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NNSotD (Naval News Summary of the Day)


gemerson

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With the shift from a military of dominance and power to one of efficiency and intelligence I think we can expect more AMPHIB's in the near future. Am I pushing my luck to say that the days of 500,000 boots on the ground are over and smaller forces will be the norm? Maybe Russell over at AGS (with a nudge from Tony and Brad and the fans of this great game) we could see amphibs that can deploy Marines and tanks on LCAC's in ANW? ;) ;) I've been wanting to send a company or two into Taiwan from a LPD for days now. Thanks Greg for the great news.

 

I'd guess you are pushing your luck to say the days of 500,000 boots on the ground are over. I sincerely hope you are correct but I doubt it. Hehe, I'd like to see LCACs landing Marines and Tanks in HC, never mind H3! Heck, I'd like to see Amphibs launching the LCACs.

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Its another snowpocalypse kind of day in the PacNorWest. Hope the weather is warm and sunny wherever you are. Here is today's NNSotD. Enjoy!

 

FWFS,

 

Greg Emerson, DM1(SW), USN-Retired

Renton, WA, USA

 

Summary to follow ...

 

14 January

 

USA

Aircraft carrier CARL VINSON commenced air missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom . operating in the Arabian Sea, the ship launched 58 combat sorties towards Afghanistan. Source: NIPmail.

 

16 January

 

FRANCE

15 ships of the Force d'Action Navale have begun this year's first quarterly exercise "Gabian" . until 20 Jan off Toulon . participants include two destroyers, five frigates, three Aviso, two MCM boats and support vessels. Source: NIPmail.

 

PIRACY (Source: IMO Update)

+++ Somalia: Police from Somalia's semi-autonomous region of Puntland seized 13 pirates, two skiffs and equipment . near Garacad, when they tried to return to a site from which they had been evicted in December (with 43 arrested that time). Local authorities claim currently some 250 pirates being held in prisons at Garacad and Jariban . very slow judicial process.

+++ Anti-Piracy Forces: 6th Russian Pacific Fleet anti-piracy task group (RFS ADMIRAL PANTELEYEV, RFS BORIS BUTOMA, RFS FOTY KRYLOV) has ended operations in the Gulf of Aden and is heading home. On 19 Jan, scheduled to arrive at Surybaya, Indonesia, for a short visit.

 

17 January

 

AUSTRALIA

Patrol boat GLENELG intercepts asylum seeker boat with 74 passengers and two crew near Christmas Island. Source: IMO Update.

 

INDIA

Russian Sevmash shipyard (Severodvinsk) has reaffirmed schedule for former aircraft carrier ADMIRAL GORSHKOV . ship will cunduct first sea trials in the White Sea in May, to be handed over to the Indian navy by year end (rmks: I'll believe it, when I see it). Source: NIP mail.

 

NORWAY

As part of an upgrade to ULA class submarines, new MSI-90U Mk 2 Combat Management Systems have been ordered from Norwegian Kongsberg. Source: NIPmail.

 

PIRACY

Arabian Sea: East of Socotra, six pirates in one skiff attack Luxemburg-flagged special ship FLINTSTONE . protected by embarked Netherlands naval infantry team . ignore warning shots with signals munitions but break off when in response to aimed RPG shots were directly aimed at the skiff . return to mother ship . EU NavFor reportedly searching for pirate group. Source: IMO Update.

 

USA

The BATAAN Amphibious Ready Group has arrived in the Central / Western Mediterranean . on return transit to Norfolk after ending its ten-and-a-half month Middle East deployment. (rmks: One of the longest non-wartime deployments in modern naval histroy). Source: NIP mail.

 

USA - CUBA

Twenty-six Cubans came ashore in US Florida Keys . in a possible migrant-smuggling operation. Source: USCG Newsline.

 

RUSSIA

The Baltic Fleet is set to receive (only completion of registration documents required) three 25-m Project 90600 tugs, built by "Leningrad Shipyard Pella" . associated image shows one such tug with hull number RB-20. Source: NIPmail.

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I'm back in the 21st century - the electricity just came back on! Here is today's NNSotD. Enjoy your weekend!

 

FWFS,

Greg Emerson, DM1(SW), USN-Retired

Renton, WA, USA

 

Summary to follow ...

 

14 January

 

RUSSIA

Small fire on board AKULA-III class submarine GEPARD … boat had returned from sea to Gladzhievo base after experiencing electrical problem … repair crew from nearby Shipyard No 10 on board, when alcohol-acetone mixture used for cleaning ignited (flash fire slightly injured one man) … quickly extinguished using Freon … no damage to boat. (rmks: seems odd that the VMFR is exeriencing sub fires lately.) Source: NIPmail.

 

17 January

 

IRAN

Spanish supply ship PATINO, flagship of EU anti-piracy operation “Atalanta”, assisted an Iranian-flagged dhow which had run out of fuel off the Somali Coast. Source: IMO Update.

 

PIRACY

Anti-Piracy Forces: Danish multi-purpose ship ABSALON (NATO) conducts crew change in Port Victoria, Seychelles … will remain on task with NATO operation “Ocean Shield” until April. Source: IMO Update.

 

USA

Amphibious assault ship BATAAN arrives at Rota, Spain, for a scheduled port visit … on return transit to home port Norfolk from a Middle East deployment. Source: NIPmail.

 

18 January

 

IRAN – USA

US Navy destroyer DEWEY rendered aid to the crew of sinking Iranian fishing dhow AL MAMSOOR in the central Arabian Sea. Source: NIPmail

 

19 January

 

AUSTRALIA

The second boat with asylum seekers to arrive off Australia this week has been intercepted north-east of Christmas Island by RAN patrol boat MAITLAND … .carrying 56 passengers and two crew. Source: IMO Update.

 

INDONESIA

Navy chief Admiral Soeparno: the first of three submarines to be built in South Korea will be completed by 2015. Source: NIPmail.

 

INDONESIA

The Indonesian Navy has ordered four X3K missile-equipped trimarans from Lundin Industry … 62.5m long, drafting just 1,2m, 35 knots, made from carbon fibre composite, to carry anti-ship missiles with 120km range. Prototype to start trials “in near future”, remaining three be delivered by 2014. (rmks: This is very interesting). Source: NIPmail.

 

ITALY

The Italian navy expects to begin flying operational sorties with four AgustaWestland AW101 airborne early warning and control system helicopters in March … equipped with an inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR) capable of detecting maritime vessels at distances up to 300 km. Source: NIPmail.

 

PIRACY

Somalia Basin: Pirated Italian merchant ship ENRICO IEVOLI (hijacked on 27 Dec) may be used as a mother ship … left anchorage off the Somalia coast, heading in a NE direction. Source: IMO Update.

 

SOUTH KOREA

Indonesian PT Dirgantara has delivered the third of four CN-235 maritime patrol aircraft to the South Korean coast guard. Source: NIPmail.

 

TAIWAN

The ROC Navy is “close” to receive two refitted former US Navy OSPREY class coastal mine hunters. (rmks: Looks like the database will needed to be updated again soon.) Source: NIPmail.

 

UNITED KINGDOM

TYPE 45 destroyer DARING, into her maiden deployment, has arrived at Gibraltar for a short visit. Source: NIPmail.

 

USA

The ABRAHAM LINCOLN Carrier Strike Group (CSG) has arrived in the 5th Fleet area of responsibility … relieving the JOHN C. STENNIS CSG which in turn has left the region, currently entering the 7th Fleet area of responsibility through the Malacca Strait … STENNIS to conduct some exercises with regional partners as well as visits to Singapore and the Philippines before returning to home port San Diego later in Feb. Source: NIPmail.

 

USA

General Dynamics NASSCO holds keel-laying ceremony for the first mobile landing platform MLP-1 MONTFORD POINT in San Diego, Calif. Source: NIPmail.

 

USA

Southern Partnership Station 2012: HSV-2 SWIFT arrives in Callao (Peru) for three weeks to work with Peruvian partner-nation peers in a series of subject matter expert exchanges. Source: NIPmail.

 

 

20 January

 

RUSSIA

Aircraft carrier ADMIRAL KUZNETSOV continues operations in the Central Med … celebrating 21st anniversary of “first flag raising”. Source: NIPmail.

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So begins another week. Hope yours is statting well. Here's what happened while life was occuring over the weekend - Enjoy!

 

FWFS,

 

Greg

 

Summar to follow ...

 

20 January

 

AUSTRALIA

Conservative opposition demands government order boats with asylum seekers to be turned back when intercepted at sea. Navy fears that such a move could prompt the crews to deliberately incapacitate their boats (even set them afire), so people on board have to be rescued as “shipwrecked” under international law. Source: IMO Update.

 

DENMARK

Helicopters AW159 Wildcat and MH60R Seahawk short listed as possible replacement for ageing Lynx … contract negotiations with both supplying companies … first new ship-based helicopters expected to be delivered in 2015. Source: NIPmail.

 

INDIA

During a ceremony at Visakhapatnam the Indian Coast Guard commissioned the RANI ABBAKKA (rmks: associated photo shows hull number 77) , the first of five new 50-m Ship Inshore Patrol Vessel (IPV) built at Hindustan Shipyard. Source: NIPmail.

 

PIRACY

Somalia Basin: After three days of persistent pressure, German frigate LUEBECK has forced Somali pirates to release an Indian dhow with 15 Indian mariners held as hostages … dhow was intercepted on 17 Jan after attacking Netherlands merchant vessel FLINTSTONE … repeatedly fired shots across the bow … helicopter destroyed skiffs stored on upper deck … dhow finally rendezvoused with ENRICO IEVOLI (hijacked on 27 Dec) sent out from the Somalia coast to meet them at sea … pirates transferred (rmks: no intervention due to hostage situation), thus releasing the Indian dhow and its crew. ENRICO IEVOLI returning to Somalia, being closely shadowed. Source: IMO Update.

 

RUSSIA

The Northern Fleet has reorganized all its rescue and salvage assets (incl. manned and unmanned DSRV) in a new Search & Rescue Squadron (UPASR). Source: NIPmail.

 

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Italian Fincantieri shipyard at Muggiano launched the first of two FALAJ-2 patrol boats ordered by the UAE navy. Source: NIPmail.

 

USA

Both Littoral Combat Ship variants experienced major disruptions and delays in testing and evaluation during the past year due to failures across a range of systems … among other difficulties, LCS-1 FREEDOM had developed a crack in the underwater hull … LCS-2 INDEPENDENCE experienced failures in its anti-mine systems as well as lift platform failures, propulsion problems and hull corrosion. Source: NIPmail.

 

USA

Change of command at the Pacific Fleet with Adm. Cecil D. Haney taking over from Adm. Patrick Walsh during a ceremony at Pearl Harbor … Adm. Walsh retired after 34 years. Source: NIPmail.

 

USA

SecDef Panetta has lifted the „probation“ status (issued by his predecessor Gates) of the USMC F-35B STOVL variant of the Lightning-II Joint Strike Fighter … aircraft “absolutely vital to maintaining our air superiority”. Source: NIPmail.

 

 

21 January

 

IRAN – USA

In stark contrast to a warning by an Iranian army chief earlier this month, an Iranian Revolutionary Guard deputy commander said that the return of a US warship to the Gulf was “a routine matter”. Source: NIPmail.

 

SYRIA

A Syrian navy patrol boat reported to have briefly crossed the sea border with Lebanon near Arida and at gun point (fired warning shots) abducted three Lebanese fishermen. (rmks: incident may signal increasing nervousness, however, it is not the first of its kind. Already in August last year, the Syrian navy fired at two Lebanese vessels fishing in Lebanese territorial waters). Source: NIPmail.

 

UNITED KINGDOM

BAe Systems “reviewing” warship business … reportedly deliberating whether to close Portsmouth dockyard … decision likely within three months. Source: NIPmail.

 

USA

SecDef Panetta: despite budget pressures, the US Navy will retain 11 aircraft carriers. Source: NIPmail.

 

YEMEN

During 2011, a record 103,000 refugees, asylum-seekers and migrants risked the perilous journey across the Gulf of Aden or the Red Sea from Africa to Yemen … almost 100 per cent increase from 53,000 people in 2010 … during 2011, more than 130 are known to have drowned. Source: NIPmail.

 

22 January

 

FRANCE

First FREMM frigate, AQUITAINE, on schedule for delivery in second half of this year. Decommissioning of destroyer DE GRASSE reportedly to be deferred until end 2013. Source: NIPmail.

 

USA (IRAN)

In a “routine move”, ships of the ABRAHAM LINCOLN Carrier Strike Group, together with British frigate ARGYLL and a French navy ship, pass the Strait of Hormuz into the Persian Gulf … without incident. (rmks: well, the recent Iranian warning anyway had specifically been for the JOHN C STENNIS to not return into the Gulf … which it didn’t …). Source: NIPmail.

 

23 January

 

INDIA (RUSSIA)

During a ceremony at the Bolshoi Kamen naval base (near Vladivostok), the Russian navy officially hands over AKULA class submarine K-152 NERPA to the Indian navy … the renamed CHAKRA now flying the Indian flag. Source: NIPmail.

 

RUSSIA

Pacific Fleet former 6th anti-piracy task group, with destroyer ADMIRAL PANTELEYEV, ends port visit to Surabaya, Indonesian, with a short “Passex” (communications, basic seamanship) with Indonesian navy … continues homebound. Source: NIPmail.

 

UNITED KINGDOM

TYPE 23 frigate WESTMINSTER sails from Portsmouth on a seven-month deployment “east of Suez” … to relieve sister ship SOMERSET … join anti-terror operation “Enduring Freedom” but also conduct anti-piracy operations off the Horn of Africa. Source: IMO Update.

 

UPCOMING / PLANNED EVENTS

 

USA (Feb)

Decommissioning ceremony for LOS ANGELES class submarine MEMPHIS scheduled for February.

 

SPAIN (March)

Fifth TYPE F-100 frigate (F-105 CRISTOBAL COLON) set to start first sea trials in March.

 

RUSSIA (Jun)

USC spokesman on 20 Jan: First BOREY class submarine YURI DOLGORUKIY to enter service in second quarter 2012 (rmks: by June, now that Bulava testing is completed.).

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I was off yesterday, so I didn't have access to the NNSotD stuff. Interesting stuff perculating out there. Enjoy!

 

Summary to follow ...

 

24 January

 

ALGERIA

Algerian authorities claim to have foiled a plot by an al Qaeda affiliate to ram US or European ships in the Mediterranean with an explosive-laden boat. (rmks: hmmm). Source: NIPmail.

 

FRANCE

Hydrographic survey ship BEAUTEMPS-BEAUPRE sails from Brest for a six-month mission to the Indian Ocean region … return in July. Source: NIPmail.

 

IRAN

British Defence Minister: “… could send extra military assets to the Strait of Hormuz to deter any attempt by Iran to block Persian Gulf oil tanker traffic”. (rmks: allsquiet on the French side of the channel and its likely to remain that way until something hits the fan). Source: NIPmail.

 

RUSSIA

The ADMIRAL KUZNETSOV carrier task group has completed several-day exercises in the Central Mediterranean … air defence, missile and artillery firing (rmks: photo shows missile launch from CADS-1), simulated anti-submarine warfare (rmks: target?). Flight operations on 23/24 Jan included 10 sorties of Su-33 Flanker and 24 missions of ASW helicopters Ka-27 Helix. Source: NIPmail.

 

RUSSIA

The Russian defence ministry signed contract to commence series production of submarine-launched Bulava missiles … official tests “completed” … President Medvedjew soon to officially decree introduction … initial orders running through 2020. (rmks: back in Oct 2010, Russia was said to have a requirement of more than 150 Bulava ballistic missiles for the next decade … at least 124 missiles required for eight BOREY class submarines, another 30 or 40 missiles will have to be set aside for test launches - while the US is scrapping strategi assets, Russia is building up their inventory. Something's wrong with that picture). Source: NIPmail.

 

RUSSIA

First YASEN class nuclear submarine SEVERODVINSK will be commissioned into service only in 2013. First Deputy Defence Minister Sukhorukov: “… deadlines for the contract were not fulfilled”. Source: NIPmail.

 

SPAIN

Local media: the Spanish government has accrued Euro 3.4 billion long-term debts on contracts awarded to naval shipbuilder Navantia. (rmks: Ouch!) Source: NIPmail.

 

 

UPCOMING / PLANNED EVENTS

 

RUSSIA (FRANCE) (early Feb)

The first of an initial two MISTRAL class helicopter carriers will be laid down in early February at French STX shipyard in St. Nazaire … to be delivered in 2014. Source: NIPmail.

 

RUSSIA (2012)

KIROV class nuclear-powered cruiser PETR VELIKIY scheduled to conduct out-of-area deployment (“long march”) this year. No dates nor destinations given so far. (rmks: that one will be interesting to follow). Source: NIPmail.

 

17 January

 

USA

Africa Partnership Station (West) 2012: Frigate SIMPSON departs Mayport, Florida, for a six-month deployment to West Africa. Source: IMO Update.

 

 

23 January

 

FRANCE

FLOREAL class frigate VENDEMIAIRE sails from home port Noumea (New Caledonia) for a four-month cruise to South East Asia and East Asia, with visits planned to 15 regional ports. Source: NIPmail.

 

IRAN

Reacting to new EU sanctions which include an oil embargo, senior Iranian lawmakers stepped up threats to block other nations’ oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. (rmks: more saber rattling). Source: NIPmail.

 

RUSSIA

After completing visit to Surabaya (Indonesia), the Pacific Fleet’s former 6th anti-piracy task group, with destroyer ADMIRAL PANTELEYEV, now heading for Manila (Philippines) for another port visit during return transit from The Horn of Africa to Vladivostok. Source: IMO Update.

 

SPAIN

Patrol vessel ATALAYA intercepts a rubber dinghy (over)loaded with 44 African illegal migrants trying to cross the Alboran Sea for Southern Spain. Source: IMO Update.

 

USA

President Obama has nominated current director of the Pentagon’s Joint Staff, Vice Adm. Bill Gortney, as the next commander of US Fleet Forces Command … would be promoted to admiral and replace Adm. John Harvey “this summer”. Source: NIPmail.

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Another day of great possibilities! Here are the interesting things happening in the global naval market today. Enjoy!

 

Summary to follow ...

 

24 January

 

FRANCE

Military procurement agency DGA has accepted delivery of second new EDA-R landing craft (9093). Source: NIPmail.

 

25 January

 

FRANCE – USA

French helicopter carrier MISTRAL in Norfolk, USA … preparing for upcoming amphibious exercise “Bold Alligator” scheduled to kick off on 30 Jan … currently practise to certify US Navy LCAC for operating from her well deck. (rmks: that would be an interesting tour to take! I'd like to see how it shapes up against the Navy's amphib's - I spent the worst two-ears of my navy career on the USS Nassau (LHA 4)). Source: NIPmail.

 

RUSSIA

GEPARD class frigate DAGESTAN not yet in the Caspian Sea but still at Novorossiysk where she had been damaged in a storm … navy and Zelenodolsk shipyard at odds over who is to pay the some Euro 1.5 million estimated for repairs. (rmks: It sucks when Mr. Murphy pays you a visit). Source: NIPmail.

 

SOMALIA

US Navy SEALs rescue two foreign aid workers (unharmed) kidnapped three months ago and held since at a camp near inland town of Galcayo.… at least eight captors killed during the raid. (rmks: Do the crime, pay the price. Wish they would do this more oftern. Its likely piracy wouldn't be a concern if the did). Source: IMO Update.

 

SRI LANKA

The Sri Lanka navy seized six Indian fishing boats which had strayed into Sri Lankan waters and - temporarily - detained 42 Indian fishermen. Source: IMO Update.

 

THAILAND

New Defence Minister, Air Chief Marshal Sukumpol Suwanatat, has “vowed” to revive the stalled submarine procurement program. (rmks: And if pigs had wings, they would fly). Source: NIPmail.

 

USA – PHILIPPINES

In an apparent strategic move aimed at countering China, the US is considering significantly expanding military presence in the Philippines … one option stationing navy ships … talks in “early stage”. (rmks: And why did we leave the Philippines?) Source: NIPmail.

 

USA - Source: http://www.defensenews.com/

+++ The US Navy reportedly plans to cut a total of 16 ships from its five-year budget … in fiscal 2013 said to reduce the number of ships funded from 13 down to 10 … mostly forego Joint High Speed Vessel and other support ships ... try to avoid cancelling warships or submarines. (rmks: The year of the axe is shaping up to be pretty grim.)

+++ Defense Secretary Leon Panetta is expected to request two new rounds of military base closures (BRAC) in the United States as part of the Pentagon budget-cutting process. (rmks: Is he freaking kidding! US defense policy seems prett bi-polar. I say a little less diversity and more beans, bullets and few reliable ships and aircraft!)

 

UPCOMING / PLANNED EVENTS

 

SOUTH KOREA – USA (27 Feb)

The militaries of the US and South Korea are scheduled to begin annual two-week joint exercise “Key Resolve” on 27 Feb. Source: NIPmail.

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Big doings in the various river citieis around the globe. Have a great wekend everyone!

 

Summary to follow ...

 

24 January

 

UNITED KINGDOM

“Small fire” on board TRAFALGAR class nuclear powered submarine TALENT at Devonport Naval Base … quickly extinguished by the crew and nobody hurt … Royal Navy does not give location of fire although it is not believed to have involved the nuclear reactor. Extent and implications of damage are still being investigated, but the boat’s operational schedule should not be affected. (rmks: What is it with all the submarine fires lately!) Source: NIPmail.

 

25 January

 

USA

Missile cruiser VELLA GULF arrives at Sevastopol, Ukraine, for a scheduled visit … before, had conducted a four-day visit to Constanta, Romania. (rmks: If you've ever been there, Sevatopol is a great city to visit. Bet those guys are lovin' that liberty port!) Source: NIPmail.

 

26 January

 

CHILE

Former French dock landing ship FOUDRE – renamed SARGENTO ALDEA – departs Toulon enroute Chile. Name painted to the stern, but no hull number discernible yet. Source: NIPmail.

 

RUSSIA

Third Project 19920 hydrographic survey vessel (36m, 320ts) under construction … scheduled for commissioning into the Northern Fleet this year. Source: NIPmail.

 

UNITED KINGDOM

Designs from Italian Fincantieri and South Korean Daewoo and Hyundai - but not local Rolls-Royce - reportedly short listed for four new fleet tankers (Project Mars) … final decision expected in March. Source: NIPmail.

 

UNITED KINGDOM

US F/A-18 Super Hornet and French Rafale reportedly considered as possible alternatives (“interim aircraft”) for carrier-based aircraft in case of delayed availability of originally planned F-35C. Source: NIPmail.

 

UNITED KINGDOM

The Royal Navy’s new ice patrol ship PROTECTOR has arrived in Antarctica for the first time after her long sail south from Portsmouth … via Montevideo, Uruguay. Source: NIPmail.

 

USA

“Defense Budget Priorities and Choices” published: … delay OHIO-class SSBN replacement by two years … add cruise missile capacity to VIRGINIA class submarines … retain 11 aircraft carriers (with 10 carrier air wings) and all amphibious assault ships … all three F-35 variants “safe”, but procurement will be slowed down to allow for more testing … lose seven TICONDEROGA class cruisers, one of which is BMD capable but in need for “lot of repairs” … construction of one “big-deck amphibious ship” and a submarine will be delayed … two dock landing ships will be decommissioned and their replacements delayed … the navy will lose eight JHSV and two littoral combat ships … USMC will be cut by some 20,000 to 182,000, still “larger than in 2001” … some naval assets incl. aircraft carrier expected to be shifted from the US east coast to the Pacific region.. (rmks: Gloom, dispair and agony on us. Tis the year of the axe.) Source: see my other post on the subject.

 

27 January

 

CANADA

Defence ministry decided to have new Joint Support Ships (JSS) built after German design … variant of German Navy BERLIN class … joint working group from Flensburger Schiffbau-Gesellschaft (FSG) and Blohm + Voss Naval contracted with design study. Source: NIPmail.

 

IRAN

On 06 Jan, IRGC had announced large scale naval exercise “Great Prophet 7” to start today, however, as of this morning, local media have given no indication that the exercise has indeed begun or is imminent. Source: NIPmail.

 

28 January

 

PIRACY

Anti-Piracy Forces: French frigate ACONIT to sail from Toulon for the Horn of Africa … will join EU NavFor in operation “Atalanta”. Source: IMO Update.

 

UPCOMING / PLANNED EVENTS

 

AUSTRALIA (multinational) (31 Jan)

More than 1,000 delegates representing 35-countries will attend the Royal Australian Navy Sea Power Conference in Sydney from 31 Jan to 02 Feb. (rmks: Pacific 2012 is a BIG naval show. Likely to be some big announcements made here. Stay tuned.) Source: http://www.pacific2012.com.au/

 

THAILAND (multinational) 05 Feb.

 

Multinational exercise “Cobra Gold” scheduled from 05-17 Feb … co-hosted by Thailand and the US Pacific Command … seven nations to participate (incl. Thailand, USA, Japan, South Korea) with another nine countries, incl. Russia and China, to send observers. Activities to begin with “humanitarian action”, followed by a command post exercise, a three-day landing drill and a tactical exercise for a week … conclude with maritime transportation and tactical maneuvering exercises in the Gulf of Thailand. Source: NIPmail.

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Hope everybody had a great weekend. I sure did!

 

Summary to follow ...

 

25 January

 

PIRACY

Anti-Piracy Forces: Turkish parliament approves extending Turkish navy participation in multinational anti-piracy operations off the Horn of Africa by another year. Source: IMO Update.

 

USA

Amphibious assault ship BATAAN completes a five-day visit to Lisbon, Portugal … final port visit during deployment … now heading home for Norfolk. Source: NIPmail.

 

26 January

 

UNITED KINGDOM

TRAFALGAR class submarines TRENCHANT and TALENT have received major upgrades to their combat systems. Source: NIPmail.

 

27 January

 

ALGERIA

Italian Orizzonte Sistemi Navali has started preliminary construction work on an 8,800-tonne multipurpose landing platform dock ship for the Algerian Navy. Source: NIPmail.

 

INDIA

SUDARSHINI, the second sail-training ship of the Indian Navy, inducted into the Southern Naval Command … 54-m ship, built at Goa shipyard. Source: NIPmail.

 

LEBANON

US company RiverHawk at Tampa, Fla. launched a first 43 m Coastal Security Craft for the Lebanese Navy. Source: NIPmail.

 

PHILIPPINES – USA

The Philippine foreign secretary confirms plans to allow a greater US military presence in the Philippines … looking for more joint exercises, as well as having a greater number of US troops rotating through the country … increased US Navy P3-C Orion patrols of the South China Sea … talks to be held in March to determine specifics. Source: NIPmail.

 

RUSSIA

The Mediterranean deployment of the KUZNETSOV carrier task force is coming to an end … “all tasks completed” … ships will “replenish, then leave the Mediterranean” through the Strait of Gibraltar and commence home transit. (rmks: MoD press statement gives no indication of more port visits). Source: NIPmail.

 

RUSSIA

While the Defense Ministry has not shown interest in developing / acquiring new wing-in-ground aircraft, and financing of their production has not been included in the state armament procurement program until 2020, the Federal Border Guard Service is planning to build a center for the production of such “ekranoplan” … at the former Avangard shipyard near Petrozavodsk. Source: NIPmail.

 

UNITED KINGDOM

The MoD has approved development of a new-generation supersonic short-range air defence missile system for the Royal Navy … defence against fast jets and sea-skimming missiles … “Future Local Area Air Defence System (Maritime)” - dubbed “Sea Ceptor” - based on MBDA’s CAMM Common Anti-air Modular Missile … contracts with MBDA reportedly already signed … new system to replace the long-serving Seawolf missile around 2016. (rmks: will cover an area of 500 square miles which some ignorant media have contorted to a range of 500 miles … calculation gives actual range of some 13 miles). Source: NIPmail.

 

USA

The US Navy has cancelled planned decommissioning of dock landing ship PONCE … instead “hurriedly” will convert her to new use as “mother ship” (Afloat Forward Staging Base) for special forces and mine clearance forces … to deploy to the Middle East in early summer. (rmks: Quite possibly another sign of the "do something disease" that is so prevalent with the current administration). Source: NIPmail.

 

28 January

 

CHINA

A Chinese newspaper reports fourth Type 071 YUZHAO class dock landing ship launched from Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard in Shanghai. (rmks: Photo confirmatrion to follow). Source: NIPmail.

 

PIRACY

Somalia Basin: Some 500 nm east of Hobyo, Somalia, a dhow releases a skiff with five armed pirates on board … approach a merchant ship, but then abort attack. Source: IMO Update.

 

RUSSIA

The world’s largest nuclear-powered ice breaker, 50 LET POBEDY, is deploying from Arctic region to the Baltic … for operations in the Gulf of Finland. Source: NIPmail.

 

29 January

 

CANADA

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. reportedly will fail to meet commitment to deliver a "fully mission capable" version of the CH-148 Cyclone helicopter by June … could face a further $80 million in contract penalties. (rmks: Sea King replacement program is already years behind schedule). Source: NIPmail.

 

IRAN

EU sanctions on Iranian oil currently would extend to about 95 percent of tankers worldwide because they are insured under rules governed by European law … meaning: carrying Iranian oil would invalidate a tanker’s cover against risks including spills and collisions. Source: Bloomberg - http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-01-27/i...ance-rules.html

 

 

UPCOMING / PLANNED EVENTS

 

SOUTH KOREA – USA (27 Feb)

update: bilateral exercise Key Resolve (27 Feb – 09 Mar) will be a computerized command post exercise, involving about 200,000 South Korean troops and 2,100 U.S. troops. Separately, joint air, ground and naval field training exercise “Foal Eagle” will be held in March and April with about 11,000 U.S. forces along with South Korean troops in division-sized or smaller units. (rmks: both exercises are long standing annual routine, although North Korea always portraits them as immediate war preparation). Source: NIPmail.

 

BTW: I'm off tomorrow. The next NNSotD will be on Wednesday!

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Well, its the first of February! It's amazing how fast the first month of 2012 has passed. Lots of news to share, so here we go!

 

Summary to follow ...

 

31 January

 

RUSSIA

A Pacific Fleet task group led by destroyer ADMIRAL PANTELEYEV arrives at Manila, Philippines, for a scheduled port visit until 02 Feb … the first visit of the Russian Pacific Fleet’s warships to Philippines in 96-years. (rmks: On return transit from anti-piracy operations off Somalia). Source: NIPmail.

 

AUSTRALIA (multinational)

More than 1000 delegates representing 35 countries attend the Royal Australian Navy Sea Power Conference in Sydney running through 02 Feb. Source: IMO Update

 

FRANCE (LIBYA)

Two French navy mine hunters arrive at Tripoli, Libya … to assist in mine clearing of ports and roadstead (oil terminals), train Libyan navy personnel, and “help in equipping the Libyan navy” (promote French systems). Source: NIPmail

 

PIRACY Source: IMO Update.

+++ Gulf of Aden: Iranian navy ships reportedly “rushed to help a tanker under attack from pirates” … “made the pirate boats flee by opening timely, massive fire on them”

(rmks: single Iranian source, no date of incident given).

+++ Somalia: indications that pirate groups are preparing to head out to sea from camps at the Somalia coast.

+++ General: 14 suspected pirates arrested earlier this month by British supply ship FORT VICTORIA on a hijacked dhow, were handed over to Seychelles authorities to face prosecution.

 

RUSSIA

Baltic Fleet helicopter pilots to “double their number of flying hours” to 130 hrs/pilot during 2012 training year. Source: NIPmail

 

RUSSIA

AMUR class repair ship PM-56 returns to Black Sea home port of Sevastopol, after spending six-month in the Mediterranean. (rmks: probably had been station ship at Tartus, Syria. No info on possible replacement). Source: NIPmail

 

RUSSIA

The KUZNETSOV carrier task group reported near the Strait of Gibraltar, about to exit the Mediterranean. (rmks: “notorious” sources still claim the group to be at Tartus, Syria, preparing for action in support of the Assad regime). Source: NIPmail

 

SPAIN

Second METEORO class patrol ship, RAYO, conducting shake-down training in the Eastern Mediterranean, with visits to Turkish ports scheduled. Source: NIPmail

 

UNITED KINGDOM

On her maiden deployment to the Middle East, destroyer DARING has arrived at Souda Bay, Crete, for an operational work-up at the local NATO range. Source: NIPmail

 

USA

Naval Sea Systems Command has contracted Raytheon to develop preliminary design of a Pulse Forming Network (PFN) … part of a larger effort to develop a weapon system for use on warships … system will enable projectiles to reach great distances without the use of an explosive charge or rocket motor … provide electromagnetic energy for the railgun projectile, which will travel up to 220-miles in less than six minutes and exit the atmosphere before hitting its target at a velocity of 5,000 feet per second. (rmks: Enough with the gee-whiz, already! We are running out of bucks for all the Buck Rogers. Cut the science experiment and focus on preventing platforms from being cut from the inventory.) Source: NIPmail

 

USA (IRAN)

Assets of the ABRAHAM LINCOLN Carrier Strike Group responded to a distressed Iranian fishing dhow in the Persian Gulf … engine failed … master permitted US team to board the dhow where US technician repaired the engine. (rmks: Standy by for all the propaganda on Al-Jazerra.) Source: NIPmail

 

USA

Airbus Military/EADS North America deliver the 13th HC-144A Ocean Sentry maritime patrol aircraft to the US Coast Guard … two months ahead of the contractual delivery date. (rmks: Likely another CASA 235). Source: NIPmail

 

USA

The US Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) has transferred high speed vessels HUAKAI and ALAKAI (former civilian ferries) to the US Navy … will be used to transport troops and equipment in the West Pacific region. Source: NIPmail

 

30 January

 

PIRACY

Anti-Piracy Forces: US Navy destroyer ARLEIGH BURKE sails from Norfolk for anti-piracy operations in the 5th Fleet area of responsibility. Source: IMO Update.

 

USA

Aircraft carrier JOHN C STENNIS ends a scheduled port visit to Singapore, heading into the South China Sea … short Passex with two Singapore navy frigates. (rmks: on return transit after deployment to 5th Fleet area of responsibility). Source: NIPmail

 

BAHRAIN

The GCC states reaffirmed previous decision (rmks: made 18-months ago) to establish a maritime centre in Bahrain … in order to boost security in the Gulf, including that of vital shipping lanes for oil exports … agree to share information and contribute personnel and military assets. (rmks: not related to current situation with Iran). Source: NIPmail

 

CHINA

LUHU class destroyer QINGDAO and JIANGKAI-II class frigate YANTAI scheduled to soon start “major open ocean training”. (rmks: official info gives no further clues, but might be an upcoming out-of area cruise). Source: NIPmail

 

FINLAND

RAUMA class missile boats RAAHE, PORVOO and NAANTALI receive mid-life upgrade to stay operational until the 2020s … weapons and sensors integrated into a new system … anti-air missile system replaced with decoy thrower … first boat (NAANTALI?) to return to fleet by year end; all to be operational again by end 2013. Source: NIPmail

 

RUSSIA

Two Tu-95MS Bear strategic bombers fly a 16-hour routine patrol mission over the Arctic Ocean. Source: NIPmail

 

RUSSIA

Severnaya shipyard (St. Petersburg) set to start construction of Project 22350 (GORSHKOV class) frigate ADMIRAL GOLOVKO and Project 20385 (modified STEREGUSHCHIY class) corvette GREMYASHCHIY. Source: NIPmail

 

USA (multinational)

Exercise Bold Alligator 2012 (BA-12) has begun off the US Atlantic coast … “largest amphibious exercise in ten years” scheduled to run through 16 Feb … …”revitalization of the fundamentals of amphibious operations” … culminate in brigade-sized amphibious assault near Camp Lejeune … participants to include an amphibious task force with 10 amphibious ships (incl. KEARSARGE, WASP) and four to six combatants; a Marine expeditionary brigade-sized landing force (2d MEB); the ENTERPRISE Carrier Strike Group; mine counter measure forces, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) forces, Military Sealift Command (MSC) ships, and coalition force elements from several allies, among them French helicopter carrier MISTRAL. Source: NIPmail

 

USA

Vice Adm. Bruce Clingan - deputy chief of naval operations for operations, plans and strategy -nominated to head the 6thFleet in Naples (Italy). Source: NIPmail

 

USA

Destroyer MOMSEN and submarine ANNAPOLIS reportedly pass the Suez Canal southbound for the 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (rmks: MOMSEN, possibly also ANNAPOLIS, belong to the ABRAHAM LINCOLN Carrier Strike Group, already operating in the 5th Fleet area). Source: NIPmail

 

UPCOMING / PLANNED EVENTS

 

UNITED KINGDOM (March)

In her maiden operational deployment, new TYPE 45 destroyer DAUNTLESS is scheduled to sail in late March for the South Atlantic … to take over regular patrol duties (also of the Falkland waters). (rmks: probably relieve TYPE 23 frigate MONTROSE. Media interpret the deployment as a “strong signal” of determination – and the willingness to escalate if need be – on the upcoming 30th anniversary of the Falkland War). Source: NIPmail

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Greetings everyone. For those of us in the US, it Groundhog Day, it's Groundhog Day (if you haven't seen the Bill Murray movie by the same name, rent it and you'll get the joke). Lots of stuff happening around the world. Enjoy the news updates.

 

Summary to follow ...

 

31 January

 

ANGOLA

Damen Shipyards subsidy in Galati (Romania) launches 62-m Fishery Inspection Surveillance Vessel (FISV 6210) NGOLA KILUANGE … built for the Angolan Ministry of Agriculture … another ship of this type as well as a smaller (28m) Fishery Research Vessel (Damen FRV 2810) under construction at Galati. (rmks: looks like a modified version of the STANEX patrol boat). Source: NIPmail.

 

PIRACY

Arabian Sea: Indications of possible Pirate Attack Group activity in the Arabian Sea, appr. 420nm NE of the Seychelles. (rmks: When will people read their history books concerning piracy and deal with them the wa they should - we could rotate through the stock of HE rounds, cycle the guns and give our gun crews training. Oh, I forgot we're kinder and gentler today. Sorry, but I have to wonder if that's a good thing.) Source: IMO Update.

 

01 February

 

IRAN (FRANCE)

Some (non-French) media floating rumours that French aircraft carrier CHARLES DE GAULLE will deploy to the Arabian Sea in March/April … to join three US aircraft carriers off Iran. (rmks: For the time being the CDG is conducting sea trials following a longer maintenance period. Operational work-up / first flight operations has been scheduled to begin only in March. Wait and see whether this schedule will be advanced. Holy smokes, the French are going to actually do some operational cruising. This is a day to mark on the calendars!). Source: NIPmail.

 

RUSSIA

The first of two French-built MISTRAL class helicopter carriers – to be named RFS SEVASTOPOL and RFS VLADIVOSTOK - was laid down at STX shipyard in St. Nazaire … Admiral Vysotsky: will be put in service in 35-months. (rmks: Interesting naming selections. Obviously the Lada class is truly dead, because one unit was to be named Sevastopol). Source: Naval Today http://navaltoday.com/2012/02/02/russia-mi...ol-vladivostok/

 

RUSSIA

+++ Severnaya shipyard (St.Petersburg) has laid down first Project 20385 (GREMYASHCHIY class) corvette … company spokesperson: ten ships of this class ordered. Modified Project 22380 STEREGUSHCHIY class design, two of which (STEREGUSHCHIY, SOOBRAZITELNIY) are commissioned, a third (BOYKIY) undergoing sea trials and “two more under construction”.

+++ Severnaya shipyard also lays keel of (rmks: probably third) Project 22350 GORSHKOV class frigate ADMIRAL GOLOVKO. Source: Naval Today http://navaltoday.com/2012/02/02/russia-co...golovko-starts/

 

UNITED KINGDOM

Royal Navy flag ship BULWARK starts her winter deployment … first head for port visit to Hamburg (Germany), then proceed to Northern Norway for Arctic exercise “Cold Response”. Later this year to become flag ship for Olympic games security at London (UK). Soource: Naval Today http://navaltoday.com/2012/02/02/hms-bulwa...amburg-germany/

 

USA

Technical malfunctions caused by “wear and tear” have prevented amphibious assault ship ESSEX from leaving home port Sasebo (Japan) for scheduled participation in upcoming exercise “Cobra Gold” with Thailand armed forces (05-17 Feb). (rmks: This may be the first of the signs of OPTEMPO stress on the fleet. The same thing happened in the late 1970's and the early 1980's, before Regan's reforms took place. Hmm, if memory serves me correctly that was when there was a lackluster democratic president in the White House and the Navy's budgets were getting hacked to pieces). Source: NIPmail.

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