ARLINGTON, Va. — Top U.S. missile defense officials say they are not overly concerned about Japan’s decision to suspend the planned deployment of two Aegis Ashore ballistic missile defense systems aimed at countering North Korean missiles.

Japan’s defense minister, Taro Kono, announced June 15 that he was halting the installations at Akita Prefecture in the north and Yamaguchi Prefecture in the south of Japan’s main island of Honshu, citing cost and technical issues.

Those issues included concerns that the interceptors’ rocket boosters might endanger civilian lives and infrastructure if they did not fall in designated safe areas after separating from the SM-3 Block IIA missile. Communities near both sites opposed the installations, concerned about radiation from the system’s Lockheed Martin Long Range Discrimination Radar.

“I’m not necessarily shocked” by the decision to suspend work in Japan, the U.S. Missile Defense Agency’s commander, Vice Adm. Jon Hill, said on June 23. “There are options out there, and we’ll work them,” he told a livestreamed roundtable on Global Missile Defense Responsibilities presented by the Missile Defense Advocacy Alliance.

Hill noted the longstanding U.S.-Japanese partnership in the Pacific region, including cooperative technology development, like the SM-3 Block IIA interceptor, co-developed by Raytheon Missile Systems and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.

“Fundamentally, the issue is the siting,” Hill said. “We spent a lot of time going through the impacts of the sensing capability [and] what it means to have interceptors near a community area.”

Hill said he wanted to give the Japanese government time to work the issues out, pledging to Tokyo “we are going to lean in and give you whatever support and help you need to make the decision.”

Rear Adm. Stephen Koehler, director of operations for U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, emphasized the strength of the U.S.-Japanese partnership on ballistic missile defense and pledged  to work for “the best solution in the theater for them, for us, and for the overarching threat that we face together.”

ARLINGTON, Va. — The Navy has awarded an $869 million contract modification for continued work on the Columbia-class ballistic-missile submarine (SSBN) design and support, but which also includes an option to build the first two Columbia SSBNs when funds are authorized and appropriated by Congress, the Navy announced on June 22. The work to ready the contract option will enable the Navy, if authorized, to begin construction of the first Columbia in October 2020. 

Naval Sea Systems Command awarded General Dynamics Electric Boat the $869 million contract modification to pursue “continued design completion, engineering work, affordability studies and design support efforts for the Columbia class,” the 22 June Defense Department contract announcement said. “This modification also includes submarine industrial base development and expansion efforts as part of the integrated enterprise plan and multi-program material procurement supporting Columbia SSBNs and the nuclear shipbuilding enterprise (Virginia-class [submarine] and Ford-class [aircraft carrier]). The contract modification also provides additional United Kingdom Strategic Weapon Support System kit manufacturing and effort to support expansion of the domestic missile tube industrial base.” 

The contract modification also features an option — that already has been fully priced by the Navy — that would start construction of the first Columbia, SSBN 826, in October 2020, and fund advance procurement, advance construction and 2024 construction start of the second Columbia, SSBN 827. If exercised, the option would increase the value of the contract to $9.5 billion. 

In a June 22 teleconference with reporters, James F. Geurts, assistant secretary of the Navy for research, defense and acquisition, said the Navy is focused on its supplier industrial base and improving the capacity of its sub-tier vendors, which would reduce risk in its nuclear ship programs and thereby reduce risk and delay in the Columbia program. He expressed appreciation of Congress for its support of the Navy’s efforts to shore up the industrial base. 

Geurts said the work of the Navy to price out the two SSBN contract option will help the service keep on schedule and achieve economies on materials and advance procurement for the class.  

Rep. Joe Courtney, D-Conn., chairman of the House Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, in whose district Electric Boat’s main facility is located, praised the Navy’s initiative in a June 22 statement.  

“Today’s announcement means ‘game on’ for this exciting and transformational project that will shape our region’s economy for the next two decades — and I know that our talented shipbuilders of Electric Boat are up to the challenge,” Courtney said. “This award is the culmination of nearly a decade’s worth of preparation for this milestone moment for our region and our nation,” Courtney said. “The replacement of our sea-based strategic deterrent comes only once every other generation, and this work is already fueling unprecedented growth in the workforce in Groton and transformation of the shipyard. This isn’t just good news for Groton — the work that will be done on this program will fuel activity at suppliers across our state and our nation for years to come. This exciting news is a testament to the hard work of countless designers, engineers and waterfront tradesmen and women who have worked so hard each and every day for more than a decade to see this day come.” 

Geurts said the strategic imperative of fielding the USS Columbia on its first deterrent patrol in 2031 requires a delivery of the submarine in 2028. 

The Navy plans to build 12 Columbia-class SSBNS to replace 14 Ohio-class SSBNs. The Trident D5LE nuclear-armed ballistic missile will arm both classes. 

ARLINGTON, Va. — The Naval Air Systems Command has ordered two MQ-9A Reaper unmanned aerial vehicles for the Marine Corps. 

The Naval Air Systems Command ordered the two Reapers from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI), of Poway, California, with a $26.9 million firm-fixed-price contract, according to the June 22 Defense Department announcement. The contract also provides for one dual-control mobile ground-control station, one modular data center and one mobile ground-control station 

The MQ-9 Reaper is a medium-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicle used for surveillance and strike operations. The Reaper is a battle-proven development of the RQ-1 Predator, upgraded for longer endurance, a heavier payload, and the ability to launch heavier precision munitions in a benign aerial environment. 

The Marine Corps selected the Reaper in 2018 to fill an urgent needs request for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) in support of forward operations in Southwest Asia. GA-ASI has provided ISR services since September 2018 through contractor-owned/contractor-operated (COCO) Reapers and their teams to support Marine Corp forces in Afghanistan. Marine UAV squadrons (VMUs) have been learning to operate the Reaper in preparation for the Corps’ procurement of government-owned/government operated MQ-9s. On March 20, 2020, a Marine crew of VMU-1 controlled a COCO Reaper for the first time on an operational mission in support of forward-deployed ground forces. 

The Marine Corps plans to begin operations with its own Reapers in 2021. 

ARLINGTON, Va. — The House Committee on Armed Services Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces has announced its proposals for the mark-up of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021. 

In a June 22 release, chairman Rep. Joe Courtney, D-Conn., and ranking member Rep. Rob Wittman, R-Va., released the proposals the day before the scheduled June 23 mark-up session.  

Of major naval-related items, the proposal: 

• Recommends the restoration of a second Virginia-class submarine and the required advanced procurement to maintain the two-per-year build rate. 
• Recommends to the full committee that the Navy procure eight battle force ships, including one Columbia class fleet ballistic missile submarine; two Virginia-class submarines; two Arleigh Burke destroyers; one guided-missile frigate (FFG); and two T-ATS towing, salvage, and rescue ships. 
• Prohibits the retirement of littoral combat ships LCS 3 and LCS 4 until all operational tests have been completed.  
• Prohibits the retirement of any aircraft carrier before its first refueling.  
• Recommends six P-8 Poseidon aircraft. 
• Recommends four additional V-22 Osprey aircraft. 
• Authorizes efficient construction of the first two Columbia-class ballistic-missile submarines. 
• Restricts funds associated with the secretary of defense until the 30-year shipbuilding plan is delivered. 
• In fiscal 2021, prohibits the retirement of any Navy vessel until the secretary of defense provides a Navy force structure assessment. 
• Authorizes the procurement of up to four used sealift vessels.   
• Requires the secretary of defense to provide ship requirements to implement the Commandant’s Planning Guidance. 
• Establishes a Tanker Security Fleet to help fill the gap in at sea logistics. 
• Recommends funding of the fourth National Security Multi-Mission Vessel for the state maritime academies and recommends additional funds for previously authorized ships. 
• Continues to provide strict oversight of the Large Unmanned Surface Vessel. 

SAN DIEGO — The U.S. Navy commissioned Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Kansas City (LCS 22) June 20, Littoral Combat Ship Squadron One Public Affairs said in a release. 

The Navy commissioned Kansas City administratively via naval message, due to public health safety and restrictions of large public gatherings related to the COVID-19 pandemic and transitioned the ship to normal operations. The Navy is looking at a future opportunity to commemorate the special event with the ship’s sponsor, crew and commissioning committee. 

“This Independence-variant littoral combat ship will continue our proud naval legacy and embody the spirit of the people of Kansas City,” said Navy Secretary Kenneth J. Braithwaite. “I am confident the crew of the USS Kansas City will extend the reach and capability of our force and confront the challenges of today’s complex world with our core values of honor, courage and commitment.” 

Vice Adm. Richard A. Brown, commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, welcomed the ship that brings capabilities to counter diesel submarine, mines and fast surface craft threats to the premier surface force in the world. 

“Like other littoral combat ships, Kansas City brings speed and agility to the fleet,” said Brown via naval message. “Congratulations to Kansas City’s captain and crew for all of your hard work to reach this milestone. You join a proud surface force that controls the seas and provides the nation with combat naval power when and where needed.” 

Tracy Davidson, the ship’s sponsor, offered congratulations to everyone who played a role in delivering USS Kansas City to service. 

“I am so proud of USS Kansas City and her crew, and everyone involved, for all the tremendous work they’ve done to bring this ship to life. Their dedication to our nation and the Navy is very much appreciated,” Davidson said. “I am privileged to be a part of this ship honoring Kansas City and look forward to remaining connected to USS Kansas City as her legacy grows, wherever she may sail.” 

Kansas City’s commanding officer, Cmdr. R.J. Zamberlan, reported the ship ready. 

“The caliber of crew required to prepare a warship entering the fleet is second to none,” Zamberlan said. “This is even more impressive aboard an LCS, where every member of the minimally manned team is required to fulfill multiple roles and excel at all of them to get the job done. 

“This crew has exceeded expectations in unprecedented times and I could not be prouder to be their captain.” 

Kansas City is the 11th of the Independence-variant to join the fleet and second ship to be named for Kansas City. The name Kansas City was assigned to a heavy cruiser during World War II. However, construction was canceled after one month due to the end of the war. 

The name Kansas City was also assigned to the Wichita-class replenishment oiler AOR-3 in 1967. This ship saw service in the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm and was decommissioned in 1994. 

The littoral combat ship is a fast, agile and networked surface combatant, and the primary mission for the LCS includes countering diesel submarine threats, littoral mine threats and surface threats to assure maritime access for joint forces. The underlying strength of the LCS lies in its innovative design approach, applying modularity for operational flexibility. 

Fundamental to this approach is the capability to rapidly install interchangeable mission packages onto the seaframe to fulfill a specific mission and then be uninstalled, maintained and upgraded at the Mission Package Support Facility for future use aboard any LCS seaframe. 

PASCAGOULA, Miss. — Huntington Ingalls Industries’ Ingalls Shipbuilding division has received a third contract modification from the U.S. Navy for $145 million to provide long-lead-time material and advance procurement activities for amphibious assault ship LHA 9, the company announced in a release. This modification brings the total advance funding for LHA 9 to $350 million. 

“This advance procurement contract will help protect the health of our supplier base and strengthen our efforts to efficiently modernize the nation’s amphibious fleet as we continue to build amphibious ships for the Navy,” Ingalls Shipbuilding President Brian Cuccias said. 

Ingalls is the sole builder of large-deck amphibious ships for the Navy. The shipyard delivered its first amphibious assault ship, the Iwo Jima-class USS Tripoli (LPH 10), in 1966. Ingalls has since built five Tarawa-class (LHA 1) ships, eight Wasp-class (LHD 1) ships and the first in a new class of amphibious assault ships, America (LHA 6), in 2014. The second ship in that class, the Tripoli (LHA 7), was delivered to the Navy earlier this year. Bougainville (LHA 8) is under construction. 

ARLINGTON, Va. — Boeing has delivered the first two Block III Super Hornet strike fighters to the U.S. Navy. The aircraft, an F/A-18E and two-seat F/A-18F, will go through comprehensive testing by Navy air test and evaluation (VX) squadrons over the next year.  

VX-23 at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland, will receive the F/A-18F (the 287th built) aircraft for “shore-based carrier testing” and will be used for testing of hardware and aeromechanical aspects, the Program Executive Office-Tactical Aircraft (PEO(T)) said in a June 17 release. 

Once that testing is completed, the F/A-18F will go to VX-31 at Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, California, to complete Bock III testing. The F/A-18E (the 323rd built) will go to VX-31 for software functionality and network architecture testing. 

The Block III Super Hornet features several major structural and mission system improvements over the Block II, Jennifer Tebo, Boeing’s director of development for F/A-18E/F & EA-18G Programs, said in a June 17 teleconference with media.  

The Advanced Cockpit System includes replacement of a set of displays with a single large touch-screen display for improved user interface and display of the Common Tactical Picture, the PEO said. 

The Advanced Network Infrastructure will have 17 times the computing power of the mission computer of the Block II through the Distributed Targeting Processor Network and Tactical Targeting Network Technology (TTNT). 

Tebo described the TTNT as a “big data pipe — low latency, high-data” for better situational awareness. The infrastructure will be open to accept third-party applications for “speed to the fleet with urgent needs,” she said. 

The Block III Super Hornets will feature an improved radar cross section for better survivability. 

The most distinguishable characteristic of the Block III is the addition of streamlined, low-drag conformal fuel tanks to the upper wing and fuselage junctions. These will be optional for use and will enable the Super Hornet to carry 3,500 pounds more fuel, reducing the need for underwing external fuel tanks and freeing up the pylons to carry more weapons. 

When delivered, each Block III will have a service life of 10,000 flight hours, far more than the 6,000 hours of a Block II strike fighter. 

“In addition to the Block III delivery, Boeing will also perform service life modification (SLM) to hundreds of Block II Super Hornets, to extend their service life and integrate Block III capabilities,” the PEO said. “SLM is key to building the capacity and capability to ensure the Navy has jets ready to fight into the mid-2040s.” 

Tebo said the SLM will extend the life of Block IIs to 10,000 hours and that deliveries of Block IIIs converted from Block IIs will begin in 2023 and continue into the mid-2030s. 

Tebo said the Block III Super Hornet made its first flight on May 14. Delivery of 78 full-up production Block IIIs is planned to begin in mid-2021 at a rate of two per month through early 2024. 

“The first squadron deployment of Block III Super Hornet is anticipated in mid-2023, with a plan in place to have two Block III squadrons, composed of new production and Block IIs that have undergone SLM, accompanying each carrier air wing by 2027,” the PEO said in the release. 

“Now it’s up to our test squadrons and our integration team to verify requirements are met and ensure the engineering behind the Block III is validated prior to full-scale production and delivery of the Block III to the fleet,” Capt. Mike Burks, F/A-18 E/F deputy program manager, said in the release. 

“These new capabilities are essential for ensuring we maintain the tactical advantage in the Great Power Competition,” Capt. Jason Denney, the Navy’s F/A-18 & EA-1G Program Manager, said in the release. “Block III production and SLM for our Block IIs also demonstrate contracting efficiency and solid partnerships with industry — an all-around win for the Navy, for Boeing, and for the warfighter.”

NORFOLK, Va. — The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman returned home on June 16, marking the end of its deployment after operating in the U.S. 2nd, 5th and 6th Fleets, the 2nd Fleet said in a release. 

Following a return from deployment in March after operating in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleets, Truman remained underway in the western Atlantic during the sustainment phase of the optimized fleet response plan cycle as a certified and ready carrier force, ready for tasking. 
 
As the COVID-19 pandemic spread across the globe, the Truman continued operations underway while minimizing the potential spread of the virus aboard the ship, to maintain maritime stability and security and ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. 

Truman sailed more than 56,000 nautical miles, deploying dynamically to support dual-carrier operations, air defense exercises, anti-submarine warfare exercises and interoperability with joint services and with allies and partners. 
 
The ship also completed multiple strait and choke-point transits, including the Strait of Gibraltar, the Suez Canal and the Bab-el Mandeb Strait, while operating under three combatant commanders: U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM), U.S. European Command (EUCOM) and U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). 

Truman demonstrated the Navy’s continuing regional commitment to the EUCOM and CENTCOM areas of responsibility by hosting 80 embarked guests, including political and military leaders from eight ally and partner nations. These embarks supported U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet theater security objectives and greatly enhanced U.S. relationships and partnerships with multiple NATO ally and partner nations and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members. 

“I’m so very proud of all our Sailors!” said Capt. Kavon Hakimzadeh, commanding officer of the Truman. “Their resilience, perseverance and utter dedication to mission has been nothing short of exemplary. It has been my greatest honor to serve as Truman’s commanding officer this deployment!” 

Throughout the deployment, Truman performed numerous training exercises to develop tactical competencies. From carrier strike force operations as the flagship of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, to exercises with partner navies and forces, the ship developed skill sets to maintain readiness and interoperability. 
 
While conducting stability operations in the CENTCOM area of responsibility, the strike group was called upon during an international crisis to assert American commitment to the region and act as a primary catalyst for de-escalation. 

“The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group has been the ready force for the nation these past months,” said Rear Adm. Ryan Scholl, commander of Carrier Strike Group 8. “Truman operated closely with our allies and partners, supporting our forward commanders in U.S. 5th and 6th Fleets and executing missions supporting homeland defense in U.S. 2nd Fleet.” 

“All the strike group units performed above and beyond what was asked of them and did so with amazing dedication,” Scholl continued. “It is an honor and a privilege to serve with them as their commander!” 

In the western Atlantic, the Truman strike group conducted a week of naval air integration exercises with Marine Corps elements assigned to the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. The high-end training was conducted to improve Navy and Marine Corps integration, communication, power projection in the form of strikes and enhance readiness of air defense assets. 

Truman concluded operations underway by participating in a U.S. Northern Command-led exercise Vigilant Osprey, a major service-integrated homeland defense exercise aimed at strengthening operational partnerships alongside forces from Canada, Denmark and the U.S. Air Force. The joint, multidomain operations with allies in the Atlantic demonstrated North American Aerospace Defense Command’s ability to defend Canada and the U.S. and NORTHCOM’s ability to defend the homeland. 

The training operation included aircraft directed by U.S. Strategic Command (STRATCOM) simulating attempts to penetrate U.S. airspace, U.S. Space Command (SPACECOM)-directed capabilities and NORTHCOM using the Truman and her accompanying carrier strike group to exercise combined, high-end, multidomain tactics, techniques and procedures. 

Truman, which calls Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, as its homeport, has spent at least one day underway for 32 of the last 36 months in support of global security. 

Truman’s return marks the final homecoming for the strike group, which consists of the flagship USS Harry S. Truman with embarked staffs of Carrier Strike Group 8, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 28; embarked squadrons of CVW 1; guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy; and DESRON 28 guided-missile destroyers USS Lassen, USS Forrest Sherman and USS Farragut. 

Squadrons of CVW-1 include Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11; VFA-81; VFA-136; VFA-211; Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 137; Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 126; Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 72; Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 11; and a detachment from Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40.

NEW ORLEANS — The U.S. Navy’s next-generation landing craft, the Ship to Shore Connector (SSC), Land Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC) 101, concluded acceptance trials the week of June 8 after completing a series of graded in-port and underway demonstrations for the Navy’s Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV), the Program Executive Office (PEO) Ships said in a release. 

During the trials, the craft underwent integrated testing to demonstrate the capability of the platform and installed systems across all mission areas to effectively meet its requirements. 

These demonstrations are used to validate the quality of construction and compliance with Navy specifications and requirements prior to delivering the craft. As INSURV is the approving authority for ships and craft undergoing acceptance trials, LCAC 101 can now begin preparing for delivery. 

“The first operational production unit for the next-generation landing craft, LCAC 101, performed well having incorporated lessons learned from the recent Craft 100 at-sea trials,” said Tom Rivers, amphibious warfare program manager for PEO Ships. “LCAC 101 successfully demonstrated the ability to operate both on and off cushion at full load through the full range of speed, payload and maneuvering requirements.” 

The SSC is the replacement for the existing fleet of legacy LCAC vehicles and will primarily transport weapon systems, equipment, cargo and personnel of the assault elements through varied environmental conditions from amphibious ships to and over the beach. 

SSCs are constructed at Textron Systems, Marine & Land Systems in Slidell, Louisiana, and are built with similar configurations, dimensions and clearances to legacy LCAC, ensuring compatibility with existing well deck equipped amphibious ships as well as expeditionary transfer dock and expeditionary sea bases. Textron has delivered Craft 100, has completed testing on LCAC 101 and is in production on 12 craft with an additional 10 on contract.

ARLINGTON, Va. — Defense Secretary Mark Esper announced on June 16 that the president has made these nominations of U.S. Navy rear admirals to the rank of vice admiral: 

• Rear Adm. William J. Galinis for appointment to the rank of vice admiral and assignment as commander of Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C.  Galinis served as program executive officer for ships, Washington, D.C. 
• Rear Adm. Samuel J. Paparo Jr. for appointment to the rank of vice admiral and assignment as commander, U.S. Naval Forces, U.S. Central Command; commander, U.S. 5th Fleet; and commander, Combined Maritime Forces, Manama, Bahrain. Paparo is serving as director of operations, J3, U.S. Central Command, Tampa, Florida.  
• Rear Adm. Jeffrey E. Trussler for appointment to the rank of vice admiral and assignment as deputy chief of naval operations for information warfare, N2/N6, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, and director of naval intelligence, Washington, D.C. Trussler served as director, future plans, N55, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, Washington, D.C. 

The Navy secretary and chief of naval operations announced the following assignments: 

• Rear Adm. Michael D. Bernacchi Jr. will be assigned as director, plans and policy, J5, U.S. Space Command, Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado. Bernacchi served as commander, Submarine Group 10, Kings Bay, Georgia. 
• Rear Adm. Yvette M. Davids will be assigned as chief of staff, U.S. Southern Command, Doral, Florida. Davids served as commander, Carrier Strike Group 11, Everett, Washington.  
• Rear Adm. Michael P. Holland will be assigned as chief of staff, U.S. Northern Command/North American Aerospace Defense Command, Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado.  Holland is currently serving as director, programming division, N80, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, Washington, D.C. 
• Rear Adm. William W. Wheeler III will be assigned as chief of staff, U.S. Strategic Command, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska. Wheeler is serving as director, plans and policy, J5, U.S. Cyber Command, Fort Meade, Maryland. 
• Rear Adm. (lower half) Anne M. Swap, selected for promotion to rear admiral, will be assigned as director, National Capital Medical Directorate, Defense Health Agency, Washington, D.C. Swap is serving as commander, Naval Medical Forces Atlantic, Portsmouth, Virginia. 
• Rear Adm. (lower half) Joseph A. DiGuardo Jr. will be assigned as commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC), Virginia Beach, Virginia, with additional duties as commander, NECC Pacific. DiGuardo is serving as deputy director of plans and policy for countering weapons of mass destruction, U.S. Special Operations Command, Fort Belvoir, Virginia.  
• Rear Adm. (lower half) Kevin M. Jones will be assigned as director, Logistics Directorate, J-4, U.S. Africa Command, Stuttgart, Germany.  Jones is currently serving as commander, Defense Logistics Agency Distribution, New Cumberland, Pennsylvania. 
• Rear Adm. (lower half) Pamela C. Miller will be assigned as fleet surgeon, U.S. Pacific Fleet, and command surgeon, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii. Miller is serving as reserve fleet surgeon, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, Norfolk, Virginia. 
• Rear Adm. (lower half) Douglas C. Verissimo is serving as commander, Carrier Strike Group 9, San Diego. Verissimo served as deputy director for operations, National Joint Operations Intelligence Center, Operations Team Two, J3, Joint Staff, Washington, D.C. 
• Rear Adm. (lower half) Michael J. Vernazza will be assigned as commander, Naval Information Warfighting Development Center, Norfolk, Virginia. Vernazza is serving as deputy commander, 10th Fleet, Fort Meade, Maryland. 
• Rear Adm. (lower half) Darin K. Via will be assigned as commander, Naval Medical Forces Atlantic, Portsmouth, Virginia. Via is serving as director, medical systems integration and combat survivability, N44, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, Washington, D.C.