NATO Land Forces:Eagle Troop Certified for the Fray

In November 2020, enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group Poland's Eagle Troop conducted an evaluation exercise at Bemowo Piskie Training Area, Poland.The unit,part of the US Army's 2nd Squadron,2nd Cavalry Division as well as of Battle Group Poland's Task Force Cougar, was put through fast-paced, comprehensive drills including a dismounted attack with fire support from General Dynamics ICV Stryker vehicles; a breach by combat engineers; seizure of a trench; and defending a forward position in gained territory.* Eagle Troop was shown to be battle-ready to defeat any threat an aggressor might pose in the region, with a quick and lethal response as needed,BGP Public Affairs said. According to CAPT Stephan Murray, Commander Eagle Troop, this was an opportunity: to get a chance at a repetition of actually manoeuvring multiple platoons simaltaneously.* CAPT Murray explained that before the exercise,squad leaders had to familiarise themselves with manoeuvring teams through various situations and terrain environments.Then they moved to the platoon level, where lieutenants and platoon sergeants gained valuable experience manoeuvring multiple squads through larger exercises, including a live fire drill.Once the squads and platoons were certified, Eagle Troop was prepared for testing as a whole.* The ICV Stryker is an armoured 8-wheeled vehicle armed with machine guns and protected remote grenade launcher /30mm Bushmaster II gun /105mm M68A2 gun, depending on the version* General Dynamics (GD)

Fifth Generation Flight Test Demonstrates Military IoT with XQ-58A and gatewayONE Platform - Aviation Today

Fifth Generation Flight Test Demonstrates Military IoT with XQ-58A and gatewayONE Platform - Aviation Today: The Air Force completed a flight test that demonstrated the ability of two fifth-generation aircraft and an unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) to communicate in their secure native languages without the need for legacy tactical data connections, according to a Dec. 9 U.S. Air Force press release. The test flight also marked the first time …

NORAD Holds Drills in Nunavut

On 10 December 2020, NORAD conducted All-domain Awareness drills near the capital of Canada's Nunavut Territory,Iqaluit.According to Canadian NORAD Region (CANR) Deputy Commander BG Vaughn: While we strive to balance interests of all stakeholders, global competitors seek military expansion in the Arctic.* The exercise was intended to sharpen Arctic operational skillsets.In the course of the drills, which were flown out of Iqaluit Airport,an RCAF Airbus CC-150T Polaris multirole aircraft refueled a Boeing CF-18 Hornet multirole fighter,and CF-18s patrolled the massive expanse of the snowy Territory and contiguous maritime domain.A Canadian Armed Forces press release explained that: NORAD routinely conducts exercises with a variety of scenarios, including airspace restriction violations, hijackings and responses to unknown aircraft.* 1 Canadian Air Division (1 Cdn Air Div) provides NORAD with air defence forces for Operation Noble Eagle, the North American internal air defence operation begun following the 9-11 attacks.Its combat-ready CF-18s are on continuous alert.* The drills occurred over sparsely populated Arctic areas at high altitude.Air crews remained with their aircraft prior to refureling at the airport,and appropriate COVID-19 precautions were observed.They departed from the airport at the conclusion of the exercise.* On 16 June 2020, the US State Department greenlighted Canada's purchase of an upgrade package for 36 CF-18s to bridge the legacy fleet of 77 CF-18s and the future fighter.In 2021, Canada will choose from among the F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter;F/A-18 Super Hornet; and Saab Gripen E.* The upgrade will enhance the sensors, weapons, survivability, security and mission support for the CF-18 to maintain parity with evolving threats, with initial delivery in 2023, Canadian Forces said.It will be a two-squadron bridge that continues meeting NORAD and NATO requirements while the future fighter is phased in. The purchase includes 50 Sidewinder AIM-9X Block II tactical missiles;38 APG-79(V)4 electronically scanned array radars;38 APG-79(V)4 AESA radar AI kits; and 46 F/A-18A wide-band RADOMEs.Firms involved are Raytheon Technologies; General Dynamics; Collins Aerospace (Raytheon Technologies subsidiary); and Boeing.* Nunavut has a population of 35,944 (2016 census),85% of whom belong to the Inuit First People, formerly referred to as "Eskimos".* Raytheon Technologies (RTX), General Dynamics (GD), Boeing (BA)

US Air Force Facilities Re-designated as Space Force

On 9 December 2020,an historic re-designation ceremony changed the names of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station and Patrick Air Force Base,Florida to Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and Patrick Space Force Station, respectively.This was done because the facilities' mission is now central to the US Space Force.The announcement was made by Vice President Mike Pence at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station,who then unveiled updated signs for the facilities. Chief of Space Operations GEN John "Jay" Raymond explained that: Today their titles will reflect the missions of the 45th Space Wing that it and its mission partners execute with passion, precision, and pride every day.Moving forward,we will integrate our service, elevating the power that space brings to the nation, the joint force, and our allies.* The US Air Force retains ownership and command of the re-designated facilities until they are transferred to the Space Force at a lateral date.* On 15 December,GEN Raymond told journalists that the US Space Force is in the process of becoming the 18th member of the Intelligence Community.Intelligence is one of the six career fields set forth by the Space Force for its personnel.* The curriculum studied by Space Force personnel is highly classified.According to GEN Raymond: The higher classification level gets more after the strategic and the contested strategic environment they'll be operating in.* Updates: The first group of seven Space Force enlistees from the general public have graduated from Basic Military Training at Lackland Air Force Base,Texas.Of the 6400 Air Force personnel selected for transfer to the Space Force,2400 have made the switch so far.This year,86 Air Force Academy graduates were commissioned into the Space Force;next year,98 of them are to be commissioned into the Space Force.*

WATCH LIVE: Icebreaker Polar Star departs Seattle for Arctic mission - KING TV - 4 December 2020

Coast Guard Cutter on Arctic Sovereignty Mission

On 4 December 2020,US Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star (WAGB 10) departed its Seattle homeport for an Arctic deployment lasting several months.The move echoes the US Navy's policy of unpredictability,giving pause to our adversaries.* In a news release, the Coast Guard said the Polar Star will protect the nation's maritime sovereignty and security throughout the Arctic Region.Indeed,it will project power and support national security objectives throughout Alaskan waters and into the Arctic,including along the Maritime Boundary Line between the US and Russia. In the course of the deployment, the heavy icebreaker will detect and deter illegal fishing by foreign vessels in the US Exclusive Economic Zone and conduct the Arctic training essential for developing future icebreaker operators.* According to the cutter's CO,CAPT Bill Woitry: Polar Star is poised to head into the cold, dark Arctic winter to carry out a historic mission...We will defend US interests in the region, and continue to hone our proficiency to operate in such a harsh, remote environment.* Normally, the Polar Star conducts Operation Deep Freeze during the winter months, resupplying the US McMurdo Station in Antarctica in support of the National Science Foundation.This year,because of COVID-19 restrictions,only aircraft will deliver limited supplies to the Station, with a full resupply being put off till next year.* The Coast Guard is the nation's main maritime guardian in the Arctic, advancing US national interests through its unique set of polar operational capability, regulatory authority and international leadership across the full spectrum of maritime governance. To bolster this mission, the Coast Guard,part of the Department of Homeland Security, awarded VT Halter Marine of Pascagoula, Mississippi a contract for design and construction of the lead Polar Security Cutter, including options for the construction of two more PSCs.There are plans for a total of six of the powerful heavy icebreakers.* The Polar Star has a complement of 142 personnel, plus 33 scientists and a 12-member helicopter detachment.It carries two MH-65 Dolphin helicopters,which routinely deploy aboard certified cutters, providing critical crewed airborne surveillance and interdiction capabilities, being armed with a 7.62 mm machine gun and a .50 caliber rifle. The Polar Star is armed with two .50 caliber machine guns and various small arms.*

USS Ross DDG-71 Northbound on the Bosphorus Strait,Turkey

USS Ross Intercepts Ballistic Missile During Exercise

USS Ross Continues Northern Europe Patrol

On 28 November 2020, the USS Ross (DDG 71) conducted air defence and fighter control drills in the Baltic Sea,a press release from the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer said.During the exercise, German Eurofighter Typhoon F 2000 jets made a series of flyovers while the destroyer's air-intercept controllers directed the planes in a series of air defence manoeuvres in the dynamic Baltic Sea environment. According to Ross CO CDR John D. Johns: Being able to conduct these exercises with our NATO Allies provides all of us with the opportunity to maintain our warfighting readiness and improve interoperability.* A week earlier, the Ross had conducted similar drills in the Baltic with Italian Eurofighters; and in September with Portuguese F-16 Fighting Falcons.This is part of the Ross' 10th Forward-Deployed Naval Forces Europe (FDNF-E) patrol, which began on 29 August 2020.* Homeported at Rota,Spain,the warship has a complement of 281 personnel and can embark up to two MH-60R Seahawk helicopters.The Seahawk is multirole,having such capabilities as Anti-Submarine and Anti-Surface Warfare,as well as Naval Special Warfare insertion.The Ross is currently moored at Tromso,Norway,350 kilometers/217 miles north of the Arctic Circle.*

Romania:Canadian CF-188 Romanian MiG-21 Romanian F-16 • Kogalniceanu Air Base

The Navy’s F/A-18 Super Hornet Gets Even More Super

The Navy’s F/A-18 Super Hornet Gets Even More Super: It’s always been versatile, but now it can reach farther.

American Legion National Commander Oxford sends a Thanksgiving message

American Legion National Commander Oxford sends a Thanksgiving message: View his message of appreciation on the Legion's Vimeo channel.

A Little F-22 Action • Joint Base Langley Eustis,Virginia - Deployment Day

Baltic Unity Day Exercise • Gotland Island Sweden - US and Swedish aircraft

Baltic Unity Day:NATO Allies and Sweden Drill Complex Scenarios

On 13 November 2020 NATO Allies Estonia, Germany, the US and NATO Partner Sweden increased warfighting skillsets in a Baltic air exercise, Baltic Unity Day.Assets deployed in the drills included a US Special Operations Command Europe C-130 transport aircraft;USAF F-15E Strike Eagle fighters and CV-22B Osprey aircraft; German Eurofighter Typhoon fighters;and Swedish Saab JAS-39 Gripen fighters.* Estonian Joint Tactical Air Controllers coordinated Air-Land Integration exercises to practise joint tactics,techniques and procedures in the Baltic Sea Region and on Tapa Range, Estonia. According to NATO Allied Air Command, Sweden and Estonia provided excellent host nation support and tactical expertise.The drills faciltated effective response to any crisis and heightened readiness for collective defence and deterrence.* At the same time,US and Swedish forces conducted a bilateral exercise on land,sea and air.One of the participants was the US Navy Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71).It entered Swedish territorial waters in the Baltic Sea. During these bilateral drills, Swedish and US Special Operations Forces joined conventional armed forces of the US and Sweden to evolve and test their capabilities.An anonymous Swedish Navy Commander said: We are the gateway to the Baltic Sea, and it's important to know that we can help defend any and all of our neighbours from Swedish waters.* The Ross will engage with the Swedish Navy,Saab JAS-39 Gripens and F-15E Strike Eagles to assist the joint SOFs with simulated long-range,deep-land strikes.The exercise will also stress anti-surface and Anti-Submarine Warfare,as well as all-weather launch capabilities. According to a USN Special Warfare Combatant Craft Crewmen CWO: It's critical to leverage our strong and strategic partnerships who have close access to the Baltic Sea entrance. We have to know for sure that we can call our assets to respond to threats quickly and together with Partners like Sweden to help defend the region from adversaries in times of crisis.* The USS Ross is forward deployed to Rota, Spain under Task Force 65 in support of NATO's Air Missile Defence architecture.*

NASA Updates TV Coverage for First Crew Rotation Flight on US Commercial Spacecraft

NASA Updates TV Coverage for First Crew Rotation Flight on US Commercial Spacecraft: NASA and SpaceX are now targeting 7:27 p.m. EST Sunday, Nov. 15, for liftoff of the agency’s SpaceX Crew-1 mission from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida with astronauts to the International Space Station.

Commander of Atlantic Submarine Force Shifts Tactical Control of Ballistic Missile Subs

Commander of Atlantic Submarine Force Shifts Tactical Control of Ballistic Missile Subs: Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic (SUBLANT)/Commander, Task Force (CTF) 114/Commander, Task Group (CTG) 114.4 turned over the reins of CTG 114.4 to Commander, Submarine Group 10 (SUBGRU-10), Nov. 9.

NORAD F-16 Fighting Falcons • Cockpit View (2020) - Operation Noble Defender,Newfoundland and Labrador,Canada

U.S. CBP Air and Marine Operations - Leading the Fight

U.S. CBP Air and Marine Operations - Leading the Fight

DHS Customs and Border Protection - Beechcraft King Air 350 - Naval Air Station North Island,San Diego

NORAD to Secure NASA- SpaceX Launch

On 9 November 2020,NORAD conducted an air defence exercise over Florida.It was in preparation for the launch of the NASA-SpaceX Crew-1 Mission to the ISS from Launch Complex 39A, Kennedy Space Center.It will be the first Crew Rotation Flight on the Crew Dragon spacecraft and Falcon 9 rocket.* Participating in the range security drill were the US Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon;DHS Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations Superking Air 350; and Civil Air Patrol Cessna C182.The night launch is slated for 14 November 2020 at 7:49 pm EST.* Members of Crew-1 are NASA astronauts COL Mike Hopkins,USAF,Crew-1 Commander; CDR Victor Glover,USN,Crew-1 Pilot; Mission Specialist Dr.Shannon Glover,PhD Space Physics; and JAXA astronaut Mission Specialist Soichi Noguchi, Space Shuttle Program and spacewalk veteran.* One of the main focuses of their research will be crew health on long duration spaceflight,such as to Mars.They will also conduct an evaluation of the cooling system for the new NASA spacesuit, the Exploration Extravehicular Mobility Unit (xEMU), which is to be used for spacewalks and planetary body exploration.*

Brilliant Jump:NATO's Tripwire Force at the Ready

Exercise Brilliant Jump II final phase is currently in work in Lithuania.This second phase of the drills began on 28 October and runs until 6 November.It is being used to certify the Very High-Readiness Joint Task Force (VJTF) in its mission of quickly deploying thousands of troops and their equipment during a crisis.Lithuania was chosen to signal NATO's commitment to defending the Alliance's Eastern Flank.The drills showcase the VJTF's mobility and force integration capabilities.A number of tanks and other vehicles are being moved about in the Area of Responsibility.* This final phase is a deployment phase over land.It seizes opportunities for NATO and Allied nations to sharpen warfighting skillsets by focusing on high-end capabilities.A major aspect of the exercise is to train the processes and coordination with participants from the other services to ensure smooth multi-domain operations.* Troops and equipment are being deployed from the Czech Republic, Poland and Spain by road,rail and sea, mainly to the Pabrade Military Training Area, Lithuania.Land units involved include a Brigade HQ; Spearhead Battalion; Special Operations Forces;and Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Task Force (all from Poland); Mechanised Battalion from the Czech Republic; Mechanised Company from Lithuania; and an Infantry Battalion from Spain. The drills will ensure that the VJTF is ready to deploy quickly and, simultaneously, to practise/enhance logistic interoperability with Allies and Partners.* When BrJu II-phase 2 concludes,parts of the VJTF will take part in the Lithuania-led Exercise Iron Wolf.* This year, the focus is on planning and conducting an early deployment of forces in the Baltic Sea Region.BrJu II-phase 2 is led by Multinational Corps North-East (MNC-NE).It centres on the readiness of the Force and their ability to arrive in a timely and capable manner at their destination,NATO said.*

The Netherlands,2019:Mighty TORNADO Take-Off, It.AF, STEADFAST NOON, at Volkel

Steadfast Noon:NATO's Nuclear Response Rehearsal

One of NATO's most secretive exercises, Steadfast Noon,has been taking place this month.According to reports from Germany, this year's iteration of the nuclear wargame has featured a practise at Norvenich Air Base, Germany in which the German Air Force removed US B61 hydrogen bombs from their underground storage bunker and mounted them on Panavia Tornado IDS aircraft.Norvenich is reportedly an alternate storage site for these tactical nuclear weapons.Simultaneously, German forces at Buchel Air Base simulated defending the base from an airborne threat with Patriot missiles in Exercise Resilient Guard. There are estimated to be about 20 B61 bombs stored in Germany under NATO's Nuclear Sharing arrangement.It is a dual key arrangement between the United States and the five NATO Allies storing B61s on their territory: Belgium, Germany,Italy, the Netherlands and Turkey.The B61s are carried on Dual Capable Aircraft (conventional/nuclear).* More than 50 aircraft have participated in Steadfast Noon 2020, which has been headquartered at Volkel Air Base, the Netherlands.The aircraft have flown sorties over some of Western Europe and the North Sea. Attending the drills on 16 October at Volkel were NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg; Supreme Allied Commander Europe GEN Tod Wolters USAF; and Netherlands Defence Minister Ank Bijleveld.Mr.Stoltenberg spoke with the aircrews and was briefed on the classified scenario by the base Commander.In talks with Ms.Bijleveld,Mr.Stoltenberg stressed that at a time of evolving security challenges,it is essential that the Alliance remains protected by the full spectrum of capabilities, with the Allies being determined that NATO's nuclear deterrent remains safe, secure and effective.* The exercise has become even more important given Russia's ongoing development and deployment of nuclear-capable missiles in Europe,which resulted in the scrapping of the INF Treaty.* Those Allies who are not part of Nuclear Sharing may also participate in the nuclear mission under the SNOWCAT programme (Support of Nuclear Operations With Conventional Air Tactics). Such a country is Poland, which, for example, took part in the 2014 iteration with three F-16 Fighting Falcons and about 40 personnel.* In 2009, Russia reportedly simulated a nuclear strike on Poland; and in 2013, Russia simulated a nuclear strike on NATO Partner Sweden with Tu-22M3 bombers.This year, a Russian Su-27 Flanker violated NATO Ally Denmark's airspace in violation of international law on 28 August.* The Atlantic Council thinktank published the paper "Threaten decisive nuclear retaliation" by David Gompert and Hans Binnendijk, which states: Taken together, Russia's adventurous foreign policy, conventional military disadvantage, and fear of US strategic nuclear intentions are causing it to develop and field new intercontinental and theater nuclear delivery systems, including hypersonic systems, which has grave implications for NATO.In this context, Russia's declared threat to use nuclear weapons first in the event of war should be of acute concern,as much to US allies as to the United States.*

NATO Secretary General, Press Conference at Defence Ministers Meeting, 2...

Space Force Swears In First Recruits

On 20 October 2020, the US Space Force swore in its first recruits from the general public.Four of the seven recruits were sworn in at the Military Entrance Processing Station-Baltimore at Fort George G. Meade,Maryland.Just hours later, another three were sworn in at MEPS-Denver, Colorado. Vice Chief of Space Operations GEN David D. "DT" Thompson administered the oath to those recruits at Ft.Meade ,who were attired in Space Force t-shirts and casual pants.* All of the recruits will get 7.5 weeks of Basic Military Training at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas.In addition, they will study a special Space Force curriculum.Said GEN Thompson: Until now, we've been focused on building our initial ranks with transfers from the Air Force.With these new recruits,we begin to look to the future of our force by bringing in the right people directly to realize our aspirations of building a tech-savy force that's reflective of the nation we serve.* The recruits include two women and five men;two are African-American and five are Caucasian.They range in age from 18-31 and are from Colorado,Maryland and Virginia.* By the end of 2021, the USSF aims to have 6500 active duty personnel.To inquire about joining the Space Force,see your local Air Force/Space Force recruiter.*

Homeless and at-risk veterans in New Jersey receive help at stand down

Homeless and at-risk veterans in New Jersey receive help at stand down: The Oct. 9 event in Pleasantville helped about 40 at-risk veterans; hundreds expected at Oct. 28 event in Atlantic City.

Joint Warrior 20-2:NATO Combat Power to the Test

Joint Warrior 20-2, the largest NATO exercise of the year,is underway in Northern Scotland and the Atlantic Ocean.The second phase began on 3 October.JW 20-2 incorporates surface, subsurface, airborne and land assets, the US Navy 6th Fleet said.NATO units will be tested in a multi-threat environment, and a certification for Forward Deployed Naval Forces (FDNF) is on the line, preparing them to operate as part of a Combined/Joint Task Force, according to Commander, Task Force 65 (CTF 65) CAPT Joseph Gagliano,USN: Joint Warrior is our premier venue for recertifying our ships for fleet operations, and the synergy with the Royal Navy could not be better.* Overall, the maritime,land and air units from NATO Allies and Partners include 28 ships;2 submarines;81 aircraft; and more than 6,000 personnel from Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany,Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the UK and the US.NATO Enhanced Opportunity Partner Australia is also taking part.* Most impressive of all is the participation of the first ever NATO Carrier Strike Group,led by the new Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth.Indeed, the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS The Sullivans (DDG 68) is attached to the CSG.As well, destroyers USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) and USS Ross (DDG 71), out of forward deployment at Rota,Spain, and 2 P-8A Poseidon Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Aircraft from CTF-67 in Sigonella,Italy are in the drills.In addition, the US Marine Corps Fighter Attack Squadron 211 has 8 F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters on HMS Queen Elizabeth alongside USMC 2nd Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company.* All elements of the British military are being integrated into JW 20-2: Royal Navy, Royal Air Force and British Army.* Two NATO AWACS aircraft are surveilling and coordinating the complex scenario.The exercise trains NATO Forces for high-readiness deployments in operations representing a significant pillar of the UK's leading role in the Alliance.It is thus a key step in the development of the UK's CSG capability,being the largest ever number of F-35B aircraft at sea (about 15),tbe British F-35 Bs along with the USMC's. Several classic warfighting drills are being staged by the assets in coastal and blue waters to the North, Northwest and West of Scotland.* Standing NATO Maritime Group 1 is participating until 15 October.*

B-1B Systems Engineer Explains How IBS Makes Future Bomber Upgrades Easier - Aviation Today

B-1B Systems Engineer Explains How IBS Makes Future Bomber Upgrades Easier - Aviation Today: The International Battle Station (IBS) avionics upgrades were completed on a fleet of 60 U.S. Air Force B-1B bombers in September.

Maj. Gen. Crider: Pentagon Will Reassign 1K+ Enlisted Personnel to US Space Force Cybersecurity Team

Maj. Gen. Crider: Pentagon Will Reassign 1K+ Enlisted Personnel to US Space Force Cybersecurity Team: As cyber warfare becomes the weapon of choice for adversaries, and the global economy becomes ever more dependent on space systems, space is a critical domain for cybersecurity, said U.S. Space Force Maj. Gen. Kimberly Crider, chief technology and innovation officer.  “Space systems will become the next front of the

Secretary of the Navy Kenneth J. Brathwaite Announces the New Constellation-class Frigate

NATO Intensifies Arctic Operations with Denmark

On 1 October 2020,NATO Maritime Command (MARCOM) began a new era of operational coordination with Danish Joint Arctic Command (JACO),a press release said.JACO,under the command of MG Kim Jesper Jorgensen,is chiefly concerned with surveillance and sovereignty enforcement,as well as the military defence of Greenland and the Faroe Islands.It also provides fishing vessel inspection; search and rescue; maritime pollution protection;hydrographic surveys;and miscellaneous support for the civil authorities. JACO's Area of Responsibility is from the Faroe Islands to the Greenland and Arctic Seas; across the Denmark Strait and Irmingen Sea to the Davis Strait; and Baffin Bay between Greenland and Canada.Based in Nuuk, Greenland,it also has a Liaison Unit in Thorshavn, Faroe Islands.* MARCOM, for its part, maintains maritime domain awareness and overwatch over the entire extent of Supreme Allied Commander Europe's AOR, hence shares vital interests and operational objectives with JACO.The enhanced cooperation includes monthly coordination meetings; surveillance exchanges; and joint exercises.* Commander Allied Maritime Command,NATO VADM Keith Blount, Royal Navy,summed up the purpose of the new pact: Over the past years, we have seen an increasing maritime interest in the Arctic Region.I anticipate that MARCOM and JACO will greatly benefit from working together on an operational level under this new agreement.With five NATO Allies being Arctic countries-Canada, Denmark, Iceland, Norway and the United States-the Alliance has a clear interest in seeing stability, security and cooperation in the Arctic Region.*

Operation Atlantic Resolve:Sustaining and Enhancing NATO Land Forces

On 24 September 2020 the Department of the Army announced the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team,1st Cavalry Division out of Fort Hood, Texas will deploy to Europe this fall . The ABCT will replace the 2nd ABCT,3rd Infantry Division in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve, demonstrating the US commitment to NATO Allies and Partners. According to 1st ABCT Commander COL Michael D. Schoenfeldt: The Ironhorse Brigade is honored to deploy in support of Atlantic Resolve exercises as a regularly aligned force in Europe...The Ironhorse Brigade is lethal,tough and ready.We do not take lightly our responsibility to instill confidence in the American people and our Allies;nor the opportunity to instill fear in our enemies.* The 1st ABCT has about 3700 troops;80 M1 Abrams Main Battle Tanks;80 Bradley Fighting Vehicles;and 18 M109A6 Paladin 155 mm self-propelled Howitzers.* Also assisting Atlantic Resolve will be the new US Army V Corps HQ (Forward) in Poznan, Poland.The V Corps HQ at Fort Knox, Kentucky will staff this new command post in Europe,rotating in a portion of its 635 Soldiers.This first rotation of personnel is expected to arrive in October 2020.LTG John S. Kolasheski is Commander of the forward HQ.According to US Army Europe,V Corps HQ (Forward) will primarily be conducting operational planning, mission command and oversight of rotational forces in Europe.As well,it will provide more capability to support Allies and Partners in the region.The forward HQ will also play a key role in DEFENDER-Europe 21,the drills planned for the Balkan and Black Sea Region from May-June 2021.* Atlantic Resolve was initiated in April 2014 in response to Russian aggression against Ukraine.At any given time,it has about 6,000 US troops on nine month rotations in Europe.Their mission is to build readiness and increase interoperability with Ally and Partner nations.AR includes armoured, aviation and sustainment task force rotations.These ready, combat-credible forces conduct operations and exercises in 17 countries, showing our unremitting commitment to NATO and Europe.*

Taliban Attacks Threaten to Derail Afghan Peace Talks, Special Envoy Says | Military.com

Taliban Attacks Threaten to Derail Afghan Peace Talks, Special Envoy Says | Military.com: The Taliban have continued attacks even as peace talks with the Kabul government are underway.

NORAD Operations • Operation Noble Defender - 5 Wing,Goose Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador

Operation Noble Defender:NORAD Reacts to Russia

From 20-23 September 2020,NORAD is conducting a Dynamic Force Employment operation,Operation Noble Defender.A DFE operation prioritises major combat capabilities, while at the same time providing options for scalable military operations,NORAD said: As a bi-national command, NORAD is drawing on forces from both countries to respond to increased Russian military activity along the periphery of both nations.* For example,on 18 September 2020,NORAD scrambled F-22 Raptors and E-3 AWACS, supported by KC-135 refueling air tankers, to intercept two Russian Tu-160 bombers and two Su-35 fighters which had entered the Alaska Air Identification Zone (ADIZ) three times, lingering there about four hours.Indeed,this was actually part of a marathon mission by the Russian bombers which lasted 25 hours,a record for the Tu-160.The bombers had taken off from Engels Air Base near Saratov in Southern Russia,then flew via the Barents Sea to the central Arctic Ocean and over the Northern Sea Route towards the Pacific in the Russian Far East, and finally heading over Siberia and back to Engels.The mammoth mission crossed over a number of seas, including the Kara,Laptov,East Siberian and Chukchi Seas.* Operation Noble Defender is taking place in all three NORAD Regions: Continental United Stayes (CONR); Alaska (ANR);and Canadian (CANR). Participating are the F-22 Raptor, F-16 Fighting Falcon and CF-18 Hornet fighters, supported by E-3 AWACS and CC-150T Polaris refueling tankers.Under the operational control of Canadian NORAD Region,these assets will exhibit agile and dynamic force employment to and from critical NORAD forward operating bases along the northern approaches to North America.Said Royal Canadian Air Force MG Eric Kenny, Commander,CANR: This extensive operation shows the iron-clad relationship that exists within the NORAD team.We stand ready to deter and defeat threats along our approaches.* One of the units taking part in DFE operations is 140th Fighter Wing of the Colorado Air National Guard.It headed to 5 Wing,Goose Bay,Newfoundland and Labrador with its F-16s.*

Point Blank 20-04 - F15s taxing and taking off - RAF Lakenheath

USMC LTC Joseph F. Freshour,commander of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 211 (VFMA-211) said Exercise Point Blank 20-04 on 10 September 2020 over the North Sea off of Scotland:
 is an opportunity to conduct realistic, relevant training with US Air Force and NATO'S Allies, expanding our global influence by developing capabilities that can share the burden in addressing common defense challenges.Exercises like Point Blank allow us to validate digital interoperability with RAF 617 Squadron.*
The Point Blank series is recurring and low-cost, but increases tactical proficiency and demonstrates a collective commitment to regional security, the US Air Force observed.*
The complex warfighting scenario emphasised defensive counter air integration.It allowed our warfighters to practise fighting a near-peer adversary, boosting interoperability with diverse airframes.Participants included more than 50 warplanes from the US Air Force;US Marine Corps; Royal Air Force; and Royal Netherlands Air Force. In the scenario,RAF Eurofighter Typhoons played the aggressor role against USMC,RAF and RNAF fifth generation F-35 Lighting II Joint Strike Fighters.The Typhoons simulated the tactics and threats of NATO adversaries while challenging their colleagues in a series of complex aerial skirmishes that tested the pilots' skills and pushed the world-class fighter jets to their limits, explained RAF Lossiemouth Station Commander Group Captain Chris Layden.
Added GEN Jeff Harrington,US Air Forces Europe Commander:
This ultimately makes us experts at what we do, which is deliver air superiority anywhere across the globe.*
Indeed, the drills showcased the Allied Air Forces as they sharpened combat readiness so that they can respond anytime and anywhere an alert summons them.*
Besides the F-35s and Typhoons, other planes in the drills included USAF F-15C Eagles;USAF and RNAF F-16 Fighting Falcons; the B-52H Stratofortress strategic bomber; and the KC-135 Stratotanker.*

New Ghost 4 sUAS from Anduril Offers More Endurance, Autonomy and Teaming Capabilities - Aviation Today

New Ghost 4 sUAS from Anduril Offers More Endurance, Autonomy and Teaming Capabilities - Aviation Today: Anduril Technologies claims its Ghost 4 is 'the best drone in the world,' offering advanced autonomy and teaming capabilities on a single-rotor airframe.

Coalition welcomes new commander, continues mission - Defeating Islamic State (Daesh)

Coalition welcomes new commander, continues mission: Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve, the military organization to defeat Daesh in Iraq and Syria, conducted a change of command ceremony in Baghdad, Sept. 9, 2020.

USMC F-35 - Arrival - RAF Marham - 03/09/20

On 3 September 2020 a US Marine Corps squadron of F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters began an extensive deployment to RAF Marham, England.The evening touch down of Fighter Attack Squadron 211,VMFA-211,out of Yuma Air Station, Arizona began an historic first deployment to England for the Wake Island Avengers.They will train with RAF Squadron 617,who also fly the Lockheed Martin F-35 stealth fighters, preparing for a joint mission on board the new British aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth on her inaugural deployment in 2021,Exercise Joint Warrior.*
Following those drills,VMFA-211 will prepare for Exercise Crimson Warrior, which will consist of high-end warfighting drills for multi-domain operations.
Commander of the Marine Corps squadron is LTC Joseph F. Freshour.They transitioned to the F-35B from the AV-8B Harrier in 2016.RAF Marham is the home base for the RAF F-35 programme.*

Navy Commissions Naval Support Facility Redzikowo

Navy Commissions Naval Support Facility Redzikowo: The Navy’s newest shore installation, Naval Support Facility (NSF) Redzikowo, was officially commissioned on Sept. 3 at a ceremony in front of U.S. and Polish dignitaries.

Ukrainian Fighter Jets Fly Alongside U.S. B-52 Bombers

On 4 September 2020, three US Air Force B-52H Stratofortress heavy bombers plus Ukrainian Su-27 and Mig-29 fighter aircraft patrolled near the Sea of Azov in support of the Bomber Task Force mission.An unidentified AWACS is also shown in the video.The Sea of Azov is connected to the Black Sea by the Kerch Strait.It is bordered by Ukraine and Russia.

US Army M270 MLRS • Multiple Launch Rocket System - undisclosed location

US Army Europe has deployed a battery of Multiple Launch Rocket Systems to Tapa, Estonia for Exercise Rail Gunner Rush.Bravo Battery,1st Battalion,6th Field Artillery Regiment,41st Field Artillery Brigade will participate in its first live-fire exercise outside of Grafenwoehr, Germany.The drills,running from 1-8 September 2020,will test their deployment skills,as well as readiness and interoperability with NATO Allies Denmark and the UK in Battle Group Estonia,and of course their hosts in the Estonia Defence Forces' 1st Infantry Brigade.
The 41st provides strategic,operational and tactical level fires and support throughout EUCOM,USAEUR said.The exercise will showcase USAEUR'S ongoing commitment to NATO and appreciation for the EDF, allowing it to deploy long-range precision fire assets to NATO'S Eastern Flank.
The FAB'S personnel, vehicles and equipment were transported to Estonia from Germany by means such as road,rail and air.The transport effort was achieved within three weeks' time.Said 1-6 FAR Commander CAPT Andrew McLucas:
It's a great opportunity, and I am really excited to get to know the Estonians we are working with.*

APG-83 AESA Radars to Improve F-16 Air-to-Air, Air-to-Ground Performance - Aviation Today

APG-83 AESA Radars to Improve F-16 Air-to-Air, Air-to-Ground Performance - Aviation Today: The Northrop Grumman AN/APG-83 scalable agile beam radar (SABR) for U.S. Air Force F-16 fighters by Lockheed Martin is to provide 5th generation radar features akin to those of the F-22 and F-35 for the legacy fighter, which first flew in 1974. Such new, Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) features include beyond line of sight, …

Su-27 Flanker Buzzes B-52 Bomber

On 28 August 2020 at 1119 hours over international waters of the Black Sea,two Russian Su-27 Flanker fighters harassed a US Air Force B-52H Stratofortress strategic bomber conducting routine operations.The Su-27s repeatedly came within 100 ft. of the B-52's nose, causing wake turbulence.

F-16 GBU-12 Practice • D-37 Range Nadarzyce, Poland

This is US Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon bombing practise with the Guided Bomb Unit-version 12 bomb.Diversionary flares are also deployed against heat-seeking missiles.

USAF B-52s & Norwegian F-16s • Flight Over Norway - file footage 2019

Bomber Task Force: B-52s Form Up With Norway F-16s - plus Sweden goes on alert
On 21 August 2020,6 US Air Force B-52H Stratofortress heavy bombers out of Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota flew to Northern Europe for strategic drills with the Norwegian Air Force.The bombers were met by F-16 fighter aircraft launched from Bodo Air Base in Northern Norway.Meeting outside Norwegian air space,they flew in formation to the north of Thule Air Base, Greenland,then south over the Fram Strait and Norwegian Sea,an area Russia includes in its Bastion Defence concept.
Commander US Air Forces Europe GEN Jeff Harrington said the B-52 presence proves the ability to quickly respond to Partner and Ally requests at a moment's notice, and that this will be a very active presence.
On 24 August 2020, Swedish Armed Forces Chief of Operations Jan Thornqvist issued a statement:
The Armed Forces has launched a contingency operation in the Southeast and Central Baltic Sea Region. We live in a turbulent time, the global security environment is undergoing many changes and we are seeing a deteriorating security situation in the immediate area.
Extensive military operations are underway in the Baltic Sea Region, both from Russia and the West,in a way that hasn't been experienced since the Cold War... Overall, the situation is more unstable, more conflict-ridden and more difficult to predict.The current developments in Belarus remind us of this.
The focus of the contingency effort is to strengthen surveillance in the Baltic Sea and from the air.In addition, the military presence on Gotland is increasing...The unpredictable security situation in our immediate area places high demands on our accessibility and preparedness.*

Seal in Space interview with CAPT Chris Cassidy and MA2 Alexander

Rocket Science in 60 Seconds: Ins and Outs of the SLS Launch Vehicle Sta...

Orion Program Update: The Launch Vehicle Stage Adapter has been completed and shipped by barge from the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center,Alabama,to NASA Kennedy Space Center.It links the SLS core stage to the Interim Cryogenic Propulsion Stage on top of the SLS rocket.Another adapter cone is presently being installed on the bottom of the Orion spacecraft stack, the European Service Module, to connect Orion to the ICPS.All this is in preparation for the uncrewed Artemis I test mission in late 2021, which will take Orion to a high lunar orbit and back.
At the same time, the SLS core stage is undergoing testing at the NASA
Stennis Space Center, Mississippi.This Green Run testing will culminate in a countdown and hotfire test of the
four Aerojet Rocketdyne upgraded Space Shuttle engines that propel the core stage.
According to NASA, the Boeing SLS is the only rocket that is powerful enough to send Orion, astronauts and supplies to the Moon in one trip.The crewed Artemis Moon missions, beginning by 2024,will increase in complexity in order to enable Mars exploration in the 2030s.

Space Force : Inside America's Newest Military Branch | TIME

Space Force Issues Capstone Publication: Formally established in December 2019, the US Space Force has issued a 94-page defining document entitled Spacepower.The Space Capstone Publication (SCP),it is the first articulation of spacepower as a separate and distinct form of military power, the document says.It is a key guidepost for the ethos and values of the nation's newest armed service:
The new SCP addresses the present reality that our adversaries have made space a warfighting domain.
A small cadre of military personnel began drafting the SCP in August 2019.In February 2020,a summit was held to develop the initial framework of Space Force doctrine.At this event,representatives from all the armed services and exchange officers from US Allies Australia, Canada and the UK offered additional recommendations on its scope and key ideas.
The SCP defines the US Space Force thus:
As an equal part of the joint force, these combat-credible forces are continuously engaged in the military competition required to deter war and counter the malign actions of strategic competition.Should deterrence fail, military space forces are prepared to fight and win our Nation's wars,in space, from space, and to space.
Besides this mission, the SCP sets forth the competencies needed to organise, train and equip the force:
Space security;combat power projection; space mobility and logistics; information mobility; and domain awareness.
Supporting the competencies are seven military disciplines:
Orbital warfare;space electromagnetic warfare;space battle management;space access and sustainment; military intelligence; engineering and acquisition; and cyber operations.
Those wishing to join the Space Force are referred to US Air Force recruiting.

BOEING E-6B "LION SIX-FOUR" Mercury

E-6B Mercury Takeoff | Highly Advanced Aircraft Designed To Function In ...

This US Navy aircraft serves as a command and control platform for ICBM launch and Ballistic Missile Submarine launch and communications.

Minuteman III Operational Test Launch at 12:21 AM Pacific Daylight Time ...

The Minuteman III was launched by US Air Force and Navy personnel on board a US Navy E-6B Mercury aircraft.The missile carried three warheads for the first time in an operational test since 2018.

Meet the Only Man to Witness All 3 WWII Atomic Bomb Blasts

Meet the Only Man to Witness All 3 WWII Atomic Bomb Blasts

Strengthening the Baltic Sea security | BALTOPS 2020

The US and Poland have concluded negotiations on a new defence pact, Defense Secretary Mark T. Esper said in a statement.The Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) builds on our existing security cooperation, cementing the long-standing defence partnership.It reflects Joint Declarations signed by Presidents Donald Trump and Andrzej Duda in 2019 and provides the required legal framework, infrastructure and burden-sharing needed to deepen the military relationship.
Specifically, the EDCA enables an increase in the enduring US rotational presence in Poland by around 1,000 troops, including the forward elements of US Army V Corps HQ;a Division HQ;ISR capabilities; and infrastructure for an Armored Brigade Combat Team and Combat Air Brigade.There are presently 4500 US personnel on rotation in Poland.
The statement goes on to say that:
The EDCA will enhance deterrence against Russia, strengthen NATO, reassure our allies, and our forward presence in Poland

Boarding a US NAVY NUCLEAR SUBMARINE in the Arctic - Smarter Every Day 240

Senate confirms Berrier as next DIA director

Senate confirms Berrier as next DIA director: The U.S. Senate confirmed the nomination of Lt. Gen. Scott Berrier, U.S. Army, as the 22nd director of the Defense Intelligence Agency, July 30.

National Security Cutter

Arctic Blitz: Coast Guard Heads Far North

On 25 July 2020, the USCGC Healy (WAGB-20) departed from Dutch Harbor, Alaska and headed to its science missions and Operation Arctic Shield, the service's annual comprehensive assessment and respons in the high latitudes.The Healy is considered the largest and most technologically advanced cutter in the Coast Guard.It is in the vanguard of the Coast Guard surge to the Arctic in summer and autumn,in spite of,yet aware of COVID-19.
Coast Guard Pacific Area Commander VADM Linda L. Fagan assured the Wilson Center think tank:
Our Arctic Strategy is unchanged.The pandemic has not changed our priority, our intention to uphold American sovereignty, advance our national security interests and promote economic prosperity throughout the Arctic.Everyone is postured and remains operationally ready to conduct operations and meet our mission requirements in the high latitudes.
We are mindful of the many communities in and around Alaska and are taking all precautions to be sure we don't inadvertently help to spread the pandemic.*
The Arctic Shield operation will enhance maritime domain awareness; strengthen partnerships; and build preparedness, prevention and response capabilities across the Arctic domain.As the nation's lead federal agency for ensuring maritime safety and security in the Arctic, the Coast Guard protects the nation's interests, safeguards the environment and strengthens our international, federal, state,local and tribal partnerships.*
In Arctic Shield, the Coast Guard
typically deploys a number of cutters, aircraft and personnel to the Arctic with the objectives of Improving Awareness, Broadening Partnerships and Modernizing Governance.*
In future,a major role will be played by the new Polar Security Cutters.The PSCs will enable the US to maintain defence readiness in the Arctic and Antarctic r
Regions; enforce treaties and other laws needed to safeguard both industry and the environment; provide port, waterways and coastal security.
The PSC programme is being managed by an Integrated (US Coast Guard/US Navy) Program Office.On 23 April 2019 the IPO awarded a contract to VT Halter Marine of Pascagoula, Mississippi for the design and construction of the lead PSC, with an option for two more.*
The PSC will conduct national missions; respond to critical events; and project presence in the polar regions.Said Coast Guard Commandant ADM Karl L. Schultz:
Against the backdrop of great power competition, the PSC is key to our nation's presence in the polar regions.*
Construction of the first of the powerful ships will begin in 2021, with delivery slated for 2024.A total of six PSCs are to be built.*
In 2017, the US and Canadian Governments jointly tested models of such heavy icebreakers.*

SOW MC-130J Commando II Refueling Over The Black Sea

Mountain Warfare Field Exercise in Norway - EUCOM

USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81) Missile Launch - Standard Missile 2 - location not disclosed

Networked Warfare: Exercise Sea Breeze 2020

Bi-lateral US-Ukraine Naval Exercise Sea Breeze 2020 got underway in the Black Sea on 20 July and runs until 26 July.NATO'S Standing NATO Maritime Group 2 is taking part with it's three frigates from Romania,Spain and Turkey.On 20 July, tactical manoeuvring drills were held.*
Participating in SB20 are 27 ships,19 aircraft and some 2,000 personnel from eight countries: Bulgaria, Georgia,Norway, Romania, Spain, Turkey, Ukraine and the US.Multiple warfighting skillsets will be covered in the challenging scenarios:
Maritime Interdiction operations;air defence; anti-submarine warfare; damage control; and search and rescue.*
According to CDR Craig Trent,CO of guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78):
These exercises will allow us to learn and grow from our partner nations, increasing our interoperability and overall effectiveness as a fighting force.*
Besides the Porter,a P-8A Poseidon Maritime Surveillance Aircraft from Patrol Squadron (VP) 47 will participate, for a total of about 400 US Sailors.*
SB20 is the twentieth iteration of the drills, which aim to increase capability and strengthen regional security.It is the USS Porter's third mission in the Black Sea this year.The Porter is forward-deployed to Rota,Spain along with three other US Navy Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers to support US national security interests in Europe and Africa.*
After the Exercise,SNMG 2 will conduct a patrol toward the Mediterranean Sea, enhancing regional stability.Ukraine is providing military and civilian infrastructure of the Black Sea coast in support of the event;while the US is helping financially, technologically and by providing hardware.*
The Black Sea Region is seen as a critical area of interest by Russia, which illegally occupies Ukraine's Crimea and parts of Georgia in the region.Hence Alliance networked attack operations and long-range strike operations are reportedly within the unspoken substance of the drills.*
Sea Breeze 2020 is being overseen by RADM Oleksii Neizhpapa, Commander of Naval Forces,Armed Forces of Ukraine; and VADM Gene Black, Commander,U.S. 6th Fleet.*

72nd Anniversary of U.S. Bomber Aircraft in Europe

Thank you for your service: DIA Director honored with Patriot Award

Thank you for your service: DIA Director honored with Patriot Award: The National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution honored Defense Intelligence Agency Director Lt. Gen. Robert Ashley Jr. with the DAR Patriot Award during the 129th DAR Continental

Launch of Minotaur IV with NROL-129 from NASA Wallops Flight Facility, Virginia

Relentless Pursuit: First Ever Military Launch from the Mid-Atlantic

On 14 June 2020 occurred the historic first launch of a military space mission from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport Pad 0B at the NASA Wallops Flight Facility, Virginia.Four classified payloads belonging to the Department of Defense National Reconnaissance Office were sent into orbit aboard a Northrop Grumman Minotaur IV rocket using three engines from a decommissioned Peacekeeper ICBM plus the second stage's solid rocket motor.*
The mission,NROL-129, was the NRO'S first dedicated launch from NASA Wallops.The US Space Force Space and Missile Systems Center provided​ the launch services for NROL-129.NRO director Dr.Chris Scolese said the system of satellites will
demonstrate revolutionary capabilities to the nation and our Allies:
Despite facing challenges in 2020,we have found new and better ways to collaborate with our partners from a distance, relentlessly pursuing our mission and denying sanctuary to our adversaries.*
Added NASA Wallops director David Pierce:
Today's successful launch exemplifies NASA'S proud service to NRO and the nation...We look forward to working with NRO, Virginia Space and Northrop Grumman on future missions from Wallops.*
Northrop Grumman (NOC)

Dynamic Mongoose 2020 - NATO

See British Royal Marine receive Bronze Star - Major James Fuller served with the US Marines in Afghanistan in an officer exchange programme.

NATO North Atlantic Drills Step Up Naval Acumen

Exercise Dynamic Mongoose 2020 is currently underway in waters off the Icelandic coast.The drills run from 29 June-10 July.Six NATO Allies are participating:
Canada, France, Germany, Norway, the UK and the US,with 5 warships;5 submarines; and 5 maritime patrol aircraft.Vessels engaged in the scenarios include the Royal Navy frigate HMS Westminster;US guided-missile​ destroyer USS Roosevelt; German Submarine U 36; and Norwegian frigate HNoMS Sverdrup. Maritime patrol aircraft involved are 2 ATL IIs from France;2 P-8A Poseidons from the US Navy; and a Royal Navy P-8A.The Icelandic Coast Guard can provide air traffic control and search and rescue as needed.*
The aim of DM 2020 is, according to VADM Keith Blount, Royal Navy, Commander,Allied Maritime Command:
To sharpen warfighting skills by focusing on high-end capabilities including Anti-Submarine Warfare.Dynamic Mongoose will ensure that we remain prepared for operations in peace, crisis and conflict.*
DM is an advanced ASW exercise.Overall, said RADM Andrew Burcher,USN, Commander, Submarines NATO:
The exercise is a unique opportunity to enhance naval forces' warfighting skills in all dimensions of Anti-Surface and Anti-Submarine Warfare in a multinational and multi-threat environment.*
The US Navy operates Patrol Squadron (VP) 16 out of Naval Air Station Keflavik, Iceland.It serves in the Northern European theatre.*

GPS III Space Vehicle 03 Mission for the US Space Force - 30 June 2020

27 June 2020:Secretary of the Navy Kenneth J. Braithwaite visits the Norwegians and U...

US Navy Strategy in Europe: Admiral Foggo and SecNav Braithwaite

Two senior US Navy officials, ADM James G. Foggo III and new Secretary of the Navy Kenneth J. Braithwaite II recently spoke about the US Navy's goals in Europe on the "On the Horizon" podcast.Admiral Foggo (rhymes with "logo") is Commander,US Navy Forces Europe and Africa and Commander, Joint Forces Command Naples.Mr.Braithwaite had a long career in the US Navy and US Navy Reserves, and was most recently US Ambassador to Norway.Both men are graduates of the US Naval Academy.Indeed,they knew each other while they were midshipmen there.*
Admiral Foggo spoke about Exercise BALTOPS in the Baltic Sea:
We demonstrated that the US Navy is able to operate anywhere,at any time, and under any conditions.It was a terrific opportunity to improve interoperability and warfighting skills while learning from each other.*
Admiral Foggo also explained the
Navy role in the Black Sea and our relationship with Ukraine:
Security in the Black Sea remains one of our mutual areas of interest.This is why we continue to operate in the Black Sea.We operate there to send the message that we will uphold international law and norms.Our collective efforts will lead to a safer and better Ukraine, which means a better and safer Black Sea for all of us.
We recently had the guided-missile​ destroyers USS Porter (DDG 78) and the dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51) of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group in the Black Sea.That both of them were operating in the Black Sea at the same time is a demostration to our NATO Allies and Partners of our continuing commitment...So it's the third time that NATO ships have operated in the Black Sea in 2020, and the second time the US Navy has operated in the Black Sea in 2020.This is nothing new...Other examples include replenishment operations with Turkish oilers... and a PASSEX (passing exercise) with our Georgian Partners.*
Secretary Braithwaite said:
I'd like to re-emphasize the importance of the Alliance that we have...I'm a big NATOist...You know how strong of an opinion I have about this trans-atlantic partnership... We stood with you in the dark days of World War II, and we continue to stand with you, for whatever challenges emerge-not just in Europe, but around the globe... Exercise Trident Juncture (with some 50,000 NATO and Partner troops) was an entire success under your leadership (Admiral Foggo) - it demonstrated our fortitude as well as reminding those who would challenge our interests on the seas as well as well as shoreside, of what our interest and intent is: to ensure that freedom rings true for those who​ embrace democracy.
Looking to the future, I want to make sure we build the right fleet to meet the challenges and threats of the future.
Why is the Baltic Sea so important and why is naval presence so important up there?It is a constricted waterway by the Danish Straits, but, you know,it is a critical artery of commerce with up to 15% of the world's cargo traffic transiting through that region, and a lot of nations bordering on that sea-many of them friends.So this dynamic security environment demands cooperation to ensure freedom of movement, and consequently economic prosperity.And that requires a commitment from regional Partners and Allies, and certainly from NATO.So every Baltic country has something powerful to contribute.*
Secretary Braithwaite served as a maritime patrol aviator and public affairs officer,retiring as a Rear Admiral,lower level and Vice Chief of Information.His decorations include the Legion of Merit; Defense Meritorious Service Medal; Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat "V"; and Iraqi Campaign Medal.*

B-2 Spirit Refueling Near The Arctic Circle

Record Broken, Still Going Strong! 161 Days at Sea and Counting

Bull Run-12 by the Ministry of National Defence of Poland

Bull Run 12- NATO enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group Poland - June 2020

Bull Run 12:NATO Land Forces Drill on Eastern Flank

NATO'S enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group Poland went on alert to deal with a simulated crisis in Exercise Bull Run 12 from 19-23 June 2020. Soldiers from the five Battle Group Poland nations participated:
Croatia, Poland, Romania, the UK and the US.The warfighting drills took place on the Bemowo Piskie Training Area, Poland.The aim was to test the readiness and interoperability of the Battle Group and the Polish 15th Mechanised Infantry Brigade.*
Representing the US was the 3rd Squadron,2nd Cavalry Regiment.Iron Troop was the ready troop and had 12 hours to move through the Alert Marshall Deploy Sequence and occupy their battle positions in the Sowaki Gap.*
The main parts of the exercise were a wet gap crossing and a combined arms drill.The water obstacle was defeated on BL6-67 bridges under cover of F-16 fighter aircraft and W-3 Sokol helicopters.The CAD was rehearsed with a terrain model on the ground.
The US troops deployed their Stryker Infantry Carrier Vehicles.*
Croatia won the military competition held before the exercise.*

U.S. Ambassador to Greece visits NSA Souda Bay. - Naval Support Activity

Ellsworth B-1B Bombers • To The Black Sea & Back (2020)

NATO Secretary General, Press Conference at Defence Ministers Meeting, 1...

Advanced Tactics and Technology Secure the Baltics in Large Scenario

BALTOPS 2020, considered the premier maritime forces exercise for NATO and Partners, concluded on 16 June 2020.Nineteen Allies plus Partners Finland and Sweden improved flexibility in air defence; anti-submarine warfare; maritime interdiction;and mine countermeasures operations.Naval Striking Forces NATO (STRIKFORNATO) at its new HQ in Lisbon, Portugal implemented the latest technology into their Joint Operations Centre to facilitate Command and Control of the drills.Such new capabilities as recognized maritime picture viewing;NATO common operational picture feeds; joint targeting systems for operational planning;and a tactical data link to communicate with Allied warships at sea were exercised, Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe said.

According to LG Klaus Habersetzen, Commander, Combined Air Operations Centre (CAOL) in Uedem, Germany, which coordinated the operations of the 28 aircraft in the drills:
This challenging mission serves to demonstrate NATO Allies are united and ready to deter conflict and defend the sovereignty of Baltic nations through sea control and power projection.*
BALTOPS unfolded in two phases:
1.Combat Enhancement Training and Force Integration Training (CET-FIT) and
2.Tactical Exercise (TACEX), which gave commanders the freedom to run their own tactical programmes and simulated operations in real world conditions, SHAPE indicated.*

How I Boarded a US NAVY NUCLEAR SUBMARINE in the Arctic (ICEX 2020) - Sm...

BALTOPS - Maritime Operations Center - 19 NATO Allies and Partner Nations

Boeing RC-135 Rivet Joint • RAF Mildenhall - classified mission 10 June 2020

V-22's At RAF Coningsby June 9th 2020 - US Marine Corps

BALTOPS 2020

U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon Refueling Over Poland - BALTOPS 2020

NATO Goes Big and Bold for the Baltic Sea Region

BALTOPS 2020, one of the largest military exercises in Northern Europe,got underway on 7 June 2020 and runs till 16 June.Warships from 17 NATO Allies and 2 Partners will be enhancing flexibility and interoperability in order to elevate preparedness for an international crisis.It is the 49th iteration of the expansive drills.*
On 8 June, the US Navy's Command and Control ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) served as a platform for an MH-60 Sea Hawk helicopter from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 28 (HSC-28), while the Royal Norwegian Navy frigate HNoMS Otto Sverdrup (F 312) transited the Baltic Sea,as did the guided-missile destroyer USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) and the German Navy replenishment oiler FGS Rhoen (A 1443). Indeed,a German Navy Mk88 H Super Lynx helicopter flew over the Mount Whitney the same day.The multi-role chopper ranges from anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare to search and rescue and utility missions.*
About 3,000 troops,28 naval vessels and 28 aircraft are participating from 17 NATO Allies and 2 Partners from the following nations:
Canada, Denmark, Estonia,Finland, Germany, Greece,Italy,Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal,Spain, Sweden, Turkey, the UK and the US.*
HQ for the drills is Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO (STRIKFORNATO) in Lisbon, Portugal-an historic first for the exercise.NATO'S own AWACS planes will coordinate some of the air manoeuvres, the Alliance said.*
According to the Royal Navy, the drills will concentrate on core naval warfare tasks such as air defence;ASW; and mine-hunting.Frigate HMS Kent and minehunter HMS Ramsey are spearheading the RN contribution to BALTOPS.Ramsey's CO LTCR Joel Roberts explained that:
In these uncertain times, continuing to deliver on operations is essential in protecting collective NATO and UK interests, and BALTOPS demonstrates our enduring commitment to strengthen our combined understanding, diverse range of capability, and ability to respond to emerging threats.*
HMS Kent had recently conducted joint drills with the US Navy in the Barents Sea off Russia.Adept at ASW, the Kent combines passive underwater sensors and presently a Merlin helicopter from 814 Naval Air Squadron to hunt and,if need be, eliminate submarine threats.In this exercise,HMS Kent will be ready to deal with multiple threats from aircraft, boats
 and submarines with her cutting edge suite of sensors and weapon systems for detection and engagement.
Said CO CDR Matt Sykes:
In these turbulent times,it is also vitally important that we demonstrate our commitment to the Region and to upholding the principles of freedom of access to the Baltic Sea.*

DIA’s “MARS” Project Achieves Key Milestone

DIA’s “MARS” Project Achieves Key Milestone: The mission of the Defense Intelligence Agency is to provide intelligence on foreign militaries to prevent and win wars.

B-52 Stratofortress Refueling Over Norwegian coast - strategic bomber mission - 3 June 2020

Live-Fire Training With 2 SCOTS Ahead Of Their Afghanistan Deployment | ...

Carrier Flight Operations • USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) - Exercise.Vigilant Osprey - In air defence drills,F/A-18 E-F Super Hornets intercept B-1B Lancer strategic bombers

NATO eFP Battlegroup ����Poland tests out for ����Expert Infantryman Badge

Ocean Drills: Vigilant Osprey Hones Atlantic Defence

North Atlantic Allies Canada, Denmark and the US concluded Exercise Vigilant Osprey,a complex homeland defence operation,on 31 May 2020.Led by US Northern Command (NORTHCOM),, Vigilant Osprey advanced tactical and operational proficiency in high-end warfare in a bi-national,multi-domain exercise in the Atlantic Ocean.
Representing the US Navy was the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) and its Carrier Strike Group.The CSG is being kept at sea during its sustainment phase (ready for tasking) because of the COVID-19 threat.It has been deployed since November 2019.Nonetheless,it maintains a high level of readiness to support a full range of maritime operations for regional and national strategic objectives,as a flexible and lethal asset.Members of the CSG include Carrier Air Wing 1; Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60); and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98).*
The Royal Canadian Navy provided afloat logistics support to the CSG, while frigate HMCS Ville de Quebec (FFH 332) took part in anti-submarine warfare and air defence drills with the CSG.Royal Canadian Air Force CP-140 Aurora Long-Range Patrol aircraft made several overflights and also took part in the ASW exercise.*
Danish Joint Arctic Command in Nuuk, Greenland conducted a command post drill with Commander,U.S. 2nd Fleet (C2F),in which tactical and operational information was shared via Link 16 to improve mutual situational awareness.The drill ensured that such information could be shared in real time.Said Commander,U.S. 2nd Fleet VADM Andrew Lewis:
The Atlantic is a contested environment, and our partnerships strengthen our advantage and complicate adversary decision making.*
Explained MG Kim Jesper Jorgensen,Commander,JACO:
Danish Joint Arctic Command is responsible for the defense and security of the Arctic regions of the Danish Kingdom, including Greenland and the Faroe Islands...Iook forward to increasing the operational cooperation between U.S. 2nd Fleet and JACO.*

Female Airman - Air National Guard

B-1 Bomber Afterburners At Night - Feel The Heat! - Exercise Global Thunder 18

US B-1s integrate with Ukrainian & Turkish aircraft for 1st time

Black Sea Patrol: Large Air Drills Show NATO'S Mettle

On 29 May 2020,a Bomber Task Force mission was executed over Europe and the Black Sea Region.It was historic in that, for the first time ever,a BTF mission integrated B-1B Lancer strategic bombers with Ukrainian Su-27 Flankers,MiG-29 Fulcrums and Turkish KC-135 refueling tankers.*

The long-range, long duration mission involved interoperability training in the Black Sea Region with theatre Allies and Partners, enhancing resilience and building enduring relationships to confront the broad range of global challenges the Alliance faces today.The mission provided a clear deterrence message to any adversary, according to US Air Forces Europe and Air Forces Africa commander GEN Jeff Harrington:
The integration of our strategic bomber presence across Europe proves that the US, alongside our Ally or Partner,stands ready to deter, and if needed, can employ these capabilities together.*
Also integrating with the Lancers were Polish F-16s and MiG-29s, and Romanian F-16s and MiG-21s, providing bomber escort and combat patrol overwatch in the Black Sea Region,USAFE said.Refueling for the long haul flights by the B-1Bs, which flew all the way from Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota,as well as the escort and patrol aircraft, was provided by KC-135s from RAF Mildenhall and Incirlik Air Base, Turkey.Other NATO refueling aircraft also participated.*
Finally, the B-1Bs integrated with Hellenic Air Force F-16s for an air policing mission over Skopje, North Macedonia.North Macedonia is NATO's newest member.*
Summing up, Supreme Allied Commander Europe GEN Tod Wolters,USAF, noted that:
These strategic missions enhance the readiness and training necessary to respond to any potential crisis or challenge around the globe.*

Air Force Department Celebrating Milestones

With the commissioning of 86 US Air Force Academy cadets into the US Space Force and the impending Launch America mission to the ISS by NASA Astronaut COL Robert Behnken,US Air Force, things have seldom been more exciting at the US Department of the Air Force.The new Space Force 2nd lieutenants include 57 space operators;3 intelligence officers;4 cyber experts;10 engineers; and 12 acquisition professionals.
As well, about 1800 personnel from 23 USAF organisations are to be transferred within 180 days to the USSF.Secretary of the Air Force Barbara Barrett, however,expects some of them to be shifted within closer to 60 days, Space Force vice-commander LTG David Thompson told a Space News virtual chat in April 2020.*
The USSF also aspires to recruit from the general public.For now,though, aspirants are being directed to Air Force recruiting.*
On 21 May 2020,SecAF Barrett and USSF chief of space operations GEN John Raymond held a phone conversation with COL Behnken.Ms.Barrett and GEN Raymond both expressed intense pride in Behnken's achievement.On 27 May,Behnken and his NASA colleague COL Doug Hurley,US Marine Corps (retired) are to be launched to the ISS by the SpaceX Falcon-9 rocket aboard the Crew Dragon spacecraft from Launch Pad 39A, Kennedy Space Center, Florida.The public is barred from the launch because of COVID-19.Nevertheless, Raymond said:
I tell you, we are excited for your upcoming mission.It's going to be great to have an Airman on that first rocket launch (since the Space Shuttle retired in 2011) and an Airman on the ISS.We're cheering for you.*
Both Behnken and Hurley are Space Shuttle veterans.They will spend 1-5 months on the ISS, NASA said, depending on how the mission evolves.It could include up to 5 spacewalks to replace a battery and refurbish other ISS parts.*
COL Behnken noted:
We've had some interesting twists and turns.Our mission was originally a test mission exclusively focused on a week or a week and a half or so to make sure we achieve the test objectives and get this flight certified for the next set of crews so they would do a long duration mission.*
The mission has been upgraded to ensure there isn't a gap in American presence on the ISS until the next launch of NASA astronauts to the space station.*
Thunderstorms may cause a postponement of the launch.*

Thousands Of Elk Make Mount St. Helens Home - Washington State

Air Force Global Strike Command integrates globally for mission success

Trump unveils Space Force flag

SecAF and CSO: Space Force Update

On 6 May 2020, Secretary of the Air Force Barbara Barrett and Chief of Space Operations GEN John Raymond gave a status check on the US Space Force during a webinar sponsored by the Space Foundation,an advocacy group of representatives from​ a broad range of aerospace organisations.Secretary Barrett noted that the USSF recently commissioned 86 US Air Force Academy cadets into the Space Force.For his part,GEN Raymond explained that:
We do not want to get into a conflict that begins or extends into space. We want to deter that. But the way you do that is from a position of strength. What gives us a position of strength is our partnerships. We also need to have systems that are defensible.And we have to continue to train our operatives to have the warfighting skills necessary to accomplish this mission.*
The USSF is aiming for a complement of about 16,000 personnel.It will be small, agile and trailblazing, according to GEN Raymond.The service is intent on protecting the free access to space which fuels both the American way of life and the American way of war.*
Secretary Barrett feels the launch of the X-37B space plane illustrates the necessity of having a Space Force:
The Air Force's Rapid Capabilities Office has combined forces with the Air Force Research Laboratory and now the US Space Force to execute a mission that maximizes the X-37B's unique capabilities.*
The USSF now oversees the launch,on-orbiit operations and landing of the space plane.This mission demonstrates the integration of the Air Force,US Space Force and private industry partnerships, the Air Force said.While some of the mission is public,such as the NASA experiments supporting the human exploration of Mars, the military side is strictly classified.*
Most of the Space Force's work is being done by Air Force personnel assigned to the Space Force.Over the next few years, certain Air Force units and bases will transition into the USSF,such as Cape Canaveral Air Force Station becoming Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.*

May 17 Live Broadcast: Atlas V USSF-7 Classified mission for the US Space Force

New York Legion post providing 'selfless service' in feeding thousands

New York Legion post providing 'selfless service' in feeding thousands: American Legion Post 483's food pantry and delivery service among the multitude of ways Legion Family members continue to assist others during the coronavirus pandemic.

Isolation tips | The former ��‍�� astronaut and retired ����US Air Force col...

Marines Ramp Up Readiness in the Indo-Pacific

From 17-24 April 2020,US Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit conducted full mission profile drills, including vertical assault,aerial reconnaissance and simulated close-air support,in the South and East China Seas.They were based on the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA-6).
At one point, two rifle companies from a Battalion Landing Team mustered their assault force with full combat gear in the ship's cargo bay, ultimately embarking both rifle companies aboard two waves of MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft.
Said MAJ Jeremy Fisher, company Commander of Bravo Co,BLT 1/5:
This training rehearses our Marines, the ship's crew, and other supporting components of the MAGTF so that if we were to execute a quick reaction mission real world, we've already identified and addressed any friction that might arise.*
In the East China Sea, the MEU conducted a tactical debarkation down cargo nets into an 11-meter Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat, ensuring the Marines can surge combat power ashore via multiple methods.
As well, daily flight operations were staged to enhance readiness.In particular F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters flew sorties day and night, including aerial reconnaissance missions throughout the South China Sea, and projecting USMC air power to safeguard freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific Region.*
COL Robert Brodie, commanding officer of 31st MEU, noted that:
Whether it's our F-35s conducting an Expeditionary strike, our riflemen raiding an objective,or our combat logistics Marines supporting humanitarian assistance, the MEU stands ready to support our Nation's call-Ready,Partnered, and Lethal.*
The USS America is permanently forward-deployed to Sasebo, Nagasaki, Japan.*
NATO is in the process of formulating its approach to China.*

RAF Coningsby German And RAF Night Flying P1 - AIRSHOW WORLD

2015:RAF Typhoons Take Off To Head To Cyprus For IS Airstrikes

Operation Inherent Resolve:RAF Pounds IS in Iraq as Green Berets Patrol Northern Syria

The war on Islamic State continues unabated in Iraq, Syria and elsewhere, despite the global pandemic coalition forces are also dealing with.This has been made clear as Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR) conducted various operations in recent days.
On 28 April 2020,two RAF Eurofighter Typhoon fighters, flying out of RAF Arotiri, Cyprus,staged a night raid on an IS stronghold in the Hamrin Mountains​ of Northern Iraq.They acted when military intelligence revealed the militants were hiding in the warren of caves and tunnels they maintain in the rugged mountainous terrain Northeast of Bayji,Iraq.The Typhoons successfully delivered their Pavehawk IV guided munitions on their​ targets, the British Ministry of Defence announced.Defence Minister Ben Wallace noted that:
The Daesh (another name for IS) threat is relentless and so will we be.*
Also participating in the raid were a Voyager refueling tanker plane and other unidentified OIR aircraft. The Hamrin Mountains are used by IS to smuggle weapons; facilitate senior leader movements; and plot terrorist attacks in the region,CJTF-OIR stated.Daesh senior leaders and their operatives have used the mountains​ as one of their last operating areas in Iraq.*
Following the raid,Iraqi Security Forces found IS documents; electronic devices; and fragments of weapons and other gear in the caves, some of which were rendered inaccessible.Initial estimates show that 5-10 militants were killed.Follow on searches continue.*
The next day,29 April 2020, the MaT partner forces and US Army Special Forces (Green Berets) conducted a joint patrol in the At Tanf,Syria area to continue the mission to defeat remaining elements of Daesh and set conditions for their lasting defeat, the Global Coalition said, adding that:
While the terrorist group no longer occupies territory in Iraq and Syria,it remains a threat there and elsewhere.
The Global Coalition will continue its comprehensive efforts in Iraq and Syria, and globally, to deny ISIS's (another name for IS) ambitions and the activities of its branches and networks, until the job is done.*
On 16 April, the Political Directors of the Global Coalition Defeat Daesh/ISIS Small Group had met, agreeing to maintain maximum pressure on Daesh/ISIS despite the several and multifaceted challenges, including those posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.*

Isolation motivation from a ����US Marine Corps drill instructor

Ukrainian Army takes out SUV belonging to Russian-backed rebel commanders in Eastern Ukraine - Bони не будуть мовчки дивитися, як їх безкарно вбивають

NATO Joint Force Command Brunssum, fully operational and capable

Germany to Maintain Nuclear Relationship with the Pentagon

Surprising no one, the Federal Republic of Germany has decided to reaffirm its dual key nuclear deterrence relationship with the United States.The German government,led by long-time Chancellor Angela Merkel, will announce in May that it is purchasing 30 Boeing F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet and 15 EA-18G Growler electronic attack/reconnaissance jets for the Luftwaffe​, German media report. The German magazine Der Spiegel reported that German Defence Minister Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer told US Secretary of Defense Mark T. Esper about the plan.The acquisition is part of a recapitalisation of the Luftwaffe.At the same time, several dozen Eurofighter Typhoon fighters will also be acquired.*

The Super Hornet is notably capable of carrying the new version of the American B61 nuclear bomb, the B61-12; while the Eurofighter is not.Thus the purchase of the Boeing planes will facilitate continuation of the current nuclear deal appoved by NATO'S Nuclear Committee.
Germany is one of five NATO Allies allowing the US to store nuclear weapons on its territory.The others are Belgium,Italy, the Netherlands and Turkey.In the event of a major conflict,both the US and the Ally would have to agree to deliver a nuclear  weapon on an enemy target.*
Two other NATO Allies, France and Great Britain, maintain an independent nuclear deterrent.*
Boeing (BA)

US Army Europe:NATO Forward​ Battle Group Trained and Tested

Despite wrangling with the COVID-19 threat, troops of NATO'S enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group-Poland were trained and tested for the US Army Expert Infantryman Badge (EIB),and the first ever awarding of the US Army Europe Expert Soldier Badge (ESB),from 23 March to 3  April 2020 at Bemowo Piskie, Poland.A full range of COVID-19 protocols were implemented to protect the Soldiers, including routine medical screening; closing off high traffic areas; emplacement of hand-washing stations;and social distancing.Consequently, the mission was completed with all in good health.*
The event taught and refined the basic skills Infantrymen and Soldiers learn at the lowest level.Said SGT Josue Arceo,infantry team leader with Iron Troop,3rd Squadron,2nd Cavalry Regiment:
Some Soldiers may take the skills we teach for granted, but when it comes time to use it, being an expert at the fundamentals will benefit these Soldiers and their teammates.*
Besides the 2nd Cav, Soldiers from the 5th Croatian Contingent; British Army Royal Scots Dragoon Guards; and Romanian Army 2nd Mountain Troop Brigade participated in the programme.Skills tested included a 12-mile ruck march; filling out a tactical combat casualty card; treating a simulated casualty;land navigation; operating an M4 carbine; and operating an M320 grenade launcher.*
Officers are expected to qualify for the EIB in order to be an effective leader of their military men and women.The programme builds expertise;improves cohesion across the multinational Battle Group; and instills confidence that the Alliance is prepared to work together to accomplish any mission,NATO said.It motivated BG-P to continue to enhance their readiness while simultaneously protecting their health through COVID-19 mitigation measures.*
What was it like? PVT Sara Grubic,a satellite communicator of the 5th Croatian Contingent, taking pride in her qualifying for the USAEUR ESB, noted that:
We received a lot of information in a very short period of time, and we spent entire days in all weather conditions.*
The eFP initiative deploys 4 battalion-sized Battle Groups to Estonia,Latvia, Lithuania and Poland.They demonstrate the Alliance's determination and ability to act as one in response to any aggression against the members,NATO explains.*
In total,29 Soldiers earned the EIB and 14 the ESB.Two Croatians and one British Soldier were among those awarded the ESB.*

Iranian Small Boat Passes Aft of USS Lewis B. Puller (ESB 3) - No Sound - US Navy video

Iranian Vessels Conduct Unsafe Operations in Arabian Gulf - US Navy video

NATO Secretary General, Press Conference at Defence Ministers Meeting, 1...

US Space Force Moves Ahead with Orbital Services Program

The US Space Force has awarded its first task order under the Orbital Services Program-4 (OSP-4). The 35 million dollar award went to a Virgin Orbit subsidiary,VOX Space,LLC of El Segundo, California for launch services for Space Test Program-28.STP-28 will deliver numerous technology experiments to orbit in fields such as Space Domain Awareness and communications advancement,in order to develop USSF'S space systems architecture.*
VOX will provide 3 launches of its LauncherOne rocket to deliver 44 small satellites to Low Earth Orbit for the USSF, with a target date of October 2021 for the first launch.LauncherOne is to be air-dropped from the Cosmic Girl aircraft,a modified Boeing 747.*
One of the STP-28 payloads is QUEYSSAT,a cooperative project by the US Air Force Research Laboratory and Canadian Department of National Defence.It is to demonstrate and quantify the potential to improve Earth-satellite quantum channel uplinks via adaptive optics, expand quantum network concepts and exploit this capability for defence applications,USSF said.*
The OSP-4 initiative allows the rapid acquisition of launch services to meet mission requirements enabling launch within 12-24 months of the Task Order award.Said COL Ryan Rose,Chief of the Small Launch and Targets Division at Kirtland AFB, New Mexico:
With our small launch contracts we are able to take more risks and move quickly to produce high rewards and tactically responsive launch capabilities for combatant commanders.*
STP-29 will be awarded by late 2020.*
Later this month,88 graduates of the US Air Force Academy will be directly commissioned into the USSF.In addition,16,000 USAF personnel are currently assigned to USSF and, over time, many of them will have the chance to transfer to the USSF.Secretary of the Air Force Barbara Barrett has formally set a goal of transferring 23 USAF space-related missions to the USSF within 3-6 months.*
The USSF'S Chief of Space Operations,GEN John Raymond, noted that:
If deterrence were to fail,we are going to have to fight for space superiority in the future.And to do that will require the full weight of the joint force and so that will require Army, Navy,Air Force, Marines and the Space Force to gain that superiority.*

NATO Maritime Forces Respond to Russian Activity

In the second half of March, Standing NATO Maritime Group 1 monitored Russian naval activity in the English Channel
along with Allies France and Great Britain.This operation supported maritime situational awareness beginning on the week of 16 March 2020.Besides the SNMG1 flagship,HNoMS Otto Sverdrup, other Group members participating with the Allies were HMDS Absalon;HMS Sutherland; and FGS Rhoen.*
According to CDRE Yugve Skoglund, Commander, SNMG1:
Free access and entry to the Channel is critical to NATO.There has been a substantial non-allied military activity in the area lately.Our job as a NATO Force, together with our Allies,is to deliver NATO'S 'deter and defend'  message and provide maritime security.Our presence in the English Channel in the past few weeks is exactly what the standing maritime forces are made for... We are here to sustain NATO'S essential work even when all nations are facing tough times.*
Also in late March, three of the four US Navy Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers forward-deployed to Rota,Spain conducted a drill in the Eastern Atlantic with two USN P8-A Poseidon Maritime Surveillance Aircraft from Commander,Task Force 67,Sigonella, Italy. Said CAPT William "BP" Pennington, commodore of CTF 67:
By keeping our top assets, our Sailors, healthy, our flight operations continue to support the Fleet, demonstrating the tight-knit integration between our surface and air assets, and without a doubt, our unparalleled ability to flawlessly execute coordinated high-end naval warfare.*

Legendary Soul Singer Bill Withers Will Be Posthumously Honored With Navy Award

Legendary Soul Singer Bill Withers Will Be Posthumously Honored With Navy Award

American Legion National Commander Message: Make April a month of hope

American Legion National Commander Message: Make April a month of hope: American Legion National Commander Message: Make April a month of hope

These 23 Air Force Missions Are Transferring to the Space Force

These 23 Air Force Missions Are Transferring to the Space Force

Mount Weather Insider | America's Doomsday Plan

Eisenhower Audio From Mount Weather: 2 -- Operation Alert,1955

USS Maine (SSBN 741) Missile Launch

Μέγας Κανόνας - Ιερά Μονή Αγίας Τριάδος Σπαρμού Ολύμπου - Great Canon of St.Andrew of Crete chanted at Holy Trinity Monastery,Sparmos Olympos, Greece

Heading for the Hills:Homeland Defence Forces Take Special Precautions

In the wake of the COVID-19 crisis, the Pentagon's homeland defence forces have gone to the highest level of health protection in order to safeguard personnel capable of deterring and responding to adversarial threats,as well as to the pandemic at hand.These troops include those of US NORTHCOM and NORAD.
NORTHCOM and NORAD Commander GEN Terrence O'Shaughnessy, US Air Force,told a Facebook Live town hall with his personnel:
To ensure that we can defend the homeland despite the pandemic, our command and watch teams here in the headquarters have been split into multiple shifts, and portions of our watch team began working from Cheyenne Mountain Air Force Station, creating a third team at an alternate location as well.
Our dedicated professionals of the NORAD and NORTHCOM command and control watch have left their homes, said goodbye to their families and are isolated from everyone to ensure that they can stand watch each and every day to defend our homeland.It's certainly not optimal, but it's absolutely necessary and appropriate given the situation.
This is a marathon, not a sprint.
My primary concern was...Are we going to have space inside the mountain for everybody who wants to move in there, and I'm not at liberty to discuss who's moving in there.*
Other sites national security personnel may be relocating to include the Raven Rock Mountain Complex (Site R) in Southcentral Pennsylvania and Mount Weather, Virginia.Both impressive bunkers are hidden in the Appalachian​ Mountains.Another possibility for isolation may be found at Camp Peary,officially called the Armed Forces Experimental Training Activity,a US Navy holding in York County, Virginia that serves as a training base for the CIA and the DIA.The highly classified 9,000 acre compound includes a 1500 m/ 5,000 foot runway that has been used by CIA aircraft.*
Other military personnel known to be isolating include B-52H Stratofortress bomber crews; ballistic missile submarine crews; ICBM personnel; and certain Special Operations Forces units.*
NORAD and US NORTHCOM normally operate out of Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado Springs, Colorado."

Space Force Is Sifting Through 700 Crowdsourced Name Suggestions for its Troops

Space Force Is Sifting Through 700 Crowdsourced Name Suggestions for its Troops

Second GPS III Satellite Declared Ready for Military Use

Second GPS III Satellite Declared Ready for Military Use: The U.S. Space Force’s Space and Missile Systems Center (SMC) successfully transferred the second GPS III system to Space Operations Command on March 23, the center said March 24. The satellite, built by Lockheed Martin, is now officially under the control of the Second Space Operations Squadron located at Schriever

NASA Super Guppy Lands and Loads (MAR 2020) - 179th Airlift Wing, Ohio Air National Guard,loads the Super Guppy with the Orion spacecraft for Artemis I Mission on its way to Kennedy Space Center, having completed testing for its 2021 launch

Atlas V launches AEHF-6 , Advanced Extremely High Frequency-6 satellite for the US Space Force

Pence swears in Space Force General John Raymond

US Space Force Assumes National Security Launch Role

Despite the COVID-19 crisis,the new US Space Force, part of the Department of the Air Force,is to proceed with its critical missions of supporting military payload launches and responding to the outer space threat environment,a USSF spokesman told news organisations. According to MAJ Will Russell:
At this time, there are no impacts to the US Space Force mission-essential activities due to COVID-19 concerns.*
Indeed,on 26 March 2020 the Lockheed Martin Advanced Extremely High Frequency  satellite,AEHF-6, will be launched from Cape Canaveral on a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket with USSF support.As for ULA,a Lockheed-Boeing joint venture,it also is determined to forge ahead.CEO Tory Bruno said:
We have a critical role to support both national security and rare exploration opportunities.*
GEN John "Jay" Raymond is the first Chief of Space Operations,and more than 16,000 uniformed and civilian personnel, mostly from the US Air Force Space Command, have been assigned to the new armed service.More such transfers are imminent,USSF vice-commander LTGEN David Thompson said.As well, several capabilities and personnel from the US Army, Navy and Marine Corps will be transferred to the Space Force.The transfers are voluntary.
There is no opportunity for civilians to enlist in the Space Force at this time.*
The USSF has taken over the Boeing X-37B secret space plane.Its next launch is slated for April 2020.Altogether, the Space Force will launch 8-10 National Security Space Launches (NSSL) this year.*
Patrick Air Force Base and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station are to be renamed Patrick Space Force Base and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, respectively.*
The necessity of the US Space Force is illustrated by the concern that China will establish a base on the Moon in 2024.It could be used to supply China with unique military intelligence,in light of China's civilian-military fusion policy.*
Lockheed Martin (LMT), Boeing (BA)

Orion Program Update: Artemis I Recovery Test Completed

NASA and the US Navy have completed a capsule recovery test, Underway Recovery Test - 8, in the Pacific Ocean in preparation for NASA's Artemis I Mission.Helicopters from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 23 (HSC-23) and the USS John P. Murtha (LPD 26) supported the first full mission profile test.The Landing and Recovery Team successfully met their objectives, NASA said.*
The Artemis I Mission is a fully integrated flight test of NASA's Deep Space Exploration Systems, including the Orion spacecraft; Space Launch System rocket; backed by the upgraded Exploration Ground Systems at Kennedy Space Center, Florida.The recovery test furthered NASA's goal of assuring a safe crew module entry, descent,spashdown and recovery at the conclusion of Artemis I.*
HSC-23, the "Wildcards", are based at NAS North Island,San Diego.They fly the MH-60 helicopter and MQ-8B Firescout VTUAV.The USS John P. Murtha is a San Antonio-class Amphibious Transport Dock ship homeported at Naval Base San Diego.*
NASA's critical missions,such as Artemis I and the James Webb Space Telescope, are being safeguarded during the COVID-19 crisis to minimise disruption.Certain personnel have reportedly been moved to remote locations to help ensure the missions remain on course.*
Artemis I is slated for launch in the second half of 2021.*

Cramer: Companies that can weather coronavirus without government help w...

NORAD Conducts Intercept Exercise Falco-Virgo Over Washington,D.C on 11 March 2020 with a US Coast Guard MH-65D Dolphin helicopter and a Civil Air Patrol Cessna 182T general aviation aircraft

The Coast Guard MH-65D comes in an armed version for the Airborne Use of Force Mission.

Iraq:British Soldier Killed in Action Identified

The British Soldier killed  during an Iran-backed militia attack on Camp Taji,Iraq has been identified by the Ministry of Defence as LCPL Brodie Gillon.She was a reservist member of the Scottish and North Irish Yeomanry.*
In civilian life,LCPL Gillon was a self-employed sports physiotherapist.She had joined the regiment in 2015 as a Combat Medical Technician (CMT),and qualified as a Class I CMT in 2018.*
LCPL Gillon had volunteered to serve in Iraq.She was highly regarded both within the Regiment and beyond.*