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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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The U.S. Navy will commission its newest Independence-variant littoral combat ship (LCS), the future USS Canberra (LCS 30), during an international commissioning ceremony, at 10:00 a.m. AEST on Saturday, July 22 (8:00 p.m. EDT on Friday, July 21) at the Royal Australian Navy Fleet Base East in Sydney, Australia.
The Honorable Carlos del Toro U.S. Secretary of the Navy, will deliver the commissioning ceremony’s principal address. Remarks will also be provided by His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley, AD, DSC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia; the Honourable Richard Marles, MP, Deputy Prime Minister of Australia; the Honorable Caroline Kennedy, U.S. Ambassador to Australia; Adm. Michael Gilday, U.S. Chief of Naval Operations; Vice Adm. Mark Hammond, Royal Australian Chief of Navy; and Mr. Larry Ryder, Vice President of Business Development and External Affairs, Austal USA. The ship’s sponsor is Australian Senator, the Honourable Marise Payne, the former Australian Minister of Foreign Affairs who attended the ship’s keel laying ceremony at Austal USA’s shipyard in Mobile, Alabama, in 2020.
Independence-variant LCS are fast, optimally-manned, mission-tailored, surface combatants that operate both close to shore and in open-ocean environments. LCS integrate with joint, combined, crewed, and unmanned systems to support forward-presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence missions around the globe. The USS Canberra’s sister ships, USS Jackson (LCS 6), USS Gabrielle Giffords (LCS 10), USS Manchester (LCS 14), and USS Mobile (LCS 26) are all currently on deployment in the Indo-Pacific.
LCS 30 will be the 16th commissioned Independence-variant LCS. It is the second ship named in honor of the city of Canberra, and commemorates the more than 100 years of mateship between the U.S. and Australian allies. The first USS Canberra (CA 70) was named in remembrance of the Australian heavy cruiser HMAS Canberra that sank during the Battle of Savo Island while fighting side-by-side with U.S. naval forces. CA 70 was the first U.S. Navy ship named for a foreign capital.
The first USS Canberra (CA 70) received seven battle stars for her service in World War II. In May 1958, Canberra served as the ceremonial flagship for the selection of the Unknown Serviceman of World War II and Korea. Canberra was decommissioned in a ceremony on Feb. 2, 1970, at the San Francisco Bay Naval Shipyard. One of her propellers is preserved at the Los Angeles Maritime Museum, while the ship’s bell is on display at the Australian National Maritime Museum.
Name | Canberra |
Namesake | HMAS Canberra |
Awarded | 6 October 2017[2] |
Builder | Austal USA[2] |
Laid down | 10 March 2020 |
Launched | 30 March 2021 |
Sponsored by | Marise Payne[2] |
Christened | 5 June 2021[4] |
Acquired | 21 December 2021[1] |
Homeport | San Diego |
Identification | Hull number: LCS-30 |
Motto | Can Do! [3] |
Status | Pre-Commissioning |
Badge | |
General characteristics | |
---|---|
Class and type | Independence-class littoral combat ship |
Displacement | 2,307 metric tons light, 3,104 metric tons full, 797 metric tons deadweight |
Length | 127.4 m (418 ft) |
Beam | 31.6 m (104 ft) |
Draft | 14 ft (4.27 m) |
Propulsion | 2× gas turbines, 2× diesel, 4× waterjets, retractable Azimuth thruster, 4× diesel generators |
Speed | 40 knots (74 km/h; 46 mph)+, 47 knots (54 mph; 87 km/h) sprint |
Range | 4,300 nautical miles (8,000 km; 4,900 mi) at 20 knots (37 km/h; 23 mph)+ |
Capacity | 210 tonnes |
Complement | 40 core crew (8 officers, 32 enlisted) plus up to 35 mission crew |
Sensors and processing systems | Sea Giraffe 3D Surface/Air RADARBridgemaster-E Navigational RADARAN/KAX-2 EO/IR sensor for GFC |
Electronic warfare & decoys | EDO ES-3601 ESM4× SRBOC rapid bloom chaff launchers |
Armament | BAE Systems Mk 110 57 mm gun4× .50 cal (12.7 mm) guns (2 aft, 2 forward)Evolved SeaRAM 11 cell missile launcherMission modules |
Aircraft carried | 2× MH-60R/S SeahawksMQ-8 Fire Scout |
Hello and welcome back to the Americans for a Stronger Navy blog, where we keep you updated on the latest news and stories about the US Navy and its vital role in protecting our nation and advancing our interests around the world. Today, we are happy to share with you some exciting photos and information about the USS Mason (DDG 87),
The USS Mason (DDG 87) is an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer in the United States Navy. She is currently underway in the Atlantic Ocean participating in the Carrier Strike Group Four Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX). COMPTUEX is an intense, multi-week exercise designed to fully integrate a carrier strike group as a cohesive, multi-mission fighting force and to test their ability to carry out sustained combat operations from the sea.
Recently, the USS Mason participated in a replenishment-at-sea with the Military Sealift Command’s fast combat support ship USNS Supply (T-AOE 6). During this operation, the USS Mason received fuel, food, ammunition, and other supplies from the USNS Supply. The replenishment-at-sea also tested the coordination and communication skills of both ships’ crews.
The USS Mason is a ready and reliable ship that can perform a variety of missions, including air defense, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and ballistic missile defense. She is equipped with a powerful AEGIS combat system that integrates advanced sensors, weapons, and command and control capabilities. She has a crew of 380 officers and enlisted personnel and can carry two MH-60R Seahawk helicopters.
The USS Mason is named in honor of the non-segregated crew serving on board USS Mason (DE-529), the first ship in the US Navy with this distinction of a predominantly black crew. She is the 37th destroyer of her class and the 21st ship of this class to be built at Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine. She was commissioned in April 2003 and is currently homeported in Mayport, Florida.
The USS Mason represents the legacy of her namesake and the dedication of her crew. She is ready to defend our nation and our allies with honor, courage, and commitment.
The USS Mason is not only a powerful ship, but also a decorated one. She has earned several awards and honors for her outstanding performance and achievements in various missions and exercises. Some of her notable awards include:
• The Combat Action Ribbon, for engaging and defending against missile attacks from Houthi rebels in Yemen in October 2016.
• The Navy Unit Commendation, for conducting strike operations against Libyan air defense systems and military targets, as well as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions for Libyan civilians, in support of Operation Odyssey Dawn /Operation Unified Protector in 2011.
• The Navy E Ribbon, for achieving excellence in battle efficiency and readiness in 2004, 2005, and 2016.
• The Battenberg Cup, for being the best all-around ship or submarine in the United States Navy’s Atlantic Fleet based on crew achievements in 2016. Mason was only the fifth destroyer in the last 111 years to receive this prestigious award.
• The Bloodhound Award, for meritorious anti-submarine warfare preparation and prowess in 2020. Mason demonstrated exceptional ASW capabilities during multiple exercises and operations, including tracking a Russian submarine that was operating near the US coast.
The USS Mason is a ship that has made history and continues to make a difference. She is a testament to the courage, skill, and dedication of her crew, past and present, who proudly serve on board this remarkable vessel. She is also a tribute to the legacy of her namesake crew, who broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of African American sailors.
A blog that brings you the latest and most positive news about the US navy and its activities around the world.
We are Americans for a Stronger Navy, an organization that supports and advocates for a robust and capable naval force that can protect our nation’s interests and values.
We believe that the US navy is essential for maintaining peace and stability in the global maritime domain, and we want to share with you the stories that showcase its achievements and innovations.
In this section, we will highlight some of the recent events and operations that the US navy has participated in or conducted, and explain why they are important and relevant for our national security and global leadership.
The key takeaways from these news stories are:
In this section, we will showcase some of the latest developments and innovations in naval technology that enhance the performance and capabilities of the US navy and its platforms.
The key takeaways from these news stories are:
In this section, we will recognize some of the achievements and accomplishments of the US navy personnel who serve with honor and excellence.
The key takeaways from these news stories are:
Thank you for reading Naval News Weekly. We hope you enjoyed this blog post and learned something new about the US navy and its achievements and innovations. Please stay tuned for more positive news about the US navy in the future.
Introduction:
Welcome to Americans for a Stronger Navy’s blog! In this article, we proudly highlight the recent developments surrounding the USS Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group as it operates in the South China Sea. As advocates for a robust naval force, we believe that this mission exemplifies our commitment to a stronger Navy and the vital role it plays in safeguarding our national interests. Join us as we delve into the accomplishments of the USS Ronald Reagan and its significance in advancing our mission.
Summary:
In this article, we focus on the deployment of the USS Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group in the South China Sea. The presence of the carrier, along with the USS Antietam cruiser and USS Rafael Peralta destroyer, showcases the dedication of the United States Navy to maintaining stability and security in the region. Additionally, we explore the recent joint exercises held with Japanese, French, and Canadian ships, which further demonstrate the collective effort to bolster Indo-Pacific Command’s objectives. These developments highlight the unwavering commitment of the Americans for a Stronger Navy organization and its supporters to strengthen our nation’s naval capabilities.
Key Takeaways:
The USS Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group is currently operating in the South China Sea, emphasizing the United States’ commitment to maintaining a strong naval presence in the region.
Joint exercises conducted with allied forces, including Japan, France, and Canada, underscore the cooperative efforts to enhance security and readiness in the Indo-Pacific region.
The deployment of the USS Ronald Reagan exemplifies the Americans for a Stronger Navy’s dedication to a robust naval force and its mission to protect our national interests.
Conclusion:
The presence of the USS Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group in the South China Sea represents a significant milestone in our pursuit of a stronger Navy. It serves as a testament to the United States’ unwavering commitment to maintaining stability and safeguarding our national interests.
As Americans, we must recognize the importance of a robust naval force in securing our nation’s future. Join us in supporting the cause of a Stronger Navy and advocating for a steadfast commitment to maintaining a powerful naval presence worldwide. Together, we can ensure the safety, security, and prosperity of our great nation.
Introduction:
In the digital age, where technology plays a crucial role in every aspect of our lives, the United States Navy is taking a significant step forward to enhance its support system. Meet Amelia, the conversational artificial intelligence (AI) tech-support tool that is set to revolutionize how sailors, Marines, and civilian personnel receive assistance. With Amelia’s capabilities to troubleshoot and resolve common tech-support questions, the Navy is embracing innovation to streamline its operations and provide efficient and reliable support to over 1 million users. This exciting development aligns perfectly with the mission of Americans for a Stronger Navy, as it represents a significant advancement in modernizing and consolidating IT help desks to ensure a stronger and more resilient naval force.
Summary:
The U.S. Navy’s introduction of Amelia, a conversational AI tech-support tool, marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance support for sailors, Marines, and civilian personnel. Amelia’s implementation is part of the Navy Enterprise Service Desk (NESD) project, aimed at consolidating over 90 IT help desks into a centralized and efficient system. With Amelia’s ability to provide around-the-clock responses, based on comprehensive training and insider knowledge, users can expect quicker and more accurate resolutions to their tech-related queries. This innovative solution ensures improved support services for the Navy community and sets the stage for future applications within classified environments.
Key Takeaways:
Conclusion:
The introduction of Amelia, the U.S. Navy’s conversational AI tech-support tool, represents a significant leap forward in the Navy’s commitment to providing exceptional support services to sailors, Marines, and civilian personnel. This innovative solution not only streamlines the process of troubleshooting and resolving tech-related questions but also demonstrates the Navy’s dedication to embracing cutting-edge technology for the benefit of its community. As Americans for a Stronger Navy, we are proud to be part of a mission that encourages modernization, efficiency, and resilience within the naval force. By supporting the implementation of advanced solutions like Amelia, we can ensure that our Navy remains at the forefront of innovation, empowering sailors and Marines with the best possible resources to fulfill their duties and safeguard our nation.
As the winds of change sweep across the oceans, the United States Navy remains a steadfast anchor of security and peace. The recent recommendation of Admiral Samuel Paparo, a seasoned naval officer with extensive experience in the Indo-Pacific, as the next Chief of Naval Operations marks an exciting evolution in the Navy’s leadership. This appointment reaffirms the Navy’s commitment to fortifying its presence in key maritime regions, ensuring the security and prosperity of America and its allies. With Paparo’s imminent leadership, the Americans for a Stronger Navy find an ally who reflects the very core of our mission.
Admiral Samuel Paparo, who has built an illustrious career as a naval aviator and a strategist, has been recommended for the position of the next Chief of Naval Operations. With over 6,000 flight hours in Navy fighter jets and deep understanding of the Indo-Pacific, Admiral Paparo is poised to provide visionary leadership. His nomination showcases the Navy’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding our seas and shores, while upholding the values cherished by the Americans for a Stronger Navy.
A Pennsylvania native and a Villanova University graduate, Admiral Samuel Paparo was commissioned into the Navy in 1987. He’s not just a seasoned aviator, but also a TOPGUN graduate, having logged more than 6,000 flight hours and 1,100 aircraft carrier landings. His previous postings include commander of naval forces in the Middle East and director of operations at U.S. Central Command in Florida. His experience makes him an ideal choice for this vital position.
The Indo-Pacific region holds immense geopolitical significance. With growing global tensions, the Navy’s role in maintaining stability and ensuring freedom of navigation is critical. Admiral Paparo’s vast experience in the Indo-Pacific equips him with the understanding necessary to navigate the intricacies of this region.
While Admiral Paparo’s nomination comes highly recommended by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, it awaits formal sign-off by President Joe Biden. The nomination process has encountered roadblocks due to disagreements in the Senate over unrelated policies. However, Admiral Paparo’s credentials make him a strong candidate.
Admiral Paparo’s nomination as the Chief of Naval Operations reinforces the importance of strong and experienced leadership in turbulent geopolitical times. His appointment can significantly influence the Navy’s strategies in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
His expertise in the Indo-Pacific underscores the region’s importance in U.S. maritime strategy. This signifies a commitment to ensuring security and stability in an increasingly contested space.
The waves of the future are upon us. With Admiral Samuel Paparo at the helm, the U.S. Navy is poised to sail into this new era with confidence and strength. As proud members of the Navy community and citizens who understand the significance of a robust naval force, let’s rally behind our servicemen and women. Support the Americans for a Stronger Navy, engage in our mission, and let’s ensure that the guardians of our seas continue to protect and prevail. Together, we can make the oceans the heralds of peace.
Capt. Neil Koprowski has assumed command of U.S. Naval Forces Korea, taking over from Rear Adm. Mark Schafer. This change of command ceremony, the 38th in CNFK’s history since its establishment in 1957, symbolizes the continued commitment to maintaining a strong naval presence in the region. With the support of the U.S. Air Force and the collaboration between U.S. and ROK Sailors, the alliance is poised to uphold the 70-year Armistice, promote stability and prosperity, and be prepared for any potential challenges.
The change of command ceremony at the Republic of Korea (ROK) Fleet base in Busan signifies the seamless transition of leadership within U.S. Naval Forces Korea. This ceremony, steeped in tradition, reflects the commitment to maintaining a strong naval presence in the region and continuing the mission of Americans for a Stronger Navy.
During the ceremony, Rear Adm. Mark Schafer was recognized for his outstanding leadership as Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea. He was commended for his efforts in strengthening the alliance between U.S. and ROK navies and promoting stability in the region. Rear Adm. Schafer received the Legion of Merit award for his achievements while serving in Korea.
The change of command ceremony highlighted the collaboration between U.S. and ROK Sailors. The joint, combined teamwork is crucial in maintaining stability and collective security efforts in Korea and the region. By working together, U.S. and ROK naval forces ensure the 70-year Armistice is upheld and promote prosperity and peace in the area.
Capt. Neil Koprowski expressed his excitement to join U.S. Naval Forces Korea and continue the work of his predecessor in strengthening the friendship between the ROK and U.S. Navies. His remarks emphasized the energy and professionalism of the U.S. and ROK Sailors, reinforcing the strong alliance and commitment to the mission of Americans for a Stronger Navy.
The change of command at U.S. Naval Forces Korea represents a significant milestone in the ongoing mission of Americans for a Stronger Navy. It is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of our naval forces, who work tirelessly to maintain stability and strengthen alliances. We are proud to be part of the Navy community, and we encourage all Americans to support our cause and recognize the vital role played by the U.S. Naval Forces in ensuring a stronger, more secure future.
Introduction:
Welcome to Americans for a Stronger Navy, where we believe in safeguarding America’s interests and maintaining naval superiority. In a rapidly evolving world, our focus is shifting to a new battleground that holds immense potential and challenges: the seabed. Recent developments in seabed warfare have prompted the United States to invest billions of dollars in cutting-edge technologies, positioning itself at the forefront of this emerging domain. In this article, we explore the significance of seabed warfare, the U.S.’s implementation strategies, and the importance of supporting a stronger Navy for a secure future.
Summary:
As militaries around the world invest heavily in underwater defenses, the United States is leading the charge in seabed warfare. With less than 10% of the ocean floor mapped globally, the U.S. is capitalizing on this untapped frontier. This article delves into the evolving concept of seabed warfare, its implications for future conflicts, and the United States’ commitment to developing advanced technologies to dominate this domain. With the introduction of a state-of-the-art spy submarine and other secret projects, the U.S. Navy is positioning itself as a formidable force in the depths of the ocean.
What is Seabed Warfare and How is the U.S. Implementing It?
Seabed warfare, an evolving concept without a universally accepted definition, involves operations conducted to, from, and across the seabed. The U.S. Naval Surface Warfare Center describes it as a multidimensional approach that includes targeting vital infrastructure like fiber-optic cables, power cables, and gas pipelines. By investing in advanced military vehicles, such as a $5.1 billion spy submarine, the U.S. Navy aims to establish dominance on the seabed.
The Growing Threat of Seabed Warfare:
The vulnerability of crucial infrastructure, including undersea fiber-optic cables and oil/gas pipelines, raises concerns about potential attacks by hostile nations or terrorist groups. Disrupting these networks could have catastrophic consequences, affecting internet access, energy supplies, and other necessities for millions of people. Foreign powers, like Russia and China, are already engaged in underwater surveillance and mapping activities, highlighting the increasing threat.
Key Takeaways:
The United States is investing billions in developing seabed warfare technologies, staying ahead of China and Russia.
Seabed warfare involves targeting infrastructure and poses risks to critical systems like internet access and energy supplies.
The U.S. Navy’s advanced spy submarine project, along with other secret initiatives, showcases America’s commitment to dominating the seabed.
Conclusion:
As we navigate a world where the seabed emerges as a new theater of conflict, it is crucial to recognize the importance of a stronger Navy and support organizations like Americans for a Stronger Navy. The United States’ investment in cutting-edge seabed technologies demonstrates its dedication to maintaining naval superiority and protecting national interests. By subscribing to our cause and engaging fellow Americans, we can ensure a secure future where America’s presence remains unchallenged in the depths of the ocean. Join us in championing a stronger Navy and unlocking the potential of the seabed for a safer world.
Introduction
In an era of rapidly evolving digital landscapes, cybersecurity is not only a private concern but a national defense priority. The American infrastructure recently faced an audacious cyber attack, with the U.S. Navy being one of the primary targets. How we respond to these invasions is critical to the future of our nation’s security and the strength of our Navy. It is imperative, now more than ever, for us to comprehend these challenges and stand united to support and protect our nation’s defenders.
Summary
This article delves into a recent cyber attack where Chinese-backed hackers targeted the U.S. Navy’s technology systems, seeking to disrupt critical communications. It focuses on the facts surrounding this breach, who is behind it, the affected areas, and the necessary steps being taken to prevent such incidents in the future.
Chinese Cyberattack: A Wake-up Call
Reports confirmed that hackers supported by China had successfully breached American infrastructure, including vital technology systems belonging to the U.S. Navy. The hackers’ aim was to disrupt crucial communication lines between the United States and Asia during potential crises. This was first reported by technology giant Microsoft, which attributed the hacking operation to a China-based group, Volt Typhoon.
Who is Pulling the Strings?
Microsoft identified the perpetrators as Volt Typhoon with “moderate confidence.” This group is a state-sponsored actor based in China that specializes in espionage and information gathering and has been active since at least 2021. The hackers employed legitimate credentials and small-office routers to infiltrate the systems, an approach known as “living off the land”. This audacious attack led to the breach of the U.S. Navy infrastructure on Guam, home to several crucial military installations.
The Scope of the Impact
The full extent of the breach is currently unclear, but the targets included several sectors such as communication, manufacturing, utility, transportation, construction, maritime, government, IT, and education. Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro confirmed that the Navy was impacted by the hack, without disclosing further details. However, he expressed that China’s initiation of such a cyber attack was “no surprise”.
Key Takeaways
This attack is not an isolated incident, but rather part of a larger pattern of aggressive cyber operations by China, aiming to pilfer intellectual property and sensitive data. It is a wake-up call that highlights the persistent threat our nation’s critical infrastructure faces and provides insights into the sophisticated methods used by these malicious actors.
Taking Measures Against the Threat
In response to this attack, Microsoft has reached out to all groups affected. Additionally, cybersecurity agencies from the Five Eyes member nations have issued a joint advisory on the hack, outlining several preventive steps against such “living off the land” style intrusions.
Conclusion
As we sail through these uncharted waters of digital threats, it is crucial to stand united in support of the strength and security of our Navy. We must stay informed, vigilant, and proactive in understanding the nuances of these cyber threats, their implications, and the protective measures necessary to safeguard our nation’s assets. As a society, we can contribute to this mission by educating ourselves and raising awareness about the significance of cybersecurity in national defense, thus bolstering the resiliency of our Navy, and by extension, our nation.