Navy

By, Lt. Ashley Hutson, Commander, Task Force 72 Public Affairs

MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan – The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF), and the United States Navy (USN) concluded a trilateral maritime patrol exercise in Misawa, Japan, June 15.

The exercise consisted of mission planning, a ground link exchange and aircraft rider exchanges between nations. The RAAF No. 11 Squadron “Black Cat” equipped with two P-8A aircraft, the JMSDF Air Patrol Squadron 2 “Odin” with one P-3C aircraft, and the USN Patrol Squadron (VP) 26 “Tridents” with one P-8A aircraft, worked as one team to enhance coordination and communication between the three countries’ maritime patrol forces. The participants also familiarized themselves with the maritime environment regarding maritime patrol during the exercise.

“It has been a great opportunity to host the Royal Australian Air Force in Japan and conduct trilateral exercises demonstrating the interoperability of the global maritime patrol force,” said Cmdr. Curtis White, executive officer of VP-26. “It’s important that we refine our maritime patrol techniques, tactics and procedures to remain proficient alongside our partners and allies.”

The Trident’s P-8A Poseidon is a multi-mission patrol and reconnaissance aircraft. It is capable of broad-area, maritime and littoral operations, and search and rescue. The Odin Squadron’s P-3C Orion shares similar capabilities. During the exercise the squadrons worked together to improve USN-JMSDF-RAAF data-link connectivity and enhanced interoperability.

VP-26 also hosted a barbeque for the participants providing an opportunity for the RAAF and USN to socialize between flight activities.

“This exercise contributed, not only to the interoperability among the three nations, but also allowed us to further strengthen the Japan-U.S.-Australia security and defense cooperation relationship,” said Cmdr. SAITO Keiichirou, senior officer of JMSDF’s 21st Air Squadron. “We would like to continue to improve our tactical skills in future trilateral exercises.”

The lessons learned from the trilateral exercise included a deeper mutual understanding maritime patrol processes, which will improve real-world integration between the three countries.

The VP-26 Tridents are based in Jacksonville, Florida, and are currently forward deployed to Misawa Air Base, Japan. The squadron conducts maritime patrol and reconnaissance as part of a rotational deployment to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. 

U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

The Navy announced the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) reached 50% completion of its Planned Incremental Availability (PIA) at Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY), June 15, 2023. A significant milestone during the maintenance period, Harry S. Truman and NNSY continue working together tirelessly to complete ship-wide upgrades, modernization, and major maintenance projects to return the ship to sea.

As Sailors, shipyard workers, and contractors step aboard every morning, they recognize the importance of their part in achieving success.

“The success of our planned incremental availability hinges on the collective efforts of every individual involved,” said Capt. Gavin Duff, commanding officer of Harry S. Truman. “It is the culmination of hard work, teamwork and a shared vision to enhance Truman’s readiness and capabilities.”

On average, Nimitz-class aircraft carriers have 16 scheduled shipyard visits throughout their roughly 50-year life cycle, including 12 PIAs, three dry-docking planned incremental availabilities (DPIA), and one Refueling Complex Overhaul (RCOH). This PIA focuses on significant structural repair and preservation work, including tanks, voids, weapons elevators, aviation engine hatch safety station modification and airplane crane, and combat systems’ CANES upgrade that improves communication connectivity and integration of systems onboard Truman.

The upgrades extend beyond essential systems and equipment. The focus on substantial work to enhance berthing spaces, ship-wide facilities such as gyms, laundry areas and entertainment spaces and the foundation for Wi-Fi capabilities underscores the commitment to improving the quality of life for the crew. Recognizing the physical and mental well-being of the sailors as crucial factors in mission success, the ship’s force and shipyard personnel have worked diligently to create an environment that promotes comfort and relaxation during their demanding deployments.

“It is important that I come in and focus on the task at hand so when the Sailors are out at sea, the crew is able to live in a comfortable and safe environment,” said Demie De La Cruz, a Norfolk Naval Shipyard employee. “Stressing habitability on this aspect gives all Truman Sailors one less thing to worry about and allows them to focus during their daily missions.”

Productivity remains a top priority for the ship’s force and NNSY personnel. Whether one belongs to a PIA team or is a shipyard worker, the common goal is to keep work progressing.

Walking through the various spaces of the ship during the PIA, one can witness the extensive maintenance and upgrade work undertaken.

“You walk on the brows, and every day you see maintenance being completed or started,” said Fireman Austin Krug, a member of the tank and void team. “It shows not only that everyone’s really pushing to get the ship out on time, but it also show how small upgrades like new mattresses, new furniture and even televisions are accounted for to make our time on here enjoyable.”

Amid countless tasks happening simultaneously, it can be challenging to comprehend one’s role. However, as the maintenance period progresses, the hard work and progress begin to bear fruit.

“It’s difficult to understand your role when a million things are happening at once,” said Seaman Hector Maldanado, a member of the berthing rehabilitation team. “This was especially true at the beginning of the maintenance period; however, five months into the process, you start to see all the hard work and progress come to fruition. It gives me and many of the shipyard workers pride in seeing our labor highlighted, praised and appreciated.”

From the very beginning of the maintenance period, collaboration and unity have been key guiding principles.

“My belief from day one of this maintenance period was that if Truman and all of us as shipyard personnel can plan together, work together and correct the work together, there is nothing that we won’t be able to accomplish,” said Nashawn Holliman, a Norfolk Naval Shipyard employee. “You hear the commanding officer constantly talk about first-time quality; we take that to heart and apply it to all the maintenance that we do.”

The planned availability cycle has witnessed significant milestones and critical projects. Noteworthy among these are the mast preservation and the oily waste system, both of which have been successfully addressed during the maintenance period. The mast preservation ensures the structural integrity of the ship’s mast, crucial for optimal performance and safety. The oily waste system upgrade enhances environmental stewardship and compliance with strict regulations, reflecting Harry S. Truman’s commitment to sustainability.

Drawing from the lessons learned from other aircraft carriers, Harry S. Truman’s crew and NNSY have continuously strived for excellence. By incorporating best practices and leveraging their collective expertise, they have overcome challenges and maximized efficiency. These lessons have been invaluable in streamlining processes, minimizing downtime and ensuring the highest standards of quality.

Throughout this endeavor, the cohesion between the ship’s force and the Norfolk Naval Shipyard workforce has been nothing short of remarkable. It is a testament to their shared dedication and unwavering commitment to their respective roles.

“Everyone plays an important role; we’re able to come in every morning and do what’s asked of us,” said Petty Officer 1st Class Emily Flowers, the berthing rehabilitation team lead. “If everyone else does the same, we’ll continue progressing towards Truman’s modernization and mission-readiness.”

The ongoing maintenance period has highlighted the exceptional capabilities of both the ship’s force and NNSY workforce. It has showcased their ability to collaborate seamlessly, adapt to evolving challenges and overcome obstacles in their pursuit of excellence. As the ship reaches the halfway point of its planned availability cycle, the dedication and resilience of all involved stand as a testament to their unwavering commitment to Truman’s mission.

Truman’s PIA has reached a significant juncture, with the ship now at the 50% mark of its availability cycle. This period has witnessed ship-wide upgrades and major projects, highlighting the unwavering commitment and exceptional teamwork between the ship’s force and NNSY.

The hard work from all personnel involved illustrate the importance of each individual’s role, the emphasis on habitability, the focus on productivity, the pride in seeing progress and the power of collaboration. Harry S. Truman’s journey towards enhanced mission-readiness continues, fueled by the dedication, hard work, and cohesion of its remarkable crew and shipyard personnel.

Through unwavering dedication, hard work, and remarkable teamwork, Harry S. Truman’s cohesive forces are driving the ship toward enhanced capabilities and mission-readiness.

Franklin Arbeiter of Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC), Corona Division was recently awarded a 2022 Mission Civilian of the Quarter Award by Operational Test and Evaluation Force (OPTEVFOR) for his outstanding contributions to the mission.

Arbeiter, who supports the OPTEVFOR Operational Test Director (OTD) in his work with NSWC Corona, has worked with the Navy for more than 40 years, with 12 of those years dedicated to the Ship Self-Defense System (SSDS). In that time, he has shown exceptional dedication to his work and the Navy. He and his team independently test and evaluate warfighting systems and assess capabilities, limitations, and unknowns with fleet operators employing systems against current threats in operationally realistic environments.

“Mr. Arbeiter is a driving force in the ongoing integrated combat system testing for the Navy’s newest aircraft carrier,” said OPTEVFOR Director Robin H. Locksley. “His diverse knowledge and strong voice are trusted among various organization stakeholders as the ground truth across various Integrated Warfare System codes.”

According to David Moretz, OPTEVFOR lead test engineer, Arbeiter is a team player who shoulders great responsibility and is well deserving of the esteemed award.

“The Mission Civilian Award is a prestigious honor that is only given to those who have shown exceptional dedication,” said Moretz. “Frank is an army of one. Due to various budget cuts, we went from three of us working the SSDS program to one, so he has shouldered a lot of responsibility with that program in his position. This award is a pretty big deal, and his contributions show that he truly deserves it.”

A retired Chief Fire Controlman with more than 22 years of operational experience, Arbeiter started working at OPTEVFOR in 2000, three years before his active duty retirement. After retiring, he went to work for a contractor supporting Program Executive Office Integrated Warfare Systems 6, the Cooperative Engagement Capability program office in Washington, D.C., doing developmental tests and evaluations. In 2011, he returned to OPTEVFOR as a government civilian OTD for SSDS.

Through his experience, Moretz said he has gained a deep understanding of the Navy’s mission and values.

“Frank is easy to get along with. He’s a self-starter, a problem solver, and a collaborator,” said Moretz. “These are some things that lead him to rise above the rest.”

Ensuring warfighters are always prepared for combat and to make a safe return home if forward deployed are his main motivations for success, said Arbeiter.

“If one of my family members were on a ship, I’d want them to have the readiness to take care of themselves, so my inspiration really just boils down to that,” he said. “I want to know that if our warfighters go into harm’s way that they’ll be able to face it head-on and prevail.”

While he was appreciative of the award, Arbeiter said he also recognized the great work being done by his teammates.

“It’s very gratifying to know that leadership thinks you’re doing a good job,” he said. “I think everybody wants a little recognition every once in a while, and it’s nice to have received it. I work with a lot of great people, and it could have just as easily been somebody sitting next to me that received the award and deserves it just as much as I do. I’m very grateful.”

NSWC Corona Division has provided analysis and assessment for the Navy since the 1950s. With experience in gauging the Navy’s warfighting capability, NSWC Corona is a leader in NAVSEA data analytics. Corona utilizes networked data environments, data and visualization, and measurement technology to bridge the Navy’s data silos, enabling informed decision-making for the warfighter. Anchor to the Inland Empire Tech Bridge, NSWC Corona is located in Norco, California, with detachments in Fallbrook and Seal Beach and personnel in 14 additional locations.

USS Chung-Hoon Conducts Multi-Lateral Exercises with Japan, Australia, and Canada in East China Sea

From Commander, Task Force (CTF) 71 Public Affairs

EAST CHINA SEA (NNS) – Maritime forces from Australia, Canada, Japan, and the United States concluded exercises in the East China Sea, June 5.

The multi-lateral training for the four maritime forces served to strengthen skills in maritime operations, surface surveillance and coordination, joint combined fires training, and electronic warfare tactics. The exercises supported JMSDF’s Indo-Pacific deployment involving JS Shiranui (DD 120), along with Royal Australian Navy’s HMAS Anzac (FFH 150), and Royal Canadian Navy’s HMCS Montreal (FFH 336).

The Commanding Officer of JS Shiranui, Commander MINAMI Kazuhiro said, “Through the exercise, we were able to improve our tactical capabilities and interoperability with the U.S. Navy, the Canadian Navy and the Royal Australian Navy. The JMSDF together with its allies, the U.S. Navy and the Royal Australian and Canadian Navies, work closely together in various maritime areas during peacetime to maintain and enhance our response capabilities to respond to any contingency.”

Representing the U.S. Navy was Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93).

“The crew of USS Chung-Hoon was honored to participate in multi-lateral exercises alongside our allies from Australia, Canada, and Japan. The professionalism and proficiency displayed by Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force, the Royal Australian Navy and the Royal Canadian Navy was impressive, we learned a lot and substantially improved our interoperability, helping us further our common goal of ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific,” said Cmdr. Kevin Schaeffer, commanding officer, USS Chung-Hoon. “We welcome the opportunity to continue to strengthen our skills, tactics and alliances through complex and coordinated multi-lateral operations to improve our combined operational capability. Conducting Multi-lateral exercises allows us to significantly improve our war-fighting readiness.”

The integrated surface operations demonstrate a commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific and help strengthen interoperability and increase collective war-fighting readiness and maritime security.

‘These combined exercises are an important part of our routine regional presence deployments,” said Rear Admiral Chris Smith, AM, CSM, Commander of the Australian Fleet. “Participation in these exercises demonstrates Australia’s commitment to engaging with Indo-Pacific regional partners. They strengthen practical cooperation among regional partners and demonstrate Australia’s commitment to a stable, peaceful, resilient and prosperous Indo-Pacific.”

Chung-Hoon is assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th fleet’s principal surface force.

CTF 71 is responsible for the readiness, tactical and administrative responsibilities for forward-deployed Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers as well as any surface unit conducting independent operations in the region.

U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.