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FIAT G18 OVER COSTA SMERALDA
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Crazy Luftwaffe Pilot against a squadron of English Bombers over the flaming sky of Normandy..
via John Currin - Google+ Public Posts http://ift.tt/1whYAQF
flyng monk originally shared:
Crazy Luftwaffe Pilot against a squadron of English Bombers over the flaming sky of Normandy..
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Chinese Navy Escort Task Group Visit Cape Town
The flourishing of any economy solely depends on the strategic international relations with other countries around the world. The visit of the Chinese Navy Escort Task Group is an important symbol of the friendly exchanges and cooperation between the South African Navy and the People’s Liberation Army Navy of China (PLAN).
R Adm R. Higgs welcoming the Senior Officer of the Chinese Naval Task Group
The Chinese Navy Escort Task Group arrived in Cape Town at the V&A Waterfront on 17 June 2014. The Task Group comprised of three modern Type 054A missile frigates FFG-546 YANCHENG, the Type 053H3 missile frigate FFG-527 LUOYANG and the new Type 903 replenishment ship AOE-889 TAIHU. The aim of the visit is to renew international relations and to enhance contact between the South African Navy and the Chinese Navy.
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On the quay side the SAN Band was playing and the South African Navy Guard of Honour formed up, together with two dancing Chinese Dragons on the opposite side and the guests, all waiting in anticipation for the arrival of the visiting ships.
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PLA warship followed by unidentified plane in S China Sea
PLA warship followed by unidentified plane in S China Sea
The Chinese frigate Dongguan. (Internet photo)
The Dongguan, a Type 053H1G frigate of the People's Liberation Army Navy, was followed and monitored by an unidentified aircraft during its patrol mission over the disputed South China Sea on June 19, reports the PLA Daily, the official newspaper of China's armed forces.
Sun Qihu, the captain of the Dongguan, told the paper that an unidentified vessel was detected first in the morning of June 19 in the patrol area. After spotting the Dongguan, the unidentified vessel turned back and left the region. However, an unidentified aircraft then appeared on Dongguan's radar screen.
The PLA Daily reported that such incidents occur not only in the South China Sea, but in every other contested maritime region. On the same day, a fighter of PLA Navy's East Sea Fleet was dispatched to patrol China's Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) to prevent foreign aircraft from intruding in Chinese airspace, the paper said. Meanwhile, the PLA Navy recently dispatched the Mianyang and Huludao, two Type 053H1G frigates from the North Sea Fleet, to patrol over the waters of the Western Pacific with the support of the Hongzehu supply ship.
Because of the constant threat of unidentified and hostile aircraft or vessels entering Chinese airpace or waters, the PLA Daily stressed the importance of the coordination between the PLA warships and aircraft. The paper added that PLA aircraft and warships are capable of conducting patrol missions several hundred times a year. Between 2012 and 2013, Chinese warships conducted around 66 patrol missions in the open sea.
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USS BAGLEY refuels from HMAS HOBART [I] before the Guadalcanal landings
7020. Another name ship of her class, the 1,500 tons [light] destroyer USS BAGLEY had also operated frequently in company with the Anzac Squadron, or TF 44 as it had previously been known. She is seen here shipping a heavy sea as she takes from HMAS HOBART [I] in preparation for re-fueling. Built at Norfolk Naval Shipyards and commissioned on June 12, 1937, BAGLEY is thought to have been the first ship to fire on the Japanese aircraft attacking Pearl Harbour on Dec. 7, 1941. The destroyer claimed to have downed six Japanese aircraft on the morning of the attack, but in the confusion of fire and destruction these claims were not confirmed. It seems likely that either one or two torpedoes fired by USS BAGLEY in the opening minutes of the Battle of Savo Island on the night of Aug. 9, 1942, mistakenly struck HMAS CANBERRA [I], causing the cruiser - already overwhelmed by a reported 27 or 28 8-inch shell hits - to lose power, ending her ability to fight back, to quell the fire aboard, or recover. BAGLEY had claimed hits on Admiral Gunichi Mikawa's raiding force of seven cruisers and a destroyer, but it would later emerge that none had been hit by torpedoes at that time. The firing of the torpedoes had been delayed while they were being armed at night and the destroyer made an emergency turn - fortunes of war. USS BAGLEY herself survived WWII, earning an impressive total of 12 battle stars. Photo: RAN, courtesy Brent Jones and his USS ASTORIA. org website, which can be seen here: www.ussastoria.org/Watchtower.html
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USS ASTORIA seen from the RAN flagship
7019. Taken from HMAS AUSTRALIA [II] off Guadalcanal, this photo shows the 9950 tons 8-inch gun heavy cruiser USS ASTORIA, lead ship of her class and a frequent companion to the RAN ships in the early days of the South West Pacific campaigns leading up to the Battle of the Coral Sea. ASTORIA was last of the four Allied cruisers to to sink as a result of the Savo Island debacle on the night of Aug 9, 1942, finally slipping below the waves several hours after the disabled HMAS CANBERRA [I] had finally been despatched by torpedos from US destroyers that morning. Built at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, USS ASTORIA had been first commissioned on April 28, 1934. Modified to reduce their topweight after Guadalcanal, her surviving sister ships became known as the New Orleans Class. Photo: RAN, courtesy brent Jones of the USS ASTORIA.org website, it is also held in the Naval Historical Collection at the Australian War Memorial, image ID P01233.007.
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HMAS HOBART
7016. Taken from HMAS AUSTRALIA [II], this image is unusual in that it shows the camouflage HMAS HOBART [I] at the time of Operation WATCHTOWER, the invasion of Guadalcanal and nearby Islands of the Solomons group in August 1942. In fact it appears to have been the same camouflage scheme the cruiser wore on her Mediterranean service the preceding year, and we had a fine image of it being painted at Entry 4254 here:www.flickr.com/photos/41311545@N05/5583854376/in/photolist-Operation WATCHTOWER, the first US Amphibious invasion in the Pacific, was the result of much dissension in the US Command ranks: its forces were hastily assembled and badly organized - the ground commander, Major-General Alexander A. Vandergift, had not expected to be called upon to land his forces until early 1943, but the Japanese construction of an airfield at Lunga Point would threatened to placed the lines of communication between Australia and the US at risk, by bringing them within range of Japanese aircraft. Thus, the US Command was forced to act earlier than expected. Despite this, the initial landings were successful, and in fact encountered only light opposition. Holding the island in succeeding months, however, would take a heavy toll in both men and ships. Photo: credited RAN, Brent Jones Collection, it appears on his USS ASTORIA.org website.
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US troop transport AP-37 in the foreground
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7015. With the US troop transport AP-37 in the foreground, HMAS AUSTRALIA [II] is seen on the screen of the landing forces with flak from AA fire beyond her. Photo: USN oFFICIAL, IMAGE mo. 80-G-K-385 it is held by the US National Archives and Records Administration [NARA], this copy courtesy Brent Jones and his USS ASTORIA.org website.
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Coming in low over the water through a curtain of flak
2013. Coming in low over the water through a curtain of flak, four twin-engined Mitsubishi G4M 'Betty' torpedo bombers are seen approaching a USN desrtroyer and other ships in the Operation WATCHTOWER invasion force at Gaudalcanal. Photo: USN official image No 80-G-17066, it is held by the US National Archives and Records Administration [NARA] . The image is also held in the Naval Historical Collection at the Australian War Memorial, image ID NO. 305274, and has been widely published. It appeared in Graeme Kent's book 'Guadalcanal: Island Ordeal' [Pan Books, London, 1971] pp40-41.
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Oliver Hazard Perry class frigate USS McClusky (FFG 41)
For the “Wildcards” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) TWO THREE, Detachment 3, currently stationed on board the Oliver Hazard Perry class frigate USS McClusky (FFG 41), their departure on April 10 was to be one for the history books.
A short-fused requirement, the Wildcards’ maintainers and aircrew worked around-the-clock for six solid weeks to train and complete necessary mission qualifications in their MH-60S “Knighthawk” helicopters to prepare for the detachment. As a joint, inter-service evolution with the Coast Guard’s Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron (HITRON) and the Navy’s HSM and HSC Pacific Fleet Weapons Schools, pilots and aircrew from all three commands were on hand to instruct the Wildcards in the Airborne Use of Force (AUF) mission.
“We are bringing a new capability to the Navy. Our crews are trained to fight illegal drug trafficking not only during the day but at night. Only one other Navy unit, a reserve unit, is so trained. We’re taking the smugglers by surprise,” said Cmdr. Jennifer Wilderman, the squadron’s commanding officer. “We are very happy to lead the fleet in this advancement, support U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) in this critically important operation, and help fight the influx of illegal drugs into our nation.”According to an article published in 2004 by LT Craig Neubecker, a plank-owner of HITRON, on the history of the command’s initial development, “In 1998, the Coast Guard estimated that it was stopping less than ten percent of the drugs entering the United States via the sea.”
In response to this alarming statistic, the Coast Guard decided to form HITRON to “counter the go-fast threat.” As a result, there was a conspicuous and nearly immediate increase in interdiction rates. To further expand HITRON’s new-found success, the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Navy initiated several joint efforts to make USCG aircraft more shipboard compatible. In 2006, the Navy began utilizing the SH-60B “Seahawk” aircraft – flying off of U.S. Navy frigates – to support the joint operations.
“It’s fantastic to have the opportunity to work with the Wildcards of Det 3″ said Cmdr. Ann McCann, the McClusky’s commanding officer. “Their unique capabilities, especially in Airborne Use of Force, will be a game-changer for Frigate and MH-60 operations in this important mission. I’m excited to see what we can accomplish together.”Future operations are likely to shift to other platforms as the Seahawks and the Oliver Hazard Perry class Frigates reach their respective retirement ages. Newer weapons systems such as the MH-60S, the MH-60R, and the Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) will be tasked to fill the gap left behind by the aging platforms. Naval Aviation will continue to be a predominant force in preventing the flow of illicit narcotics across U.S. Borders.
Press Release, June 23, 2014; Image: Wikimedia
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Article 16
The keel laying and authentication ceremony for the amphibious assault ship, the future USS Tripoli (LHA 7) was held at the Huntington Ingalls Industries Pascagoula shipyard June 20.
Capt. Christopher Mercer, Amphibious Warfare Program Manager within Program Executive Office, Ships said: “This keel laying ceremony marks a significant first step in bringing shape to the Navy’s next amphibious assault ship.”Like the recently delivered America (LHA 6), LHA 7 incorporates key components to provide the fleet with a more aviation centric platform. The design of the future Tripoli features an enlarged hangar deck, realignment and expansion of the aviation maintenance facilities, a significant increase in available stowage for parts and support equipment, and increased aviation fuel capacity. The ship will also be the first LHA replacement ship to deliver fully ready to integrate the entire future air combat element of the Marine Corps to include the Joint Strike Fighter.
“Like America, Tripoli boasts a very credible and capable aviation centric design that replaces the Tarawa class of amphibious assault ships,” said Mercer. “The design brings with it increased capabilities and will maximize the Navy’s investment in future aircraft.”Along with its pioneering aviation element, LHA 7 incorporates the fuel efficient gas turbine propulsion plant, zonal electrical distribution, and electric auxiliary systems first installed on USS Makin Island (LHD 8). LHA 7 will be 844 feet in length, will have a displacement of approximately 44,971 long tons, and will be capable of operating at speeds of over 20 knots.
LHA 7 is the third Navy ship to be named Tripoli. The name honors and commemorates the force of U.S. Marines and approximately 370 soldiers from 11 other nationalities who captured the city of Derna, Libya during the 1805 Battle of Derna.
Press Release, June 23, 2014; Image: US Navy
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Article 15
Image of a Nam Cheong-built 100-meter AWB, image: Nam CheongThe company notes they sold a smaller AWB to Perdana last July. These two AWBs will be the first-of-its-kind in Malaysia when delivered and the largest accommodation vessels to be built by Nam Cheong.
Mr Leong Seng Keat, Nam Cheong’s Chief Executive Officer expressed optimism for the future noting “rising momentum of E&P spending in the global oil & gas industry and robust demand for our vessels.”
The company’s orderbook stands at RM1.5 billion ( S$581.7 million) so far this year.
About the AWBs:
- Length: 123 metres
- Accommodation capacity: 500
- Other features: Equipped with 8 point mooring system and a 300 tonne deck crane
- Class: ABS
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HMS Campbeltown
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HMS Bridlington
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Article 12
REGULUS was created with the idea that sailors from the Royal Canadian Navy could expand their horizons and learn new skills in their trade by having the opportunity to serve aboard foreign naval vessels. Over 100 participants later, the results are unanimous – REGULUS has been a rousing success.
Sailing aboard French vessels BPC MISTRAL and FLF LA FAYETTE, Sub-Lieutenant Francois Belanger has experienced what most junior officers can only dream about. Working with representatives from NATO and allied countries, in addition to visiting exotic ports in Senegal, Brazil and the Ivory Coast and others, has helped develop him into a well-traveled Maritime Surface and Subsurface Officer.
“My time on REGULUS has been a continuous series of unique and insightful experiences. Professionally it has allowed me to continue gaining knowledge about several branches of warfare, and apply it to watches on the bridge and/or in the operations room,” said Sub-Lieutenant Belanger.Aside from exposing junior personnel to a world outside the hulls of the Royal Canadian Navy REGULUS has allowed senior trades personnel an opportunity to broaden their horizons as well. Leading Seaman Justin Taylor, a Naval Communicator, was afforded the occasion to serve with the Royal New Zealand Navy and found that the training that he received at home allowed him to integrate seamlessly into his new position.
“REGULUS was a very rewarding experience. In my trade procedures are mostly universal, making it easy to integrate into a new department regardless of the Navy I’m serving. It is mutually beneficial for both countries to have skilled personnel liaise with each other. We are able to explain differences in working culture and lessons learned in order to enhance both Navies understanding of operations,” commented Leading Seaman Justin Taylor.As the REGULUS program continues to grow it will continue to afford junior personnel with exposure to new horizons, and offer senior personnel the chance to develop in their roles.
Press Release, June 23, 2014; Image: Canadian Navy
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Article 11
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., Stratford, Connecticut, is being awarded $115,7 million for firm-fixed-price delivery order 4019 against a previously issued Basic Ordering Agreement.
Work will be performed in Stratford, Connecticut (52 percent); West Palm Beach, Florida (22 percent) and various locations outside the continental United States (17 percent), and within the continental United States (9 percent); work is expected to be completed in July 2018.
FMS funds in the amount of $115,5 million will be obligated at time of award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Maryland, is the contracting activity.
Press Release, June 23, 2014; Image: www.mh-60.com
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Article 10
U.S. Naval Base Guam (NBG) held a change of command ceremony at the Tango/Uniform wharf at the base in Santa Rita June 20.
Retired Navy Cmdr. Matt Miller was the events guest speaker and commended Ward for his dedication and excellence he has displayed throughout his naval career.
“Your outgoing CO was and is today a consummate professional who never shied away from doing the hard jobs,” he said.Miller and Ward served together at several commands including Attack Squadron 75, USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67) and most recently at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington.
Following Miller’s remarks, Rear Adm. Tilghman Payne, commander, Joint Region Marianas, presented Ward with the Legion of Merit for his exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding service since taking the helm of NBG in 2012.
“I’m sure he will tell you in his characteristic humility that this award is not for him but it’s for the men and women who serve at Navy Base Guam,” Payne said. “Despite your characteristic humility, I would tell (that) you as a leader of this group has charted the course and set the tempo, and set the attitude and the atmosphere for great success here at Navy Base Guam.”During his tour on island, Ward led the base during joint and multinational operations and exercises critical to the 5th and 7th Fleet’s theater security cooperation strategy and goals. He supported an unprecedented 1,420 ship and submarine visits from the U.S. and our allies, recording more than 3,000 berth days and transferring a total of 25 million gallons of fuel.
He was also responsible for directing several construction programs on NBG that included more than $500 million in both new projects and facility service contracts significantly enhancing the region’s combat readiness and support of the war fighter, fleet and family.
Ward will depart Guam and report to U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa in Naples, Italy.
Anderson reports to Guam after serving as executive assistant at Navy Recruiting Command in Millington, Tennessee.
Press Release, June 23, 2014; Image: US Navy
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Article 9
Whidbey Island-class amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) departed Kuantan, Malaysia, June 19 after participating in the amphibious phase of exercise Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Malaysia 2014.
From June 6-19, Ashland and an embarked landing force of Marines from 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, participated in amphibious training events and exchanges with Royal Malaysian Army Paratroopers in Kuantan and Tanjung Resang Beach. Ashland launched and recovered Assault Amphibious Vehicles (AAV) and Landing Craft Air Cushioned (LCAC) transporting Marines and soldiers from both nations during multiple beach landings. Moving inland, the combined force conducted several days of field exercises and jungle warfare training.
Ashland is participating in several phases of exercise CARAT 2014, a bilateral maritime exercise series between the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and the armed forces of Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand and Timor-Leste.
Press Release, June 23, 2014; Image: US Navy
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HMS BRITANNIA - c1914
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HMS Diamond GIB
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