Carrier_ A Guided Tour Of An Aircraft Carrier Part 11

CVW-1 has three squadrons of Navy and Marine F/A-18C Hornet strike fighters. Each squadron can conduct strike or fighter missions, dropping Paveway II/III LGBs and other PGMs, firing AGM-88 HARM missiles, as well as AIM-9M and AIM-120 AMRAAM AAMs. Normally, each squadron of twelve aircraft deploys with six Nighthawk FLIR/laser targeting pods and three data-link pods for AGM-84E SLAM missiles. However, there are minor differences in the three units, which I'll describe below: [image]

The official emblem of Strike Fighter Squadron 82 (VFA-82), the "Marauders."

JACK RYAN ENTERPRISES, LTD., BY LAURA DENINNO.

* Strike Fighter Squadron 82 (VFA-82-the "Marauders Strike Fighter Squadron 82 (VFA-82-the "Marauders")-Based at NAS Cecil Field, Florida and led by Commander Steven Callahan, the Marauders fly the new Block 18 version of the F/A-18C, with sharper eyes in the form of the new APG-73 radar. This is the radar that will go into the nose of the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet when it comes into service. The APG-73 will finally give the Navy the ability to perform high-resolution ground mapping in any weather, as well as non-cooperative target recognition (NCTR) against enemy aircraft.The official emblem of Strike Fighter Squadron 86 (VFA-86), the "Sidewinders."JACK RYAN ENTERPRISES, LTD., BY LAURA DENINNO[image]* Strike Fighter Squadron 86 (VFA-86-the "Sidewinders")- Strike Fighter Squadron 86 (VFA-86-the "Sidewinders")-Also based at NAS Cecil Field, Florida, VFA-86 has long been a sister squadron to VFA-82. VFA-86 flies the Block 10 version of the Hornet, and is commanded by Commander Robert Harrington.The official emblem of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 251 (VMFA-251), the "Thunderbolts."JACK RYAN ENTERPRISES, LTD., BY LAURA DENINNO[image]* Marine Strike Fighter Squadron 251 (VFMA-251-the "Thunderbolts") Marine Strike Fighter Squadron 251 (VFMA-251-the "Thunderbolts") -The Navy periodically requests the loan of Marine Corps carrier-capable strike-fighter and electronic-warfare squadrons to fill out air wings for deployment. Based out of MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, the Thunderbolts fly the Block 16 version of the F/A-18C, and are commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Tony Valentino. -The Navy periodically requests the loan of Marine Corps carrier-capable strike-fighter and electronic-warfare squadrons to fill out air wings for deployment. Based out of MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, the Thunderbolts fly the Block 16 version of the F/A-18C, and are commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Tony Valentino.

Along with strike and fighter "muscle," the air wing includes several support squadrons, which provide specialized services to the battle group.

[image]

The official emblem of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW-123), the "Screwtops."

JACK RYAN ENTERPRISES, LTD., BY LAURA DENINNO.

* Airborne Early Warning Squadron 123 (VAW-123-The "Screwtops") Airborne Early Warning Squadron 123 (VAW-123-The "Screwtops") -Flying the E-2C Hawkeye, the Screwtops provide the GW battle group with airborne early warning (AEW). Based at NAS Norfolk, Virginia, VAW-123 is one of the Navy's oldest E-2 squadrons. The squadron's nickname is reflected in a bold blue and yellow spiral pattern painted on the radome of each aircraft. They are commanded by Lieutenant Commander Edward Rosenquist, and deploy with four late-model E-2C aircraft. -Flying the E-2C Hawkeye, the Screwtops provide the GW battle group with airborne early warning (AEW). Based at NAS Norfolk, Virginia, VAW-123 is one of the Navy's oldest E-2 squadrons. The squadron's nickname is reflected in a bold blue and yellow spiral pattern painted on the radome of each aircraft. They are commanded by Lieutenant Commander Edward Rosenquist, and deploy with four late-model E-2C aircraft.[image]The official emblem of Sea Control Squadron (VS-32), the "Maulers."JACK RYAN ENTERPRISES, LTD., BY LAURA DENINNO* Sea Control Squadron 32 (VS-32-The "Maulers")-Of Sea Control Squadron 32 (VS-32-The "Maulers")-Of all the squadrons a.s.signed to CVW-1, none has seen its role changed and enlarged more than the Maulers of VS-32. Flying eight S-3B Vikings, they provide the battle group with surface and ASW services. But their most valuable job is as aerial tankers for the rest of the wing's thirsty aircraft. Based at NAS Cecil Field, Florida, they are led by Lieutenant Commander John J. Labelle. all the squadrons a.s.signed to CVW-1, none has seen its role changed and enlarged more than the Maulers of VS-32. Flying eight S-3B Vikings, they provide the battle group with surface and ASW services. But their most valuable job is as aerial tankers for the rest of the wing's thirsty aircraft. Based at NAS Cecil Field, Florida, they are led by Lieutenant Commander John J. Labelle.The official emblem of Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 137 (VAQ-137), the "Rooks."JACK RYAN ENTERPRISES, LTD., BY LAURA DENINNO[image]* Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 137 (VAQ-137-The "Rooks") Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 137 (VAQ-137-The "Rooks")-VAQ-137 is tasked with suppressing and jamming enemy radars and communications. The Rooks fly a quartet of EA-6B Prowler aircraft. VAQ-137 is based out of NAS Whidbey Island, Washington, and is commanded by a "retreaded" A-6 Intruder crewman, Commander Craig Geron.The official emblem of Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron II (HS-II) the "Dragon Slayers."JACK RYAN ENTERPRISES, LTD., BY LAURA DENINNO[image]* Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron 11 (HS-11-The "Dragon Slayers") Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron 11 (HS-11-The "Dragon Slayers") -The Dragon Slayers of HS-11 are another squadron that has seen its capabilities and responsibilities grow in recent years. In addition to the traditional role of providing the battle group with ASW protection in the "inner" defensive zone, they have taken on new roles of special operations support and search and rescue. They fly four SH-60F (ASW) and two HH-60H (SAR/Special Operations) variants of the Seahawk. HS-11 is based at NAS Jacksonville, Florida, and is led by Commander Michael Mulcahy. -The Dragon Slayers of HS-11 are another squadron that has seen its capabilities and responsibilities grow in recent years. In addition to the traditional role of providing the battle group with ASW protection in the "inner" defensive zone, they have taken on new roles of special operations support and search and rescue. They fly four SH-60F (ASW) and two HH-60H (SAR/Special Operations) variants of the Seahawk. HS-11 is based at NAS Jacksonville, Florida, and is led by Commander Michael Mulcahy.[image]The official emblem of Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron 6 (VQ-6), the "Black Ravens."JACK RYAN ENTERPRISES, LTD., BY LAURA DENINNO* Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron 6, Detachment "C" (VQ-6, Det. C-The "Black Ravens") Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron 6, Detachment "C" (VQ-6, Det. C-The "Black Ravens")-Flying one of the newest aircraft in Naval aviation, the Black Ravens Detachment "C" provides the battle group with electronic surveillance, intelligence, and targeting. Flying a trio of ES-3 Shadow aircraft, the detachment can, in a pinch, load up with a refueling pod and extra fuel tanks, to provide additional airborne tanking services. The small size of the ES-3 force means that squadron headquarters and schoolhouse remain home-based at NAS Cecil Field, Florida, while small detachments or "Dets" deploy with each CVW. In the fall of 1997, VQ-6 was commanded by Commander Robert "Bob" Wilson, and Det "C" aboard the GW is headed by their Officer-in-Charge (OIC), Lieutenant Commander Terry Isley.[image]The official emblem of Fleet Logistics Squadron 40 (VRC-40), the "Rawhides."JACK RYAN ENTERPRISES, LTD., BY LAURA DENINNO* Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 40, Detachment 1 (VRC-40, Det. 1-The "Rawhides") Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 40, Detachment 1 (VRC-40, Det. 1-The "Rawhides")-Perhaps the least appreciated task in CVW-1 is the vital task of logistical support. The Rawhides fly a pair of C-2A Trader aircraft for CVW-1 out of their Detachment 1. VRC-40 is based out of NAS Norfolk, VA, and is commanded by Commander Paula Hinger. Lieutenant Commander Steven f.a.ggart led Det. 1 while on cruise.

[image]

The combat aircraft makeup and organization of Carrier Air Wing One (CVW-I).

JACK RYAN ENTERPRISES, LTD., BY LAURA DENINNO.

All of these resources give Captain Stufflebeem a compact and powerful air unit, capable of dishing out impressive amounts of firepower upon targets afloat and ash.o.r.e. If CVW-1 has a vice, it is the lack of depth in its attached units. With just over seventy aircraft a.s.signed, any loss will be felt in both lost resources and unit morale. Nevertheless, it is a well-structured and balanced force, which can hurt an enemy if properly handled.

Cruiser-Destroyer Group Two: Guarding and Guiding "The Boat"

Aircraft carriers and submarines may be the glamorous and expensive superstars of seapower, but the "surface warfare" sailors and their cruisers, destroyers, and frigates are an increasingly visible and vital part of the battle group. These "small" ships (if you can call a ten-thousand-ton cruiser "small") carry an increasing proportion of the Navy's usable "in-your-face" combat power. Systems like the Aegis combat system, SM-2 SAM, Tomahawk cruise missile, and SH-60 LAMPS III helicopter are common aboard surface combatants. In the drawn-down Navy of the 1990's, the Cold War frictions between surface, submarine, and aviation communities have rapidly broken down, making way for a unique kind of "joint" warfare.

To get a view of this synergy, you need to take a look at how today's CVBGs are organized and commanded. Following Desert Storm and the end of the Cold War, a new arrangement was set up to spread CVBG leadership opportunities more fairly. Previously, each CVBG was controlled by a Carrier Group (CARGRU) headed by a Naval aviator rear admiral. The escorts formed a Cruiser-Destroyer Group (CRUDESGRU), and the two groups to-gether became the battle group. Now, only half the CVBGs are structured this way. The rest (usually three or four at a time) are headed by the CRUDESGRU commander (a rear admiral, lower half, traditionally addressed as "Commodore"), with the carrier and CVW subordinated. Other elements may be attached-the ARG, MEU (SOC), MCM (minesweeping) squadrons, SEAL teams, etc.-and this is the force that deploys for six months at a time.

[image]

Rear Admiral Michael Mullen, the commander of the George Washington George Washington carrier battle group. carrier battle group.

JOHN D. GRESHAM.

The GW group includes the ships of Cruiser-Destroyer Group Two (CRUDESGRU Two), home-ported at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia. Commanded by Rear Admiral Michael G. Mullen, USN, it is a well-balanced mix of older and newer ships. Admiral Mullen is a career surface warrior, in the tradition of great surface leaders like Admiral Elmo Zumwalt and Vice Admiral Joseph "Little Joe" Metcalf. He previously commanded the destroyer USS Goldsborough Goldsborough (DDG-20) and the Aegis cruiser USS (DDG-20) and the Aegis cruiser USS Yorktown Yorktown (CG-48), both top-of-the-line SAM ships. A graduate of the Annapolis Cla.s.s of 1968 (his notable cla.s.smates include Admiral Jay Johnson, the current CNO), he went on to earn a Master's degree from Harvard University. Admiral Mullen represents the new generation of Naval leader, as well educated and savvy as any corporate executive. We'll get to know him better in the next chapter. (CG-48), both top-of-the-line SAM ships. A graduate of the Annapolis Cla.s.s of 1968 (his notable cla.s.smates include Admiral Jay Johnson, the current CNO), he went on to earn a Master's degree from Harvard University. Admiral Mullen represents the new generation of Naval leader, as well educated and savvy as any corporate executive. We'll get to know him better in the next chapter.

Admiral Mullen's "flagship" is a section of the O-3 level "blue tile country" of the George Washington, George Washington, comfortable and nicely furnished, but quite noisy from aircraft operations one deck above. Here he makes his home and office afloat, along with the staff of CRUDESGRU Two. From there he commands the various ships of the force. Let's look at CRUDESGRU Two: comfortable and nicely furnished, but quite noisy from aircraft operations one deck above. Here he makes his home and office afloat, along with the staff of CRUDESGRU Two. From there he commands the various ships of the force. Let's look at CRUDESGRU Two:69 * USS USS Normandy Normandy (CG-64)- (CG-64)-An improved Ticonderoga-cla.s.s Ticonderoga-cla.s.s (CG-47) Aegis guided-missile cruiser, Normandy is commanded by Captain James F. Deppe. Normandy has already acc.u.mulated an outstanding combat record. In fact, she has fired more BGM-109 Tomahawk cruise missiles in anger (thirteen during Operation Deliberate Force in Bosnia back in 1995) than any other Navy cruiser. The heart of (CG-47) Aegis guided-missile cruiser, Normandy is commanded by Captain James F. Deppe. Normandy has already acc.u.mulated an outstanding combat record. In fact, she has fired more BGM-109 Tomahawk cruise missiles in anger (thirteen during Operation Deliberate Force in Bosnia back in 1995) than any other Navy cruiser. The heart of Normandy's Normandy's combat power is the Aegis combat system, with four SPY-1 phased-array radars to track hun-dredsof targets at once. Aegis-equipped ships can engage dozens of airborne targets (aircraft and missiles) with SM-2 SAMs, while also controlling the weapons of other ships in the battle group. She carries up to 122 missiles in two Mk. 41 vertical launch systems (VLS), including SM-2 Standard SAMs, BGM-109 Tomahawks, and RUM-139A Vertical Launch Anti-Submarine Rockets. In addition to her twin 5-in/127mm guns and missiles, Normandy carries a pair of SH-60B Seahawk helicopters that can deliver ASW torpedoes and AGM-119 Penguin antiship missiles. During 1997 and 1998, combat power is the Aegis combat system, with four SPY-1 phased-array radars to track hun-dredsof targets at once. Aegis-equipped ships can engage dozens of airborne targets (aircraft and missiles) with SM-2 SAMs, while also controlling the weapons of other ships in the battle group. She carries up to 122 missiles in two Mk. 41 vertical launch systems (VLS), including SM-2 Standard SAMs, BGM-109 Tomahawks, and RUM-139A Vertical Launch Anti-Submarine Rockets. In addition to her twin 5-in/127mm guns and missiles, Normandy carries a pair of SH-60B Seahawk helicopters that can deliver ASW torpedoes and AGM-119 Penguin antiship missiles. During 1997 and 1998, Normandy's Normandy's Seahawks came from Helicopter Squadron-Light Forty-Eight, Detachment Eight (HSL-48, Det. 8), headed by Commander Brent Barrow. For the 1997/1998 cruise, the Detachment 8 OIC was Lieutenant Commander Steve Blaisdell, who commanded two SH-60B aircraft, as well as their flight and maintenance crews. Seahawks came from Helicopter Squadron-Light Forty-Eight, Detachment Eight (HSL-48, Det. 8), headed by Commander Brent Barrow. For the 1997/1998 cruise, the Detachment 8 OIC was Lieutenant Commander Steve Blaisdell, who commanded two SH-60B aircraft, as well as their flight and maintenance crews.The Aegis guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy Normandy (CG-60), one of the escorts of the (CG-60), one of the escorts of the George Washington George Washington battle group. battle group.JOHN D. GRESHAM[image]* USS USS South Carolina South Carolina (CGN-37) (CGN-37)-Commanded by Captain David K. Brown, South Carolina South Carolina will be the last U.S. nuclear-powered cruiser in commission. Because of budget pressures, this ship and her sister, California (CGN-36), will retire in 1999. Until then, South will be the last U.S. nuclear-powered cruiser in commission. Because of budget pressures, this ship and her sister, California (CGN-36), will retire in 1999. Until then, South Carolina Carolina gives the gives the GW GW battle group excellent service. Thanks to her nuclear power plant, she is the only escort in the group that can stay with the carrier in a long-range, high-speed dash to a distant crisis. battle group excellent service. Thanks to her nuclear power plant, she is the only escort in the group that can stay with the carrier in a long-range, high-speed dash to a distant crisis. South Carolina South Carolina also has the "New Threat Update" (NTU), an electronics package that establishes a data link with Aegis ships, and accepts firing commands from their computers. This is especially useful, since also has the "New Threat Update" (NTU), an electronics package that establishes a data link with Aegis ships, and accepts firing commands from their computers. This is especially useful, since South Carolina's South Carolina's missile directors (steerable dish antennas projecting an intense, narrow microwave beam to "light up" the target for a missile's seeker head) are considered more effective in coastal areas than those of Aegis ships. missile directors (steerable dish antennas projecting an intense, narrow microwave beam to "light up" the target for a missile's seeker head) are considered more effective in coastal areas than those of Aegis ships.* USS USS Carney Carney (DDG-64) (DDG-64)-One of the newer ships in the Navy, Carney Carney is an is an Arleigh Burke Arleigh Burke-cla.s.s (DDG-51) Aegis destroyer. Displacing only 8,300 tons (as compared to almost ten thousand tons for Ticonderoga-cla.s.s Ticonderoga-cla.s.s cruisers), the cruisers), the Burkes Burkes are considered the finest surface combat vessels in the world on a ton-for-ton/capability basis. The first U.S. warships designed with stealth technology to reduce their radar and infrared signatures, they pack the same Aegis combat system and weapons mix as the larger cruisers. They carry fewer weapons (ninety-six missiles in her VLS launchers and a single 5-in/54 mm gun mount), though, and no helicopter hangar is fitted. are considered the finest surface combat vessels in the world on a ton-for-ton/capability basis. The first U.S. warships designed with stealth technology to reduce their radar and infrared signatures, they pack the same Aegis combat system and weapons mix as the larger cruisers. They carry fewer weapons (ninety-six missiles in her VLS launchers and a single 5-in/54 mm gun mount), though, and no helicopter hangar is fitted. Carney Carney is based at Naval Station Mayport, Florida, and commanded by Commander Mark H. Buzby. is based at Naval Station Mayport, Florida, and commanded by Commander Mark H. Buzby.* USS USS John Rogers John Rogers (DD-983) (DD-983)-An updated Spruance-cla.s.s Spruance-cla.s.s destroyer, destroyer, John John Rogers is based at Naval Station Mayport, Florida. Her skipper is Commander James M. Carr, and the two embarked SH-60B LAMPS helicopters are drawn from HSL-46 (headed by Commander Tim Alexander) at Mayport. For the Rogers is based at Naval Station Mayport, Florida. Her skipper is Commander James M. Carr, and the two embarked SH-60B LAMPS helicopters are drawn from HSL-46 (headed by Commander Tim Alexander) at Mayport. For the GW GW battle group's 1997/1998 cruise, the HSL-46 Det. 6 OIC was Lieutenant Commander Kenan Shaffer. battle group's 1997/1998 cruise, the HSL-46 Det. 6 OIC was Lieutenant Commander Kenan Shaffer.

Along with the four cruisers and destroyers, CRUDESGRU Two includes a pair of Oliver Hazard Perry Oliver Hazard Perry-cla.s.s (FFG-7) guided-missile frigates. These smaller (3,660 tons) escort ships are particularly useful for insh.o.r.e work common in littoral operations. Though limited in gun and SAM capabilities, FFG-7's have good sonars for shallow-water ASW, excellent helicopter facilities, and vast experience in maritime embargo and joint counter-drug operations. Like their namesakes from the age of fighting sail, frigates are fast ships that frequently go in harm's way.70 * USS USS Boone Boone (FFG-28) (FFG-28)-Based at Naval Station Mayport, Florida, Boone Boone is commanded by Commander Arthur S. Mobley. Her SH-60B Seahawk helicopter came from HSL-42 (commanded by Commander Robert Presler) during her 1997/1998 cruise with the is commanded by Commander Arthur S. Mobley. Her SH-60B Seahawk helicopter came from HSL-42 (commanded by Commander Robert Presler) during her 1997/1998 cruise with the GW GW group. This unit, HSL-42 Det. 1, is headed by Lieutenant Commander Stuart Howard. group. This unit, HSL-42 Det. 1, is headed by Lieutenant Commander Stuart Howard.* USS USS Underwood Underwood (FFG-36) (FFG-36)-Underwood is based at Naval Station Mayport, Florida, and commanded by Commander Daniel M. Smith. She also has a single SH-60B Seahawk detachment, this one from HSL-44 (headed by Commander Wayne Tunick). The HSL-44 Det. 7 OIC is Lieutenant Commander Jack Shepard. is based at Naval Station Mayport, Florida, and commanded by Commander Daniel M. Smith. She also has a single SH-60B Seahawk detachment, this one from HSL-44 (headed by Commander Wayne Tunick). The HSL-44 Det. 7 OIC is Lieutenant Commander Jack Shepard.

The last two combat vessels of the GW GW battle group are a pair of improved battle group are a pair of improved Los Angeles Los Angeles-cla.s.s (1688) nuclear-attack submarines, which give Admiral Mullen additional capabilities that we can only describe in general terms because of the tight security restrictions that surround and protect the "Silent Service." In addition to hunting down potential enemy submarines insh.o.r.e, they can fire Tomahawk cruise missiles, track maritime targets, gather electronic intelligence, and covertly deliver and retrieve special operations forces. The a.s.signed SSNs are: * USS USS Toledo Toledo (SSN-769) (SSN-769)-Based at the submarine base in Groton, Connecticut, Toledo is commanded by Commander Bill Burke.* USS USS Annapolis Annapolis (SSN-760) (SSN-760)-Also home-ported at Groton, Annapolis Annapolis is led by Commander Daniel Parson. is led by Commander Daniel Parson.

Logistics may be the least "s.e.xy" part of Naval operations, but supplies are always the first concern and constant worry of the professional warrior. You don't leave port without carefully planning how the fleet supply train will support your operations at sea over many months and thousands of miles. The mark of a real "blue-water" Navy is the ability to sustain operations at sea indefinitely. The U.S. Navy pioneered at-sea replenishment over six decades ago.

* USS USS Seattle Seattle (AOE-3) (AOE-3)-The great advantage of nuclear-powered warships is that they do not require fuel oil for propulsion. With four nuclear ships (a carrier, cruiser, and both submarines), the GW GW battle group has no need for a flotilla of supporting oil tankers. Only one combat support ship is a.s.signed to the battle group has no need for a flotilla of supporting oil tankers. Only one combat support ship is a.s.signed to the GW GW battle group, but what a ship! With over 53,000 tons displacement fully loaded, USS battle group, but what a ship! With over 53,000 tons displacement fully loaded, USS Seattle Seattle (of the (of the Sacramento Sacramento cla.s.s) carries bunker and aviation fuel, fresh food, spare parts, supplies, and ammunition. She can defend herself with a Mk. 29 Sea Sparrow SAM system, a pair of 20mm Mk. 15 Phalanx CIWS, and a full SLQ-32 ESM/ECM system. Captain Stephen Firks commands cla.s.s) carries bunker and aviation fuel, fresh food, spare parts, supplies, and ammunition. She can defend herself with a Mk. 29 Sea Sparrow SAM system, a pair of 20mm Mk. 15 Phalanx CIWS, and a full SLQ-32 ESM/ECM system. Captain Stephen Firks commands Seattle. Seattle.

Partners: The Guam Guam Amphibious Ready Group Amphibious Ready Group When I wrote about the Marine Corps a few years ago, teaming CVBGs and ARGs/MEU (SOC)s into combined task forces was still a very new concept.71 Though joining these two powerful and flexible units makes great sense, big technical, inst.i.tutional, and cultural barriers had to be overcome in order to make it happen. Once the concept was implemented, however, it quickly proved its worth, in the Balkans, the Taiwan Straits, Africa, and the Persian Gulf. The CVBG/ARG/MEU (SOC) teams have held the line for American interests and kept a lid on the chaos of the 1990s. Though joining these two powerful and flexible units makes great sense, big technical, inst.i.tutional, and cultural barriers had to be overcome in order to make it happen. Once the concept was implemented, however, it quickly proved its worth, in the Balkans, the Taiwan Straits, Africa, and the Persian Gulf. The CVBG/ARG/MEU (SOC) teams have held the line for American interests and kept a lid on the chaos of the 1990s.

For their 1997/1998 Mediterranean cruise, the GW GW battle group teamed with an ARG based around Amphibious Squadron Two (PHIBRON-2). These four ships are commanded by an "ARG Commodore," Captain Phillip Sowa, USN, from his flagship, the amphibious helicopter carrier (LPH) USS battle group teamed with an ARG based around Amphibious Squadron Two (PHIBRON-2). These four ships are commanded by an "ARG Commodore," Captain Phillip Sowa, USN, from his flagship, the amphibious helicopter carrier (LPH) USS Guam Guam (LPH-9). Though Guam lacks the larger flight deck, well deck, and hangar found on newer (LPH-9). Though Guam lacks the larger flight deck, well deck, and hangar found on newer Tarawa Tarawa (LHA-1) and Wasp-cla.s.s (LHD-1) a.s.sault ships, the ARG has found ways to compensate for these shortcomings. To make up for the shortage of well deck s.p.a.ce as well as vehicle and cargo capacity, the ARG has an extra Dock Landing Ship (LSD) to carry the full range of gear needed by an MEU (SOC). Since flight deck parking s.p.a.ce on Guam is minimal, the AV-8B Harrier II detachment a.s.signed to the MEU (SOC) was reduced to four aircraft. For close air support, the MEU (SOC) can rely on VMFA-251, the Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornet squadron embarked on (LHA-1) and Wasp-cla.s.s (LHD-1) a.s.sault ships, the ARG has found ways to compensate for these shortcomings. To make up for the shortage of well deck s.p.a.ce as well as vehicle and cargo capacity, the ARG has an extra Dock Landing Ship (LSD) to carry the full range of gear needed by an MEU (SOC). Since flight deck parking s.p.a.ce on Guam is minimal, the AV-8B Harrier II detachment a.s.signed to the MEU (SOC) was reduced to four aircraft. For close air support, the MEU (SOC) can rely on VMFA-251, the Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornet squadron embarked on GW. GW. Marines prefer to have their own aviators flying cover over a hot beach or landing zone. Marines prefer to have their own aviators flying cover over a hot beach or landing zone.

[image]

The amphibious helicopter carrier USS Guam Guam (LPH-9), flagship of the amphibious ready group attached to the (LPH-9), flagship of the amphibious ready group attached to the George Washington George Washington battle group. battle group.

JOHN D. GRESHAM.

* USS USS Guam Guam (LPH-9) (LPH-9)-Guam is among the last of her kind-one of only two of the is among the last of her kind-one of only two of the Iwo Jima Iwo Jima cla.s.s (LPH-2) still in service-and is scheduled to be decommissioned after the 1997/1998 cruise. Until then she will be Commodore Sowa's flagship and the headquarters for the embarked MEU (SOC). While she lacks the comforts, as well as some of the advanced communications and electronics, of her younger LHA/LHD cousins, Guam is an old warhorse, able to carry up to 1,500 Marines and twenty-four helicopters. Captain William J. Luti commands her. cla.s.s (LPH-2) still in service-and is scheduled to be decommissioned after the 1997/1998 cruise. Until then she will be Commodore Sowa's flagship and the headquarters for the embarked MEU (SOC). While she lacks the comforts, as well as some of the advanced communications and electronics, of her younger LHA/LHD cousins, Guam is an old warhorse, able to carry up to 1,500 Marines and twenty-four helicopters. Captain William J. Luti commands her.* USS USS Shreveport Shreveport (LPD-12) (LPD-12)-Another "rusty but trusty" veteran of American amphibious operations. An Austin-cla.s.s Austin-cla.s.s (LPD-4) Amphibious Transport Dock, (LPD-4) Amphibious Transport Dock, Shreveport Shreveport is the "insh.o.r.e" element of the ARG, with much of the "special" warfare capability of the MEU (SOC) aboard. This includes an organic remotely piloted vehicle (RPV) unit of Pioneer reconnaissance drones, as well as the rubber boats, the force recon element, and a Navy Sea-Air-Land (SEAL) team. Led by Captain Denby Starling II, she can expect at least a decade of service ahead before her final trip to the sc.r.a.p yard and replacement by a new is the "insh.o.r.e" element of the ARG, with much of the "special" warfare capability of the MEU (SOC) aboard. This includes an organic remotely piloted vehicle (RPV) unit of Pioneer reconnaissance drones, as well as the rubber boats, the force recon element, and a Navy Sea-Air-Land (SEAL) team. Led by Captain Denby Starling II, she can expect at least a decade of service ahead before her final trip to the sc.r.a.p yard and replacement by a new San Antonio- San Antonio-cla.s.s (LPD-17) amphibious ship.* USS USS Ashland Ashland (LSD-48) (LSD-48)-Designed to carry a mix of landing craft, vehicles, and cargo, Ashland Ashland is a Whidby is a Whidby Island-cla.s.s Island-cla.s.s (LSD-41) amphibious ship, capable of carrying up to four Landing Craft, Air Cushioned (LCAC), which are favored in today's amphibious operations. Captained by Commander Timothy R. Hanley, (LSD-41) amphibious ship, capable of carrying up to four Landing Craft, Air Cushioned (LCAC), which are favored in today's amphibious operations. Captained by Commander Timothy R. Hanley, Ashland Ashland is a modern and very comfortable ship for its crew and embarked Marines. is a modern and very comfortable ship for its crew and embarked Marines.* USS USS Oak Oak Hill Hill (LSD-51)- (LSD-51)-Oak Hill is one of four is one of four Harpers Ferry- Harpers Ferry-cla.s.s LSDs, cargo variants of the Whidby Island Whidby Island cla.s.s. By shortening the well deck so that it only has a capacity for two LCACs, cla.s.s. By shortening the well deck so that it only has a capacity for two LCACs, Oak Hill Oak Hill gains vastly increased stowage for vehicles and cargo. gains vastly increased stowage for vehicles and cargo. Oak Hill Oak Hill is an another state-of-the-art amphibious ship, with Commander Michael A. Durnan at the helm. is an another state-of-the-art amphibious ship, with Commander Michael A. Durnan at the helm.

Amphibious ships like these are hardly sleek greyhounds of the sea. Sailors joke that the designator "LSD" stands for "large slow duck!" For this reason, Admiral Mullen has teamed several of his escorts for regular operations with the Guam Guam ARG, depending upon the mission. For example, during insh.o.r.e amphibious operations, ARG, depending upon the mission. For example, during insh.o.r.e amphibious operations, South Carolina South Carolina and and John Rogers John Rogers usually provide cover for the ARG. This includes ASW and gunfire support, as well as a SAM air defense "bubble." Thanks to her NTU system, usually provide cover for the ARG. This includes ASW and gunfire support, as well as a SAM air defense "bubble." Thanks to her NTU system, South Carolina South Carolina can tap into the sensor and automation systems of the Aegis ships, and take firing cues from them. can tap into the sensor and automation systems of the Aegis ships, and take firing cues from them.

The ARG's combat power is the cargo it can deliver-Marines and their "stuff." For the Guam Guam ARG, that cargo is the 24th MEU (SOC). The 24th was the unit that plucked Air Force Captain Scott O'Grady out of Bosnia back in 1995, after his F-16C Fighting Falcon was shot down by a Bosnian Serb SA-6 SAM. Today the unit is commanded by Colonel Richard Natonski, USMC, and has roughly the same structure as in 1995. The 24th's components include: ARG, that cargo is the 24th MEU (SOC). The 24th was the unit that plucked Air Force Captain Scott O'Grady out of Bosnia back in 1995, after his F-16C Fighting Falcon was shot down by a Bosnian Serb SA-6 SAM. Today the unit is commanded by Colonel Richard Natonski, USMC, and has roughly the same structure as in 1995. The 24th's components include: * Battalion Landing Team (BLT) 3-6 Battalion Landing Team (BLT) 3-6-The core of the 24th MEU (SOC) is built around BLT 3-6, a reinforced Marine rifle battalion. Its 1,200 Marines have their own armor, artillery, and transport, providing a capability to launch small coastal raids or spearhead large invasions. During 1997 and 1998, the 24th MEU (SOC) has been commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Richard P. Mills.* Medium Marine Helicopter Squadron 263 (HMM-263)- Medium Marine Helicopter Squadron 263 (HMM-263)-The air component of the 24th MEU (SOC) is a reinforced squadron of twelve CH-46E Sea Knight medium-transport helicopters. Attached are quartets of CH-53E Super Stallion heavy-lift, UH-1N Iroquois command-and-control, and AH-1W Super Cobra attack helicopters. Normally there is a detachment of six AV-8B Harrier II fighter-bombers a.s.signed, but Guam's Guam's limited deck parking s.p.a.ce reduced this to just four. Lieutenant Colonel Michael Duva is the commander of HMM-263, and is equipped to operate as a Joint Forces Air Component Commander (JFACC-commanding Army, Navy and Air Force aviation a.s.sets on the scene) if necessary. limited deck parking s.p.a.ce reduced this to just four. Lieutenant Colonel Michael Duva is the commander of HMM-263, and is equipped to operate as a Joint Forces Air Component Commander (JFACC-commanding Army, Navy and Air Force aviation a.s.sets on the scene) if necessary.* MEU Service Support Group 24 (MSSG-24)- MEU Service Support Group 24 (MSSG-24)-the 24th MEU (SOC)'s logistical tail is the 24th MSSG. Commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Brian L. Tonnacliff, this compact unit keeps the 24th supplied with everything from floppy disks and ammunition to jet fuel and water.

All of the above components make for one of the best-balanced, most compact fighting forces in the world. What it lacks, like its CVW-1 teammate, is depth-it is only a couple thousand sailors and Marines in a world where dictators command tens of thousands of soldiers. But one of the nice things about being a "gator" sailor or Marine is that if you go in harm's way, a lot more Marines and other American warriors can be on the way, soon to back you up.

"Cats and Dogs": Miscellaneous Attached Units CVBGs, ARGs, and MEU (SOC)s are just three of the many units "owned," trained, and "packaged" by U.S. Atlantic Command (USACOM) in Norfolk, Virginia.72 Before a CVBG or ARG/MEU (SOC) goes into combat, it will likely be reinforced with additional support units. While this may not be a complete list, it is representative of what has been regularly used in the last decade or so. Before a CVBG or ARG/MEU (SOC) goes into combat, it will likely be reinforced with additional support units. While this may not be a complete list, it is representative of what has been regularly used in the last decade or so.

* Land Based Air Support Land Based Air Support-In addition to CVW-1 and HMM-263, the GW battle group frequently needs support from land-based aviation to sustain long-term operations in high-threat areas. This was seen clearly during Operations Desert Storm and Joint Endeavor. These aviation units can include:-Airborne Tanker Support-Every CAG dreams, hopes, and l.u.s.ts for more airborne tanker support. Since the retirement of the KA-6D Intruder, the only tankers he actually "owns" are S-3 Viking and ES-3 Shadow aircraft, which can carry under-wing "buddy" refueling pods. Each of these can "give away" about 8,000 lb/3,627 kg of fuel for tanking. This is less than a third of what used to be dispensed by a single KA-6D, so any land-based tanker support is precious. One option is a Marine KC-130 Hercules tanker detachment "on-call" for the 24th MEU (SOC). In addition to Marine tanker support, other tanker a.s.sets can make the life of CVW-1 easier. Navy carrier aircraft have refueling probes that fit almost any Air Force, Navy, or NATO tanker aircraft available. Especially valuable are the big Air Force KC-10A Extenders, which can refuel aircraft with either boom or probe refueling systems. One KC-10A carries over ten times the "give-away" fuel load of an S-3/ES-3 tanker, and has much greater loiter time. A favorite Navy "trick" is to use a large land-based tanker, like a KC-135, as a "milk cow" to top off S-3/ES-3 tankers, which then distribute the fuel to other carrier aircraft.-Airborne Early Warning (AEW) Support-Back in 1982, the Royal Navy learned a hard lesson about operating without AEW support in a high-threat environment. Ships were sunk, sailors died, and the expedition to retake the Falkland Islands was seriously jeopardized. While VAW- 123's four E-2C Hawkeyes provide excellent AEW capability, Admiral Mullen is happy to have additional "eyes in the sky." If support from Air Force E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft is available, count on him using it with gusto. Data links on Navy ships can talk to computers on Air Force and NATO Sentries. Secure voice radios are also compatible, a.s.suming everyone has correctly loaded the proper codes (this is a common foul-up in exercises, and it's been known to happen in combat).-J-STARS Ground Surveillance-The GW CVBG has powerful sensors to monitor the sky, but its ability to detect and track surface and ground-based targets is more limited. The S-3Bs of VS-32 can fly effective day and night maritime surface surveillance missions, but this competes with their other missions as tankers, ASW aircraft, and sea control platforms. Real-time tracking of ground targets ash.o.r.e is even more difficult. If you need to monitor a ground threat, have your CinC ask the Air Force for the loan of few E-8 Joint Surveillance, Tracking, and Reconnaissance System (J-STARS) aircraft. Based on a commercial Boeing 707 airframe, the E-8's carry side-looking synthetic-aperture radar (SAR) that can detect both stationary and moving targets on the earth's surface. The J-STARS system also has special modes for detecting and tracking maritime targets, then pa.s.sing the data to the battle group via a data link. Because J-STARS is designed for "wide area" surveillance, it can monitor thousands of square miles of territory at a time.-Air Force Wings-CVW-1 is trained and equipped to work jointly with air units of other services, or even of allied countries. This reflects a profound transformation in Navy thinking since 1990, and even as late as 1995 the capability was marginal. But now the CVBG finally has its own capability to generate and use Air Tasking Orders to synchronize and "de-conflict" all kinds of air operations (strikes, sweeps, recon, cargo delivery, airmobile a.s.sault, cruise-missile salvos, search and rescue-you name it!). Someday we may see "expeditionary" Air Force wings (like the 366th, a composite unit of fighters, bombers, and tankers) directly supporting carrier operations or providing cover for a CVBG or ARG.-Marine Aviation Support-The Marine Corps can quickly deploy squadron of two-seat F/A-18D Hornet all-weather strike fighters to support CVBG, ARG, and MEU (SOC) operations. Equipped with Nighthawk laser-targeting pods for LGBs, as well as AIM-120 AMRAAM and AGM- 65 Maverick missiles, the F/A-18Ds are highly capable strike fighters. Marines also fly land-based EA-6B Prowler electronic warfare (EW) and jammer aircraft to augment those already aboard the carrier. Also, Marine Hornets and Prowlers can easily operate from carriers if necessary, since they too have tailhooks!* Reconnaissance Support Reconnaissance Support-To plan air strikes effectively you need high-quality, up-to-the-minute imagery of potential targets, and intelligence a.n.a.lysts who understand how to interpret these images. The main reconnaissance a.s.set on the carrier is a quartet of TARPS-equipped F-14's. Older TARPS pods bring back reels of film that has to be developed in an onboard photographic lab. New Digital TARPS pods have a data link that can return a stream of pictures to the carrier before the F-14 lands. Other sources for imagery tend to sound like a bowl of alphabet soup: Satellite imagery will come from the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) in Chantilly, Virginia, with its fleet or orbital imaging and radar satellites. UAVs and other airborne imaging systems can also be tasked for the CVBG staff. To process and distribute imagery and other products, the National Imaging and Mapping Agency (NIMA) was created in 1996. NIMA will combine the services of NRO, the Central Imaging Office (CIO), the National Photographic Center (NPIC), and the Defense Mapping Agency (DMA), all under a single roof. Digital and paper maps, annotated photography, and customized target graphics will be "pulled" on demand by regional joint intelligence centers and "pushed" down to the wing and squadron intelligence officers who will need it.

The big NRO satellites produce a huge volume of high-quality "close look" and "wide area" imagery, but many urgent demands compete for limited time slots on these precious national a.s.sets. Smaller and less expensive collection systems will come on line in the early 21st century. NRO is trying to improve the timeliness of the images they deliver, and to "downgrade" the Super-Secret cla.s.sification of final products, so that more people and organizations can see them. An alternative that will become available in 1998 is commercial satellite imagery at one-meter resolution (good enough to distinguish tanks from trucks, but not to identify specific models). In the long run, the military will probably be one of the biggest users of commercial imagery, since it will be cheap, timely, and best of all, uncla.s.sified!

UAV systems continue to make steady progress toward the goal of long-duration, stealthy, unmanned airborne reconnaissance. The Pioneer UAV continues in service with the Marine Corps. Also, the first Air Force Predator unit (the 11th Reconnaissance Squadron), at Nellis AFB, Nevada, formed several years ago. Predator is derived from the Gnat 750 UAVs, which were combat-tested by the CIA in Bosnia back in 1994; and Predators were used during a recent workup of the Carl Vinson Carl Vinson (CVN-70) CVBG off the southern California coast. The Navy today can receive the data feed from Predators, and control them from carriers. Trials have even tested controlling the big UAVs from nuclear submarines! On the downside, there are no facilities for carrier takeoffs or landings, and Predators must be launched from a land site. But the multi-day endurance of the Predator makes this a minor limitation in most areas. (CVN-70) CVBG off the southern California coast. The Navy today can receive the data feed from Predators, and control them from carriers. Trials have even tested controlling the big UAVs from nuclear submarines! On the downside, there are no facilities for carrier takeoffs or landings, and Predators must be launched from a land site. But the multi-day endurance of the Predator makes this a minor limitation in most areas.

A Predator Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) flies over the USS Carl Vinson Carl Vinson (CVN-70) during an exercise off the southern California coast. Within a few years, such UAVs will be a common a.s.set supporting carrier groups. (CVN-70) during an exercise off the southern California coast. Within a few years, such UAVs will be a common a.s.set supporting carrier groups.

OFFICIAL U.S. NAVY PHOTO.

[image]

In addition to the Predator and Pioneer programs, progress is being made on long-endurance surveillance UAVs, like Dark Star, produced by the Lockheed Martin "Skunk Works." The even-longer-range Teledyne Ryan Global Hawk is also on track, as well as the data links and common control stations needed to make the UAV available to users. Traditional manned reconnaissance systems include the RF-18D Hornet introduced in 1997, equipped with a new Advanced Tactical Reconnaissance System (ATARS).

* Intelligence Support Intelligence Support-In addition to imagery and mapping support, the GW battle group can also make use of many of the other products generated by the various "spook" agencies. Some of these include:-National Security Agency (NSA)-The NSA, which controls all electronic and signals intelligence collection, is a significant supporting agency for an amphibious unit like the GW battle group. A cramped, high-security compartment called the "Ships Signals Exploitation s.p.a.ce" (SSES) lets battle group, ARG, and MEU (SOC) commanders tap into a wealth of electronic intelligence sources including RC-135 Rivet Joint and EP-3 Orion electronic intelligence aircraft, as well as communications intelligence satellites. Ship-based sensors (like the Cla.s.sic Outboard ESM system) can intercept and a.n.a.lyze electronic signals, from SAM and air traffic radar to cellular phones and television signals.-U.S. s.p.a.ce Command (US s.p.a.cECOM)-Based at Falcon AFB, Colorado, US s.p.a.cECOM provides s.p.a.ce-based services to support combat operations. Key a.s.sets include weather, GPS navigation and communications satellites, ballistic missile warnings, and in the future, theater missile defense command and control.-Cable News Network (CNN)-Intelligence a.n.a.lysts, after a few drinks, will usually agree that CNN is the finest real-time intelligence-gathering service in the world. In fact, one of the greatest benefits of the Challenge Athena system was to give commanders and staffs access to networks like CNN, Skynet, and MSNBC. A side benefit is improved crew morale when up-to-the-minute news and sports from home are available.

Battle Group Operations: The Concept When the Army guys talk about "doctrine," Navy guys talk about CONOPS. "Doctrine" or CONOPS is how we think about the way we fight. For American Naval commanders, tradition, more than technology, dominates the way they look at CONOPS. Carrier-based air units tend to be more "brittle" than land-based wings and squadrons. When you have very few aircraft, and reinforcements may be weeks away, the loss of each plane and crew hurts-a lot. That means that battle group and air wing commanders have to be very cautious when they commit their limited resources, yet very bold in employing them to make the effort effective. Balancing such conflicting objectives takes a special gift-even a kind of operational and tactical genius. The capacity for such judgment is rare.

Aviators are an incredibly select group to begin with, and only the best of the best ever rise to command carriers, air wings, and battle groups. Perhaps this explains why naval aviators seem to be so successful, not only in the top ranks of the military, but also in government and industry. They don't just have "the right stuff." They have the right CONOPS.

A trained, well-led battle group is an ideal tool for many different missions. These missions include: * Presence Presence-Global naval presence is the primary mission of every peacetime CVBG deployment. Just having a carrier group in the neighborhood encourages regional bullies and opponents to back off, as seems to have happened in the Straits of Taiwan in 1996 when a pair of CVBGs deterred aggression by the People's Republic of China against Taiwan. It's really very simple: If you attack even a small small American ship, you've got yourself an international incident. If you attack an American carrier, you've got yourself a war against the people of the United States. American ship, you've got yourself an international incident. If you attack an American carrier, you've got yourself a war against the people of the United States. You lose. You lose. Any questions? Any questions?* Show of Force Show of Force-This might be best described as a one-time application of military power for the purpose of sending a message. It is a punitive military action designed to apply a measured amount of force against a specific target. Operation Desert Strike against Iraq in 1996 and the 1986 raid on Libya are prime examples.* Maritime Embargo Maritime Embargo-In the days of sailing ships, this mission was called a blockade. Though modern interpretations of international law have made the historic concept of blockade obsolete, maritime embargo and inspection operations are a staple of CVBG operations today. At one point in 1994, the U.S. and its allies were simultaneously running embargo operations against Iraq, Haiti, and in the Balkans.* Freedom of Navigation Exercise Freedom of Navigation Exercise-"Freedom of the Seas" is a concept the U.S. Navy inherits from the Pax Britannica-the age of British global empire, when the Royal Navy enforced the "right of innocent pa.s.sage" at gunpoint, anywhere in the world. To tyrannical regimes, the notion of free navigation is as incomprehensible as most other freedoms. Dictators are often tempted to simply close their coastal waters, applying the surfer punk's rule of "my beach, my wave!" As a matter of policy, the United States will challenge any attempt to prevent or restrict free navigation in recognized international waters. Our operations on the Libyan "Line of Death" in the Gulf of Sidra in 1981 and 1986 are cla.s.sic examples of this mission.* Maritime Escort Maritime Escort-High-value commercial vessels, like tankers and container ships, or military transports (like Maritime Prepositioning Squadrons) sometimes have to be escorted past hostile sh.o.r.es and through dangerous waters. CVBGs provide powerful force for escort missions, with their array of air, surface, and subsurface capabilities. Our escort of American-flagged Kuwaiti-owned tankers during 1988 and 1989 in the Persian Gulf demonstrates this mission.* Expeditionary Support Expeditionary Support-"Expeditionary" is a fancy word for invasion, the ultimate exercise of force. Though rare, invasions still happen. Recent examples are the 1983 invasion of Grenada, our landings in Beirut during the same period, and the liberation of Haiti in 1994. CVBGs and ARGs were the key units in prosecuting each of these actions.* Power Projection Power Projection-Sometimes, you just have to fly a lot of sorties over some beach for a long time to support a long-term national commitment. Desert Storm and operations in the Gulf of Tonkin during the Vietnam War are examples. This kind of operation usually involves two or more CVBGs sharing the burden of operations over a period of days or weeks. The key to this kind of warfare is pacing the air crews and maintaining an adequate supply of munitions for delivery onto the targets.

Each of these missions depends on having all the elements of the CVBG team in place, so that the battle group commander has a full range of options to block or defeat any hostile action. A battle group commander can only do his job, however, if he has political support from the National Command Authorities, necessary freedom of action from his regional CinC, and Rules of Engagement (ROE) that allow him to accomplish the mission.

[image]

A Non-Combatant Evacuation Operation (NEO) being run by U.S. Marines. These operations have become almost commonplace since the end of the Cold War.

OFFICIAL U.S. NAVY PHOTO.

So how would a CVBG commanded like Admiral Mullen use the tools at his command to prosecute an actual crisis? Consider the problem facing many American travelers in some of the world's rougher neighborhoods: walking into the middle of a civil war. Since the end of the Cold War in the early 1990's, literally dozens of national, tribal, ethnic, or religious conflicts have sprung up. They drag on for years without one side or the other gaining a decisive advantage. During particularly chaotic periods, immediate evacuation of American citizens and other non-combatants from the war zone is required to prevent ma.s.sacres or hostage situations from developing, as they did in Iran back in 1979.

In a "typical" NEO (Non-Combatant Evacuation Operation), Marines from the MEU (SOC) fly into a capital city to reinforce the guard in the American emba.s.sy, and then safeguard the helicopter evacuation of non-combatants to the waiting ships offsh.o.r.e. The U.S. and our allies have conducted literally dozens of NEOs in the last few years, particularly in West Africa and the Balkans. Usually an NEO is accomplished by detaching and dispatching the ARG/MEU (SOC) team and a few escorts to conduct the mission independently. During Desert Shield (1990), simultaneous NEOs were required in Somalia and Liberia, without taking forces away from the buildup in the Gulf. Most combatants in civil wars these days have the good sense to let us run our NEOs without getting in the way. However, some truly fanatical terrorists or tribal warriors just can't resist the urge to test their prowess against the Marines.

A "worst case" NEO in our time might involve rebel forces closing in on a city; not just ragtag guerrillas with AK-47's and RPG-7's, but well-equipped and trained forces with artillery, armor, helicopters, and fighter-bombers. Let's say that they have taken a hard stand against American intervention; not just nasty rhetoric but closing off normal evacuation routes. Overland roads, seaports, and airports have been closed, and several thousand civilians are trapped inside emba.s.sies in the surrounded city. To emphasize their dislike of Westerners, rebels have taken shots at emba.s.sy guards and killed some news crews, inciting outrage from the world media.

Since the situation is clearly getting out of hand, an entire CVBG/ARG/ MEU (SOC) team is dispatched to bring the civilians out with a minimum of losses. With the orders and ROE from the National Command Authorities in hand, the battle group commander brings the force to the offsh.o.r.e waters of the embattled country, then calls his unit commanders together for a planning conference aboard the flagship. Meanwhile, intelligence agencies will be working overtime to gather, generate, and deliver the necessary imagery, maps, and data on potential threats.

As the battle group arrives offsh.o.r.e, rebel and loyalist forces are fighting in the streets around the emba.s.sies, and the rebel air force is bombing the capital city. The embarked CVW is tasked to take out the air threat to the Marine helicopters, and escort and protect the evacuees as they are flown back to the ships of the ARG. The CVW sets up a combat air patrol (CAP) station of F-14 Tomcats backed up by an E-2C Hawkeye AEW aircraft. At the same time, the State and Defense Department spokesmen back in Washington, D.C., are making the intentions of the force clear to the rebels and the rest of the world: Americans will fire on anyone interfering with the evacuation.

Initially, the show of force deters any rebel response, which is exactly the intent. Meanwhile, additional air units are already being prepared for operations. Each operational mission is known as an "event" to the air boss on the carrier, who manages and controls the local airs.p.a.ce to ensure that no midair collisions or enemy incursions interfere with operations. Events are normally scheduled about one hour apart to allow a little slack time for flight and deck crews to "respot" aircraft (shuffle them around on the deck) and take a few breaks. These "cyclic ops" can be maintained indefinitely if required.

Meanwhile, an Aegis ship moves closer insh.o.r.e, with one of the HH- 60G SAR/special operations helicopters aboard standing by for Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel (TRAP) in case a plane goes down. The escort provides insh.o.r.e radar coverage of the airs.p.a.ce, and establishes a forward SAM "bubble" to protect the ships of the ARG should the rebels try an air strike against them. About this time, the first wave of Marine reinforcements aboard its helicopter transports arrives at the emba.s.sy and prepares to take out the first of the evacuees. Within a few hours of the initial Marine guard reinforcement, the helicopters loaded with evacuees will be shuttling out to the ARG ships on a regular schedule. Since evacuations can involve rescuing hundreds and sometimes thousands of civilians, and it can take hours to get them all clear of the war zone, trouble can easily occur during this period.

A few hours into the evacuation cycle, the rebels have carefully noted the timing and routes of the evacuation helicopters, with a view to teaching the Americans a lesson. Under cover of darkness a mobile battery of radar-controlled SAMs moves into the evacuation corridor. And just as dawn is breaking, a flight of MiG fighters attempts to intercept one of the helicopter groups. These threats do not go unnoticed. A few miles offsh.o.r.e, systems operators in the backseats of an ES-3 Shadow ESM aircraft intercept radio messages between the SAM battery and rebel headquarters, as well as communications traffic going out to the MiG base outside the city. To deal with this threat, the battle group commander reinforces the next rescue group with additional CAP escorts, and orders alternative route planning for the helicopters.

Suddenly an escorting EA-6B Prowler begins to detect the telltale signals of the SAM surveillance radar. The Prowler fires a pair of AGM-88 HARM anti-radiation missiles at the radar vehicle, destroying it in seconds. Moments later, a pair of F/A-18 Hornet fighter-bombers dive into the area, destroying the SAM launch vehicles with LGBs and AGM-65 Maverick missiles.

As the strike aircraft finish their deadly work, word goes out over the secure data links that the AEW Hawkeye and ES-3 have detected several flights of MiG fighters being vectored into the area. Rapidly, the CVW commander maneuvers his fighters into position to stop them. He orders his most capable fighters to intercept (these aircraft have Low Probability of Intercept-LPI-radars equipped with NCTR operating modes). As the American fighters move into place, they acquire the rebel fighters on radar, and fire their AIM-120 AMRAAM AAMs at maximum range. Over half of the rebel MiGs are vaporized in cl.u.s.ters of oily fireb.a.l.l.s. The rest flee back to their base. Now that the immediate danger is past, the evacuation continues without a break until the last of the civilians and emba.s.sy staff have safely reached the ships of the ARG.

As the Marine guard and reinforcement force is recovered, the National Command Authorities decide to punish the rebel violations of international law prior to withdrawal. With the Marines and helicopters back aboard, the ARG heads back out to sea, and one last strike is planned, briefed, and a.s.sembled aboard the carrier. Throughout the NEO operations, national intelligence agencies and the CVBG's own TARPS F-14's have been trying to locate and identify critical rebel command posts and heavy-weapons sites. Because of the earlier attacks on U.S. forces, a one-time show of force against the rebels is authorized and rapidly executed.

Close insh.o.r.e, the Aegis ship launches several dozen BGM-109 Tomahawk cruise missiles to attack fixed radars and command posts. Behind them come a wave of fighter-bombers and support aircraft, which attack the rebel MiG base, as well as the headquarters of the insurgent forces. To minimize collateral damage, only PGMs are used to hit bunkers and aircraft shelters. Once their ordnance is expended, all aircraft safely return to the "boat" for a well-deserved rest.

As the battle group withdraws, Aegis ships and one CAP section provide a "rear guard" until the force exits the threat area. A few days later, the evacuees safely disembark; and weapons, fuel, and supplies are replenished. Then the battle group moves on to its next destination, the cycles of normal operations are reestablished, and the crews begin to think about their next port call and the exercises that will follow. While this scenario is much simplified, it ill.u.s.trates how CVBGs can rapidly adapt to a fast-breaking situation. Getting a battle group into such a high state of readiness is, of course, no simple matter. The next chapter explains how Admiral Mullen, Captain Rutheford, and CAG Stufflebeem spent the hot summer of 1997 preparing their people, ships, and aircraft for the challenge of an actual deployment. Join me, and I'll show you how they spent their vacation!

Final Examination: JTFEX 97-3 "This is 4.5 acres of sovereign U.S. territory"

Rear Admiral Michael Mullen, Commander, George Washington Battle Group

In the fall of 1997 trouble was once again brewing in the Persian Gulf. Once again, Iraq was defying the authority of the United Nations Security Council, trying to hide from the world the weapons of ma.s.s destruction Saddam Hussein had spent so much to produce. As usual, the Iraqi dictator railed against UN weapons inspectors' attempts to detect his research and production centers for chemical, biological, and nuclear arms. And once again, the world went to the brink of war.

As in previous years, this crisis required a U.S. response that was both rapid and clear. Quickly, units of the Army's XVIII Airborne Corps were put on alert; and the U.S. Air Force dispatched reinforcements to the aerial task force (based at Prince Sultan Airbase in Saudi Arabia) already enforcing the southern Iraqi "no-fly" zone. But this time there was a complication. For the first time since August of 1990, our Persian Gulf allies denied us the use of bases on their territory. Though we still do not know whether this action resulted from pent-up frustration over our failure to form a clear policy toward Iraq, or from fear of the reaction of their own Islamic fundamentalist factions, this much was clear. If America were to react to this crisis, then the response would have to come from U.S. ships sailing in international waters.

To this end, the newly installed Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Henry Shelton, sent the word down the chain of command: "Send in the carriers." Within days, the carrier battle groups (CVBGs) based around the aircraft carriers Nimitz Nimitz (CVN-68) and (CVN-68) and George Washington George Washington (CVN-73) were sailing for the Persian Gulf, where they could quickly mount air and cruise-missile strikes against Iraqi targets should these be required. As the CVBGs rattled sabers, UN Secretary General Kofi Annan carefully constructed a diplomatic effort to persuade Saddam that further intransigence would lead to falling bombs. The persuasion-eventually-worked, and the inspectors were able to return to their jobs. (CVN-73) were sailing for the Persian Gulf, where they could quickly mount air and cruise-missile strikes against Iraqi targets should these be required. As the CVBGs rattled sabers, UN Secretary General Kofi Annan carefully constructed a diplomatic effort to persuade Saddam that further intransigence would lead to falling bombs. The persuasion-eventually-worked, and the inspectors were able to return to their jobs.

The carriers Nimitz Nimitz (CVN-68) and (CVN-68) and George Washington George Washington (CVN-73) in the Persian Gulf during fall 1997. These two vessels and their battle groups comprised the bulk of the striking power that stood down Saddam Hussein during the arms inspection crisis. (CVN-73) in the Persian Gulf during fall 1997. These two vessels and their battle groups comprised the bulk of the striking power that stood down Saddam Hussein during the arms inspection crisis.

OFFICAL U.S. NAVY PHOTO.

[image]

Meanwhile, the two battle groups spent almost six months on station in the Gulf, until they were relieved of their vigil in the spring of 1998 by two more CVBGs, centered around the carriers Independence Independence (CV-62) and (CV-62) and John John C. C. Stennis Stennis (CVN-74). The U.S. kept two carrier groups in the Persian Gulf until late May 1998, by which time tensions in the region had relaxed. Back home in America, most of us gave little thought to the thousands of men and women on these ships. Even though we may have worried a great deal about the Iraqi crisis itself, they were out there, doing a vital and dangerous job for us, and generally making it look easy. This last is a significant point: Making it look easy is hard work. It takes practice, training, intense education, constant drilling. (CVN-74). The U.S. kept two carrier groups in the Persian Gulf until late May 1998, by which time tensions in the region had relaxed. Back home in America, most of us gave little thought to the thousands of men and women on these ships. Even though we may have worried a great deal about the Iraqi crisis itself, they were out there, doing a vital and dangerous job for us, and generally making it look easy. This last is a significant point: Making it look easy is hard work. It takes practice, training, intense education, constant drilling.

The process of preparing a CVBG for an overseas deployment begins months before it deploys, and it takes the efforts of every person a.s.signed to the group, as well as thousands of others who do not leave American waters. Let's lo