David
Fri December 20, 2002 8:44am
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Mexican Naval Attach
Mexican Naval Attach?, Rear Adm. Juan Morales (left) discusses the condition of the decommissioned tank landing ship Frederick with U.S. Navy Cmdr. Brian T. Smith, the ship's last commanding officer (right) and Mexican Navy Capt. Salvado Miranda Orendain, Executive Officer of the Mexican sailing ship Cuauhtemoc on Frederick's bridge. Rear Adm. Morales and his staff toured Frederick on behalf of the Mexican Navy who plans to purchase the ship. Frederick, the sixth of 20 such Newport-class tank landing ships, was decommissioned Oct. 5 after 33 years of distinguished service. The U.S. government sells still-useable decommissioned ships to other governments through its Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, thereby recouping some costs for the taxpayers. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 1st Class William R. Goodwin.
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David
Fri December 20, 2002 4:27pm
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A Tomahawk cruise missile
A Tomahawk cruise missile is launched from the USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) in a strike against al Qaida terrorist training camps and military installations of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan on Oct. 7, 2001. The carefully targeted actions are designed to disrupt the use of Afghanistan as a base for terrorist operations and to attack the military capability of the Taliban regime. The USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) is steaming at sea as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. U.S. Navy Photo by Photographer's Mate Master Chief Terry Cosgrove.
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David
Thu January 16, 2003 12:43am
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EA-6B Prowler
Function: Airborne Command and Control (C2W) support to Fleet Marine Forces to include electronic attack (EA), tactical electronic support (ES), electronic protection (EP) and high speed anti-radiation missile (HARM).
History: Following the transition from the EA-6A aircraft to the EA-6B, Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 2 (VMAQ-2) continued to provide detachments to Carrier Air Wing Five on board the USS Midway. In 1980 VMAQ-2 completed its assignment aboard the Midway and began shore-based rotations with the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing in Iwakuni, Japan. Detachments were subsequently sent back to sea duty aboard the USS Saratoga and USS America. Marine Prowlers supported joint operations against Libya in 1986 from the carrier.
During Operations Desert Storm and Desert Shield VMAQ-2 had one detachment (six aircraft) deployed in Japan and the remainder of the squadron (12 aircraft) deployed to the Persian Gulf. The Reserve squadron, VMAQ-4 (six aircraft), transitioned from the EA-6A to the EA-6B and subsequently relieved the detachment in Japan. During Desert Shield the squadron flew 936 sorties for over 2100 hours. Marine Prowlers flew 495 combat missions totaling 1622 hours, supporting the full spectrum of joint and combined missions.
Effective Oct. 1, 1992, the Marine Prowler community reorganized its structure. VMAQS are now structured into four active force squadrons (VMAQ-1, 2, 3, 4). Each squadron now has at least five aircraft. This restructuring provides the flexibility necessary for continuing to support peacetime requirements, as well as the capacity to concurrently assign Marine EA-6B forces to commanders in different areas of operation. Current plans call for one squadron to be assigned to Carrier Airwing One in FY95, while the others continue to support the Unit Deployment Program and CINC contingency requirements.
Description: The EA-6B's ALQ-99 OBS is used to collect tactical electronic order of battle (EOB) data which can be disseminated through the command and control system while airborne, and which can be recorded and processed after missions to provide updates to various orders of battle. The ALQ-00 TJS is used to provide active radar jamming support to assault support and attack aircrtaft, as well as ground units. Additional suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD) capability is available with the employment of HARM.
Marine Prowlers may be land-based from prepared airfields, or they can operate from expeditionary airfields (EAF). They may also be sea-based, operating from aircraft carriers. Marine Prowlers are unique in their integration with the Tactical Electronic Processing and Evaluation System (TERPES). TERPES provides post-mission analysis of EA-6B ES data for reporting and updating orders of battle. It also provides post-mission analysis of jamming and HARM employment for reporting, assessing and storing mission data.
General Characteristics, EA-6B Prowler
Manufacturer:
Grumman Aircraft Corporation
Unit Cost:
$52 million
Power Plant:
Two Pratt & Whitney J52-P408 turbofan engines
Thrust:
11,200 pounds (4,767 kilograms) per engine
Length:
59 feet (17.98 meters)
Height:
15 feet (4.57 meters)
Wingspan:
53 feet (16.15 meters)
Maximum Take-off Weight:
61,500 lbs (27,921 kgs)
Speed:
Maximum speed .99 mach
Cruise speed .72 mach
Ceiling:
40,000 feet (12,186 meters)
Crew:
Four
Range:
Unrefueled in combat configuration: 850 nautical miles (977.5 miles)
Refueled: unlimited (crew fatigue factor - approximately 8 hours)
Armament:
ALQ-99 Tactical Jamming System (TJS)
High Speed Anti-Radiation Missile (HARM)
Sensors:
ALQ-99 On-board System (OBS)
Inventory:
Currently 20 (four active squadrons)
Introduction Date:
ICAP configuration, 1977
Current ICAP II configuration, 1984
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David
Thu January 16, 2003 12:43am
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U-2R/U-2S
Function: The U-2 provides continuous day or night, high-altitude, all-weather, stand-off surveillance of an area in direct support of U.S. and allied ground and air forces. It provides critical intelligence to decision makers through all phases of conflict, including peacetime indications and warnings, crises, low-intensity conflict and large-scale hostilities.
History: Current models are derived from the original version that made its first flight in August 1955. On Oct. 14, 1962, it was the U-2 that photographed the Soviet military installing offensive missiles in Cuba.
The U-2R, first flown in 1967, is significantly larger and more capable than the original aircraft. A tactical reconnaissance version, the TR-1A, first flew in August 1981 and was delivered to the Air Force the next month. Designed for stand-off tactical reconnaissance in Europe, the TR-1 was structurally identical to the U-2R. Operational TR-1A's were used by the 17th Reconnaissance Wing, Royal Air Force Station Alconbury, England, starting in February 1983. The last U-2 and TR-1 aircraft were delivered to the Air Force in October 1989. In 1992 all TR-1s and U-2s were redesignated U-2R. Current U-2R models are being reengined and will be designated as a U-2S/ST. The Air Force accepted the first U-2S in October, 1994.
When requested, the U-2 also has provided photographs to the Federal Emergency Management Agency in support of disaster relief.
U-2s are based at Beale Air Force Base, CA and support national and tactical requirements from four operational detachments located throughout the world. U-2R/U-2S crew members are trained at Beale using three U-2ST aircraft. The last R model trainer will be converted to an S model trainer in 1999.
Description: The U-2 is a single-seat, single-engine, high-altitude, reconnaissance aircraft. Long, wide, straight wings give the U-2 glider-like characteristics. It can carry a variety of sensors and cameras, is an extremely reliable reconnaissance aircraft, and enjoys a high mission completion rate.
Because of its high altitude mission, the pilot must wear a full pressure suit. The U-2 is capable of collecting multi-sensor photo, electro-optic, infrared and radar imagery, as well as performing other types of reconnaissance functions. However, the aircraft can be a difficult aircraft to fly due to its unusual landing characteristics.
The aircraft is being upgraded with a lighter engine (General Electric F-118-101) that burns less fuel, cuts weight and increases power. The entire fleet should be reengined by 1998. Other upgrades are to the sensors and adding the Global Positioning System that will superimpose geo-coordinates directly on collected images.
General Characteristics, U-2R/U-2S
Builder:
Lockheed Aircraft Corporation
Cost:
Classified
Power Plant:
One Pratt & Whitney J75-P-13B engine; one General Electric F-118-101 engine
Thrust:
17,000 pounds (7,650 kilograms)
Length:
63 feet (19.2 meters)
Height:
16 feet (4.8 meters)
Wingspan:
103 feet (30.9 meters)
Maximum Takeoff Weight:
40,000 pounds (18,000 kilograms)
Speed:
475+ miles per hour (Mach 0.58)
Ceiling:
Above 70,000 feet (21,212 meters)
Range:
Beyond 7,000 miles (6,090 nautical miles)
Crew:
One (two in trainer models)
Inventory:
Active force, 36 (four trainers)
Reserve, 0
ANG, 0
Date Deployed:
U-2, August 1955
U-2R, 1967
U-2S, October 1994
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David
Thu January 16, 2003 5:47pm
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B-1B Lancer
Function: The B-1B is a long-range strategic bomber, capable of flying intercontinental missions without refueling, then penetrating present and future sophisticated enemy defenses. It can perform a variety of missions, including that of a conventional weapons carrier for theater operations.
History: The first B-1B was delivered to the Air Force at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, in June 1985, with initial operational capability on Oct. 1, 1986. The final B-1B was delivered May 2, 1988.
The B-1B holds several world records for speed, payload and distance. The National Aeronautic Association recognized the B-1B for completing one of the 10 most memorable record flights for 1994.
Description: The B-1B's electronic jamming equipment, infrared countermeasures, radar location and warning systems complement its low-radar cross-section and form an integrated defense system for the aircraft.
The swing-wing design and turbofan engines not only provide greater range and high speed at low levels but they also enhance the bomber's survivability. Wing sweep at the full-forward position allows a short takeoff roll and a fast base-escape profile for airfields under attack. Once airborne, the wings are positioned for maximum cruise distance or high-speed penetration.
The B-1B uses radar and inertial navigation equipment enabling aircrews to globally navigate, update mission profiles and target coordinates in-flight, and precision bomb without the need for ground-based navigation aids. Included in the B-1B offensive avionics are modular electronics that allow maintenance personnel to precisely identify technical difficulties and replace avionics components in a fast, efficient manner on the ground.
The aircraft's AN/ALQ 161A defensive avionics is a comprehensive electronic counter-measures package that detects and counters enemy radar threats. It also has the capability to detect and counter missiles attacking from the rear. It defends the aircraft by applying the appropriate counter-measures, such as electronic jamming or dispensing expendable chaff and flares. Similar to the offensive avionics, the defensive suite has a re-programmable design that allows in-flight changes to be made to counter new or changing threats.
Numerous sustainment and upgrade modifications are ongoing or under study for the B-1B aircraft. Large portions of these modifications that are designed to increase the combat capability are known as the conventional mission upgrade program. This three-phase program will increase the lethality, survivability and supportability of the B-1B fleet. Phase I of the program added the capability to release cluster bomb unit weapons. Phases II and III will further upgrade the B-1B capability, to include the ability to deliver joint direct attack munitions and standoff weapons, and greatly improve its electronic counter-measures capability.
?General Characteristics, B-1B Lancer
Builder:
Rockwell International, North American Aircraft
Unit Cost:
$200-plus million per aircraft
Operations Air Frame and Integration:
Offensive avionics, Boeing Military Airplane
Defensive avionics, AIL Division
Power Plant:
Four General Electric F-101-GE-102 turbofan engine with afterburner
Thrust:
30,000-plus pounds with afterburner, per engine
Length:
146 feet (44.5 meters)
Height:
34 feet (10.4 meters)
Wingspan:
137 feet (41.8 meters) extended forward
79 feet (24.1 meters) swept aft
Weight:
Empty, approximately 190,000 pounds (86,183 kilograms)
Maximum Take-off Weight:
477,000 pounds (216,634 kilograms)
Speed:
900-plus mph (Mach 1.2 at sea level)
Ceiling:
Above 30,000 feet (9,144 meters)
Range:
Intercontinental, unrefueled
Crew:
Four (aircraft commander, pilot, offensive systems officer and defensive systems officer)
Armament:
Up to 84 Mark 82 conventional 500-pound bombs and 30 CBU-87/89/9s
Also can be reconfigured to carry a wide range of nuclear weapons
Inventory:
Active force, 51 primary mission aircraft inventory (PMAI), 72 (actual), 2 (test)
ANG, 18 PAA (20 actual)
Reserve, 0
Date Deployed:
June 1985
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David
Fri January 17, 2003 4:09pm
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A B-1B Lancer performs a
A B-1B Lancer performs a low-level fly-by for troops deployed for Operation Enduring Freedom on Oct. 27. The B-1B's three internal weapons bays can accommodate up to 84 Mk-82 general purpose bombs or Mk-62 naval mines, 30 CBU-87/89 cluster munitions or CBU-97 Sensor Fused Weapons.
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David
Sat January 18, 2003 9:12am
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A Boeing Delta II rocket
A Boeing Delta II rocket carrying QuickBird, a high-resolution commercial imaging satellite, launches from Space Launch Complex-2 at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif., Oct. 19. This was the first Delta II launched from here this year.
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David
Sat January 18, 2003 12:15pm
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Members of the 86th Airli
Members of the 86th Airlift Wing Honor Guard carry the remains of fallen sailors of the USS Cole from a C-17 Globemaster III at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, on Oct. 13, 2000. The Cole was bombed in the Yemen port city of Aden.
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David
Tue April 15, 2003 10:01am
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TRAGIC MONUMENT
Remains of BLT HQ Bldg, Beirut, Lebanon, bombed on Oct. 23, 1983.
Artist : Major John T. Dyer, USMCR (Ret.) -1984
mixed media 12"x 16"
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 10:35pm
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T-AE - Kilauea Class Ammu
Function: Seven ammunition ships provide logistic support to U.S. Navy ships at sea.
History: The USNS Kilauea was the first ship of the Kilauea class ammunition ship to be transferred to Military Sealift Command Oct. 1, 1980. Flint was transferred in August 1995, Butte in June 1996, Kiska in August 1996 and Mount Baker in December 1996. The USNS Shasta (T-AE 33) was transferred Oct. 1, 1997. The USNS Santa Barbara (TAE 28) transferred to MSC's operation on September 30, 1998. Ships undergo a civilian modification overhaul during which accommodations are improved, main armament taken out and ships outfitted for reduced crewing by MSC. Seven UNREP stations are operational: four port, three starboard.
Description: Ammunition ships operated by Military Sealift Command provide underway replenishment of all types of ammunition via connected replenishment and vertical replenishment methods. Additionally, these ships will frequently assist with the transfer of ammunition between weapons storage and maintenance facilities worldwide.
General Characteristics, Kilauea Class
Builders:
General Dynamics, Quincy and Ingalls Shipbuilding
Power Plant:
Three Foster-Wheeler boilers; 600 psi (42.3kg/cm2); 8700F (4670C); one GE turbine, 22,000 hp (16.4 MW); one shaft
Length, Overall:
564 feet (171.91 meters)
Beam:
81 feet (24.69 meters)
Displacement:
9,340 long tons (9,489.89 metric tons) light; 19, 940 long tons (20,260 metric tons) full load
Speed:
20 knots (23.02 mph, 37.05 kph)
Crew:
125 civilians, plus 24 naval personnel, including a helicopter detachment
Aircraft:
Two UH-46E Sea Knight helicopters (cargo normally embarked)
Ships:
USNS Prevail (T-AGOS 8)
USNS Assertive (T-AGOS 9)
USNS Bold (T-AGOS 12)
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 10:35pm
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T-AFS - Mars Class Combat
Function: Six combat stores ships operated by Military Sealift Command provide supplies, including frozen, chilled and dry provisions, to U.S. Navy combatant ships at sea for extended periods of time.
History: The USNS Concord (T-AFS 5) became the first of five Navy Mars class ships to be transferred to Military Sealift Command on Oct. 15, 1992. The Mars followed on Feb. 1, 1993, USNS San Diego on Aug. 11, 1993, the USNS San Jose on Nov. 2, 1993 and the USNS Niagara Falls on Sept. 23, 1994. The San Diego was deactivated on Dec. 10, 1997, and the Mars was deactivated on Feb. 12, 1998. The USNS Sirius (T-AFS 8) was transferred from the British Royal Fleet Auxiliary to MSC on Jan. 18, 1981; the USNS Spica (T-AFS 9) on Nov. 5, 1981; and the USNS Saturn (T-AFS 10) on Dec. 13, 1983.
Description: Combat stores ships provide underway replenishment of all types of supplies, ranging from repair parts to fresh food, clothing and mail via tensioned cargo rigs and UH-46 Sea Knight helicopters.
General Characteristics, Mars Class
Builders:
National Steel and Shipbuilding Co, San Diego, CA
Power Plant:
Three Babcock & Wilcox boilers, 580 psi (40.8 kg/cm2); 8250F (4400C); one De Laval turbine (Westinghouse in TAFS 6); 22,000 hp (16.4MW) sustained; one shaft
Length, Overall:
581 feet (177.09 meters)
Beam:
79 feet (24.08 meters)
Displacement:
9,200 long tons (9,347.64 metric tons) light
15,900-18,663 long tons (16,155.17 - 18,962.51 metric tons) full load
Speed:
21 knots (24.17 mph, 38.90 kph)
Crew:
49 Navy personnel, 125 civilians
Aircraft:
Two UH-46E Sea Knight helicopters (cargo normally embarked)
Ships:
USNS Niagara Falls (T-AFS 3)
USNS Concord (T-AFS 5)
USNS San Jose (T-AFS 7)
General Characteristics, Sirius Class
Builders:
Swan Hunter & Wigham Richardson Ltd, Wallsend-on-Tyne, UK
Power Plant:
One Wallsend-Sulzer 8RD76 diesel, 11,520 horsepower (8.59 MW); one shaft
Length, Overall:
524 feet (159.72 meters)
Beam:
72 feet (21.95 meters)
Displacement:
9,010 long tons (9,154.59 metric tons) light
16,792 long tons (17,061.48 metric tons) full load
Speed:
19 knots (21.85 mph, 35.20 kph)
Crew:
49 Navy personnel, 115 civilians
Aircraft:
Two UH-46E Sea Knight helicopters (cargo normally embarked)
Ships:
USNS Sirius (T-AFS 8)
USNS Spica (T-AFS 9)
USNS Saturn (T-AFS 10)
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David
Sat January 3, 2004 11:51pm
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T-AGS Survey Ships
Function: Military Sealift Command's Special Missions program supports worldwide oceanographic programs with ships which perform acoustical, biological, physical and geophysical surveys. Ships such as USNS Silas Bent (TAGS 26), USNS Kane (TAGS 27) and USNS Bowditch (TAGS 62) gather data which provides much of the military's information on the ocean environment. Oceanographic and hydrographic survey ships are used to study the world's oceans. The collected data helps to improve technology in undersea warfare and enemy ship detection. The oceanographic and hydrographic survey ships' multibeam, wide-angle precision sonar systems make it possible to continuously chart a broad strip of ocean floor. Two oceanographic ships survey the sea bottom and collect hydrographic data, charting three-fourths of the world's coastlines. USNS John McDonnell (TAGS 51) and USNS Littlehales (TAGS 52) make it easier for navigators to find their way along well-traveled and not-so-familiar shipping routes.
History: The USNS John McDonnell (TAGS 51) was laid down Aug. 3, 1989, and the USNS Littlehales (TAGS 52) on Oct. 25, 1989. The McDonnell launched Aug. 15, 1980, the Littlehales on Feb. 14, 1991. The contract for the Pathfinder class of surveying ships was awarded in January 1991 for two ships with an option for a third which was taken up May 29, 1992. A fourth ship was ordered in Oct. 1994 with an option for two more. A fifth ship was ordered Jan. 15, 1997.
Description: The Silas Bent class of surveying ships were designed specifically for surveying operations. They have a bow propulsion unit for precise maneuverability and station keeping. The John McDonnell class of survey ships carries 34-foot survey launches for data collection in coastal regions with depths between 10 and 600 m and in deep water to 4,000 m. A small diesel is used for propulsion at towing speeds of up to 6 knots. SIMRAD high-frequency active hull-mounted and side scan sonars are carried. The Pathfinder class of survey ships have three multipurpose cranes and five winches plus a variety of oceanographic equipment including multibeam echo-sounders, towed sonars and expendable sensors.
General Characteristics, Silas Bent Class
Builders:
American SB Co., Lorain/Christy Corp, Sturgeon Bay, WI
Power Plant:
Diesel-electric; two Alco diesel generators; one Westinghouse/GE motor; 3,600 horsepower (2.69 MW); one shaft; cp prop; bow thruster; 350 horsepower (261 kW)
Length, Overall:
285.3 feet (86.96 meters)
Beam:
48 feet (14.63 meters)
Displacement:
2,550 to 2,843 long tons (2,590.92 to 2,888.62 metric tons) full load
Speed:
15 knots when towing
Crew:
31 civilians (12 officers) plus 28 scientists
Ships:
USNS Silas Bent (T-AGS 26)
USNS Kane (T-AGS 27)
General Characteristics, John McDonnell Class
Builders:
Halter Marine Moss Point, MS
Power Plant:
One GM EMD 12-645E6 diesel; 2,500 horsepower (1.9 MW) sustained; one auxiliary diesel; 230 horsepower (172kW); one shaft
Length, Overall:
208 feet (63.40 meters)
Beam:
45 feet (13.72 meters)
Displacement:
2,054 long tons (2,086.96 metric tons) full load
Speed:
12 knots (13.8 mph, 22.22 kph)
Crew:
22 civilians plus 11 scientists
Ships:
USNS John McDonnell (T-AGS 51)
USNS Littlehales (T-AGS 52)
General Characteristics, Pathfinder Class
Builders:
Halter Marine Moss Point, MS
Power Plant:
Diesel-electric; four EMD/Baylor diesel generators; 11, 425 horsepower (8.52 MW); two GE CDF 1944 motors; 8,000 horsepower (5.96 MW) sustained; 6,000 horsepower (4.48 MW); two Lips Z drives; bow thruster, 1,500 horsepower (1.19 MW)
Length, Overall:
328.5 feet (100.13 meters)
Beam:
58 feet (17.68 meters)
Displacement:
4,762 long tons (4,838.42 metric tons) full load
Speed:
16 knots (18.4 mph, 29.63 kph)
Crew:
28 civilians plus 27 scientists
Ships:
USNS Pathfinder (T-AGS 60)
USNS Sumner (T-AGS 61)
USNS Bowditch (T-AGS 62)
USNS Henson (T-AGS 63)
USNS Bruce C. Heezen (T-AGS 64)
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David
Sun January 4, 2004 12:31am
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SSGN - Guided Missile Sub
Function: SSGN Guided Missile Submarines are nuclear-powered submarines armed with tactical missiles and the ability to transport and support special operations forces.
Entered Navy: Beginning 2003 / 2004.
Description: Four Ohio-class Trident submarines that were previously scheduled for inactivation during Fiscal Years 2003 and 2004 are being converted to guided missile submarines (SSGN) over a five-year period ending in 2008. The primary missions of the SSGN will be land attack and Special Operations Forces (SOF) insertion and support. Secondary missions will be the traditional attack submarine missions of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), battle space preparation, and sea control.
These ships will be armed with up to 154 Tomahawk? or Tactical Tomahawk? land attack missiles. They will have the ability to carry and support a team of 66 SOF personnel for up to 90 days as compared to 15 days for a SOF outfitted fast attack submarine (SSN). Clandestine insertion and retrieval of these Special Operations Forces will be enhanced by the ability to host dual dry deck shelters and/or Advanced Seal Delivery System. Each SSGN will be able to conduct a variety of peace-time, conventional deterrent, and combat operations all within the same deployment.
USS Ohio (SSBN 726) entered the conversion yard on 15 November 2002. On 14 January 2003, USS Florida (SSBN 728) became the first Ohio-class submarine to launcha cruise missile. The launch was made from underwater in the Gulf of Mexico.
General Characteristics, SSGN Guided Missile Submarines
Contractor:
General Dynamics Electric Boat Division
Length:
560 feet (170.69 meters)
Beam:
42 feet (12.8 meters)
Displacement:
16,764 tons (17,033.03 metric tons) surfaced; 18,750 tons (19,000.1 metric tons) submerged
Ships:
USS Ohio (SSBN 726) ? Out of service 29 Oct. 2002 for conversion to SSGN
USS Michigan (SSBN 727) ? conversion to SSGN scheduled for October 2003
USS Florida (SSBN 728) ? conversion to SSGN scheduled for October 2003
USS Georgia (SSBN 729) ? conversion to SSGN scheduled for 2004
Powerplant:
One nuclear reactor, one shaft
Speed:
20+ knots (23+ miles per hour, 36.8 +kph)
Combat Systems:
* AN/SLQ-48 - Mine Neutralization Equipment
* AN/SQQ-32 - Minehunting Sonar
* AN/SYQ-13 - Navigation/Command and Control
* AN/SSQ-94 - On board Trainer
* Two .50 caliber machine guns
Crew:
15 Officers, 140 Enlisted
Armament:
Up to 154 Tomahawk missiles each (140 on SOF-configured SSGNs).
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David
Mon September 13, 2004 6:50am
Rating: 10
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XM8
The XM8 Future Combat Rifle is intended to replace existing M4 Carbines and select 5.56mm x45 weapons in the US Army arsenal beginning as early as the fourth quarter of FY05.
In October 2002 ATK (Alliant Techsystems) was awarded a $5 million contract modification from the U.S. Army Armament Research, Development, and Engineering Center (ARDEC), Picatinny, N.J., to develop the new XM8 Lightweight Assault Rifle. ATK Integrated Defense, Plymouth, Minn., and teammate Heckler and Koch, Oberndorf, Germany, will support the rapid development program, which will investigate the potential of the XM8 as the lightweight assault rifle for the Army's Objective Force.
The XM8 will be based on the kinetic energy weapon that is part of the XM29 next-generation infantry weapon system (formerly the Objective Individual Combat Weapon) currently under development by ATK Integrated Defense. The kinetic energy weapon, which fires 5.56mm ammunition, will provide maximum commonality in components and logistics with the XM29 system.
The XM8 will provide lethality performance comparable to the currently fielded M4 carbine rifle, while weighing 20 percent less than the M4 because of advanced technologies developed for the XM29 program.
The XM8 Lightweight Assault Rifle will reduce the 21st century soldier's load and increase his mobility - two very important aims of the Army's Objective Force Warrior and Land Warrior initiatives. The progress made to reduce weight and improve performance on the XM29 program is key to the decision on accelerating the development of the XM8, which is integrated with the Army's efforts to transform to a more lethal and rapidly deployed fighting force as part of its Objective Force.
ATK Integrated Defense is the system integrator on the XM29 program. Teammates on the program are Heckler and Koch, weapon development; ATK Ammunition Systems, Arden Hills, Minn., ammunition development; Brashear LP, Pittsburgh, Pa., integrated full solution fire control; and Omega, Columbus, Ga., training systems.
The XM8 is a true family of weapons with different barrel lengths designed to address all the needs of an infantry squad. The standard model is expected to be lighter than the M4 carbine and no larger in size. There?s also a sharpshooter version for increased range; a compact version for cramped quarters; and an auto-rifle version for a squad-automatic weapon. The XM8 family has a 9-inch compact, 12.5-inch carbine and a 20-inch sharpshooter and automatic rifle. The 12.5-inch carbine is 6.4 pounds with an objective of 5.7 pounds and is 33 inches with its adjustable stock extended. The M-16 A2 is 39.63 inches long and 8.79 pounds with a 30-round magazine.
Internally, the XM8 uses a rotary locking bolt system that functions and fieldstrips like those used in the M-16 rifle and M-4 carbine, according to the XM8 manufacturer?s ? Heckler & Koch ? Website. The bolt is powered by a unique gas operating system with a user-removable gas piston and pusher rod to operate the mechanism. Unlike the current M-4 and M-16 direct gas system with gas tube, the XM8 gas system does not introduce propellant gases and carbon back into the weapon?s receiver during firing.
While the XM8 was not exposed to battlefield conditions, it?s still a feat the current service rifle hasn?t come close to rivaling, said Rich Audette, deputy project manager for PM Soldier Weapons. During their Oct. 20-23 2003 trip to Germany, the weapons experts said they were impressed after watching Heckler & Koch engineers fire four high-capacity magazines, with 100 rounds a piece, in less than five minutes.
This improved reliability can be credited to differences in the XM8?s operating system from the one in the M16. For instance, a thin gas tube runs almost the entire length of the barrel in all of the M16 variants. When the weapon is fired, the gases travel back down the tube into the chamber and push the bolt back to eject the shell casing and chamber a new round. The XM8?s gas system instead is connected to a mechanical operating rod, which pushes back the bolt to eject the casing and chamber the new round each time the weapon is fired. So there?s no carbon residue constantly being blown back into the chamber, reducing the need to clean the weapon as often. You don?t get gases blowing back into the chamber that have contaminates in them. The XM8 also has a much tighter seal between the bolt and the ejection port, which should cut down on the amount of debris that can blow into the weapon when the ejection port?s dust cover is open.
The XM8 is part of the Army?s effort to perfect an over-and-under style weapon, known as the XM29, developed by Alliant Techsystems and H&K. It fires special air-bursting projectiles and standard 5.56mm ammunition. But the XM29 still is too heavy and unwieldy for Army requirements. Instead of scrapping the XM29, the Army decided to perfect each of XM29?s components separately, so soldiers can take advantage of new technology sooner. The parts would be brought back together when lighter materials become available. The XM8 is one of those components.
From December 2003 through late May 2004, soldiers got a chance to fire the prototypes in desert, tropical and arctic environments. A limited-user test then was conducted, possibly at Fort Campbell, Ky., where soldiers test the prototypes for about three weeks while training in offensive and defensive scenarios. Improvements will be made based on soldier and test feedback before the final three-months of operational tests, which are scheduled to begin in fall 2004. The final decision will be up to the Army?s senior leadership, but weapons officials said they were confident the XM8 weapon system will be adopted. If all goes well, the XM8 could be ready for fielding by late summer 2005.
Beginning life as the 5.56mm KE (kinetic energy) component of the 20mm air-bursting XM29 Objective Individual Combat Weapon (OICW), the XM8 Lightweight Modular Carbine System represents the state-of-the-art in 5.56x45mm NATO assault rifles. Developed by the US Army?s office of Project Manager for Soldier Weapons located at Picatinny Arsenal, New Jersey in close conjunction with the US Army Infantry Center, the XM8 Future Combat Rifle is intended to replace existing M4 Carbines and select 5.56mm x45 weapons in the US Army arsenal beginning as early as the fourth quarter of FY05. Once adopted, the M8 Carbine will replace the aging M16/M4 family of weapons, which have been in service for nearly four decades, longer than any previous US service rifle. The M8 Carbine will be up to 20% lighter than a comparably equipped M4 Carbine MWS and yet offer additional features and performance unavailable currently in any assault rifle in the world.
As a direct development of the separable OICW (XM29) KE or Kinetic Energy module, the M8 Carbine will share a high degree of common parts and training and maintenance procedures to lessen the required support for the ?family? of XM8 weapons. Being developed are four XM8 variants, which include a baseline carbine, a sharpshooter variant, an automatic rifle variant, and the ultra-compact carbine variant. A unique feature of the XM8 modular weapon system is the ability to easily and quickly reconfigure the weapon from one variant to the other to meet changing mission requirements, to include caliber conversion.
This modularity includes the exchange of interchangeable assembly groups such as the barrel, handguard, lower receiver, buttstock modules and sighting system with removable carrying handle. In addition and in parallel, the new XM320 quick detachable single-shot 40mm grenade launcher with side-opening breech and LSS lightweight 12 gauge shotgun module can be easily added to the XM8 by the user in the field without tools. The unique buttstock system allows the operator exchange buttstocks without tools from the standard collapsible multi-position version, to an optional buttcap for maximum portability or an optional folding or sniper buttstock with adjustable cheekpiece for special applications. Internally the XM8 employs a combat-proven robust rotary locking bolt system that functions and fieldstrips like that used in the current M16 rifle and M4 carbine. However this bolt is powered by a unique gas operating system that employs a user removable gas piston and pusher rod to operate the mechanism. Unlike the current M4/M16 direct gas system with gas tube, the XM8 gas system does not introduce propellant gases and the associated carbon fouling back into the weapon?s receiver during firing. This greatly increases the reliability of the XM8 while at same time reducing operator cleaning time by as much as 70%. This system also allows the weapon to fire more than 15,000 rounds without lubrication or cleaning in even the worst operational environments. A cold hammer forged barrel will guarantee a minimum of 20,000 rounds service life and ultimate operator safety in the event of an obstructed bore occurrence.
The XM8 has fully ambidextrous operating controls to include a centrally located charging handle that doubles as an ambidextrous forward assist when required, ambidextrous magazine release, bolt catch, safety/selector lever with semi and full automatic modes of fire and release lever for the multiple position collapsible buttstock. The operating controls allow the operator to keep the firing hand on the pistol grip and the weapon in the firing position at all times while the non-firing hand actuates the charging handle and magazine during loading and clearing. Major components of the weapon are produced from high-strength fiber reinforced polymer materials that can be molded in almost any color to include OD green, desert tan, arctic white, urban blue, brown and basic black. Surfaces on the XM8 that interface with the operator are fitted with non-slip materials to increase comfort and operator retention. The XM8 uses 10 or 30-round semi-transparent box magazines and high-reliability 100-round drum magazines for sustained fire applications.
Special integral flush mounted attachment points are located on the handguard and receiver to allow the quick attachment of targeting devices. Unlike MIL-STD-1913 rails, the XM8 attachment points do not add additional weight, bulk and cost to the host weapon, and will accept MIL-STD-1913 adapters to allow for the use of current in-service accessories. The attachment points for the standard multi-function integrated red-dot sight allow multiple mounting positions and insure 100% zero retention even after the sight is removed and remounted. The battery powered XM8 sight includes the latest technology in a red dot close combat optic, IR laser aimer and laser illuminator with back-up etched reticle with capability exceeding that of the current M68-CCO, AN/PEQ-2 and AN/PAQ-4. This sight will be factory zeroed on the weapon when it is delivered and does not require constant rezeroing in the field like current rail-mounted targeting devices. The XM8 will be fully compatible with future Land Warrior technology and components.
The US XM8 Carbine is being designed at the HK Defense design center in Sterling, Virginia and will be produced and assembled in the United States at the new Heckler & Koch manufacturing plant located in Columbus, Georgia, adjacent to Fort Benning. The unit cost of the XM8 will be less than that of the current M4 Carbine and will guarantee the American war fighter uncompromising performance far exceeding that of current in-service M4 Carbines.
XM-8 Prototype Specifications
Caliber:
5.56 x 45mm NATO
Builder:
Heckler & Koch
Weight:
6.4 lbs (prototype),
5.7 lbs objective
Overall Length:
33.3 inches (carbine stock extended)
Barrel Length:
Assault: 12.5"
Sharpshooter: 20.0"
Compact: 9.0"
Automatic Rifle: 20.0"
Rate of Fire:
Cyclic - 750 rpm
Sustained - 85 rpm up to 210 rounds
Rate of Twist:
1 in 7 inches
Barrel Life:
20,000 rounds mininum
Muzzle Velocity:
3005 feet/second (M855 Ball) with 20" barrel
2675 feet/second with 12.5" barrel
2365 feet/second with 9.0" barrel
Magazine Capacity:
10 or 30 rounds (magazines can be nested together); 100 round drum available
Stock:
5 position adjustable for length
Bayonet Lug:
Yes (12.5 & 20" barrels)
Bipod Interface:
Yes (20" only)
Sighting System:
Fully integrated red dot with laser illuminator and pointer
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David
Fri November 12, 2004 8:12am
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An Iraqi boy walks near a
An Iraqi boy walks near a burning oil pipeline on the outskirts of Fallujah, Iraq, Oct. 10, 2004. Insurgents set off the fire using rocket-propelled grenades.
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