By Program Executive Office Unmanned and Small Combatants (PEO USC) Public Affairs, Dec. 18, 2024 

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Navy recently achieved its final key milestone in the development of Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) integrated capabilities by successfully completing a continuous 720-hour power demonstration on an engine system for use aboard future USVs. This demonstration is part of a larger USV testing effort to assess the capability and resilience of engine systems to operate autonomously for extended periods. The latest test marked the final system to be evaluated. Engine development and operation is critical for the expansion of unmanned naval operations and for realizing the future vision of a manned-unmanned Hybrid Fleet. 

The 2021 National Defense Authorization Act directed the Navy to complete the 720-hour test milestone before initiating development on large USVs. In the final engine test, Precise Power Systems conducted testing on behalf of Austal USA. Testing took place at Daimler Trucks North America Aftermarket Solutions in Tooele, Utah, from June 19 to September 5. The Navy’s Program Executive Office Unmanned and Small Combatants (PEO USC) and the Unmanned Maritime Systems program office (PMS 406) oversaw the demonstration. 

“This milestone marks a pivotal advancement in our naval strategy, as it enhances our capabilities in unmanned operations,” said Rear. Adm. Kevin Smith, head of PEO USC. “Successfully demonstrating a power system that can sustain autonomous operations for 30 days without maintenance not only bolsters our readiness but also sets the stage for a truly integrated manned-unmanned Fleet, ensuring we remain at the forefront of maritime innovation.” 

During the 720-hour test, no human intervention, corrective, or preventative maintenance was allowed on the equipment. Successfully completing this milestone means the tested model engine, MTU 8V4000M24S, is eligible for future use aboard USV platforms. It indicates that propulsion systems are mature enough to power an unmanned ship for 30 days without requiring maintenance. The team developing the engine will apply lessons learned during the test to enhance future models to increase reliability even more than demonstrated. 

Prior to this test, five teams successfully completed their separate 720-hour testing milestones. The successful teams include: 

• Bollinger and Carter Machinery on behalf of Caterpillar in Chesapeake, Virginia was the first team to achieve this milestone in December of 2023. They demonstrated sufficient mechanical reliability of the 1550 kw Caterpillar 3512C model engine. 

• Fincantieri Marinette Marine (FMM) and Carter Machinery on behalf of Caterpillar in Chesapeake, VA demonstrated mechanical durability of the Caterpillar 2300 kW rated 3516 main propulsion diesel, lube oil and fuel system. 

• Gibbs & Cox and Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, Texas on behalf of Cummins also validated the reliability of the QSK95 diesel engine paired with an ABB AMG 0560M04 LAE generator. 

• Huntington Ingalls Incorporated (HII), in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard, conducted a successful 720-hour demonstration on behalf of MTU of the MTU 20V 4000 M93L, a Main Propulsion Diesel Engine configuration. 

• L3 Harris, on behalf of Cummins, validated the reliability of the QSK60 diesel engine, a Main Propulsion Diesel Engine configuration, and the QSM11, a Marine Diesel Generator Set in Camden, New Jersey. 

“This milestone is a significant step forward in the continued development of integrated unmanned surface capabilities. The successful execution of these tests highlights our commitment to deliver cutting-edge solutions that can meet the evolving needs of our Fleet,” said Capt. Matthew Lewis, program manager of the Unmanned Maritime Systems program office. 

The Navy’s Unmanned Maritime Systems program office is a part of the Program Executive Office Unmanned and Small Combatants portfolio, which designs, develops, builds, and delivers the Navy’s unmanned maritime systems; mine warfare systems; special warfare systems; expeditionary warfare systems; and small surface combatants. 

From U.S. 4th Fleet, Dec.10, 2024 

NAVAL STATION MAYPORT (Dec. 19, 2024) – Freedom-variant littoral combat ship (LCS) USS Beloit (LCS 29) makes it to her homeport in Mayport, Fla., December 19. 

After 15 locks, four Great Lakes, three port visits, and over 2,500 nautical miles traveled, USS Beloit (LCS 29) and her mighty crew at last arrived in the Atlantic Ocean, continuing her transit to its future homeport, Naval Station Mayport, Florida.  
 
The road to make it to the Atlantic Ocean included months of preparation from the crew. In less than two months after moving onboard in August, the crew certified in several mission areas required to safely operate and get underway including: Search and Rescue, Navigation, Damage Control, Communications and Engineering. 
 
“The Beloit Badger crew are some of the best Sailors I have served with. They are resilient, strong, flexible and dedicated, and I am blessed to be their Commanding Officer. Almost everything we have done in the past five months has been ‘high risk’ and ‘first time’, but that’s what makes us so unique,” said Cmdr. LeAndra Kissinger, Beloit’s commanding officer. We work hard, pray hard, and lean on each other as a team. We truly are a family, and when a family wants to accomplish a mission, it’s hard to stop them.” 
 
Each evolution, although involving different departments on the ship, required careful coordination and support from each division and Sailor onboard and was necessary for the crew to be able to set sail from Marinette, Wisconsin, towards the site of its commissioning ceremony in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  
 
On November 23, the crew took the order to “man the ship and bring her to life.” Amongst thousands of onlookers, the ship made its much anticipated transition from pre-commissioned unit to United States Ship and began her sail around home.  
 
Her commissioning festivities included a crew visit to their namesake town of Beloit, a Chairman’s dinner hosted by the Commandant, and a commissioning ceremony who’s audience was filled with veterans from many significant battles. Along the way, she stopped in Cleveland, Ohio, Quebec City, Quebec and Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Norfolk for refueling, stores replenishment and liberty for the crew.   
 
“This crew has shown tremendous resilience in overcoming the last 4 months. Completing difficult consecutive certifications while learning a new ship and being away from family. This team made it look easy and brought a whole new meaning to the term “Beloit Proud,” said Senior Chief David Chisholm, Beloit’s Senior Enlisted Leader. “Watching them perform under pressure and overcoming every obstacle with grace shows just how awesome our team is and their readiness to face the challenges ahead after some much needed and well-deserved family time. It is an honor to be sailing with them and representing the city of Beloit.” 
 
Capt. James Lawrence said it best, “Don’t give up the ship.” And that’s exactly what this crew did to get us home on time!” said Operation Specialist first class petty officer Ernesto Sanchez, USS Beloit’s Sailor of the Year! 
 
With the last port fading in the rear only a few hundred nautical miles remain before Jacksonville is within view, the crew is eagerly awaiting returning to their families and friends, and ready to take on the next mission that will come their way as the Navy’s newest warship join the fleet!   
 
LCS is a fast, agile, mission-focused platform designed for operation in near-shore environments yet capable of open-ocean operation. It is designed to defeat asymmetric “anti-access” threats and is capable of supporting forward presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence.  

From VAQ-133, Dec. 16, 2024 

VAQ-133 returns from a five-month deployment as the first Navy squadron to tactically employ the ALQ-249 Next Generation Jammer. 

WHIDBEY ISLAND, Wash.- Electronic Attack Squadron 133 (VAQ-133), assigned to Carrier Air Wing Nine (CVW) 9, returned from the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group’s (ABECSG) five-month deployment to the Middle East and Eastern Pacific to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in time for the holidays, Dec. 14, 2024. 

The 153 Sailors, 18 aircrew, and seven EA-18G Growlers of the “Wizards” of VAQ 133 departed Naval Air Station North Island, San Diego, July 13, 2024. 
 

The Wizard’s deployment marked a historic milestone, as the squadron became the first in the Navy to deploy with the ALQ-249 Next Generation Jammer (NGJ). Throughout their rigorous training and deployment, the Wizards demonstrated the future of Airborne Electronic Attack (AEA) by developing new tactics, achieving the first NGJ arrested landing, and tactically employing the system. 
 
“This deployment showcased the cutting-edge capabilities of the NGJ and reinforced the critical role of the Growler community in modern warfare,” said Cmdr. Erik Dente, commanding officer, VAQ-133. “More importantly, it demonstrated the skill, dedication, and perseverance of every VAQ-133 Sailor and the families, friends, and loved ones who supported them at home. I could not be more proud of the Sailors, aircrew, and support teams who made this deployment an overwhelming success.” 
 
The Wizards began and concluded their deployment in U.S. 7th Fleet, executing key training missions in support of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and participating in a Multi-Large Deck Exercise (MLDE) with the Italian Navy’s ITS Cavour Carrier Strike Group and conducting operations in the South China Sea to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific. 
 
The strike group was ordered to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility to bolster U.S. military force posture in the Middle East, deter regional escalation, degrade Iranian-backed Houthi capabilities, defend U.S. forces to promote security, stability and prosperity. 
 
While operating in the Middle East, the Wizards played a key role in supporting CENTCOM objectives, participating in dual-carrier operations with the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), flying critical combat missions to ensure the safety of deployed U.S. Forces, and aiding in strikes to degrade Iranian-backed Houthi weapons storage capabilities. 
 
“This deployment will go down in history,” said Command Master Chief Frederick Tuiel command master chief, VAQ-133, summing up the deployment. “While it wasn’t filled with port visits, it was defined by impactful combat operations—experiences our Sailors will share for years to come. Bringing everyone home safely makes the accomplishment even sweeter.” 
 
The squadron earned the Commander Electronic Attack Wing Pacific (CVWP) Golden Wrench Award for maintenance excellence demonstrating the Wizard’s dedication to excellence. Wizard maintainers sustained 100% Growler mission-readiness throughout the deployment enabling the successful completion of all assigned missions. 
 
“The dedication of the sailors of VAQ-133 was second to none,” said Dente. “Their hard work kept our Growlers fully mission capable and ensured every mission was a success. Whether from administration, operations, safety, maintenance, intelligence, or food service and support divisions – it took every sailor to build and maintain the combat power required during our operations.” 
 
In addition to operational accomplishments, the deployment included port calls to Guam in August and Kuala Lumpur in November, offering Sailors a chance to recharge and experience diverse cultures while supporting U.S. partner nations. 
 
Returning home before the holidays, VAQ-133 is looking forward to reuniting with their families and friends, reflecting on their achievements and continuing to embody the squadron catch phrase to “Push it up!” 
ABECSG completed more than 11,600 flight hours comprised of 5,500 sorties and over 4.400 fixed-wing aircraft launches and arrestments throughout its five-month deployment. The embarked CVW-9 is next-generation, multiplatform capable that enables advance mobile projection of naval air power and forward operational presence. 
 
CVW 9 consists of nine squadrons flying the F-35C Lightning II, F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, EA-18G Growler, E-2D Hawkeye, C-2A Greyhound, and MH-60R/S Sea Hawk. The squadrons are the “Tophatters” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 14, the “Black Aces” of VFA 41, the “Vigilantes” of VFA 151, the “Black Knights” of VMFA 314, the “Wallbangers” of Airborne Command and Control Squadron (VAW) 117, the “Wizards” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 133, the “Raptors” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 71, the “Chargers” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 14, and the “Rawhides” of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40. 
 
ABECSG consists of the flagship USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), embarked staffs of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) Three and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 21, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) Nine, integrated air and missile defense Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. (DDG 121), and DESRON 21’s USS Spruance (DDG 111) and USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112). 
 
Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS O’Kane (DDG 77) and USS Stockdale (DDG 106) remain deployed in the 5th Fleet area of operations supporting global maritime security operations. 

Stanford’s Hacking for Defense Program Helps Drive Rapid Technology Transition from Lab to Fleet 

From the Office of Naval Research 

STANFORD, Calif., December 18, 2024 — The U.S. Navy’s Office of Naval Research (ONR) is revolutionizing maritime technology development through its NEPTUNE program (Naval Enterprise Partnership Teaming with Universities for National Excellence), by demonstrating the vital role of academic-military collaboration in advancing national defense capabilities. Led by Dr. Corey Love, NEPTUNE has established strategic partnerships with leading institutions including Stanford University, MIT, Purdue University, UC Davis, Arizona State University, Old Dominion University, and the Naval Postgraduate School. These partnerships are proving instrumental in rapidly transitioning innovative technologies from laboratory concepts to operational naval assets. This initiative is not just about developing new technologies; it’s about shaping the future of naval warfighting capabilities and ensuring the resilience of our forces in the face of evolving threats. This is particularly important given hostilities in Ukraine and the Middle East, as well as rising tensions with China, Iran, Russia and North Korea. 

“The NEPTUNE program exemplifies the kind of innovative partnerships we need to accelerate defense technology development,” says Dr. Jeff Decker, managing director of the Tech Transfer for Defense program at Stanford University’s Doerr School of Sustainability, and program director and co-instructor of Stanford University’s Hacking for Defense® program, as well as author of “The Hacking for Defense Manual.” “By connecting academic researchers directly with military end-users, we’re seeing remarkable acceleration in the development and deployment of critical technologies.” 

A standout example of NEPTUNE’s success comes from MIT, where Professor Steven Leeb’s team has developed a groundbreaking Combat Power Monitor (CPM) system, using their research in energy management and monitoring to demonstrate progress in technology readiness in an area that is critical to the operational readiness, effectiveness and efficiency of naval vessels and U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) warships. The team’s contributions, particularly in the development of technologies for supporting condition-based maintenance and energy economization, are proving to be invaluable assets to the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard. Active demonstrations have been conducted and are continuing on serving USN warships and U.S. Coast Guard cutters. 

“We are now seeing game-changers flow through the innovation pipeline in less time,” says Justin Fanelli, acting chief technology officer for the U.S. Department of Navy. “We have implemented and are looking for more ways to improve the time from concepts to outcomes; one thing is certain – great ideas and hustlers are essential for us to move at the speed of relevance. With Professor Leeb’s work, the ability to monitor and manage energy usage on ships ensures that our vessels can operate longer, with greater endurance, and with reduced logistical footprints. This is particularly crucial in scenarios where resupply may be challenging or in stealth operations where minimizing energy signatures is vital.”  

The NEPTUNE program plays a pivotal role in advancing research from early-stage concepts to more mature, deployable technologies. By propelling basic scientific research (Technology Readiness Level, or TRL 2) towards prototype demonstration in an operational environment (TRL 7), NEPTUNE ensures that innovative ideas are not left in the laboratory but are instead developed into practical solutions to naval challenges. This progression involves a systematic approach to technology development, where initial theoretical studies and proof-of-concept (TRLs 2-4) are followed by increasing levels of integration and testing in relevant environments (TRLs 5-6), culminating in prototype demonstrations that prove the technology’s effectiveness in real-world naval settings (TRL 7). Through this structured pathway, NEPTUNE accelerates the transition of cutting-edge research into tangible assets that enhance the Navy’s warfighting capabilities and operational resilience. 

This initiative demonstrates how academic-military partnerships can yield transformative results, particularly vital given current global challenges including situations in Ukraine and the Middle East, as well as evolving maritime security needs. 

NEPTUNE support made it possible for the MIT team to move from an advanced concept to a deployed prototype in 24 months.  The NEPTUNE partnership between the Navy and academia is a powerful formula for innovation. By leveraging the expertise and creativity of university researchers, the Navy is able to accelerate the development of technologies that are essential for maintaining its edge in an increasingly competitive and complex global security environment. 

“As we look to the future, the importance of programs like NEPTUNE cannot be overstated,” noted Fanelli. “The challenges facing the Navy and the broader national security landscape are becoming more diverse and sophisticated. Adversaries are rapidly advancing their capabilities, and the technological gap is narrowing. In this context, the Navy’s ability to innovate and adapt is not just a matter of maintaining superiority; it’s a matter of national security.” 

The NEPTUNE program represents a strategic investment in the future of naval warfare. It is a model of how collaboration between the military and academia can yield transformative results. As we continue to navigate the uncertain waters of the 21st century, initiatives like NEPTUNE will be the beacon that guides the Navy toward a future where it remains the preeminent maritime force, capable of ensuring peace and security in an ever-changing world. 

To learn more about the ONR Investment Horizons framework, visit onr.navy.mil; for more information on the Technology Transfer for Defense program at Stanford University, visit techtransferfordefense.stanford.edu. 

From Lt. Cmdr. Samuel Boyle, Submarine Group 7 Public Affairs, Dec. 17, 2024 

YOKOSUKA, Japan— The U.S. Navy qualified the first Royal Australian Navy officer on a nuclear-powered Virginia-class submarine at Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Dec. 12. In a pier-side ceremony, Rear Adm. Chris Cavanaugh, commander, Submarine Group 7 awarded Royal Australian Navy Lt. Cmdr. James* the first U.S. Navy Submarine Warfare Device earned by a Royal Australian Navy submariner. 

James earned the warfare device, or “dolphins”, while embarked aboard the Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Vermont (SSN 792) during a deployment to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations, demonstrating another significant milestone for the Australia, United Kingdom, United States (AUKUS) trilateral security partnership. 

“It is always an honor to pin dolphins on a Sailor’s uniform and welcome them into an elite community of undersea warfighters,” said Cavanaugh. “Today’s pinning represents the strength of the alliance and our continued progress under the AUKUS agreement. This was an historic pinning, but it is only the first of many to come.” 

In order to qualify, a Sailor must exhibit a strong understanding of all submarines systems, compartments, and equipment. James had already qualified on a diesel electric Collins-class submarine but was the first Royal Australian Navy submariner to qualify on a nuclear-powered Virginia-class submarine. 

“All of the extra sensors that the boat has, and the fact that we can remain deployed for so long at such high speeds will be game changing for Australia,” said James. “[Qualifying] is a culmination of a lot of hard work and a lot of support from the crew. I’m incredibly thankful to everybody that has supported me through this adventure. And it makes me incredibly proud to serve both my navy and your navy.” 

There are currently more than 100 Royal Australian Navy officers in the U.S. Navy submarine training pipeline or assigned to U.S. Virginia-class SSNs. Military training efforts under the AUKUS Pillar 1 effort are designed to enable Australia to operate, maintain, and support a sovereign fleet of conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines to deter aggression and enhance stability in the Indo-Pacific region. 

Vermont, part of Submarine Squadron 1, has been on deployment since it departed its homeport of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Aug. 8, and arrived in Yokosuka, Japan, Dec. 9, for a port visit. 

Submarine Group 7 directs forward-deployed, combat capable forces across the full spectrum of undersea warfare throughout the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and Arabian Sea. 

U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. 

*Per Royal Australian Navy protocols, submariners’ last names are not publicly released. 

From U.S. Central Command, Dec. 16, 2024

TAMPA, Fla. – On Dec. 16 Yemen time, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces conducted a precision airstrike against a key command and control facility operated by Iran-backed Houthis within Houthi-controlled territory in Sana’a, Yemen. 

The targeted facility was a hub for coordinating Houthi operations, such as attacks against U.S. Navy warships and merchant vessels in the Southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. 

The strike reflects CENTCOM’s ongoing commitment to protect U.S. and coalition personnel, regional partners, and international shipping. 

From Commander U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Public Affairs, Dec. 16, 2024 

MANAMA, Bahrain – The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HSTCSG) entered the U.S. Central command area of responsibility, Dec 14. 

The carrier strike group consists of the flagship Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75); Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 with nine embarked aviation squadrons; staffs from Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 8, CVW-1, and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 28; the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64); and two Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers, USS Stout (DDG 55) and USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109).  

The HSTCSG last deployed in the U.S. Central command area of responsibility in March 2020.  

The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is ready, if called upon, to execute the full spectrum of carrier operations essential to U.S. national security, including the defense of U.S. and partner forces and personnel and freedom of navigation to ensure maritime security and stability in the U.S. Central command area of responsibility.  

The U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations encompasses approximately 2.5 million square miles of water space and includes the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea, parts of the Indian Ocean and three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, Suez Canal and Strait of Bab al-Mandeb. 

From SECNAV Public Affairs, Dec. 16, 2024

NEWPORT, R.I. – Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro announced that a future Constellation-class Guided Missile Frigate, FFG 69, will be named USS Joy Bright Hancock, Dec. 16.  

Secretary Del Toro made the announcement at the 11th Women, Peace and Security Symposium, hosted by the U.S. Naval War College in Newport, R.I. 

The future USS Joy Bright Hancock honors her namesake’s trailblazing service beginning as a Yeoman in World War I, and her integral role in passage of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act in 1948.  This will be the first U.S. Navy vessel named for Hancock. 

“We—men and women alike—must contribute to the meaningful participation of women in the armed forces to increase combat readiness and operational effectiveness. Captain Joy Bright Hancock was a trailblazer who paved the way for generations of women to proudly serve this great Nation,” said Secretary Del Toro. “That is why, I am incredibly pleased to announce that a Constellation-class frigate, FFG 69, will be named the USS Joy Bright Hancock.” 

The naming selection honors Captain Joy Bright Hancock (1898–1986). Born in New Jersey, Hancock received degrees from the George Washington University and the Crawford School of Foreign Service in Washington, DC; the Pierce School of Business Administration in Philadelphia; and the Paris Branch of the New York School of Fine Arts.  

During World War I, Hancock was a Yeoman (F) First Class on duty at the New York Shipbuilding Corporation in Camden, New Jersey. By then end of the war she was Chief Yeoman at the U.S. Naval Air Station in Cape May, New Jersey. Between 1934 and 1942 she was the civilian head of Editorial and Research Section of the Navy Bureau of Aeronautics and the Special Assistant to the Bureau’s Chief. In the first year of World War II she was commissioned Lieutenant, Women’s Reserve, U.S. Naval Reserve, also known as WAVES. In February 1946 she became the director of WAVES and advanced through rank to Captain in the Naval Reserve by 26 July 1946.  

Captain Hancock, who was instrumental in the passage of the Women’s Armed Service Integration Act of 1948, was one of eight women to be sworn into the regular Navy and was subsequently appointed Assistant Chief of Naval Personnel for Women. She retired from active duty in June 1953. During her long career, Captain Hancock received commendations for her service to the Bureau of Naval Aeronautics and the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations (Air) during WWII, as well as for her assistance in expanding opportunities for women in the Navy. In recognition of her trailblazing career, the Navy now annually awards the Joy Bright Hancock Award to honor the visionary leadership of officers whose ideals foster an inclusive culture while furthering the integration of women in the Navy. There have been no previous Navy vessels named for Joy Bright Hancock. 

The future USS Joy Bright Hancock will be the tenth of the new Constellation-class frigates. The other ships in the class are USS Constellation (FFG 62), USS Congress (FFG 63), USS Chesapeake (FFG 64), USS Lafayette (FFG 65), and USS Hamilton (FFG 66). Secretary Del Toro named the future USS Lafayette (FFG 65) in 2023, and the future USS Hamilton (FFG 66) and future USS Galvez (FFG 67) in 2024.  FFG 68 will be named in 2025. 

The Constellation-class guided-missile frigate represents the Navy’s next generation small surface combatant. This ship class will be an agile, multi-mission warship, capable of operations in both blue-water and littoral environments, providing increased combat-credible forward presence that provides a military advantage at sea. 

The Constellation-class will have multi-mission capability to conduct air warfare, anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare, electronic warfare, and information operations. 

More information on guided missile frigates can be found here.  

Read Secretary Del Toro’s full remarks online.  

From Rite-Solutions, Dec. 16, 2024 

MIDDLETOWN, RI (December 16, 2024)—Rite-Solutions was recently awarded a four-year, $13.5 million task order by the Naval Undersea Warfare Center, Division Newport Undersea Warfare Platform and Payload Integration Department (Code 45).  

Rite-Solutions will continue supporting Code 45’s Topside Command, Control and Communications (Topside C3) software system, autonomy and vehicle control software services for unmanned systems— an innovative and emerging payload control software being developed for Navy submarines.  

“We are very excited to continue our support to Code 45. We have grown a highly effective technical team supporting our customer’s expanding role as the Navy’s software support activity for unmanned undersea vehicles as they approach fleet introduction, bringing a new dimension of intelligence/surveillance/reconnaissance to the submarine mission,” said Laura Deady, Rite-Solutions Senior Vice President and head of the Engineering Systems Business Unit.  

Under the new task order, awarded under the Unmanned Undersea Vehicle (UUV) family of Systems Multiple Award Contract, Rite-Solutions will collaborate with teammate McLaughlin Research Corporation (MRC) to provide software support services in maintaining, upgrading and distributing UUV mission command/control/communications capabilities to the fleet. 

“Rite-Solutions is committed to developing our employees’ impact on current and future defense workforce. We make significant training and educational investment in our people to ensure they are positioned to deliver the best possible support to our warfighters’ needs,” said Joe Marino, Rite-Solutions Co-founder and CEO. “This win demonstrates our commitment to deploying our talented workforce to assist Code 45 and all our customers with mission-critical solutions that are focused on delivering new technical capabilities to the fleet.” 

From U.S. Pacific Fleet, Dec. 13, 2024 

PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii – The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. (DDG 121) and USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) returned to their homeport, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Dec. 12, after a five-month deployment assigned to the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group (ABECSG). 

The USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group is the most capable CSG comprised of the air wing of the future, the most advance Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Frank E. Peterson Jr. (DDG 121) as Integrated Air and Missile Defense Commander, and the Arleigh Burke destroyers assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 21, representing more than 6,000 Sailors, deployed from their homeports of San Diego and Pearl Harbor since July 2024. 
 
ABECSG initially deployed to the Indo-Pacific region to support regional security and stability, and to reassure our allies and partners of the U.S. Navy’s unwavering commitment, highlighted by the first-ever U.S.-Italy multi-large deck event (MLDE) with the Italian Navy’s ITS Cavour Carrier Strike Group held in the Indo-Pacific on Aug. 9, 2024. 
 
The strike group was ordered to the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility to bolster U.S. military force posture in the Middle East, deter regional escalation, degrade Houthi capabilities, defend U.S. forces, and again sailed alongside our Italian allies and other partners to promote security, stability and prosperity. Assigned destroyers of the ABECSG, to include Frank E. Petersen Jr. and Michael Murphy, were essential to providing a layer of defense to U.S. forces and ensure the safe passage of commercial vessels and partner nations transiting in international waterways like the Red Sea, Bab-al-Mandeb Strait and the Gulf of Aden. 
 
The destroyers worked alongside other U.S. Central Command forces in successfully repelling multiple Iranian-backed Houthi attacks during transits of the Bab el-Mandeb strait. During the transit, the destroyers were attacked by one-way attack uncrewed Aerial systems, anti-ship ballistic missiles and anti-ship cruise missiles which were successfully engaged and defeated. The vessels were not damaged and no personnel were hurt. The ships were well prepared, supported, and the well-trained Sailors performed admirably to successfully defend the ship. 
 
“What the crew of USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. achieved during this deployment was extraordinary. We did not have many port visits or downtime, but what was achieved could only be done through the spirit and drive of exceptional Sailors. This deployment will be remembered by its impactful operations and what our Sailors experienced by adapting and overcoming to meet all challenges,” said Capt. Kevin Louis, commanding officer, Frank E. Petersen Jr. “What we accomplished as a team and with support from our Carrier Strike Group and the Joint Force will set a standard for future operations. We can return home to our loved ones with a great deal of pride and satisfaction knowing we made a difference.” 
 
Throughout deployment, Frank E. Petersen Jr. completed over 475 hours of flight quarters, 10 hours of small boat operations, conducted 17 replenishments-at-sea, 15 sea and anchor details, qualified 60 Sailors in small craft action team (SCAT) and 17 Sailors in Security Reaction Force Basic (SRF-B). Frank E. Petersen Jr. also welcomed six new chief petty officers, six new first class petty officers and 18 new second class petty officers. 
 
“This deployment has been filled with so many first of its kind type events. I can proudly say Michael Murphy was repeatedly called upon to ‘Lead the Fight’ due to this crew’s amazing reputation and success,” said Cmdr. Jonathan B. Greenwald, commanding officer, Michael Murphy. “To say I am proud of this team is an understatement. This deployment has been an opportunity of a lifetime to serve alongside 360 amazing Sailors. It is so good to be home and I know our Sailors are so happy to return to their families and friends,” 
 
Michael Murphy traveled 44,689 nautical miles throughout U.S. 3rd, 7th, 5th, and 6th Fleet, completed 748 hours of flight operations, transferred 3,524,527 gallons of F-76, executed 21 replenishments-at-sea, and completed 11 strait transits, totaling 75 hours in restricted waters. 
 
Frank E. Petersen Jr. was led by their commanding officer, Capt. Kevin Louis, executive officer, Cmdr. Sean Standen, and Command Master Chief, Command Master Chief Justin Bowen. 
 
Michael Murphy was led by their commanding officer, Cmdr. Jonathan B. Greenwald, executive officer, Cmdr. Caitlin E. Cunningham, and Command Master Chief, Command Master Chief Johnetta L. Heckard. 
 
Deploying units of the strike group include the flagship USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), DESRON 21, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, and Frank E. Petersen Jr. While the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, assigned to DESRON 21, USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) returned to its homeport, Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS O’Kane (DDG 77) and USS Stockdale (DDG 106) remain deployed in the 5th Fleet area of operations supporting global maritime security operations. 
 
As an integral part of U.S. Pacific Fleet, Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet operates naval forces in the Indo-Pacific and provides the realistic and relevant training necessary to execute the U.S. Navy’s timeless role across the full spectrum of military operations—from combat missions to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. U.S. 3rd Fleet works together with our allies and partners to advance freedom of navigation, the rule of law, and other principles that underpin security for the Indo-Pacific region.