Updates are graciously provided by Marine Forum, with additional information from Naval Todayand the Naval Open-Source Intelligence Blog. The commentary is my own.

 

Maritime disputes and Arctic claims issues play a big part in today's updates. Enjoy!

 

Summary to follow:

 

24 September

 

IRAN

In an exercise “near the Strait of Hormuz,” IRGC forces test-fired four anti-ship missiles that sunk a naval target “the size of a warship.” (rmks: The Mullahs are getting increasingly more aggressive. One has to wonder if this situation is going to wind up being the October surprise of the this US election cycle)

 

PIRACY (It's been a while since we've have any funnies)

Arabian Sea: approx. 110 nm southeast of Salalah (Oman), an Omani dhow fired upon by a single skiff … managed to avoid being hijacked. (rmks: No pirates were harmed in reporting this story. Blast it all)

 

USA

+++ The USS BONHOMME RICHARD Amphibious Ready Group completes certification exercise (CERTEX) in the Philippine Sea … temporarily had Japanese ground forces soldiers embarked.

+++ Aircraft carrier USS HARRY S. TRUMAN departs Norfolk to conduct one-week combat systems ship qualification trials (CSSQT). (rmks: In July, completed 16-month maintenance period)

+++ En route from San Diego for a regular deployment to the West Pacific and subsequently the Middle East, the USS PELELIU Amphibious Ready Group arrives at Pearl Harbor (Hawaii)

 

 

25 September

 

CHINA

+++ Two-days after taking delivery, the Chinese navy formally commissions aircraft carrier ex-VARAG under the name LIAONING … President Hu Jintao presided over ceremony at the port of Dalian, along with Premier Wen Jiabao and top generals.

+++ (CHINA – JAPAN): The Chinese State Council Information Office has issued a white paper about the Diaoyu/Senkaku Islands dispute with Japan … claiming ownership of the islands. (rmks: Nay, say it ain't so! I would have NEVER thought that!)

 

RUSSIA

+++ Admiralty Shipyards reaffirms plans to resume construction of two LADA class submarines in 2013, with new propulsion systems to be installed … currently negotiating with MoD over the costs … RFS KRONSHTADT to receive set of advanced Lithium-Ion batteries (in 2015), RFS SEVASTOPOL may get air independent propulsion system currently under development. (rmks: Absence of any reports suggests that type boat RFS ST. PETERBURG failed to deploy to Northern Fleet area for tests, as had been announced in May)

+++ MoD official gives costs for refurbishing KIROV class cruiser RFS ADMIRAL NAKHIMOV as approx. Euro 1.2 billion … suggests alternative may be purchase and completion of Ukrainian SLAVA class cruiser UKRAINA … two other KIROV class cruisers RFS ADMIRAL LAZAREV and ADMIRAL USHAKOV beyond repair and “will be disposed of.”

+++ Missile cruiser RFS PETR VELIKIY back in the Kara Sea (rmks: from as far east as the Laptev Sea and the Novosibirsk Archipelago) … joining other Northern Fleet units for upcoming Western MD-led, joint exercise in the Kara Sea … force to include destroyers RFS ADMIRAL CHABANENKO and VIZEADMIRAL KULAKOV, landing ship RFS ALEXANDER OTRAKOVSKIY, two salvage tugs and some more auxiliaries … exercise to focus on search & rescue at sea as well as support to Arctic mining facility ashore … aircraft carrier ADMIRAL KUZNETSOV seems to have remained further west in the Barents Sea.

 

USA

+++ Dock landing ship USS GUNSTON HALL, part of the IWO JIMA Amphibious Ready Group, has joined multinational exercise IMCMEX-12, operating off Bahrain within the Persian Gulf … hosting members of the British, Canadian, Djibouti and Yemeni navies.

+++ Aircraft carrier GEORGE WASHINGTON ends visit to Guam, continues West Pacific patrol.

+++ Scientists at the US Naval Research Laboratory are developing a process to turn sea water into fuel … extract carbon dioxide (CO2) and produce hydrogen gas (H2) from seawater, subsequently catalytically converting the CO2 and H2 into jet fuel by a gas-to-liquids process … already successfully developed and demonstrated associated technologies … currently working on process optimization and scale-up … initial studies predict that jet fuel from seawater would cost in the range of $3 to $6 per gallon to produce. (rmks: Interesting concept; however, I'm guessing the "green" fuel will be found to really gum up the works and not burn as efficiently as the real stuff – which is the way ALL of these "green" fuels have been determined to be)

 

 

26 September

 

SOUTH KOREA (multinational)

Two-day annual “Proliferation Security Initiative Exercise”, this year hosted by South Korea, begins off Busan (South Korea) … participants include Australia, Japan, South Korea, USA … South Korea allegedly refused Japanese warship planned visit to Busan ahead of the exercise … South Korean official: not true, the Japanese for their part cancelled the visit. (rmks: Its quite possible the widening territorial dispute over Dokdo, a pair of islands that lie between the two countries had a part to play in this cancellation)

Updates are graciously provided by Marine Forum, with additional information from Naval Todayand the Naval Open-Source Intelligence Blog. The commentary is my own.

 

As the week proceeds toward closure, some interesting tidbits abound to get the scenario design juices flowing. Enjoy!

 

Summary to follow:

 

25 September

 

ALGERIA (multinational)

In Algiers, multinational exercise “Seaborder-12” has begun … maritime search & rescue, coordinated surveillance (migration) … participants include naval and air assets of Portugal, Spain, Algeria and Morocco … first phase (25/26 Sep) in port Algiers, second phase (27 Sep) at sea south of Rota (Spain) … conducted in the framework of the “5+5 Intiative” of South European (France, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Spain) and North African (Algeria, Libya, Mauretania, Morocco, Tunisia) countries.

 

AUSTRALIA (JAPAN)

During a visit of DefMin Smith to Japan, both nations agreed to strengthen defense cooperation, focusing on equipment and technologies. Observers would not exclude that the Japanese SORYU class might become a contender in the Australian project SEA 1000 submarine project. (rmks: Interesting news! It will be interesting to see if the Japanese contender is the Collins class replacement)

 

 

26 September

 

CHINA

+++ LUDA class destroyer NANJING (131) decommissioned … will be modified for new role as China Marine Surveillance patrol ship. (rmks: Even disarmed, the LUDA will be the largest class ship in the MSA fleet)

+++ (CHINA – JAPAN): An approaching tropical storm could - at least temporarily - help easing tensions around the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands and provide a new opportunity for diplomacy. (rmks: I doubt the forced separation will cool tempers, but we'll see)

 

GREECE – TURKEY

A Greek coast guard vessel, on anti-immigration patrol near the island of Farmakonissi in the Aegean Sea, has collided with a Turkish coast guard vessel … no injuries reported … Greece to make an “official complaint.” (rmks: And now things begin heating-up in the Aegean)

 

INDIA (RUSSIA)

The Indian crew has left aircraft carrier INS VIKRAMADITYA to return home until repairs are completed.

 

INDONESIA (AUSTRALIA)

Indonesian police arrested 119 Afghans and two Iranians moments before they were to board a rickety boat to Australia to seek asylum, having earlier fled a detention centre.

 

IRAN (related)

EU nations are discussing a British sanctions proposal against Iran that notably calls for a total ban on shipping and "full" freeze” on financial transactions with Iran's central bank … most member states “largely supportive”.

The world’s largest oil trader, Vitol, allegedly continues buying and selling Iranian fuel oil … company spokesman: confirm a Bahraini subsidiary company purchased a spot cargo of Iranian fuel oil from a non-Iranian counterparty in July 2012 … Vitol itself has ceased all sales of refined product to Iran and all purchases of crude oil from Iran.

(rmks: LEGALLY, the Swiss-based company is not obliged to comply with EU/US sanctions. Don't you love the ruse, the Mullahs are playing with the rest of the world!)

 

PIRACY (i.e., Cockroach News)

Arabian Sea: the 24 Sep report of a pirate attack on a dhow some 110 nm SE of Salalah (Oman) has not been confirmed. (rmks: Although I highly doubt somebody would make the story up. Oh, and no pirates were injured reporting this piece – BLAST IT ALL!)

 

RUSSIA

Admiralty Shipyard confirms LADA class submarine RFS ST. PETERBURG did not deploy to the Northern Fleet (for testing) in June, as had been planned … “hopeful” she will now sail from Baltiysk (Baltic Sea) by end September.

 

SOMALIA – KENYA

Kenyan navy vessel(s) shelled al Shabaab militia positions in Somali port of Kismayu … ahead of a planned ground assault on the rebels' last bastion.

 

USA

+++ Four missile cruisers (USS COWPENS, ANZIO, VICKSBURG and PORT ROYAL), scheduled to end their active careers in March, will be kept in service for the time being … pending completion of the fiscal year 2013 authorization and appropriation process.

+++ Amphibious assault ship USS BONHOMME RICHARD arrives at Guam for a scheduled visit. (rmks: On deployment in the West Pacific)

 

 

UPCOMING / PLANNED EVENTS

 

ITALY – FRANCE (early Oct)

The Italian navy in first week of October will conduct exercise “Levante 2012” … in the Ionian Sea and the Tyrrhenian Sea … among other ships will involve both Italian aircraft carrier ITS CAVOUR and French aircraft carrier FS CHARLES DE GAULLE (European Carrier Group Interoperability Initiative)

 

RUSSIA (end Oct)

Admiralty Shipyards has scheduled launching of submarine rescue ship RFS IGOR BELOUSOV “by end October”.

Updates are graciously provided by Marine Forum, with additional information from Naval Todayand the Naval Open-Source Intelligence Blog. The commentary is my own.

 

Busy weekend for navy news. Obviously several of the world's fleets didn't rest. Enjoy!

 

Summary to follow:

 

27 September

 

BANGLADESH

+++ Internet blog suggests the two former British CASTLE class patrol ships have been refitted with Chinese-made C-704 anti-ship missiles. (rmks: Now that's interesting news)

+++ Second Chinese-built missile boat (LPC - Large Patrol Craft) launched at Wuhan (China). (rmks: Obviously, they don't realize there's a recession)

 

CHINA

+++ A Defense Ministry spokesman dismissed as “inaccurate” foreign media reports that said China is building a second aircraft carrier in Shanghai and that it will be launched late this year … “have a long way to go.” (rmks: Folks, this is about as close as we are going to get, as an outright denial. It just states “inaccuracies,” to location and/or timeframe).

+++ (Non-military) Icebreaker XUELONG returns to Shanghai, completing a three-month deployment to the Arctic … first Chinese ship to cross the Arctic Ocean from the Pacific to the Atlantic (Iceland) and back. (rmks: Yet another ChiCom propaganda victory)

+++ (CHINA – JAPAN) China confirms two navy frigates “carried out patrols and military training” in waters off the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands “recently.” (rmks: First ever involvement of regular navy; all action thus far limited to paramilitary forces)

 

INDIA

Retired navy commander, Admiral Nirmal Verma, will be appointed India’s next High Commissioner to Canada.

 

IRAN (related)

A “leaked” Israeli foreign office analysis concludes that the sanctions against Iran are having a dramatic impact in Iran and are creating internal discontent that is focused on the Iranian government, while at the same time; however, had not yet had any effect in altering the Iranian nuclear program. (rmks: Say it ain't so! I NEVER would have thought that)

 

SRI LANKA

RAdm Jayanath Colombage takes office as the new Commander of the Sri Lanka navy … with promotion to Vice Admiral … succeeding VAdm Dissanayake who retired on 26 Sep (promoted to Admiral the day before).

 

UNITED KINGDOM

Royal Navy Response Force Task Group (RFTG) about to sail for three-month “Cougar-12” deployment … to the Mediterranean … force includes HMS ILLUSTRIOUS, BULWARK (flag), NORTHUMBERLAND, MONTROSE, MOUNTS BAY, HARTLAND POINT, Royal Marines … 01-09 Oct conduct amphibious training at the UK southwest coast, then head for the Mediterranean for scheduled exercise “Corsican Lion” (with French navy incl. aircraft carrier FS CHARLES DE GAULLE) and another amphibious exercise off Albania.

 

UNITED KINGDOM

TYPE 42 destroyer HMS YORK decommissioned during ceremony at Portsmouth. (rmks: Who would like to buy a "gently" used RN destoyer?)

 

USA (multinational)

IMCMEX-12 in the Persian Gulf region concludes … during the exercise, the US Navy had tested a prototype of the Kingfish mine-detecting drone.

 

 

28 September

 

RUSSIA

+++ Baltic Fleet frigates RFS NEUSTRASHIMIY and YAROSLAV MUDRIY return to home base Baltiysk, ending a three-month deployment to the Mediterranean. (rmks: last “remnants” of a deployment involving Northern, Black Sea and Baltic fleets)

+++ Missile cruiser RFS PETR VELIKIY returns to home port Severomorsk, ending “historic” Arctic deployment.

+++ Western Military District exercise in the Arctic region culminated with live missile firing in the Barents Sea … a total of six missiles fired from two OSCAR-II class submarines (2 SS-N-19), NANUCHKA class corvettes AJSBERG and RASSVET (2 SS-N-9), two more from Rubesh and Redut coastal missile batteries.

 

SRI LANKA (AUSTRALIA)

The Sri Lanka navy intercepts another trawler loaded with 77 asylum seekers, just after sailing for Australia.

 

AUSTRALIA

Patrol boat HMAS BROOME rescued 198 asylum seekers, after a distress signal was received from their boat northwest of Christmas Island. A Border Protection Command vessel intercepted another boat carrying 72 people north of Cocos Island.

 

CHINA

+++ LUDA class destroyer NANNING (162) reportedly to be decommissioned and converted for “second life” with paramilitary China Marine Surveillance (CMS).

+++ Rumors that construction of first ship of a new class of missile cruisers (CG), tentatively dubbed TYPE 055A, might start around 2014.

 

FRANCE

Coinciding with ongoing NATO exercise “Noble Mariner” (but nor part of it), a French navy carrier task force (FS CHARLES DE GAULLE, CHEVALIER PAUL, JEAN DE VIENNE, MEUSE) has sailed from Toulon for national training period PEAN 12.2 … will evolve into participation in Italian exercise “Levante 2012” to start on 01 Oct and “Corsican Lion” (17-26 Oct) together with the UK Response Force Task Group (RFTG).

 

INDONESIA

A fire completely destroyed just recently launched fast missile boat KLEWANG (625) at PT Lundin’s shipyard facility in Banyuwangi, East Java … prototype of an innovative trimaran design … no injuries … cause unknown yet but seems to be related to “maintenance work.” (rmks: That's gotta suck! I wonder if that that shows how flammable composit materials are?)

 

IRAN (related)

Korean Register of Shipping (KR), the last big company doing classification work on Iranian ships, key to securing insurance and ports access, also stopped work for Iranian shipping. (rmks: Another fine examples of the sanctions at work!)

 

SOMALIA (KENYA)

Kenyan and African Union forces have stormed the beaches of Kismayo (Somalia) in a “midnight amphibious assault” … capturing the last major stronghold of the al Shabaab militant group in Somalia. Ahead of the assault, but also afterwards, Kenyan naval vessels shelled the port from the sea.

 

UNITED KINGDOM

Last TYPE 45 destroyer HMS DUNCAN has returned to the Clyde after highly-successful month-long initial trials.

 

USA

President Barack Obama for security reasons blocked a Chinese-led group from purchasing several wind farms near a US naval station (naval weapons system training base, testing drones) in Oregon.

 

 

29 September

 

PAKISTAN

During ongoing annual exercise “Seaspark 12” … off the home coast … Pakistan navy ships successfully test-fired a combination of surface-to-air missiles.

 

IRAN (related)

In order to circumvent EU/US sanctions, state-controlled Iranian shipping lines in recent months repeatedly shifted flag registrations of a number of vessels to different small even inland nations … but face increasing opposition there … Mongolia will cancel the flag registrations of five Iranian cargo ships … Moldova has deregistered 12 Iranian vessels in July and no longer has any Iranian vessels on its registry. (rmks: Once again ... yet ANOTHER fine example of the sanctions doing their job. Not!)

 

ISRAEL (Gaza)

Palestinian sources claim an Israel navy patrol boat shot at a fishing boat off Gaza, killing one person … Israel denies … concedes the boat had been ordered to return to Gaza waters after straying into restricted area, but without any shots fired. (rmks: Remember, there is also a propaganda war going on)

 

 

30 September

 

IRAN (related)

Probably referring to just completed US-led multinational exercise IMCMEX-12, which deliberately had kept a distance to Iranian waters and the Strait of Hormuz, Iranian navy commander, RAdm Habibollah Sayyari said “the enemies lack courage to put their threats against Iran into action”.

 

PHILIPPINES (CHINA)

The Philippines has deployed 800 more Marines and opened a new headquarters at Palawan to guard its interests in the disputed Spratly islands … the two battalions will not be stationed on the Spratlys but will patrol nearby.

 

SRI LANKA

The Sri Lanka navy has intercepted another boat with 36 illegal migrants bound for Australia.

 

SYRIA (related)

Media reports originating from Syrian opposition forces claim Russia has “completed” evacuation of its logistic base in the Syrian port of Tartus … Russian and Cypriot ships had docked at Tartus to this end. (rmks: This would require confirmation; may be nothing more than another deliberate disinfo attempt)

 

USA

The USS GEORGE WASHINGTON Carrier Strike Group has begun operations in the East China Sea … “not far from” the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands disputed between China and Japan. The USS JOHN C. STENNIS Carrier Strike Group has reached the South China Sea en route a scheduled Middle East deployment.

 

 

UPCOMING / PLANNED EVENTS

 

JAPAN (06 Oct)

JMSDF training squadron (KASHIMA, SHIMAYUKI, MATSUYUKI) to arrive at Sihanoukville (Cambodia) on 06 Oct for a scheduled port visit … homebound leg of this year’s training cruise with visits to 14 countries in the Indian Ocean Region.

My news source is taking a holiday. Next update will be 04 October! See y'all then.

Updates are graciously provided by Marine Forum, with additional information from Naval Todayand the Naval Open-Source Intelligence Blog. The commentary is my own.

 

Back to work with the daily Navy News! Some interesting things going on. Enjoy!

 

Summary to follow:

 

27 September

 

USA

Aircraft carrier USS EISENHOWER back in the Arabian Sea (from the Persian Gulf), supporting operation “Enduring Freedom” … short Passex with aircraft carrier USS ENTERPRISE which afterwards may have headed for the Strait of Hormuz to enter the Persian Gulf. (rmks: Two flat tops in the region and a couple are "nearby," with one in hot-standby off the west coast – something might be up)

 

 

29 September

 

USA

Aircraft carrier USS NIMITZ begins Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) … off the Pacific coast … afterwards move on to a Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX), which will be the final exam prior to a scheduled deployment.

 

 

30 September

 

BANGLADESH

Blogger: The Bangladesh navy is going to get USCG HAMILTOLN class patrol ships … “final negotiations” soon.

(rmks: This is a not-to-be-trusted, until-verified moment)

 

USA

Aircraft carrier USS JOHN C STENNIS arrives off Kota-Kinabalu (Malaysia) for a four-day visit.

(rmks: Stopover enroute Middle East deployment)

 

 

01 October

 

ITALY – FRANCE

The Italian navy is hosting exercise “Levante 2012” … in the Ionian Sea and the Tyrrhenian Sea … among other ships will involve both Italian aircraft carrier ITS CAVOUR and French aircraft carrier FS CHARLES DE GAULLE (European Carrier Group Interoperability Initiative).

 

LATVIA

STORM class patrol boat LVNS ZIBENS taken from active duty with the fleet and transferred to naval college as a training platform.

 

RUSSIA

+++ Sevmash: First BOREJ class submarine RFS YURI DOLGORUKIY “ready for commissioning” … second boat RFS ALEXANDER NEVSKIY “successfully passed” another round of sea trials in the White Sea.

+++ Black Sea Fleet ROPUCHA class landing ship RFS NOVOCHERKASSK sails from Sevastopol for a six-week Mediterranean cruise … visits to Greece (Corfu, Pylos, Thessaloniki) and Montenegro (Bar). (rmks: Regular deployment to commemorate historic events)

 

UNITED KINGDOM (multinational)

Multinational, UK-hosted two-week (until 11 Oct) exercise “Joint Warrior 12-2” starts off Scotland … involves sea, ground and air assets from participating allied and NATO forces in a maritime environment … participants from 12 countries (Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, UK, USA)

 

USA

2nd Joint High Speed Support Vessel JHSV-2 CHOCTAW COUNTY officially launched in Mobile (Alabama). (rmks: Christening ceremony already on 15 Sep)

 

 

02 October

 

AUSTRALIA

Patrol boat HMAS ARARAT intercepts vessel carrying 39 asylum seekers north of Christmas Island.

 

CHINA – JAPAN

Four China Marine Surveillance ships patrol off Diaoyu/Senkaku after some nationalist Japanese had landed on the disputed islands.

 

INDIA (RUSSIA)

Delivery of aircraft carrier INS VIKRAMADITYA delayed once again, with repairs to be completed only in “fall 2013” … India “not amused”.

 

PIRACY (It's been qute a while since we had a funnies section)

Anti-Piracy Forces: Romanian navy frigate ROS REGELE FERDINAND joins EU NavFor in operation “Atalanta” … the first Romanian warship to participate in the EU’s anti-piracy mission. (rmks: Another member added to the cast of the Keystone Kops)

 

PORTUGAL

Due to financial constraints, the Portuguese navy reportedly has cancelled orders for further VIANA DO CASTELO class offshore patrol vessels.

 

RUSSIA

Bloggers claim one of the two reactors powering missile cruiser RFS PETR VELIKIY had to be shut down following a leakage in the cooling circuit while the warship was on voyage in Arctic last week … radioactive vapor released from one of the steam generators. (rmks: This is an ouchy, yet unconfirmed tibdit of news. That would royally suck, as the PtG is the Russkies flagship and a PR slap-in-the-face for their Navy)

 

SRI LANKA (AUSTRALIA)

Sri Lanka navy has arrested another 23 illegal migrants shortly after sailing for Australia.

 

UNITED KINGDOM

The first of 30 new Royal Navy helicopters Merlin Mk2 (enhanced variant) successfully completed 12 days of trials on board helicopter carrier HMS ILLUSTRIOUS.

 

 

03 October

 

ARGENTINA

Argentine navy sail training ship ARA LIBERTAD has been detained in Tema (Ghana) following a court order sought by "holdout" creditors suing Argentina in international courts over its 2002 debt default … ship visiting Ghana as part of a West African tour, due to head next to Angola but would only be able to set sail if Ghanian courts lifted the order.

 

AZERBEIDJAN

According to a local paper, the Azeri navy will ”acquire new submarines within the next three years” …”outclass Iranian KILO class” (rmks: Which, by the way – are not based in the Caspian Sea). (rmks: Another article speaks of TRITON-2M submarines. These are small underwater vehicles designed for carrying tourists, not military-grade swimmer delivery vehicles (SDV))

 

FRANCE

DCNS has adapted GOWIND family offshore patrol vessel FS L’ADROIT for a mine countermeasure role … employing a Seakeeper MCM drone. (rmks: Whoppty-do. Another multi-purpose ship. Even the French don't learn from the failures of their neighbors (the Danish), when designing ships)

 

ISRAEL (Gaza)

The Israel navy is preparing to intercept the latest Gaza-bound “flotilla” - actually just the single small Swedish-flagged sailing boat ESTELLE - carrying a handful European pro-Palestinian activists seeking to break the Gaza blockade … scheduled to arrive off Gaza by mid-October (currently in Italy).

 

ITALY

Italian navy, coast guard, and paramilitary organizations conduct anti-pollution (oil spill) exercise “Vulcano 2012” off Messina (Sicily) … navy participants include ITS ORIONE, SIRIO, CIGALA FULGOSI, CASSIOPEA, TICINO.

 

RUSSIA

+++ DefMin Serdyukov has ordered restructuring of Northern Fleet command staff … downsize (from 200 to 70 officers) with reassigning a number of tasks to Western Military District HQ at St. Petersburg … to be implemented “before year end” … Baltic Fleet to follow suit in 2013.

+++ Caspian Sea Flotilla frigate RFS TATARSTAN and salvage tug SORUM MB-58 at Aktau (Kazakhstan) for a port visit and bilateral exercise … afterwards continue for Baku (Azerbeidjan). (rmks: That'll be some great liberty!)

 

USA

French DCNS has teamed up with US VT Halter Marine for a joint bid for the US Coast Guard’s future Offshore Patrol Cutter.

 

 

04 October

 

POLAND – SWEDEN

Two-day bilateral submarine rescue exercise “Northern Crown 12” begins in the Gulf of Gdansk … Polish navy employing salvage tug LECH and submarine ORP SOKOL, Swedish navy sent submarine rescue ship HMS BELOS with embarked NSRS (NATO Submarine Rescue System)

 

 

UPCOMING / PLANNED EVENTS

 

INDIA (RUSSIA) (09 Nov)

Yantar shipyard will hand over second TALWAR-mod class frigate INS TARKASH on 09 Nov. (rmks: Before, delivery had been announced for Sep)

 

 

CLOSING QUESTION

 

Which of the previous situations lends itself best, for a possible scenario design? Why?

CLOSING QUESTION

 

Which of the previous situations lends itself best, for a possible scenario design? Why?

 

I would consider two of them as scenario fodder, Israel stopping blockade runners and Japanese nationals landing on disputed islands. Japan vs China is the more likely one for me.

Updates are graciously provided by Marine Forum, with additional information from Naval Todayand the Naval Open-Source Intelligence Blog. The commentary is my own.

 

 

A busy weekend ahead. Hope everyone enjoys it. Here are some navy news tidbits, to get those creative juices flowing. Enjoy!

 

Summary to follow:

 

04 October

 

CHINA

+++ A Chinese navy task group with seven ships has passed between the Japanese Islands of Okinawa and Miyako … exercises until 07 Oct … destroyers HARBIN (112) and SHIJAZHUANG (116), frigates MIANYANG (528) and YANCHENG (546), supply ship HONGZHE HU, (submarine) rescue ships CHANGXINGDAO (861) and HAIYANGDAO (864) … the latter would suggest also submarines in the area. (rmks: Probably a routine exercise, not related to current territorial disputes with Japan; however, it would be extremely easy to retask them to support the dispute issue)

+++ (Speaking of which ... (CHINA – JAPAN – TAIWAN)) A total of eight paramilitary Chinese vessels (CMS, Fishery Protection) stay “in the contiguous zone” (not territorial waters) around the disputed Diaoyu/Senkaku Islands …also one Taiwanese patrol vessel in the area.

 

NIGERIA

President Goodluck Jonathan reshuffles military leadership … appointing Chief of Naval Staff, VAdm Ola Sa’ad Ibrahim, as the new Chief of Defence Staff, with RAdm Dele Ezeoba to succeed him as new Chief of Naval Staff.

 

PIRACY

Anti-Piracy Forces (aka The Keystone Kops): Swedish navy has begun recruiting supplementary crew for upcoming anti-piracy mission off Somalia … mine layer HMS CARLSKRONA to sail in March 2013 … scheduled to join EU NavFor in operation “Atalanta” from 15 Apr – 15 Aug, 2013. (rmks: The cockroaches 9excuse me, pirates) are trembling with fear ... not! As usual, no pirates were harmed reporting this piece. BLAST!)

 

RUSSIA

Two Russian air force Tu-95MS strategic bombers conduct 15-hour “strategic deterrence” flight over the Pacific and Arctic oceans. (rmks: Could somebody remind me about all of that stuff concerning peace and safety)

 

SPAIN

VAdm Salvador Delgado takes over as new Almirante de Acción Marítima (ALMART).

 

 

UPCOMING / PLANNED EVENTS

 

USA (06 Oct)

During a ceremony in New York, the US Navy will commission its newest destroyer, MICHAEL MURPHY (DDG 112.

 

EGYPT – TURKEY (07 Oct)

Egypt will host bilateral exercise “Bahr el Sadaka” … in the Eastern Mediterranean from 07-14 Oct … Turkey to deploy two frigates, two fast attack craft, two landing ships (with one company naval infantry), one replenishment tanker, helicopters and special forces. No info yet on Egyptian participation. (rmks: routine exercise)

Updates are graciously provided by Marine Forum, with additional information from Naval Todayand the Naval Open-Source Intelligence Blog. The commentary is my own.

 

Man, what a fun weekend. More beautiful weather in the PacNorWest. My son's 8th birthday. Along with a family trip to Mt. Saint Helens. Here's what happening around the globe with several navies, while you were enjoying your weekend. Enjoy!

 

Summary to follow:

 

01 October

 

CHINA (UKRAINE)

A first POMORNIK class air-cushion landing craft under order from the Ukraine, has begun sea trials off Feodosiya (Crimea/Ukraine). (rmks: There's a boost for business)

 

 

04 October

 

PIRACY

Gulf of Aden: a possible Dhow Pirate Attack Group (PAG) reported in the eastern Gulf of Aden. (rmks: 'PAG,' so now the cockroaches (excuse me pirates) have organized to the point we have designated them with an acronym? When are the Keystone Kops going to get serious with this menace and deal with them, once and for all. Sorry, I forgot that we are kinder and gentler now. Meanwhile, in the real world – the cockroaches are wrecking havoc. Oh and I almost forgot – No pireates were harmed reporting this story – BLAST IT ALL!)

 

 

05 October

 

BULGARIA (NATO)

Frigate DRAZKI sails from Burgas naval base for the Mediterranean … join NATO naval forces in anti-terror operation “Active Endeavour”.

 

IRAN (related)

The European Union looks set to also ban imports of Iranian gas as part of a set of new sanctions.

 

PIRACY

West Africa: Pirates released a German-owned, Liberian-flagged tanker, a day after capturing it off Lome (Togo) … keeping the crew under gun threat, they transferred the tanker's gas oil to a bunker barge and ransacked the ship before abandoning it … no casualties among the 14 crew members. (rmks: Just another cockroach (excuse me, pirate day). Typical West African scenario, where pirates go after a ship’s cargo instead of hijacking it and its crew for ransom. No pirates were harmed reporting this story – DRAT! Where are the Keystone Kops when you need them?)

 

SPAIN – USA

The Spanish government signed a joint defense agreement, giving the final green light for the US Navy to deploy four ballistic missile defense-capable destroyers at Rota … part of NATO's ballistic missile defense shield. (rmks: Another boost for the local economy.)

 

UNITED KINGDOM

“Cougar 12”: Before finally heading for the Mediterranean (with the Royal Navy Response Force Task Group), Royal Marines (30 Commando) practice an amphibious assault near Plymouth.

 

 

06 October

 

CHINA – JAPAN

Four Chinese paramilitary China Marine Surveillance (CMS) ships entered territorial waters of disputed Diaoyu/Senkaku Islands … Japanese coast guard demanded they immediately leave the area, while Tokyo lodged a formal protest with the Chinese government. (rmks: And the soap opera continues.)

 

INDIA

An (unnamed) Indian navy ship successfully test-fired a nuclear-capable Dhanush ballistic missile from the Orissa test range to the Bay of Bengal. (rmks: Launching platform may have been SUKANYA class offshore patrol vessel INS SUBHADRA, used in earlier tests.)

 

ISRAEL

+++ The Israel air force intercepted and shot down a drone approaching from the Mediterranean … flew over the Gaza Strip but did not originate from the Palestinian territory … speculations that it had been operated by Lebanese Hezbollah. (rmks: So now somebody (probably Iran) is supplying Hezbollah with drones. Me thinks, the stakes got a wee bit higher)

+++ (Gaza): “Freedom Flotilla” sailing vessel ESTELLE sails from Naples (Italy) for final, about two-week leg of voyage towards Gaza. Palestinians reportedly have begun Project “Gaza’s Arc” … building a boat at Gaza facility using existing resources … will sail next year carrying Palestinian exports to international customers, and to challenge Israel's blockade from the inside out. (rmks: Likely it will look very similar to a Kon-Tiki raft and won’t make it further out to sea than the local Palestinian fishermen. The Palestinians will then claim the Israeli sank it and so the region will erupt in even more violence.)

 

JAPAN

JMSDF training squadron (JDS KASHIMA, SHIMAYUKI, MATSUYUKI) arrives at Sihanoukville (Cambodia) for a scheduled port visit … homebound leg of this year’s training cruise with visits to 14 countries in the Indian Ocean Region.

 

TURKEY (SYRIA)

Local (nationalist) Turkish paper claims a number of warships and submarines have been deployed from the Gölcük main naval base (Sea of Marmara, near Istanbul) to Mediterranean ports … “fully loaded with arms”. (rmks: Destination Syria unconfirmed; more likely the ships are enroute Egypt for scheduled bilateral - routine - exercise “Bahr el Sadaka". This will likely increase tensions in the region.)

 

USA

+++ During a ceremony in New York, the US Navy has commissioned its newest destroyer, USS MICHAEL MURPHY (DDG 112). (rmks: Sail fast, strike hard and return home safe!)

+++ Enroute a Middle East deployment, aircraft carrier USS JOHN C STENNIS passes the Strait of Malacca. (rmks: And so it begins)

 

 

07 October

 

INDIA

First TALWAR-mod (Batch 2) class frigate INS TEG conducts live firing of Brahmos supersonic anti-ship missile … off the Goa coast.

 

ISRAEL (Gaza)

The Israel navy has arrested four Palestinian fishermen who with their boat had strayed into an “area closed for fishing”.

 

PIRACY

Somalia: Somali pirates have issued a two-week deadline to buy release of seven Bangladeshi mariners kidnapped from a Malaysian ship in 2010 … else “will begin killing them”. (rmks: Why are we molly-coddling these freaks? Where are the exterminators? Oh, I almost forgot ... No pirates were harmed reporting this story. BLAST IT ALL!)

 

SOUTH KOREA

A Defense Acquisition Program Administration's (DAPA) report concludes the ROK Navy should have “at least three to four task groups,” to more effectively protect its sovereignty over its easternmost (Dokdo) and southernmost (Ieodo) islets. (rmks: Which are disputed with Japan.)

 

 

08 October

 

IRAN – IRAQ

The commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Naval Force, RAdm Ali Fadavi, will travel to Iraq at the invitation of the Iraqi navy to discuss bilateral defense cooperation. (rmks: I'd like to be a fly on the wall, at this meeting of the minds.)

Further bit of news on Iran: Maersk Line (a big shipping group) have announced that they will no longer call there.

Updates are graciously provided by Marine Forum, with additional information from Naval Todayand the Naval Open-Source Intelligence Blog. The commentary is my own.

 

Well, the beautiful weather is set to depart tomorrow. Was busy yesterday putting the finishing touches on another project and doing several job searches. Here are the naval news summaries from the last couple of days. Enjoy!

 

Summary to follow:

 

28 September

 

SOUTH AFRICA (multinational)

SAN-led multinational exercise “Atlasur-9” starts sea phase off South Africa … participants from South Africa (frigate SAS AMATOLA, mine sweeper SAS UMZIMKULU, submarine SAS QUEEN MODJADJI), Argentina (frigate ARA ESPORA), Brazil ( frigate BARROSO), Uruguay (ROU URUGUAY).

 

 

07 October

 

USA

+++ Aircraft carrier USS GEORGE WASHINGTON arrives off Port Klang (Malaysia) for a scheduled port visit.

+++ Aircraft carrier USS JOHN C. STENNIS off Phuket (Thailand) for a scheduled visit. (rmks: Enroute Middle East deployment, to replace USS ENTERPRISE)

+++ Aircraft carrier ENTERPRISE reported operating in the Western Arabian Sea up to the Gulf of Aden. (rmks: One in the batter's box and two in the bullpen. Something could be stirring)

 

 

08 October

 

BANGLADESH

Khulna Shipyard launches the first-ever domestically warship … 50-m patrol boat … no name or hull number mentioned yet … (initial data: 50.4 x 7.5m; 255 t; cruise 18 knots, max 23 knots; 2x 37mm, 2x20mm; 31 crew) … built with Chinese assistance. (rmks: Now that's different!)

 

CHINA

+++ China's marine corps and other PLA units launched a joint live fire drill to “take back an islet occupied by enemy forces" a move experts said was aimed at demonstrating China's resolve in safeguarding its sovereignty claims. (rmks: Now that's certainly telegraphing your intentions!)

+++ Former Chinese navy XIANGYANGHONG 06 has completed conversion for paramilitary China Marine Surveillance (CMS) … now called ZHONG GUO HAI JIAN 19 … and looking completely different.

 

FRANCE

Budget woes likely to affect French Customs’ maritime operations in final quarter of 2012 … number of missions to be reduced. (rmks: The illegals entering Europe will love that news)

 

IRAN (related)

+++ Iran's crude oil exports rebounded by about 10% in September, on higher Chinese sales … suggesting the impact of sanctions on the country's largest source of revenue may be stabilizing. (rmks: Now that's rosey news)

+++ Official: Cyber-attacks have targeted communication networks on Iranian offshore oil and gas platforms in the past few weeks, but have been repelled. (rmks: Message to the CIA cyber folks ... The hands-off approach won't work. Send in the flattops and the B-2's. Let the re-landscaping of Tehran begin)

+++ A Chinese shipyard has delivered the first of 12 supertankers (VLCC) to Iran, but it is unclear if the ship will get certifications necessary to call at global ports. (rmks: Oh, it'll come. So much for the current administration vaunted attempts at sanctions)

 

PHILIPPINES – USA

The Philippines and the United States begin annual ten-day amphibious exercise “Phiblex-2013” … 1,600 Philippine and over 2,000 US troops, incl. USS BONHOMME RICHARD … conduct fire exercises, simulated helicopter raids, a demo of American aircraft capabilities, and public service activities.

 

PIRACY

West Africa: Greek tanker M/V ORFEAS (24 crew), carrying more than 32,000 metric tons of gasoline, probably hijacked off Abidjan (Ivory Coast) … “unexpectedly” sailed from the roadstead … last tracked heading south into the Gulf of Guinea. (rmks: Probably enroute the Niger Delta to offload the cargo, then be released again. Where are the Keystone Kops when you need them. No pirates were harmed reporting this story ... BLAST IT ALL!)

 

SRI LANKA

The Sri Lanka navy intercepts another trawler with 67 asylum seekers, illegally bound for Australia.

 

UNITED KINGDOM

TYPE 23 frigate HMS NORTHUMBERLAND sails from Naval Base Devonport on an eight-month deployment “East of Suez” …. relieve sister ship HMS SUTHERLAND (deployed since 09 Jul).

 

 

09 October

 

ALGERIA

Unconfirmed media reports that in addition to two MEKO frigates from Germany and three Chinese frigates the Algerian navy also will receive three Russian TIGR class (STEREGUSHCHIY variant) corvettes and two British F2000 patrol ships.

(rmks: Although this dratically extends the Algerian logistics chain, it appears the Algerian navy is growing some teeth!)

 

INDIA

Russian Yantar shipyard (Kaliningrad) has begun mooring trials of third TALWAR Batch 2 frigate, INS TRIKAND.

 

IRAN (related)

The world's biggest shipping company, Maersk Line, has stopped operations into and out of Iran. (rmks: Well that's refreshing news. One company has some sanity on the board of directors)

 

PIRACY

+++ West Africa Cockroach (excuse me pirates) Update: Pirates released Greek tanker M/V ORFEAS abducted two-days before from the Abidjan (Ivory Coast) roadstead … siphoned off some of its gas oil cargo.

+++ Arabian Sea: Merchant vessels report presence of probable pirate skiffs (ladders sighted) in the western Arabian Sea, off the coast of Oman. (rmks: Once again I ask ... Where are the Keystone Kops?)

 

SWEDEN - RUSSIA

During a visit of Swedish navy commander RAdm Jan Thörnqvist to the Russian Baltic Fleet, both sides agreed to hold a joint submarine rescue exercise in 2013.

 

SWEDEN

Kockums has been contracted with a comprehensive upgrade/modernization of submarine HMS GOTLAND.

 

 

10 October

 

INDIA – RUSSIA

In New Delhi, Indian Defence Minister Antony will meet with his Russian counterpart, Anatoly Serdyukov … delay in handing over the refurbished aircraft carrier ADMIRAL GORSHKOV reportedly to top the discussions … media reports indicate India may impose a five percent penalty for the delay (may amount to some $115 million). (rmks: It appears the Big-V is a Not-Ready-for-Primetime Player)

Updates are graciously provided by Marine Forum, with additional information from Naval Todayand the Naval Open-Source Intelligence Blog. The commentary is my own.

 

More cockroach (excuse me, pirate)-related news today. I tell ya folks, this issue really bothers me. In an attempt to be kind and gentle, the anti-piracy forces (aka, the Keystone Kops) are a useless taskforce, filled with paper tigers. I will dismount my soapbox now and let you read today's news items. Enjoy!

 

Summary to follow:

 

09 October

 

USA

The Office of Naval Research's (ONR) Electromagnetic Railgun program is evaluating the second of two industry railgun prototype launchers … after prototype demonstrator made by BAE Systems, now a General Atomics solution being looked at. (I'm not a ludite by any means, but in our current economic climate why in the heck are we goofing around with these silly systems? As far as gun systems go, if it isn't broke – or outdated, don't try changing it)

 

 

10 October

 

INDIA (RUSSIA)

Delivery of aircraft carrier INS VIKRAMADITYA (former Russian ADMIRAL GORSHKOV) to slip further to “fourth quarter 2013” … India “annoyed” but reportedly has not (yet) asked for penalty fees. (rmks: If contract provides for penalty fees – as some sources claim – India won’t forgo them. Although I highly doubt the Russkies will pay them. Caveat Emptor – Let the buyer beware)

 

INDIA (RUSSIA)

KILO class submarine INS SINDHURAKSHAK about to complete overhaul/upgrade at Russian Zvezdochka shipyard (Severodvinsk) … start sea trials next week.

 

JAPAN

A 20-year-old crew member (petty officer) of submarine JDS SORYU was discovered drowned in the submarine’s sail … for unknown reasons had not returned to the inner submarine when it went diving … had been missed only later when failing to report for his watch. (Oh man, that's gotta suck)

 

PIRACY

Somalia Basin: a fishing vessel reported under attack by one skiff … some 270 nm east of Mogadishu … managed to evade hijack. (rmks: Once again I ask, where are the Keystone Kops, when you need them? Fat lot of good they have done in the past couple of days. As usual ... no pirate were harmed reporting this story. BLAST IT ALL!)

 

RUSSIA

+++ Admiralty Shipyard delivers new research vessel RFS AKADEMIK TRESHNIKOV to State Commission … built for the Federal Service for Hydrometeorology and Environmental Monitoring (Roshydromet) … to replace research vessel AKADEMIK FEDOROV … also support Russian Antarctic stations.

+++ STEREGUSHCHIY class (Project 20380) corvette RFS BOYKIY set to begin shipyard trials.

+++ Baltic Shipyard starts construction of LC-25 Project 22600 new-generation diesel-electric icebreaker … on order for Rosmorport … may be named RFS VIKTOR CHERNOMYRDIN.

 

UNITED KINGDOM

Second Sea Lord (Chief of Naval Personnel & Training) VAdm Sir Charles Montgomery retires … hands over to VAdm David Steel.

 

 

UPCOMING / PLANNED EVENTS

 

ISRAEL – USA (21 Oct)

Three-week bilateral missile defense “Austere Challenge 12” scheduled to start in Israel on 21 Oct … US troops and weapon platforms to arrive from 14 Oct … total of 3,000 soldiers to participate. (rmks: Expect also a seaborne element such as US missile cruiser / destroyer to join).

 

PIRACY (Nov)

Anti-Piracy Forces: New Turkish frigate TCG HEYBELIADA (Project MilGem) scheduled to sail for the Horn of Africa in November … first ever overseas deployment … probably join multinational CTF-151. (rmks: One more member to add to the cast of nitwits)

Updates are graciously provided by Marine Forum, with additional information from Naval Todayand the Naval Open-Source Intelligence Blog. The commentary is my own.

 

Another weekend is upon us. I have big plans ... my son's eight birthday party with 14 of his close friends. Now that my Sons of the American Revolution application is completed, I can get back to work on some BRICS scenarios. Enjoy the naval news, I see you all next week!

 

Summary to follow:

 

11 October

 

ARGENTINE

Argentine navy sail training ship ARA LIBERTAD will remain impounded in Tema (Ghana), after a court in the West African country rejected Argentina's appeal of an order detaining the vessel in a dispute with creditors. (rmks: That's gotta suck)

 

EGYPT

Two Egyptian army amphibious vehicles capsized and sank in the Suez Canal during exercises … one officer killed. (rmks: I wonder if this is an indicator or the level of training in the Egyptian armed forces)

 

ITALY - FRANCE

Italian and French navy have ended 10-day exercise “Levante 2012” … conducted in the Ionian Sea and the Tyrrhenian Sea … had involved both Italian aircraft carrier ITS CAVOUR and French aircraft carrier FS CHARLES DE GAULLE (European Carrier Group Interoperability Initiative) … CHARLES DE GAULLE entering Naples for a port visit.

 

PIRACY

+++ Arabian Sea: Italian dock landing ship ITS SAN GIUSTO (EU NavFor flag ship) intercepted a probable pirate skiff (ladder, 20 fuel drums) 180 nm east of Socotra … 7 men apprehended, skiff destroyed. (rmks: Oh my goodness, the Keystone Kops actually did something! However, the suspected pirates will probably be released along the Somalia coast, as no crime committed yet. The cockroaches (excuse me, pirates) win another one).

+++ Somalia: Somali pirates have released Greek-owned cargo ship M/V FREE GODDESS, hijacked on 07 Feb in the Arabian Sea. (rmks: Likely the ship was set adrift, to become an environmental impact hazard)

+++ Somalia Basin: Netherlands navy dock landing ship HNLMS ROTTERDAM (NATO) intercepted a skiff suspected of attacking Spanish fishing vessel M/V IZURDIA on 10 Oct, some 270 nm east of Mogadishu … stopped with warning shots from helicopter … 7 men apprehended and detained until fate decided. (rmks: Question ... If the helo saw the attack and intervened, why didn't it just DEFEND the IZURDIA? The seven detained cockroaches, will likely get off and terrorize other innocent people. As usual, no pirates were harmed in reporting ANY of these stories ... BLAST IT ALL!)

 

RUSSIA

+++ After some Russian media claimed the new frigate RFS ADMIRAL GORSHKOV, built at Northern Shipyard (St. Petersburg), will conduct “sea trials in the Barents Sea as early as November,” Russian navy officials clarified: ship thus far has not been at sea at all; first sea trials expected in the Gulf of Finland in early 2013.

+++ International tender to be issued for salvaging two sunken former Northern Fleet NOVEMBER class nuclear submarines … K-27 “dumped” 1980 in the Kara Sea at 75m depth … K-159 sank in the Barents Sea in 2003 while under tow, up to 250m deep.

 

SRI LANKA (AUSTRALIA)

The Sri Lanka navy arrests 112 persons illegally bound for Australia in a fishing trawler.

 

UKRAINE

The Ukrainian navy has resumed training dolphins and other animals for military duties including attacking enemy combat swimmers and detecting mines. (rmks: That will put them in less than favorable standing with PETA)

 

UNITED KINGDOM

Cougar-12: The Royal Navy Response Force Task Group (includes HMS BULWARK and ILLUSTRIOUS) has completed initial training … left UK waters, heading for the Mediterranean.

 

USA

+++ Aircraft carrier USS GEORGE WASHINGTON ends visit to Port Klang (Malaysia).

+++ Aircraft carrier USS JOHN C. STENNIS enters the Indian Ocean, arriving at the 5th Fleet area of operations.

+++ The US Navy will continue presence of two Carrier Strike Groups in the 5th Fleet area of operations through March.

 

VIETNAM

Domestic Hong Ha Shipbuilding has been contracted with building two naval vessels (dubbed “modern battleships”): artillery ship TT400TP and vessel 12418. (rmks: "Battleship" was likely a poor translation of 'surface combatant')

 

YEMEN

Yemen authorities have seized Iranian military equipment aboard a cargo ship at the port of Hodeidah … slated for Shiite Huthi rebels in Saada province. (rmks: Hmm, I thought there were sanctions against Iran and all this kind of stuff was bein stopped ... at least that's according to the press)

 

 

UPCOMING / PLANNED EVENTS

 

ISRAEL (around 16 Oct)

Ahead of bilateral Israeli-US missile defense exercise “Austere Challenge” (to start on 21 Oct), Israel will conduct a massive civil defense exercise … “next week” (14-18 Oct) … scenario includes an earthquake with assumed mass casualties of 7,000 dead, 70,000 wounded and 170,000 made homeless and a toxic chemical leak at Haifa's port

(rmks: Although non-military scenarios, widely regarded as contingency for conflict with Iran)

 

FRANCE (18 Oct)

DCNS at its Lorient facility will launch the second French navy FREMM class frigate, FS NORMANDY, on 16 Oct … scheduled for delivery in 2014.

Updates are graciously provided by Marine Forum, with additional information from Naval Todayand the Naval Open-Source Intelligence Blog. The commentary is my own.

 

Hope everyone had a good weekend. here's are some naval news highlights (and low-lights), to get your week started. Enjoy!

 

Summary to follow:

 

11 October

 

NORWAY

The wreck of former Soviet SVERDLOV class cruiser RFS MURMANSK will be completely gone by mid-November … already 14 000 tons of scrap metal removed in a unique operation at the northern Norwegian coast, where the cruiser had stranded in Dec 1994 while being towed towards a scrapyard.

 

 

12 October

 

BANGLADESH

Blogger: Bangladesh navy set to acquire a number of lengthened (105m) Chinese Project 056 corvettes … first two to be built in China, then more in Bangladesh. (rmks: Although requiring some confirmation, this is interesting news. Along with other recent acquisitions, Bangladesh is fast become a 'toothier' navy)

 

IRAN (related)

Two European insurers have withdrawn cover for tankers operated by Hong Kong's Titan Petrochemicals Group… used to store Iranian oil. (rmks: Don't you just love how well the much-toute sanctions are working!)

Iranian oil production has plunged to its lowest level in 23-years, because of the impact of US and European sanctions … just 2.63m barrels a day in September, down from 2.85m b/d in August … over the past year down by more than 1m b/d. (rmks: Wow, ONLY 2.63mbd! I thought the sanctions were supposed to stop ALL production! Another fine example of the current administrations state department policy)

 

MALTA

A 12-m dinghy loaded with 109 people (just one woman) has made it from Libya to Malta … one of the passengers announced boat ahead over satellite phone, while still in Libyan waters … coast guard monitored transit.

 

RUSSIA

+++ A Black Sea fleet Be-12 Mail amphibious ASW-aircraft crashed during final landing approach into the Kacha (Ukraine) airfield … possibly engine failure … three of four crewmembers reported killed. (rmks: obsolete aircraft, operated since the 1960s)

+++ STEREGUSHCHIY class (Project 20380) corvette RFS BOYKIY has begun sea trials, probably in the Gulf of Finland.

 

USA

Both the GEORGE WASHINGTON and JOHN C. STENNIS Carrier Strike Groups have passed the Malacca Strait into the Indian Ocean (5th Fleet area of operations) … in the Andaman Sea conduct integrated flight operations while also practicing surface and anti-submarine drills.

(rmks: STENNIS enroute Middle East deployment, USS WASHINGTON conducts Pacific Summer Patrol and should soon return to 7th Fleet area of operations … first ever dual carrier operation in the Andaman Sea … should also be interpreted as strong signal to Iran)

 

 

13 October

 

AUSTRALIA

Patrol boats HMAS BUNDABERG and WOLLONGONG render assistance to vessel carrying 188 asylum seekers … north east of Christmas Island.

 

CHINA

+++ Aircraft carrier LIAONING has sailed for another period of sea trials … restricted areas established in the Bohai Sea … photos suggest first training for air operations with helicopters and naval jets … show a J-15 fighter performing simulated approach with low pass, possibly even "touch and go" maneuvers. (rmks: This will be interesting to watch)

+++ The Chinese navy is expanding its use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in marine surveillance. (rmks: Say it ain't so! I never would have thought that!)

 

NORWAY

Norwegian navy vessels complete first live fire exercises with the new NSM/JSM anti-ship missile … SKJÖLD class patrol boat HNoMS GLIMT successfully launched one missile on 10 Oct; frigate HNoMS ROALD AMUNDSEN followed suit on 13 Oct. (rmks: NSM missiles to be main weapon system for SKJÖLD class missile boats and NANSEN class frigates. This could signal another database upgrade, when the missile comes fully online).

 

USA

+++ Missile cruiser USS SAN JACINTO and LOS ANGELES class submarine USS MONTPELIER collide while conducting routine training off Florida … damage (cruiser’s sonar dome “collapsed”) but no injuries … submarine’ nuclear propulsion plant "unaffected" … both Norfolk-based ships return to port under own power. (rmks: In the day of GPS, how in the heck does something like this happen?)

+++ The US Navy is celebrating its 237th birthday. (rmks: On October 13, 1775, Congress authorized the procurement of two armed vessels to search for British ships supplying munitions to the British army, in America)

 

 

14 October

 

INDIA – RUSSIA

Russia reportedly rejected Indian demands for financial compensation over delayed delivery of aircraft carrier INS VIKRAMADITYA … instead accused the Indian navy of purchasing low-quality parts. (rmks: Can't you just feel the love)

 

JAPAN

A Fleet Review marked the 60th anniversary of the Japanese navy (JMSDF) … about 40 ships/boats and some 30 naval aircraft participated.

 

 

15 October

 

INDIA

An Indian navy Chetak helicopter crashed and caught fire while landing at Dabolim (Goa) airport … all three on board killed.

 

SOUTH AFRICA (multinational)

Hosted by the South African navy, regular trilateral Indian, Brazilian and South African exercise “IBSAMAR” kicks off at Simonstown (South Africa) … Indian navy deployed destroyer DELHI and supply ship DEEPAK; Brazilian navy to participate with frigate BARROSO. SAN usually contributes a frigate and (maybe) a submarine

 

 

UPCOMING / PLANNED EVENTS

 

JAPAN – USA (05 Nov)

Japanese Ground forces and US Marine Corps (Okinawa-based 31st MEU) have scheduled joint exercise from 05-16 Nov … to include an amphibious drill to “recapture an island occupied by enemy forces”, conducted at uninhabited Irisunajima Island (Okinawa Prefecture) (rmks: Similar exercise conducted in Guam in September).

Updates are graciously provided by Marine Forum, with additional information from Naval Todayand the Naval Open-Source Intelligence Blog. The commentary is my own.

 

Kind of a light navy news type of day. I guess it's the calm before the debate tonight. Enjoy!

 

Summary to follow:

 

15 October

 

ARGENTINA

Navy chief Admiral Carlos Alberto Paz sacked and two more senior officials suspended over detention of sail training vessel ARA LIBERTAD in Tema (Ghana) … held responsible for the “ill-fated decision to stop in Ghana” … Vice Admiral Daniel Alberto Martin named as successor …US company asks US$ 20 million for the LIBERTAD to be released. (rmks: So why are we getting involved in this?)

 

PAKISTAN

2nd Pakistan Marine Battalion commissioned … established to strengthen security of naval installations.

 

PIRACY

Anti-Piracy Forces (aka the Keystone Kops): Danish frigate HDMS IVER HUITFELDT sails from Korsoer, for the Horn of Africa … join NATO anti-piracy operation “Ocean Shield” until spring 2013 … first operational deployment for type ship of new frigates. (rmks: And the pirates quake in fear ... NOT!)

 

RUSSIA

+++ A Northern Fleet destroyer is involved in at-sea trials of new Kamov Ka-27M Helix ASW helicopter variant … new avionics and special mission system … new radar with 360 degree coverage and greater search radius, capable of multiple-target tracking. (rmks: This will be something to watch as the platform continues to mature)

+++ Director naval planning: “acquisition programs until 2020 include nuclear-powered ice-capable warships, to operate in Arctic Zone.” (rmks: Now that's interesting!)

+++ Completing the summer training period, the Baltic Fleet has begun final inspection by Western Military District … major activities (incl. live missile firing) at sea expected.

 

SPAIN

Helicopter carrier SPS JUAN CARLOS I successfully completed operational evaluation with the Spanish army’s air-mobile helicopter forces (FAMET) … operating Tiger, Cougar and Chinook helicopters.

 

USA

+++ At least eight companies have forwarded proposals for the US Coast Guard’s 25-ship Offshore Patrol Cutter program … after evaluating the bids, the USCG is expected to award two or three firms with Phase I preliminary design contracts in June 2013 … competition winner scheduled to be chosen only in October 2015, and awarded a contract and options to build up to 11 cutters … follow-on competition for the remaining 14 ships. Procurement of the first OPC is scheduled for 2017. (rmks: It's Deja Vu all over again! Spending even more money we don't have)

+++ After short foray to the Indian Ocean, aircraft carrier USS GEORGE WASHINGTON has returned to 7th Fleet area of responsibility, operating in the South China Sea. (rmks: What's missing is – But it is capable of returning at a moment's notice!)

Updates are graciously provided by Marine Forum, with additional information from Naval Todayand the Naval Open-Source Intelligence Blog. The commentary is my own.

 

Another light news day. Some potentially interesting scenario-related stuff in SSA (Sub-Saharan Africa). Enjoy!

 

Summary to follow:

 

16 October

 

AUSTRALIA

The hull of LHD CANBERRA has arrived off Australia (southwest of Melbourne), completing a nine-week transit from Spain on board special ship M/V/ BLUE MARLIN … will now be moved by tug to the Williamstown shipyards in Victoria, for further construction.

 

CHINA

Seven Chinese warships pass international waters south-southeast of Japanese Yonaguni island (east of Taiwan) … probably returning to China after routine training in the Pacific Ocean … Japanese media speculating they might be heading for Diaoyu/Senkaku Islands area. (rmks: They had passed north of Okinawa towards the Pacific on 04 Oct. If they do steam through the disputed region, it will send a message)

 

FINLAND

Finnish Marine Alutech Oy Ab has been contracted with building an initial 12 new U-700 class fast transport boats for the Finnish navy… part of “Project Mera,” to compliment the coastal forces’ equipment … delivery is estimated from 2014-16 … more may follow. (rmks: Some data: 19m x 5m, top speed 40+ knots, carry 32 personnel)

 

NIGERIA

Chinese Wuchan shipyard reportedly has begun construction of first of two P18N 95-m Offshore Patrol Vessels for the Nigerian navy. (rmks: This has scenario potential!)

 

PAKISTAN

Vice Admiral Muhammad Shafiq appointed as vice chief of the naval staff.

 

PIRACY

Anti-Piracy Forces (aka: The Keystone Kops (KK)): Russia is planning for three task groups to deploy to the Gulf of Aden in 2013 … possibly joint operation with the Ukrainian navy. No word that another mission might be scheduled this year; last one (destroyer RFS VIZEADMIRAL KULAKOV) ended in July, with no replacement. (rmks: A joint Ukraine/Russia deployment would be VERY interesting news – even for the KK forces)

 

RUSSIA

Black Sea Fleet ROPUCHA class landing ship RFS NOVOCHERKASSK completes short visit to Bar (Montenegro) … now heading for Pylos (Greece). (rmks: On a six-week - annual - cruise to the Mediterranean, with a number of port visits, mainly to Greece, to attend anniversaries of historic events)

 

UNITED KINGDOM

“Cougar-12”: Task Force “Cougar” (HMS ILLUSTRIOUS, BULWARK, et al) completes three-day visit to Gibraltar, entering the Mediterranean.

 

USA

Four sailors were injured when a line snapped during refueling at sea between tanker USNS PATUXENT and aircraft carrier USS HARRY S. TRUMAN off Florida. (rmks: Praise the Lord, no one was killed)

 

 

17 October

 

AUSTRALIA

A navy patrol boat intercepts and assists an asylum seeker boat with 139 passengers, north-northwest of Christmas Island … after it had radioed for help.