modification to previously awarded contract N00024-20-C-5380 for MK 41 vertical launching system (VLS) canister production and ancillary hardware. Work will be performed in Aberdeen, South Dakota (90%); and Minneapolis, Minnesota (10%), and is expected to be completed by November 2025. Fiscal 2023 weapons procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $76,616,300 (58%); fiscal 2023 defense-wide procurement funds in the amount of $30,163,290 (22%); other customer funds in the amount of $12,690,500 (9%); fiscal 2023 research, development, test and evaluation (Army) funds in the amount of $9,213,700 (6%); fiscal 2023 procurement (Marine Corps) funds in the amount of $1,842,740 (1%); Fiscal 2021 weapons procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $1,553,887 (1%); Foreign Military Sales funds (Japan) in the amount of $325,413 (1%); fiscal 2022 research, development, test and evaluation funds (Army) in the amount of $63,250 (1%); and fiscal 2022 procurement (Marine Corps) funds in the amount of $16,445 (1%) will be obligated at time of award, of which $1,617,137 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C., is the contracting activity.

Raytheon Missiles and Defense, Tucson, Arizona, is awarded an $113,628,201 firm-fixed-price modification to previously awarded contract N00024-21-C-5406 for MK 15 close-in weapon system (CIWS) upgrades and conversions, system overhauls, and associated hardware. Work will be performed in Louisville, Kentucky (37%); Tucson, Arizona (13%); Mason, Ohio (6%); Williston, Vermont (5%); Hauppauge, New York (2%); Joplin, Missouri (2%); Radford, Virginia (2%); Palo Alto, California (2%); Andover, Massachusetts (2%); Van Nuys, California (1%); Anaheim, California (1%); Valencia, California (1%); Irvine, California (1%); Tempe, Arizona (1%) and various other locations each less than 1% (24%), and is expected to be completed by September 2026. Fiscal 2023 operations and maintenance (Navy) funds in the amount of $70,496,178 (62%), fiscal 2023 shipbuilding and conversion (Navy) funds in the amount of $41,316,038 (36%), fiscal 2021 weapons procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $804,046 (1%), and fiscal 2022 weapons procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $11,939 (1%), will be obligated at time of award, of which $71,300,224 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.

DRS Systems Inc., Melbourne, Florida, is awarded a $26,000,000 modification (P00002) to a firm-fixed-price order (N0001922F1162) against a previously issued basic ordering agreement (N0001919G0030). This modification adds scope to procure 16 joint urgent operation need Weapon Replaceable Assembly Shipsets associated with the AN/AAQ-45 Distributed Aperture Infrared Countermeasures system configuration in support of the MH-60S for the Navy. Work will be performed in Dallas, Texas (55%); San Diego, California (43%); Fort Walton Beach, Florida (1%); and Melbourne, Florida (1%), and is expected to be completed in March 2025. Fiscal 2023 aircraft procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $26,000,000 will be obligated at the time of award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Maryland, is the contracting activity.

Lockheed Martin Space, Titusville, Florida is being awarded a $20,941,008 cost-plus-fixed-fee level-of-effort and completion type contract modification (P00002) to previously awarded contract N0003022C2023 for engineering, technical support services, operational support hardware and consumable spares for the Fleet Ballistic Missile Program. Work will be performed in Denver, Colorado (24.64%); Valley Forge, Pennsylvania (23.30%); Cape Canaveral, Florida (23.21%); Titusville, Florida (9.75%); Sunnyvale, California (7.77%); Coulport, Scotland (4.19%); Kings Bay, Georgia (1.83%); and various locations below one percent (5.31%). Work is expected to be completed by March 31, 2025. Non-appropriated funds in the amount of $20,941,008 will be obligated on this award and no funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was awarded as a sole source acquisition pursuant to 10 U.S.Code 2304(c)(4). Strategic Systems Programs, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.

Hexagon US Federal Inc. – Huntsville, Alabama, is awarded a $16,370,119 firm-fixed-price delivery order (N00024-23-F-4125) for surface ship Situational Awareness, Boundary Enforcement and Response (SABER) land-based site equipment under indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract N00024-19-D-4114. Work will be performed in Huntsville, Alabama, and is expected to be completed by October 2024. Fiscal 2023 other procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $11,490,113 (70.2%); fiscal 2023 ship construction (Navy) funds in the amount of $3,559,293 (21.7%); and fiscal 2023 research, development, test and evaluation (Navy) funds in the amount of $1,320,713 (8.1%) will be obligated at the time of award. This contract was not competitively procured as it is a delivery order off of a single award contract. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.

American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), Spring, Texas, is awarded a $15,922,961 modification under a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N3220522C4029) to fund and exercise Option Year 1 for continuous supportive engineering and technical services to audit ships and conduct plan reviews to verify, confirm and document that Military Sealift Command’s government-owned, government-operated fleet and government-owned, contract-operated fleet of are maintained in class or can be placed in class with ABS. The Navy’s Military Sealift Command, Norfolk, Virginia, is the contracting activity.

L3 Harris Technologies Inc. – Interstate Electronics Corp., Anaheim, California, is awarded a $15,798,147 cost-plus-fixed-fee and cost-plus-incentive-fee modification (P00015) under previously awarded contract N00003022C2001 for services and support for flight test instrumentation systems. Work will be performed in Anaheim, California (55%); Cape Canaveral, Florida (31%); Washington, D.C. (8%); Barrow-in-Furness, United Kingdom (3%); and Groton, Connecticut (3%). Work is expected to be completed Sept. 30, 2025. Fiscal 2023 shipbuilding and conversion (Navy) funds in the amount of $4,449,557; and fiscal 2023 other procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $9,009,302 will be obligated at the time of award. No funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The total obligated dollar value of the modification is $13,458,859 and the total cumulative face value of the options exercised is $15,798,147. This contract was awarded on a sole source basis under 10 U.S.Code 2304(c)(1) and was previously synopsized on the System for Award Management online portal. This contract award also benefits a foreign military sale to the United Kingdom. Strategic Systems Programs, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.

Northrop Grumman Corp., Charlottesville, Virginia, is awarded a $15,723,200 firm-fixed-price and cost-only modification to previously awarded contract N00024-23-C-5234 to exercise options for surface and submarine inertial sensor module (ISM) configurations and material for engineering support for the navigation program. Work will be performed in Charlottesville, Virginia, and is expected to be completed by January 2025. Fiscal 2023 other procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $11,724,162 (75%); fiscal 2023 shipbuilding and conversion (Navy) funds in the amount of $1,949,519 (12%); fiscal 2022 shipbuilding and conversion (Navy) funds in the amount of $1,949,519 (12%); and fiscal 2022 other procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $100,000 (1%) will be obligated at the time of award and will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.

Raytheon Missiles & Defense, Tewksbury, Massachusetts, is awarded a $15,043,848 firm-fixed-price modification to previously awarded contract N00024-22-C-5522 for an option exercise of a technical refresh and a procurement of spares to support DDG 1000-class combat system activation, sustainment, and modernization. Work will be performed in Portsmouth, Rhode Island (44%); Largo, Florida (29%); Marlborough, Massachusetts (19%); and Nashua, New Hampshire (8%), and is expected to be completed by January 2026. Fiscal 2023 other procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $5,575,427 will be obligated at time of award and will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity.

Centerra Group LLC, Herndon, Virginia, was awarded $8,830,791 for a modification to indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract N62742-16-D-3600. This modification provides for the exercise of Option Period Seven for base operating support services at military and civilian installations within the Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) Pacific area of operations. This award brings the total cumulative face value of the contract to $68,418,701. Work will be performed in the Republic of Singapore. This option period is from April 2023 to March 2024. Fiscal 2023 operation and maintenance (Navy); fiscal 2023 operation and maintenance (Air Force); and fiscal 2023 non-appropriated funds in the amount of $8,049,648 for recurring work was obligated at time of award and will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. NAVFAC Pacific, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, is the contracting activity. (Awarded March 28, 2023)

Triton Marine Construction Corp., Bremerton, Washington, is awarded $8,593,939 firm-fixed-price task order (N4425523F4247) to repair saltwater distribution and compressed air lines at Dry Docks 4 and 5, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. The work to be performed provides for returning the saltwater distribution and compressed air loop feed utility lines to new condition by complete replacement of the damaged piping and other system hardware. Work will be performed in Bremerton, Washington, and is expected to be completed by October 2024. Fiscal 2023 operation and maintenance (Navy) funds in the amount of $8,593,939 will be obligated at time of award, and will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This task order was competitively procured via the Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment website, with four offers received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command, Northwest, Bremerton, Washington, is the contracting activity (N44255-21-D-5008).

CORRECTION: The March 30, 2023, announcement of a $650,433,839 contract with Raytheon Co., El Segundo, California (N0001923C0037), included the wrong contract completion date. The work is expected to be completed in October 2026

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Admiral Gilday’s Visit to Manila Highlights the Importance of the U.S. Navy’s Presence in the Philippines

MANILA, Philippines (Feb. 22, 2023) – Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Gilday meets with Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Andres Centino during his visit to Manila, Philippines, Feb. 22. Gilday visited the Philippines to engage with government officials and military leadership to discuss interoperability and further advance regional maritime security. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist MC1 Michael B. Zingaro/released)

In February 2023, Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Gilday, accompanied by his wife Linda, traveled to Manila, Philippines, to meet with military and government officials. The visit focused on U.S. and Philippine maritime domain awareness and naval capabilities, and the importance of the U.S.-Philippine alliance to peace and stability in the region. Gilday’s visit highlights the continued importance of the U.S. Navy’s presence in the Philippines to America’s national security interests and the close relationship between the U.S. and the Philippines.

Why is the U.S. Navy’s Presence in the Philippines Important for America?

The United States Navy has a long history in the Philippines, and its presence in the region is critical for America’s national security interests, both economically and militarily. The Indo-Pacific region is home to some of the world’s busiest sea lanes, which are critical for trade and commerce. The U.S. Navy helps to ensure the free and open navigation of these sea lanes and the unimpeded flow of goods and services. In addition, the Navy’s presence in the region serves as a deterrent to potential adversaries, maintaining the balance of power and stability in the region.

Why is the U.S.-Philippine Alliance Important for Americans?

The U.S.-Philippine alliance is essential for Americans as it promotes stability and security in the region, prevents conflict, and protects American interests. The United States has a deep and long-standing relationship with the Philippines that dates back to the early 20th century. The alliance allows for close cooperation between the two countries in areas such as counterterrorism, maritime security, and disaster response. The two countries share a commitment to promoting democracy and human rights, and the U.S. Navy’s presence in the Philippines reinforces this commitment.

CNO Gilday’s Visit to Manila Highlights Importance of U.S.-Philippine Alliance

During his visit, CNO Gilday met with senior officials, including U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Andres Centino, and Philippine Navy Flag Officer in Command Vice Adm. Toribio Adaci Jr. The engagements focused on U.S. and Philippine maritime domain awareness and naval capabilities, and the importance of the U.S.-Philippine alliance to peace and stability in the region. The visit also served as a reminder of the deep bonds of friendship and camaraderie that exist between the U.S. Navy and the Philippine Navy. Gilday’s trip to Manila was part of a regional tour that also included a visit to Australia. It was Gilday’s first visit to the Philippines as CNO.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the U.S. Navy’s presence in the Philippines is a vital part of America’s national security strategy, and the U.S.-Philippine alliance is critical to promoting stability and security in the region.

CNO Gilday’s visit to Manila serves as a reminder of the important work that Navy sailors do in promoting regional security and stability. The United States and the Philippines share a deep and abiding friendship, and the two countries will continue to work closely together in the future to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific