Tag: US Naval News

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A Stronger Navy for a Secure America: USS Constellation Marks New Era in Naval Power

Americans for a Stronger Navy applauds the recent keel laying of the future USS Constellation (FFG 62)! This momentous occasion signifies a critical step forward in modernizing our nation’s fleet and ensuring American dominance at sea.

Why the Constellation Class Matters

Despite concerns over recent reports of delays due to labor shortages, supply chain issues, and design changes, the keel laying of the future USS Constellation (FFG 62) marks a significant step forward in modernizing our nation’s fleet. The builder, Fincantieri Marinette Marine, remains hopeful of minimizing these challenges and delivering this next-generation frigate on a revised schedule. Americans for a Stronger Navy applauds this momentous occasion!

The USS Constellation is the first ship in a new generation of frigates – the Constellation Class. These agile, multi-mission vessels represent a significant leap forward in naval technology. They are designed to operate effectively in both deep ocean (blue water) and near-shore (littoral) environments, providing a crucial advantage in today’s complex maritime landscape.

Benefits for America

A robust and modern Navy is essential for safeguarding our nation’s interests. Here’s how the Constellation Class strengthens American security:

  • Increased Global Presence: These new frigates will allow the Navy to deploy more “players on the field” – deterring aggression and protecting vital sea lanes for American commerce.
  • Technological Edge: The Constellation Class boasts advanced weaponry and systems, ensuring our Navy remains the most technologically proficient force on the seas.
  • Economic Strength: The construction of these vessels supports American jobs and revitalizes our domestic shipbuilding industry.

Standing with Our Navy

Americans for a Stronger Navy is committed to advocating for a powerful and well-equipped Navy. We urge all Americans to join us in supporting this critical national security asset.

Stay Connected!

  • Sign up for our newsletter to receive updates on the Constellation Class program and other vital naval developments.
  • Share this blog post with your friends and family to raise awareness about the importance of naval power.

Together, we can ensure the United States Navy remains a force for peace, security, and prosperity for generations to come.

 

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Navigating New Waters: The U.S. Navy’s Groundbreaking Deployment of Unmanned Ships and the Future of Naval Warfare

The littoral combat ship Gabrielle Giffords leads a formation with the unmanned surface vessels Ranger and Mariner on Sept. 7, 2023. (MC2 Jesse Monford/U.S. Navy)

Dear Members and Friends,

As advocates for a robust and future-ready U.S. Navy, we constantly seek developments that shape our naval forces. Today, we bring to your attention a significant advancement in naval technology and strategy.

Unprecedented Deployment of Unmanned Ships

In a historic move, the U.S. Navy has completed its first deployment of four unmanned ships – Sea Hunter, Sea Hawk, Mariner, and Ranger. This deployment marks a pivotal moment in naval operations, integrating unmanned technology into the fleet.

The Pacific Voyage

The deployment spanned five months, with these prototypes sailing a combined 46,651 nautical miles and visiting ports in Japan and Australia. A noteworthy aspect was their autonomous mode operation, showcasing advanced technology and strategic capability.

Testing and Integration into Fleet Operations

Under the oversight of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, this deployment aimed to test the integration of unmanned ships with crewed fleet operations. The insights gained from this exercise are crucial in refining operations and sustainment concepts for future deployments.

Command and Control Successes

A significant achievement was the effective command and control of these vessels, operated remotely or autonomously. This aspect of the operation represents a major advancement in naval warfare technology and strategy.

Challenges and Future Developments

Despite successes, integration of the USV into the broader sensor and shooter network remains a challenge. The upcoming Integrated Combat System promises to enhance data sharing and operational efficiency across the fleet.

Featured Coverage and Insights

  • Surface Navy Coverage and eBook Outlook 2024: This segment offers a glimpse into the future of naval operations and technology.
  • Point of View: The New Era of Cloud-Enabled Missions: Insights into how cloud technology is revolutionizing naval missions.
  • Defense News Reports: In-depth coverage by Megan Eckstein, naval warfare reporter at Defense News showcasing the nuances of these developments.

Conclusion

As we witness these remarkable advancements, it’s essential to remember the words of the great naval leader, Admiral Chester Nimitz: “A ship is more than a mere vessel; it embodies the will and intent of those who sail her.” These unmanned ships are not just technological marvels; they represent the innovative spirit and strategic foresight of the U.S. Navy.

We, at Americans for a Stronger Navy, are excited about these developments and remain committed to supporting a strong, technologically advanced, and strategically adept U.S. Navy.

Stay informed, stay engaged, and let’s sail forward to a stronger future!

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The USS LST-325: A World War II Landing Ship Tank with a Remarkable History

USS LST-325

Hello, and thank you for reading our blog post for the Americans for a Stronger Navy.

We are a group of patriotic citizens who support and appreciate the U.S. Navy and its mission to protect our nation and its interests around the world. In this blog post, we want to share with you some facts and trivia about the USS LST-325, a World War II landing ship tank that recently arrived in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

What is the USS LST-325?

The USS LST-325 is a decommissioned tank landing ship of the U.S. Navy, now docked in Evansville, Indiana, as a museum ship. It is the last operational LST of its class, and one of the few remaining World War II ships that participated in the D-Day landings at Normandy. LST stands for Landing Ship, Tank, which means it could carry tanks, vehicles, cargo, and troops directly onto shore without the need for docks or piers. The USS LST-325 was launched on October 27, 1942 at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and commissioned on February 1, 1943 under Lt. Ira Ehrensall, USNR. 

What did the USS LST-325 do during World War II?

The USS LST-325 was a vital part of the Allied amphibious operations in Europe and Africa during World War II. It operated in the North Africa area and participated in the invasions at Gela, Sicily and Salerno, Italy. On June 6, 1944, it was part of the largest armada in history by participating in the Normandy landings at Omaha Beach. It carried 59 vehicles, 30 officers and a total of 396 enlisted men on that first trip. On its first trip back to England from France, it transported 38 casualties back to a friendly port. Over the next nine months, Navy records show it made more than 40 trips across the English Channel, carrying thousands of men and pieces of equipment needed by troops to successfully complete the liberation of Europe. 

The USS LST-325 also served as a hospital ship, returning wounded soldiers back to England from the beaches of Normandy. It was originally known as LST-325 during World War II, USNS LST-325 during its arctic operations in the 1950s, and later L-144 (A/G Syros) while it was in service of the Greek Navy. 

How did the USS LST-325 become a museum ship?

The USS LST-325 was decommissioned in 1946 and stricken from the Naval Vessel Register in 1961. It was transferred to Greece in 1964 and served as RHS Syros (L-144) until 1999. It was sold to a group of U.S. veterans in 2000 who sailed it back to the United States from Crete in a voyage that lasted 13 weeks and covered 6,500 miles. The ship was renamed M/V LST-325 and docked in Mobile, Alabama until 2005 when it moved to its current homeport of Evansville, Indiana. In 2004, it was granted permission by the U.S. Navy to use its original name again as USS LST-325. In 2009, it was listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. 

The USS LST-325 is now a floating museum that offers tours and cruises to visitors who want to learn more about its history and legacy. It also participates in various events and festivals around the country to honor and educate veterans and civilians alike. Each year, it sails for five weeks to give people a chance to see its historical impact nationwide.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed this blog post about the USS LST-325 and learned something new and interesting about this remarkable ship and its role in World War II. We also hope you feel inspired and motivated to support our Navy and its efforts to protect our nation and our allies. We thank you for reading this blog post and for following #AmericansforaStrongerNavy. Please leave your comments below or contact us if you have any questions or feedback. Stay safe and stay Navy!

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USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124): Embodying American Strength and the Pursuit of Peace

101123-N-5292M-186 NORFOLK The newly commissioned guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) arrives in its new homeport of Naval Station Norfolk Nov. 23, 2010. The ship is named for Marine Cpl. Jason Dunham, who selflessly sacrificed his life at eh age of 22 in Iraq, April 14, 2004. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Julie R. Matyascik) (Released).

Dear members and subscribers of Americans for a Stronger Navy,

We are excited to share with you an event that highlights not just the steadfast progress of our naval forces, but also the values and heroism that permeate the proud history of our organization and our country.

On July 29th, the U.S. Navy is set to christen the future USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124), a state-of-the-art guided-missile destroyer, at the General Dynamics Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine. This momentous event embodies the continued evolution and modernization of our naval capabilities, ensuring our country remains secure and well-protected against potential threats.

In the context of our mission at Americans for a Stronger Navy, events like this further amplify the significance of our work. Our commitment to ensuring a robust, well-equipped Navy is vindicated as we see the christening of such advanced warships. We believe that a stronger navy is vital for maintaining America’s position in the global arena, defending our interests, and securing our nation’s prosperity.

Why does this matter to America and the American people, you may ask? In a world increasingly defined by geopolitical tensions and unpredictable threats, a strong navy serves as a bulwark against such challenges. With the commissioning of USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124), we honor not just a war hero, but also the values of bravery, leadership, and sacrifice that he symbolized. These are values that unite us as Americans and remind us of the cost of our security and freedom.

The USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. is more than a guided-missile destroyer – it represents the backbone of our surface fleet, prepared to ensure American safety at all times. It embodies our dedication to the defense of our country and our determination to promote peace.

This event serves as a proud reminder of our mission, and we invite you to join us in celebrating this historic occasion. Together, let’s continue working to strengthen our Navy, uphold our shared values, and safeguard the American dream for future generations.

Best Regards,
Bill, Americans for a Stronger Navy