Tag: Naval News

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U.S. Naval News Wednesday – August 14, 2024

USS Idaho

Welcome to this week’s edition of U.S. Naval News Wednesday, bringing you the latest and most significant updates from the naval front.

Operational Updates

USS Abraham Lincoln Accelerates Transit to Middle East
Location: Middle East
In response to increasing tensions, particularly in relation to threats from Iran, the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) has been ordered to accelerate its transit to the Middle East. The carrier strike group’s deployment is part of a broader U.S. strategy to strengthen its military presence in the region.

U.S. Military Destroys Two Houthi Vessels in the Red Sea
Location: Red Sea
The U.S. military has taken decisive action against Iranian-backed Houthi forces by destroying two of their vessels in the Red Sea. This operation underscores the U.S. Navy’s commitment to ensuring the safety and freedom of navigation in this strategically critical maritime region.

USS Idaho Launched
Location: Thames River
The future USS Idaho (SSN 799), a Virginia-class fast attack submarine, was successfully launched into the Thames River. This marks a significant milestone as the submarine moves closer to being fully operational, enhancing U.S. undersea capabilities.

USS Blue Ridge Arrives in Koror, Palau
Location: Koror, Palau
The USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19), the flagship of the U.S. 7th Fleet, has arrived in Koror, Palau, for a routine port visit. This visit aims to strengthen ties between the U.S. and Palau, emphasizing the strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific region in maintaining regional stability.

Navy SEALs recently conducted a high-stakes training exercise with the USS Greeneville, highlighting the U.S. Navy’s readiness for potential conflicts in contested waters. This joint training reflects the rising tensions with China and Russia and showcases our fleet’s unmatched lethality and strategic depth.

Technological and Strategic Developments

U.S. Navy’s New AIM-174B Missile Deployed in Indo-Pacific
Location: South China Sea
The U.S. Navy has deployed the AIM-174B, an extremely long-range air-to-air missile, in the Indo-Pacific. With a range of up to 400 km, this missile significantly enhances U.S. aerial capabilities and shifts the balance of power in the region, particularly in relation to China’s PL-15 missile.

Navy Medicine’s Top Researcher Tours Southeast Asia
Location: Southeast Asia
Capt. Franca Jones, commander of the Naval Medical Research Command (NMRC), recently concluded a tour across Southeast Asia. Her visit highlights the Navy’s commitment to global health security and collaboration with regional partners to combat infectious diseases.

U.S.-Italy Joint Operations in the Indo-Pacific
Location: Indo-Pacific
The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and Italy’s Cavour Carrier Strike Group successfully concluded the first-ever bilateral Multi-Large Deck Event (MLDE) in the Indo-Pacific. This exercise, which focused on maritime communication and air warfare operations, reinforces NATO alliances and promotes a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Littoral Operations Tactical Decision Aid Showcased at Marine Expo
Location: Washington, D.C.
The U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) and Office of Naval Research-Global (ONR-Global) demonstrated the LittoralLens imaging system at the Modern Day Marine Expo. This innovative system supports Marine Corps littoral operations, enhancing decision-making in complex coastal environments.

China Watch:

Military Drills Near Taiwan: China recently conducted a significant military exercise, named “Joint Sword,” near Taiwan. This drill involved a show of force with advanced weaponry, including J-20 and J-16 fighter aircraft, Type 052D destroyers, and ballistic missiles. The exercises were likely a response to Taiwan’s new President Lai Ching-te’s inauguration speech, which emphasized Taiwan’s commitment to democracy and freedom. This situation underscores the ongoing tension in the Taiwan Strait and China’s assertive military posture​

U.S. and Philippine Joint Patrols: The U.S. Navy and the Philippine Navy recently conducted joint patrols in the South China Sea, emphasizing the strength of their alliance amid rising tensions with China over territorial disputes. This patrol was part of ongoing efforts to demonstrate a united front and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region​.

    Russia Watch:

    While the recent focus has been heavily on China, Russia continues to play a significant role in global naval dynamics. Although specific recent events were not highlighted in the sources reviewed this week, Russia’s ongoing military activities in the Arctic and Mediterranean, as well as its partnership with China in joint naval exercises, remain critical areas of concern.

    Community and Leadership News

    USS Ronald Reagan Arrives in Bremerton
    Location: Bremerton, Washington
    After serving as the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier in Japan, the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) has returned to the United States. The ship’s arrival at Naval Base Kitsap marks the beginning of its maintenance and upgrade period, while the crew enjoys some well-deserved time stateside.

    NAVWAR Change of Command
    Location: San Diego, California
    Rear Adm. Seiko Okano has taken command of Naval Information Warfare Systems Command (NAVWAR), succeeding Rear Adm. Doug Small. The change of command ceremony, held on August 9, 2024, marks a new leadership chapter for NAVWAR.

    USNS Point Loma Christened
    Location: San Diego, California
    The U.S. Navy has christened the USNS Point Loma, a new medical ship named in honor of the San Diego community. This ship, equipped with two operating rooms and the capacity to support 147 patients, will play a vital role in medical response efforts.

    U.S. Navy Band Country Current Tour
    Location: Maine
    The Navy’s Country Current ensemble is set to tour Maine starting on August 25, connecting with communities and inspiring national pride through music.

    Stay tuned for more updates and insights in next week’s edition of U.S. Naval News Wednesday!

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    Navy SEALs in High-Stakes Submarine Training: A New Chapter in U.S. Naval Preparedness

    USS Greeneville

    Introduction:

    At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we are committed to raising awareness about the importance of maintaining a robust and capable naval force. As global tensions rise, particularly with adversaries like China and Russia, the need for a prepared and lethal U.S. Navy has never been more critical. Recent training exercises conducted by Navy SEALs and the submarine USS Greeneville off the coast of Southern California highlight the innovative strategies and rigorous preparation required to keep our nation secure.

    Why This Matters:

    This training exercise is not just another drill; it represents a pivotal shift in U.S. naval operations. As the world increasingly focuses on the Indo-Pacific region, where the waters are highly contested, the ability of our naval forces to operate seamlessly in these environments is essential. The collaboration between Naval Special Warfare operators and the submarine force showcases our asymmetric advantage and sends a clear message to potential adversaries: the U.S. Navy is ready and capable of defending American interests.

    Why Americans Should Care:

    The stakes are high. With global powers like China and Russia actively expanding their military capabilities, particularly in the maritime domain, the U.S. Navy’s preparedness directly impacts our national security. The ability to project power, maintain freedom of navigation, and ensure the safety of global trade routes depends on the readiness of our naval forces. The recent exercises demonstrate that our Navy is not only prepared for traditional warfare but also for high-end conflicts that may arise in contested waters.

    Key Training Highlights:

    Recent reports, including those from Newsmax, have shined a spotlight on a critical training exercise conducted by Navy SEALs and the USS Greeneville. The SEALs, renowned for their elite capabilities, were dropped into the Pacific Ocean via parachute near the submarine’s position. They then used combat rubber raiding crafts to rendezvous with the submarine, showcasing their ability to execute complex and clandestine missions with precision.

    This exercise is particularly significant given the current global context. The integration of special operations forces with submarine capabilities is a clear indication that the U.S. Navy is preparing for potential conflicts where stealth and surprise are paramount. Capt. Blake L. Chaney, Commander of Naval Special Warfare Group 1, emphasized the importance of these exercises, stating that “by synchronizing our operations, activities, and investments, we not only bolster fleet lethality but also provide substantial value in securing access to either denied or contested areas.”

    Implications for the Navy:

    For the Navy, these exercises underscore the necessity of continued investment in joint interoperability and advanced training. The ability to seamlessly integrate various elements of naval power—submarines, special operations, and air assets—is critical for maintaining a strategic advantage in future conflicts. The lessons learned from these drills will inform future operations, ensuring that the Navy remains a step ahead of potential adversaries.

    Conclusion: Promoting a Stronger Navy

    At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we believe that a well-prepared Navy is the cornerstone of our national defense. As we continue to advocate for greater support and investment in our naval forces, it is essential to highlight the hard work and dedication of the men and women who serve. The recent exercises involving Navy SEALs and the USS Greeneville are a testament to the Navy’s commitment to excellence and readiness.

    We encourage all Americans to stay informed and engaged. Our Navy is strong, but with your support, it can be even stronger. Together, we can ensure that the United States remains a formidable force for peace and security around the world.

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    U.S. Naval News Wednesday – July 31, 2024

    USS Sampson DDG 102

    Welcome to this week’s edition of US Naval News Wednesday, bringing you the latest and most significant updates from the naval front.

    Change of Command at COMSUBRON Two
    Captain Jason Deichler has officially relieved Daniel Reiss as Commodore of Commander, Submarine Squadron (COMSUBRON) Two. The ceremony, marked by naval tradition, was held at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine. This transition marks a pivotal moment in leadership for the squadron, emphasizing continuity and commitment to excellence in submarine operations.

    Innovations in Semiconductor Technology at NRL
    Scientists at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) have made a significant breakthrough in semiconductor technology, identifying a new class of semiconductor nanocrystals. This advancement could revolutionize the development of light-emitting devices, enhancing operational capabilities in naval technologies.

    USS Nantucket Delivered to Navy
    The USS Nantucket, a freedom-variant Littoral Combat Ship, has been officially delivered to the Navy after successful acceptance trials. It will soon be commissioned and homeported in Mayport, Florida. This ship represents a crucial addition to the Navy’s capabilities in littoral zones.

    Future of the U.S. Navy
    Amidst increasing global maritime challenges, the strategic importance of the U.S. Navy’s role has never been more critical. Recent opinion pieces discuss the state of the Navy, highlighting the need for robust shipbuilding programs and enhanced operational readiness to maintain maritime superiority.

    New Ship Procurements
    The Senate’s FY24 National Defense Authorization Act has approved procurement plans for the Navy to acquire 10 new battle force ships, including submarines, destroyers, and more, underscoring ongoing efforts to modernize and strengthen the fleet.

    Upcoming Ship Commissionings
    Preparations are underway for the commissioning of several significant vessels like the USS John Basilone (DDG 122) and USS New Jersey (SSN 796), showcasing the Navy’s commitment to expanding and updating its capabilities.

    Fair Winds and Following Seas
    We also acknowledge the exemplary service of CAPT Joe Parsons and LT Albert Liu, wishing them fair winds and following seas in their future endeavors. Their dedication and service have significantly contributed to the Navy’s mission and the security of our nation.

    Seafair Celebrates 75 Years
    Seattle’s iconic Seafair festival marked its 75th anniversary with Fleet Week activities, including ship parades and public tours, underscoring the community’s strong connection with the maritime forces.

    Navy’s Old Town Campus Revitalization Moves Forward
    The U.S. Navy’s project to revitalize the 70.3-acre Naval Base Point Loma Old Town Campus in San Diego continues to advance with the environmental review process and partnerships for development.

    First Royal Australian Navy Sailors Graduate From US Submarine School
    Marking a significant milestone under the AUKUS security pact, Royal Australian Navy sailors have graduated from the Basic Enlisted Submarine School in the US.

    Chief of Naval Operations Strengthens Ties in Indo-Pacific
    Admiral Lisa Franchetti’s recent engagements in the Indo-Pacific region highlight strategic naval collaborations and security discussions at high-level international conferences.

    MAKO Global 2024 Enhances Warfighting Readiness for Reserve Sailors
    This training program is designed to boost the operational readiness of Navy reservists, preparing them for real-world challenges through intensive, scenario-based training exercises.

    USS Sampson Arrives in Seattle for Seafair Fleet Week
    Highlighting community engagement, the USS Sampson participates in Seattle’s Seafair Fleet Week, offering ship tours and public interactions.

    USS Carl Vinson Returns to San Diego
    The USS Carl Vinson returned to its homeport in San Diego after a six-month deployment in the Indo-Pacific. The carrier strike group conducted freedom of navigation operations, joint exercises with allied navies, and provided humanitarian assistance during its deployment. The Vinson’s return highlights the ongoing commitment of the U.S. Navy to maintain a forward presence in key regions around the world.

    Collaboration with Indian Navy on Anti-Submarine Warfare
    The U.S. Navy and the Indian Navy conducted joint anti-submarine warfare exercises in the Indian Ocean, focusing on tracking and neutralizing underwater threats. This collaboration involved P-8A Poseidon aircraft and surface combatants from both navies, strengthening bilateral ties and enhancing regional maritime security. The exercise demonstrated the strategic importance of U.S.-India naval cooperation in countering submarine threats.

    Stay Updated with Naval Developments
    For ongoing coverage and detailed articles about these stories and more, follow us on social media. Join us next week for more updates from the US Naval News Wednesday.

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    Navy News Monday – June 24, 2024

    Welcome back to the “Navy News Monday” blog post series. This series is dedicated to bringing you the latest and most significant updates from the United States Navy, focusing on a variety of key areas that are crucial to maintaining a robust and effective naval force.

    In our upcoming posts, we will be covering a range of topics including:

    • Ship Building and Modernization: The latest developments in naval ship construction, including new vessel launches, updates on shipyard activities, and advancements in ship design that enhance the capabilities of the fleet.
    • Naval Technology and Innovation: Innovations in naval warfare technology, such as cutting-edge weapons systems, sensor technologies, and communication advancements that keep the Navy at the forefront of modern warfare.
    • Blue Water Navy Operations: Insights into the strategic operations of the Navy in open oceans, showcasing the power projection and global reach of our maritime forces.
    • Submarine Navy News: Updates on the silent service, including new submarine classes, undersea warfare developments, and the role of submarines in ensuring underwater dominance.

    For this week’s feature, let’s dive into the latest news across these topics:

    Ship Building and Modernization

    The U.S. Navy has released a new long-range shipbuilding strategy that outlines plans for both construction and decommissioning over the next 30 years. The plan aims to expand the fleet to 381 ships by the mid-2030s under an optimal funding scenario. This includes maintaining the current build rate for Virginia-class submarines and introducing new classes of surface combatants and unmanned platforms. Notably, the USS New Jersey (SSN 796), a Virginia-class submarine, has been delivered and is set for commissioning later this year​ (USNI News)​​ (Naval News)​​ (Navy Commissionings)​.

    Naval Technology and Innovation

    A significant advancement in naval technology is the development of a new electronic warfare system designed to provide enhanced protection against various electronic threats. This system is expected to improve the Navy’s operational capabilities significantly. Additionally, there are ongoing investments in sensor and communication technologies to ensure the Navy remains at the forefront of modern warfare​ (Defense News)​​ (Defense Security Monitor)​.

    Blue Water Navy Operations

    The Blue Water Navy continues to demonstrate its global reach with extensive maneuvers in the Pacific. These operations underscore the United States’ commitment to maintaining freedom of navigation and readiness to respond to international maritime challenges. The deployment of carrier strike groups such as the USS Theodore Roosevelt is a key element of these strategic operations​ (Defense Security Monitor)​.

    Submarine Warfare and Undersea Dominance

    The submarine fleet is poised for significant upgrades, with the integration of new sonar technology into Virginia-class submarines. This will enhance their stealth and detection capabilities, reinforcing their critical role in undersea warfare. The delivery of the USS New Jersey (SSN 796) marks an important milestone, as it is the first Virginia-class submarine designed with crew gender integration​ (Naval News)​.

    Naval Aviation

    Naval aviation continues to evolve with innovations in aircraft carrier operations and the introduction of new aircraft. The commissioning of new vessels and upgrades to existing ones, such as the ongoing fitting out of the John F. Kennedy (CVN 79), highlight the Navy’s commitment to maintaining a robust and capable aviation component​ (Navy Commissionings)​.

    Uncrewed Systems and Autonomous Vehicles

    The Navy is expanding its use of uncrewed systems, with plans to field between 89 and 143 unmanned platforms by 2045. These include both surface and underwater vehicles that will play key roles in future naval operations, enhancing capabilities while reducing risk to human personnel​ (Defense Security Monitor)​.

    Naval Diplomacy and International Relations

    Naval diplomacy remains a cornerstone of U.S. maritime strategy, with the Navy engaging in numerous international exercises and cooperative efforts with allied nations. These activities help to strengthen alliances and promote stability in key regions around the world​ (Defense Security Monitor)​.

    Recruitment and Retention

    Efforts to attract and retain naval personnel are ongoing, with new initiatives aimed at improving training programs and career development opportunities. The Navy continues to address challenges related to recruitment, aiming to ensure a steady influx of talented individuals to maintain its operational readiness​ (Defense Security Monitor)​.

    Naval History and Heritage

    Commemorations of significant naval battles and events, such as the upcoming commissioning of vessels named after historical figures and battles, help to preserve the rich heritage of the U.S. Navy. These events serve as reminders of the Navy’s longstanding tradition of service and sacrifice​ (Navy Commissionings)​.

    Naval Logistics and Support

    Enhancements in logistics and support infrastructure are crucial for fleet readiness. The Navy’s new shipbuilding plan includes significant investments in shipyard infrastructure and the procurement of used vessels to replace aging surge sealift capacity, ensuring the Navy’s ability to project power globally​ (Defense News)​.

    These updates ensure that our readers stay informed about the latest developments in the U.S. Navy, highlighting the ongoing efforts to maintain a strong and capable maritime force. Stay tuned for more detailed articles on each of these topics as we continue to explore the might and innovation of the United States Navy.

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    Uncrewed Systems: How Drones and Autonomous Vehicles are Changing Naval Tactics

    The Navy is introducing GARCS to San Diego Bay. (US Navy )

    Introduction

     

    Welcome back to our series exploring the cutting-edge technologies reshaping naval warfare. In our first post, we delved into the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing naval operations. Today, we shift our focus to uncrewed systems—drones and autonomous vehicles—that are revolutionizing naval tactics through increased capabilities and strategic flexibility.

    If you missed our discussion on how AI is transforming naval warfare, you can catch up here. 

    Recent Developments

    The U.S. Navy’s commitment to integrating advanced technologies into its operations is more apparent than ever. Recently, the Navy stationed a squadron of small, experimental sea drones, known as Global Autonomous Reconnaissance Crafts (GARCs), in San Diego Bay. These uncrewed surface vessels, measuring 16 feet in length and capable of speeds up to 40 mph, represent the forefront of naval innovation. Designed for maritime security and potentially weaponized engagements, these drones are a key part of the Navy’s strategy to enhance its operational capabilities with autonomous technology. Continue reading “Uncrewed Systems: How Drones and Autonomous Vehicles are Changing Naval Tactics”