Naval Aviation Vision 2008

Support Team

Col Steve Franklin, USMCDirector, Aviation Logistics

Headquarters, USMC

Maj Randy Anderson, USMCAviation Logistics Plans Officer

Headquarters, USMC

Robin GoebelExecutive Team Lead, Naval Aviation Enterprise

CDR Chris Fordam, USNCommander, Naval Air Forces Reserve

Acknowledgements

Many thanks to all those throughout the Naval Aviation Enterprise who contributed to this document.

Special thanks to the Strategic Planning and Communications Team from OMNITEC Solutions, Inc. for their expertise in writing, editing, and designing this document.

For additional information / copies, please visit the NAE webpage at http://www.cnaf.navy.mil/nae.

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

iii

OPENING LETTER

Opening Letter from the Leadership

of the Naval Aviation Enterprise

On November 14, 1910 Eugene Ely made the first at-sea aircraft launch from the USS Birmingham. His flight demonstrated the feasibility and brought into focus a vision of a naval aviation warfighting arm. Today, the security of our nation demands a Naval Aviation vision that supports our defense and naval strategy and is unflinchingly executed.

In the nearly 100 years since Ely’s bold accomplishment, the Naval Aviation vision has evolved to sustain Naval Aviation as an essential and vital element of our National Security Strategy. Naval Aviation is both the Navy and Marine Corps, sister services renowned for their unique aviation capabilities, versatility, and combat-effectiveness. Aircraft carriers with their embarked Navy and Marine Corps fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft, amphibious assault ships with their embarked Marine Expeditionary Units, and Marine Aviation Combat Elements conducting expeditionary operations ashore are invaluable instruments of United States national power ideally suited to deterring or defeating disruptive forces across the maritime spectrum of conflict.

This book articulates the Naval Aviation vision. The vision captures our current capabilities and requirements while positioning Naval Aviation to address diverse strategic challenges through 2030. Naval Aviation will continue to emphasize three priorities: Current Readiness, Future Capability, and People.

Current Readiness pertains to our worldwide operations and training that we conduct today that •support Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, and the War on Terror. It encompasses the maintenance and support of the aircraft, weapons, and systems that deliver today’s warfighting readiness and mission accomplishment. Navy and Marine units are smartly applying readiness improvement strategies that keep our aircraft mission-capable and effective within the constraints of funding realities, and help enable the acquisition of the future force.

Future Capability represents the plan for outpacing the threat and shaping the long-range plan for •Naval Aviation. It outlines the platform transformation for our aircraft carriers, amphibious assault ships, aircraft, unmanned systems, and weapons. As part of Future Capability, Science and Technology efforts facilitate the transition of game-changing research into capabilities-based systems and weaponry employed by our Sailors and Marines.

People define success or failure for Naval Aviation and our vision. The aircraft, weapons, and systems •of our force structure—present and future—are only as effective as the people who operate and fight with them. A skilled and dedicated team of warfighters, civilian employees, and contractor personnel is crucial to our success and we will harness their diverse talents to produce the required level of combat effectiveness. We are steadfast in our efforts to attract, train, and retain our exceptional and dedicated workforce.

This vision for Naval Aviation is the foundation upon which our strategic, operational, and fiscal decisions are anchored. It guides us to the year 2030 and beyond with the purpose of providing the country with the warfighting readiness expected to execute national policy whenever we are called to win our nation’s wars. We share this vision to inform and guide the actions of those in Naval Aviation and those whose support is critical to our continued success.

VADM Thomas J. Kilcline, USN LtGen George J. Trautman III, USMC Commander, Naval Air Forces Deputy Commandant for Aviation

VADM David J. Venlet, USN RADM Allen G. Myers, USNCommander, Naval Air Systems Command Director, Air Warfare Division

iv NAVAL AVIATION VISION - JANUARY 2008

OPENING LETTER ..................................................................................................................... iii

NAVAL AVIATION'S ROLE ................................................................................................. 1

CURRENT READINESS .........................................................................................................5

WAR ON TERROR / PRESENCE ............................................................................... 6COOPERATIVE RELATIONSHIPS ............................................................................... 12

HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE / DISASTER RELIEF ........................... 13

FUTURE CAPABILITY ..........................................................................................................19

TRANSFORMATION ROADMAPS .............................................................................. 21

AIRCRAFT CARRIERS .................................................................................................................. 22

FUTURE CARRIER AIR WING...................................................................................................... 25

AMPHIBIOUS ASSAULT SHIPS ................................................................................................... 26

FUTURE AVIATION COMBAT ELEMENT ..................................................................................... 28

NAVY TACTICAL AIRCRAFT ....................................................................................................... 30

MARINE CORPS TACTICAL AIRCRAFT ..................................................................................... 34

NAVY HELICOPTERS ..................................................................................................................... 36

MARINE CORPS ASSAULT SUPPORT AIRCRAFT .................................................................... 38

NAVY MARITIME PATROL AND RECONNAISSANCE AIRCRAFT ............................................ 42

NAVY AND MARINE CORPS TRAINING, LOGISTICS, AND OTHER AIRCRAFT ..................... 44

UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS ............................................................................................. 56

WEAPONS ...................................................................................................................................... 62

FORCEnet AND COLLABORATIVE WARFARE ...........................................72

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY .....................................................................................74

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table of Contents v

PEOPLE .................................................................................................................................................81

NAVAL AVIATION ENTERPRISE .............................................................................89

SUMMARY .......................................................................................................................................103

APPENDIX A - ACRONYMS and ABBREVIATIONS ....................104

APPENDIX B - IMAGE CREDITS ...........................................................................110

document credits ...........................................................................................................112

1

NAVAL AVIATION'S ROLEA Cooperative Strategy For 21st Century SeaPower

2 NAVAL AVIATION VISION - JANUARY 2008

The Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard have created a unified maritime strategy that integrates seapower with other elements of national power, as well as those of our friends and allies. A Cooperative Strategy for 21st Century Seapower, published in 2007 under the joint authorship of the Chief of Naval Operations, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, and the Commandant of the Coast Guard, emphasizes the value and necessity of American seapower today and well into the future, particularly in the face of rapidly changing global conditions.

The United States shares the world’s growing dependence on the global system, whose health and welfare are critical to the prosperity of the American people and the greater global community. This global system is subject to a wide range of disruptions—from natural disasters to regional conflicts to major power war—caused by the actions of diverse actors who view it as a threat to their political, economic, or cultural interests. Some of these actors are clearly intent upon disrupting the global system, while the intentions of others remain unclear but open to influence.

The maritime domain, comprised of the world’s oceans, seas, bays, estuaries, and littorals—and the airspace above them—carries the lifeblood of a global system that connects the nations of the world. Over the last four decades, seaborne trade has more than quadrupled, with 90 percent of all international trade and two-thirds of the petroleum trade now transported by sea. In order to preserve and perpetuate the prosperity of the United States and its global partners, this system of exchange among nations must be protected.

The foundation of maritime security is an awareness of what is moving above, on, and under the ocean. To that end, United States seapower will continue to be employed throughout the maritime domain to influence actions and activities and serve the following strategic imperatives:

Limit regional conflict with forward-deployed, decisive maritime power.• Where conflict threatens the global system and our national interests, our maritime forces will be ready to respond alongside other elements of national and multinational power to provide political leadership with a range of options. By virtue of its combat-ready, forward presence, American seapower will deter the ambitions of regional aggressors, assure our partners and allies, secure and maintain access to critical sea lanes, and protect U.S. citizens while sustaining the global order.

Deter major power war• . Preventing wars is as important as winning them. The expeditionary character of our maritime forces—particularly the ability to operate immediately upon arrival in theater with access that is independent of host nation support—provides the joint commander with a range of options to deter war with another great power. Our speed, reach, endurance, and lethality will deter aggressors who threaten significant and lasting damage to the global system.

Win our nation’s wars• . Our maritime forces are capable of controlling the seas and projecting and sustaining power ashore, making them indispensable elements of the joint force. Inherently agile and free to maneuver, they provide joint and combined force commanders with access to critical air and sea space, enabling them to seize the initiative with concentrated, sustainable, and overwhelming strike assets.

3

Contribute to homeland defense in depth• . The layered, in-depth defense provided by our maritime forces will help recognize and eliminate threats to the United States as far from the American shoreline as possible. This critical strategic imperative will be achieved by integrating the capabilities of our maritime and joint services with those of our international partners and civilian authorities in the private sector.

Foster and sustain cooperative relationships with more international partners• . Cooperative relationships contribute to the security and stability of the maritime domain, increase the level of trust between the benefactors of the global system, and stimulate long-term investment in its growth and sustainment. Unlike maritime forces which can be surged in times of crisis, trust and cooperation between nation states must be built over time through mutual understanding and respect. Our maritime forces will help build relationships through increased emphasis on humanitarian assistance and by cooperating with international partners to counter piracy, terrorism, weapons proliferation, drug trafficking, and other illicit activities.

Prevent or contain local disruptions before they impact the global system• . Our forward-deployed maritime forces and those of other nations will work together to ensure adequate levels of security and awareness throughout the maritime domain in order to constrain criminal transnational threats from terrorists, proliferators, and traffickers. Through routine participation in multinational exercises and activities, they will be prepared to cooperate with joint and combined forces to support and provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief worldwide.

These six strategic imperatives focus “. . . on opportunities—not threats; on optimism—not fear; and on confidence—not doubt.” As stated in A Cooperative Strategy for 21st Century Seapower, “United States seapower is a force for good, protecting this nation’s vital interests even as it joins with others to promote security and prosperity across the globe.”

A critical component of United States seapower is Naval Aviation. The aircraft, weapons, and systems and the dedicated Sailors and Marines who operate them reflect the credible combat power of Naval Aviation and play many unique and recurring roles in securing the maritime domain. The speed, responsiveness, and forward presence of Naval Aviation forces deter and mitigate disruptions to the global system, enabling the execution of national objectives while meeting the challenges of the aforementioned strategic imperatives.

Naval Aviation's Role

5

CURRENT READINESS


Carrier Strike Groups (CSG) with their embarked Carrier Air Wings (CVW), and Expeditionary Strike Groups (ESG) with their Marine Corps Aviation Combat Elements (ACE), represent the enduring value and agility of strike-capable aviation forces embedded in the maritime domain. Embarked on big-deck amphibious assault ships, the 2,100-man Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), or MEU (SOC), is a variety of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) that delivers troops and equipment from the sea to the battlefield. The MEU (SOC), with its ACE, Ground Combat Element (GCE), Logistics Combat Element (LCE), and Command Element (CE), is the muscle behind the ESG and complements the ability of CSG fixed-wing assets to project power as far inland as possible.

By virtue of the flexibility inherent to the maritime environment, Navy and Marine Corps ship-launched aircraft provide on-demand Close Air Support (CAS) and reliable Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) to troops on the ground. They provide Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) services, tracking undersea targets indefinitely with continuous patrols overhead. They are capable of performing multiple missions, providing on-scene commanders with the option to reassign tasking in flight in order to counter emergent, high priority threats. The aircraft carriers and big-deck amphibious vessels from which they fly provide acres of U.S. sovereign territory that is transportable throughout the maritime battlespace, can be sustained indefinitely through independent logistics and supply chains, and can be adapted for non-traditional missions. This was evident when the carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) became an afloat forward staging area for Special Operations Forces (SOF) off the coast of Afghanistan.

WAR ON TERROR / PRESENCE

ACE Support to the MAGTF

Navy and Marine aviation forces are operating today all over the world, both independently and in support of troops on the ground. During the summer of 2007, the 13th MEU (SOC) Battalion Landing Team (BLT), 3rd Battalion, 1st Marines, spent four months in Iraq conducting ground combat counterinsurgency operations in Al Anbar Province. During that time, they conducted 14 separate operations focused largely on disrupting the movement of insurgents and materiel into Baghdad and Al Anbar, resulting in the confiscation of over 90 tons of homemade explosives and raw materials and a decrease in the level of violence in Kharmah, Fallujah, and Ramadi. The 13th MEU (SOC) was transported to the Persian Gulf by the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), one of eight multipurpose amphibious assault ships in the Navy’s inventory. The support provided by Bonhomme Richard’s ACE, consisting of AV-8B Harrier jets and UH-1N Huey, AH-1W Cobra, CH-46E Sea Knight, and CH-53E Super Stallion helicopters, contributed to the success of the 13th MEU (SOC) Marines on the ground. By their presence in the Persian Gulf, units of the Bonhomme Richard ESG helped preserve the security and stability of a volatile maritime environment and complemented the ongoing counter-terrorism and security missions of regional nations.

Carrier Strike Support

Earlier in the year, the USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) CSG arrived in theater to support the fighting in Afghanistan and Iraq. When the Pentagon learned that members of the Taliban were planning a spring offensive, Stennis proceeded immediately to the northern Arabian Sea and spent the majority of its time providing air support to ground forces in Afghanistan. During five months on station in the Middle East, F/A-18 Hornet strike-fighter aircraft launched from Stennis flew 8,000 sorties, delivered 186 precision-

7Current Readiness

guided bombs, and fired 11,000 rounds of ammunition from their 20mm cannons during 82 strafing attacks. In the course of defeating nearly 200 Taliban offensives, Stennis aircraft destroyed a factory used to make Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) and neutralized enemy convoys en route to disrupt key elements of the Afghan infrastructure. They also obliterated an Iraqi explosives assembly factory using eight 2,000-pound bombs.


Navy Electronic Attack

Some of the most valuable support provided by Naval Aviation assets in the War on Terror is not the deployment of precision weapons against definitive targets, however. Electronic Attack (EA), which denies the use of the electromagnetic spectrum through jamming, deception, and active cancellation, has been spearheaded by the Navy and Marine Corps throughout the War on Terror. Since the start of combat operations in Iraq in 2003, the Navy and Marine Corps EA-6B Prowler has been a critical element of the coalition combat force and the Defense Department’s only full-spectrum Airborne Electronic Attack (AEA) asset. Throughout this conflict, the Prowler’s mission has evolved from the more traditional Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) to direct support of warfighters on the ground. Over the past few years, EA-6B Prowler squadrons, embarked on carriers sailing in the northern Arabian Sea, have detached two of their four aircraft to Al Asad, Iraq to conduct EA missions against hostile forces. For 91 days in the summer of 2006, Electronic Attack Squadron ONE THIRTY-SEVEN (VAQ-137) flew 326 EA sorties and 1,647 hours from Al Asad while maintaining the majority of their personnel and equipment aboard—and flying missions from—USS Enterprise (CVN 65). After just seven months at home, VAQ-137 left in July 2007 on a surge deployment aboard Enterprise where they are, as of this writing, flying multiple 6-hour missions each day in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM (OIF) and have accumulated 700 combat flight hours. When in November 2007, all Air Force F-15E Eagles were grounded due to an unexpected maintenance issue, Enterprise was ordered to move into the northern Arabian Sea where VAQ-137, along with the rest of Carrier Air Wing ONE, shifted to flying EA, CAS, Command and Control (C2), and other missions in support of troops on the ground in Afghanistan. In 2007, the Navy sent VAQ-132 to Al Asad Air Base to operate as a land-based expeditionary squadron. Normally assigned to a carrier, this was a non-traditional deployment for VAQ-132, designed to relieve the pressure on forward-deployed VAQ squadrons tasked to conduct split-site—Al Asad and carrier—operations simultaneously. Navy VAQ squadrons will continue to maintain an expeditionary presence in theater for the foreseeable future, much like they have in Afghanistan since 2003.

9Current Readiness

MAGTF AEA

The involvement of Marine Corps EA-6B aircraft has been equally impressive, beginning as far back as July 2004 when Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron TWO (VMAQ-2) became the first-ever Prowler squadron—Navy or Marine Corps—to deploy from inside Iraq. Operating from Tallil Air Base, VMAQ-2 was relieved by VMAQ-4, which relocated to Al Asad Air Base to join the Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) Aviation Combat Element. Today, Marine Corps in-theater EA assets and personnel directly support MEF and coalition force operations by flying EA and Electronic Warfare (EW) missions, coordinating with the MEF Radio Battalion to develop Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), and manning the Electronic Warfare Coordination Center (EWCC), which is part of the MEF Targeting Cell. As of December 2007, VMAQ-2, operating from Al Asad, had flown more than 645 missions and 3,345 combat flight hours since their arrival in July. Marine EA presence in Iraq will continue uninterrupted when, in 2008, VMAQ-2 is again relieved by VMAQ-4. Also in 2008, VMAQ-3 will deploy to Afghanistan in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM (OEF).


Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance

Complementing the wartime contributions of ship-based Navy and Marine Corps aviation units are forward-deployed Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Forces (MPRF), comprised of P-3C Orion patrol aircraft, EP-3 Aries reconnaissance aircraft, and Mobile Operations Centers (MOC). The intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions flown by Orion and Aries aircraft are providing ground force commanders worldwide with continuous, real-time situational awareness on the movements and intentions of opposition forces. They are also providing afloat commanders with valuable information on suspicious maritime activity, including acts of piracy.

Persistent Presence

One of the greatest attributes of American seapower is its ability to project the will of the United States worldwide, through a uniquely agile forward presence that is responsive and respected. As a show of force in the summer of 2007, the carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) sortied to the Persian Gulf region—in addition to the Stennis which was already on station—signaling our country’s commitment to security and stability. For six months, Nimitz promoted peace and regional cooperation in the Western Pacific and Middle East, participating in joint and multilateral operations and exercises. In addition, squadrons from Nimitz’s Carrier Air Wing ELEVEN (CVW-11) flew 8,240 hours in support of OEF and OIF. One squadron alone, Strike-Fighter Squadron EIGHTY-ONE, logged 973 combat hours, delivering 500-pound Laser-Guided Bombs (LGB) and firing 20mm cannon rounds in direct support of U.S. and coalition forces on the ground.

U.S. forward presence in this critical region remains uninterrupted. As of this writing, two multipurpose amphibious assault ships, USS Wasp (LHD 1) and USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), are on station, along with the carrier Enterprise, upholding Naval Aviation’s legacy of continuous forward presence. They and the ships and squadrons that will follow them—USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) with Carrier Air Wing THREE and USS Tarawa (LHA 1) with the 11th MEU—exemplify our ability to rapidly deploy, employ, sustain, and redeploy across the spectrum of conflict, a purpose shared equally by the Navy and Marine Corps.

11Current Readiness

Naval Aviation Support on the Ground

Naval Aviation is also contributing on the ground in Afghanistan and Iraq by sending Sailors and Marines normally assigned to squadrons and other aviation units to work in country. Trained to repair F/A-18E/F Super Hornets, Petty Officer First Class David Burroughs worked with the Army in Afghanistan to help restore the economy. He served as the assistant operations officer for a Provisional Reconstruction Team (PRT) in Khost province on the Pakistani border which built 30 diversion dams, 6 municipal buildings, 56 schools, and more than 50 miles of paved road between May and October 2007. Commander Keith Quincy, a P-3 Orion Naval Flight Officer (NFO) who is now serving as the Class Desk Officer for aerial targets and decoys at the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), served in Iraq from March 2006 to January 2007. During that time, he supported the Army’s 1st and 3rd Brigade Combat Teams as the Brigade Electronic Warfare Officer responsible for the equipment, tactics, training, and logistics used to counter radio-controlled IEDs. Also in support of the War on Terror, Marine Aviation is providing personnel to headquarters commands throughout the Marine Corps as well as joint commands. Important contributions are being made every day by the many dedicated men and women of the Naval Aviation force—both active and reserve—assigned to duty in the Central Command area of responsibility.


COOPERATIVE RELATIONSHIPS

Because preventing wars is as important as winning them, one of the tenets of American seapower is to engage in cooperative relationships with partner nations to promote worldwide security. In 2007, elements of Naval Aviation participated in a variety of multinational exercises designed to do just that. During her deployment, Stennis worked side-by-side with the French nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle (R 91) for five weeks and joined eight other warships, including another pair of aircraft carriers, for a show of strength through the Strait of Hormuz. In September 2007, Nimitz joined India’s aircraft carrier INS Viraat (R 22) and Kitty Hawk for the annual multilateral exercise, Malabar 07-2, which was expanded to include the navies of Japan, Australia, and Singapore and involved aviation, ASW, and multi-carrier operations among more than 28 ships, 150 aircraft, and 20,000 service members. Malabar is but one of many multinational exercises designed to help participating navies develop common procedures so they can respond faster to maritime threats and natural disasters.

In October 2007, the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) loaded with 1,400 Marines from the 31st MEU completed Exercise TALON VISION and Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX) in the Philippines. Each exercise was two weeks long and included airborne operations, amphibious landings, and convoy operations designed to improve interoperability between U.S. and Philippine armed forces, strengthen relationships between the two countries, and promote peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.

13Current Readiness

HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE / DISASTER RELIEF

Humanitarian missions complement the relationship-building of multinational exercises by elevating the level of trust between nations—an invaluable commodity that cannot be surged. Before and since the 2004 Indonesian tsunami, when 17 helicopters from the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) CSG flew more than 1,700 relief missions, Naval Aviation has been an active participant in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief throughout the international community. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in August 2005, aircraft and crews from the reserve component’s Fleet Logistics Support Wing, as part of Joint Task Force (JTF) Katrina, surged to evacuate more than 3,000 displaced Americans in 36 hours from New Orleans International Airport and delivered over 1.4 million pounds of relief supplies to Louisiana and Mississippi. When Hurricane Rita made landfall a month later, Naval Air Reserve aircraft evacuated 915 civilians from Louisiana and Texas in 12 hours. Two weeks later, reserve squadrons flew 750,000 pounds of relief supplies into Islamabad International Airport as part of the initial Joint Task Force response to the earthquake in Kashmir, Pakistan.


15Current Readiness

In September 2007, the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) was steaming in the Caribbean Sea in support of exercise PANAMAX 2007 when it was sent to provide assistance to Nicaragua in the aftermath of Hurricane Felix. MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopters from Wasp, flown by Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron FIFTEEN, and two SH-60B Seahawk helicopters flown by Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (Light) FORTY-EIGHT from USS Samuel B. Roberts (FFG 58), delivered 150,000 pounds of relief supplies and evacuated 34 people in the first week of this disaster relief operation. During the final weekend, a Marine Corps KC-130 Hercules delivered 93,000 pounds of supplies to Puerto Cabezas. In the same month, the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5) returned from a four-month humanitarian mission that provided medical, dental, and optometry assistance to people in the Philippines, Vietnam, the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, and the Marshall Islands. Peleliu’s international team of 1,400 military and civilian health care providers treated more than 30,000 patients and performed nearly 300 surgeries. Hundreds of civilians in need of medical attention and surgery were transported to and from Peleliu by MH-53 Sea Dragon helicopters flown by Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron FOURTEEN. At the same time, their fellow aviators from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron TWENTY-EIGHT, flying the MH-60S Seahawk helicopter, were embarked aboard the hospital ship USNS Comfort (T AH 20) conducting a 12-nation goodwill tour of Latin America and the Caribbean during which more than 98,000 patients were treated.

One month later, Navy and Marine Corps helicopters went to work combating wildfires in San Diego County. In one day, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron EIGHTY-FIVE worked to extinguish eight fires using their MH-60S Seahawk helicopters to drop nearly 1,000,000 pounds of water. Also engaged in firefighting, evacuation, search and rescue, bucket brigade, fire-spotting, and infrared fire-mapping operations were Marine Corps UH-1N Hueys, CH-53E Super Stallions, and CH-46E Sea Knights, as well as Seahawks flown by Helicopter Sea Combat Squadrons THREE, FOUR, and SIX and Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (Light) FORTY-FIVE. They were assisted by a P-3 Orion from Whidbey Island, WA which provided real-time electro-optic imagery of hot spots and situational awareness to firefighting authorities.


Much of the humanitarian assistance rendered worldwide by Naval Aviation units is not widely known—it happens in the course of everyday operations. A detachment from Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (Light) FORTY-THREE recently returned to San Diego after a deployment aboard the frigate USS Jarret (FFG 33). While deployed outside Kuala Lumpur, the squadron and their SH-60B Seahawk helicopters were called upon to execute an overland search and rescue mission. After four days and 26 flight hours, they succeeded in finding a missing Malaysian helicopter crew. At the request of the Somali Prime Minister, another detachment embarked in the destroyer USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93) provided assistance to a commercial cargo vessel in distress. Despite high seas and several hazards on the deck of the ship, the aircrew successfully lowered several weeks’ worth of food, water, and supplies—enough to sustain the crew until the ship returned to port. Additionally, Navy helicopters helped save an Iranian-flagged dhow in the Persian Gulf, a Tanzanian-flagged passenger ferry, and a North Korean freighter overtaken by pirates off the Horn of Africa. In July 2007, two P-3 Orion aircraft from Kadena Air Force Base and Misawa Naval Air Station in Japan responded to a distress signal from the Chinese-registered M/V Hai Tong 7 motor vessel, capsized by the storm surge of Typhoon Man-Yi. The Orion aircrew spotted survivors in the water, deployed life rafts, and directed surface units to their location, leading to the rescue of 13 crewmembers.

Personnel from the Naval Aviation force are providing humanitarian assistance in places around the globe besides Afghanistan and Iraq. Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Second Class Eric Pride served aboard Comfort for six months directing helicopters that transported 8,000 passengers and 400,000 pounds of cargo. Chief Warrant Officer Alvin Campbell, assigned to Naval Air Station Patuxent River, spent seven months at Soto Cano Air Base in Honduras providing intelligence support for more than 40 missions related to counternarcotics, disaster relief, and humanitarian assistance. And Lieutenant Commander Scott Murray, a Naval Flight Officer now assigned to NAVAIR’s Training Systems Program Office, spent a year in Djibouti, Africa as Camp Lemonier’s Safety Manager, responsible for the health and welfare of 2,000 personnel.

17Current Readiness

Naval Aviation is a combat-proven national resource with a definitive and enduring role in all of the Navy’s core missions: Forward Presence, Deterrence, Sea Control, Power Projection, Maritime Security, Humanitarian Assistance, and Disaster Relief. A critical warfighting arm of our global, fully-deployed naval force, the aircraft, weapons, systems, Sailors, and Marines of Naval Aviation significantly enhance the collective strength of American seapower. In so doing, Naval Aviation honors the commitment of the Navy and Marine Corps to protect the American homeland and preserve the security of the maritime domain.

19

FUTURE CAPABILITY


Naval Aviation’s core competency is the worldwide projection of combat power. As such, our first priority is to maintain superiority as a Naval Aviation force by producing the amount of current readiness required to deploy, surge, and dominate in combat. At the same time, however, we must deliver the force of the future—on schedule and on budget—which requires judicious management of the resources we have today.

Central to the objective of building the force of tomorrow is stabilizing our investment strategy to acquire the level of warfighting capability and interoperability necessary to achieve the desired effects. This includes maximizing the return on our Science and Technology (S&T) investments by transforming a high percentage of S&T projects—with relevant and distinct capabilities—to actual fleet products that can be employed by our warfighters.

The platforms and weapon systems capabilities that will enable our Sailors and Marines to achieve mission success are outlined on the following pages. We believe this vision provides for the successful transition of legacy systems to future capabilities and sustains the measure of warfighting superiority needed to deter and defeat our adversaries.

21Transformation Roadmaps

TRANSFORMATION ROADMAPS

The aircraft roadmaps are grouped into four broad categories:

Tactical Aircraft (Navy and Marine Corps).•

Helicopters (Navy) and Assault Support Aircraft (Marine Corps).•

Navy Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Aircraft (MPRA).•

Training, Logistics, and Other Aircraft (TLOA) (Navy and Marine Corps).•

Also discussed are the roadmaps for aircraft carriers, amphibious assault ships, Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), and weapons.

The ships, aircraft, systems, and weapons depicted on the following pages represent the heart of Naval Aviation’s recapitalization and modernization plan. Their development, production, deployment, and sustainment are integral to delivering the effects mandated by various Defense Planning Scenarios and the Contingency and Operational Plans of the six Combatant Commanders. Under the guidance of Navy Aviation Plan 2030 (NAVPLAN 2030) and the Marine Corps Aviation Plan (AVPLAN), these programs will endeavor to:

Ensure Naval Aviation relevance by presenting credible warfighting capabilities to deter or defeat •any threat.

Provide aircraft, systems, and weapons that reach their Initial Operational Capability (IOC) and •achieve the effects they were designed to produce, and sufficiently enhance their capabilities to keep pace with the threat.

Optimize Navy and Marine Corps aircraft inventories so they have the ability to execute the most •demanding wartime scenarios or meet surge force and reconstitution requirements.

Synchronize new procurements with the sunset of legacy aircraft.•

Avoid concurrent capability enhancements and new procurement in order to reduce spikes in •total costs.

Consider the operational risks associated with less-than-optimal procurement quantities and •their impact on other missions.

Emphasize joint interoperability.•

Reduce total life cycle costs. •


AIRCRAFT CARRIERS

Aircraft carriers and their accompanying strike groups bring exactly the right balance of presence and power necessary to deter or wage war in the 21st century. Rich in capability, they are well-suited to protecting the vitality of the maritime domain—and the interdependent global system that depends on it—from disruptive forces. Responsive and surge-capable, they also project power across the world’s oceans against targets that are often hundreds of miles inland. Their mobility and operational independence provide a unique level of access and on-station persistence that is vital to conducting time-critical, “first day of the war” strike operations—fully independent of host nation permission or support.

Currently in service are nine nuclear-powered Nimitz-class aircraft carriers, with the tenth, USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77), scheduled for delivery in late 2008. Construction on USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), the lead ship of the new Ford-class aircraft carriers, is slated to begin in 2008. The Ford class represents the first major carrier design upgrade in over 40 years.

CVN 78 will have an improved reactor design and electrical auxiliary systems outside the main propulsion plant, significantly reducing the amount of expensive steam, hydraulic, and pneumatic piping. The improved reactor and zonal electric distribution system will increase electric power generation capacity by nearly 300 percent, enabling new technologies like the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) and powering advanced C2 systems. The redesigned flight deck and Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG) system will provide greater flexibility during aircraft launch and recovery, leading to a 25 percent increase in daily sortie generation rates. The Ford class will also restore growth and electrical margins that have been depleted on Nimitz-class carriers.

23Roadmaps - Aircraft Carriers

Manpower requirements for Ford-class carriers and their embarked air wings will be reduced by more than 1,200 Sailors. These reductions, coupled with improved reliability and reduced maintenance requirements, will enable a total operating cost savings of more than $5B dollars over the life of each ship.

To meet the demands of 21st century warfare, Nimitz- and Ford-class aircraft carriers will deploy long-range manned and unmanned strike aircraft. Advanced weapons and long-dwell sensors, combined with high-speed sealift, tilt-rotor aircraft, and advanced amphibious assault vehicles, will generate more flexible combat power. Joint Concepts of Operations (CONOPS) centered on the aircraft carrier will leverage the military strengths of our joint services, bringing cooperative muscle to the fight and a potent synergy across the warfare continuum. The design approach and spiral development of the Ford-class carrier will reduce risk by introducing new technologies and capability at an affordable pace. Armed with aircraft such as the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, F-35 Lightning II, EA-18G Growler, and Unmanned Combat Aircraft Systems (UCAS), these new aircraft carriers, along with existing Nimtz-class ships, will project dominant maritime combat power well into the foreseeable future.

Integral to the Navy’s Carrier Strike Groups are surface combatant ships, such as Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruisers and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers, that perform missions independently and in conjunction with aircraft carriers and their air wings. Operating from the smaller flight decks of these surface combatants are Navy MH-60R/S Seahawk multi-mission helicopters, dispersed from the carrier’s air wing to cruisers and destroyers in one- and two-aircraft detachments. With up to five surface combatants in each of the Navy’s ten Carrier Strike Groups, this equates to a significant small-deck presence for Naval Aviation.


25ROADMAPS - FUTURE CVW

FUTURE CARRIER AIR WING

The notional CVW of the future is as follows:

44 Strike-Fighter aircraft (F/A-18, F-35, F/A-XX)•

5 Electronic Attack aircraft (EA-18G)•

5 Airborne Early Warning aircraft (E-2D)•

8 - 10 Navy Unmanned Combat Aircraft Systems (N-UCAS)•

19 Helicopters (MH-60R/S). Current projections show 11 •helicopters deployed on the carrier with eight dispersed to other ships in the strike group.

Additionally, two Carrier Onboard Delivery (COD) aircraft will normally be embarked to support the CSG.

2030


AMPHIBIOUS ASSAULT SHIPS

On December 7, 1941, the Navy did not have a single oceangoing ship capable of transporting and discharging a cargo of big tanks or other heavy equipment. The attacks on Pearl Harbor changed that situation forever as island by island U.S. amphibious forces fought their way across the Pacific. Amphibious Assault Ships are the largest of all amphibious warfare ships, resembling small aircraft carriers. In addition to launching aircraft, they deliver Marine expeditionary forces and their equipment to the beach via small watercraft. Perhaps more than any other asset, they symbolize the warfighting relationship between the Navy and the Marine Corps, delivering the fight to the enemy in “every clime and place.”

27Roadmaps - Amphibious Assault Ships

LHA: Amphibious Assault Ship - General PurposeTarawa-class LHAs were designed to embark, deploy, and land elements of a Marine Corps and

Special Operations assault landing force by rotary-wing aircraft, landing craft, and amphibious vehicles. They have since been modified to accommodate fixed-wing and tilt-rotor aircraft and are routinely deployed as one of three amphibious ships comprising a forward-deployed ESG. LHAs can carry a mix of 42 rotary-wing and fixed-wing Vertical / Short Takeoff and Landing (V/STOL) and Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) aircraft, one air-cushioned landing craft (LCAC) vehicle or four utility landing craft vehicles (LCU), and over 1,700 troops. They support sea-based command and control of waterborne and air vehicle ship-to-shore movements. With a Fleet Surgical Team embarked, an LHA can function as a primary casualty receiving and treatment ship with 17 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) beds, four operating rooms, 300 hospital beds, a 1,000-unit blood bank, and dental and x-ray facilities.

LHD: Amphibious Assault Ship - MultipurposeWith their improved flight deck and elevator schemes, Wasp-class LHDs can accommodate a mix

of 31 rotary-wing and fixed-wing V/STOL and VTOL aircraft. LHDs were the first amphibious vessels designed to accommodate both the AV-8B Harrier aircraft and multiple LCACs. Their enhanced well decks are capable of carrying three LCACs or three LCUs and they can embark over 1,680 troops. Wasp-class LHDs have the same Navy and Marine Corps command and control facilities as Tarawa-class LHAs and also have six operating rooms and 600 hospital beds.

All LHDs are being modified to accommodate the MV-22B Osprey and the F-35B Lightning II. USS Makin Island (LHD 8), the last of the Wasp-class LHDs, will be commissioned in 2009 and will have a gas-turbine propulsion system and an all-electric auxiliary system.

LHA (R): Amphibious Assault Ship - General Purpose (Replacement)

The three remaining Tarawa-class LHAs will reach the end of their extended service lives between 2011 and 2015. Because this ship class cannot fully support the future ACE, centered on the MV-22B and F-35B aircraft, and because the service life allowance margins for weight and center of gravity have been completely depleted, building more Tarawa-class LHAs would mandate undesirable trade-offs in mission weight and capability.

LHA (R) will optimize the aviation performance capabilities of the LHD design and will enhance Marine Corps and Special Operations amphibious assault missions by enabling the deployment of lighter, more precise combat forces at longer ranges and greater speeds. The enhanced capabilities of the future ACE, coupled with LHA (R)’s enlarged hangar deck, enhanced aviation maintenance facilities, increased aviation fuel capacity, and additional aviation storerooms will add a warfighting dimension not previously available to the Joint Force Commander.

The contract for LHA 6, the first ship of the LHA (R) program, was awarded in June 2007 and delivery is scheduled for the end of Fiscal Year (FY) 2012. Delivery of LHA 7 is tentatively planned for FY 2017.


FUTURE AVIATION COMBAT ELEMENT

The notional ACE of the future is as follows:

6 Short Takeoff / Vertical Landing (STOVL) aircraft (F-35B)•

12 Tilt-rotor aircraft (MV-22B)•

4 Heavy-lift helicopters (CH-53K)•

4 Attack helicopters (AH-1Z)•

3 Utility helicopters (UH-1Y)•

The ACE is task-organized by the MAGTF Commander. As such, the exact composition will vary depending on mission requirements.

2030

29ROADMAPS - FUTURE ACE


NAVY TACTICAL AIRCRAFT

F-35C Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter (JSF)The JSF Program will yield a tri-service family of next-generation strike-fighter aircraft that are

affordable and survivable. With its all-aspect stealth strike design, internal weapons carriage, fully-fused mission systems, and unrefueled combat radius of approximately 650 nautical miles, the Navy’s F-35C Lightning II will complement the capabilities of the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, now serving as the Navy’s premier strike-fighter. The JSF will enhance the flexibility, power projection, and strike capability of the CVW and the JTF. IOC for the F-35C Lightning II is FY 2015.

F/A-18E/F Super Hornet Strike-FighterThere are a number of enhancements to the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet that will sustain its lethality

well into the 21st century. Upgrades include critical growth capability, enhanced survivability, and weapon bring-back improvement. Avionics upgrades for the F/A-18E/F Block II include the APG-79 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar system, the InfraRed Search and Track (IRST) system, and advanced sensor integration. Future avionics upgrades will enable network-centric operations, enhancing Situational Awareness (SA) and the transfer of sensor data to remote command and control nodes. The Super Hornet will provide the organic tanking mission for the CVW.

Navy Unmanned Combat Aircraft System (N-UCAS)Naval Aviation is pursuing the development of an unmanned, low observable, carrier-based aircraft

for missions in high-threat environments. With an IOC of 2025, N-UCAS is envisioned to be the strike-fighter recapitalization platform (F/A-XX) for heavily defended and denied access targets in maritime, littoral, and overland environments. N-UCAS operator intervention will be minimal, required only for such things as mission planning inputs, updates, target selection, and weapons release approval.

In August 2007, the contractor for the UCAS aircraft carrier suitability demonstration (UCAS-D) was selected. UCAS-D is a technical effort designed to demonstrate the carrier suitability of an autonomous, low-observable, unmanned air vehicle and critical technologies relevant to the shipboard environment. This effort is scheduled to conclude in 2013 and will include catapult takeoffs from, and arrested landings aboard, an actual aircraft carrier.

Future Carrier Air Wings (circa 2025) will be transitioning from a mix of F/A-18 and F-35 squadrons to a mix of F-35 and N-UCAS / F/A-XX squadrons. This mix will provide the Navy with the capability to conduct non-traditional ISR in denied access areas, initial SEAD / Destruction of Enemy Air Defenses (DEAD), and penetrating strike missions at reduced risk during the early phases of a campaign.

31Roadmaps - Navy TACAIR

F/A-18A/B/C/D

F/A-18E/F Block I

S-3B

20302008

F/A-18E/F Block II

F-35C

N-UCAS / F/A-XX


EA-6B Prowler / EA-18G Growler Airborne Electronic

Attack

The EA-6B Prowler has long served as the nation’s foremost tactical AEA platform. In December 2001, the Navy completed an analysis of alternatives for AEA, laying the foundation to replace the Prowler with the EA-18G Growler. Until then, investments in the ALQ-218 receiver system, which is the heart of the EA-6B Improved Capability III (ICAP III) program, will provide a critical technology bridge between the Prowler and the Growler. ICAP III and EA-18G are vital components of the Defense Department’s plan to build a joint “system-of-systems” EA capability. The EA-18G will replace all carrier-based EA-6B aircraft and will reach IOC in FY 2009. Full Operational Capability (FOC) is scheduled for 2012.

E-2C Hawkeye / E-2D Advanced Hawkeye

Providing Battle Management, C2, and Airborne Early Warning (AEW) for the CSG and joint commanders, the E-2C/D will remain a primary enabler of decisive power projection at sea and over land in the joint operational environment. The latest variant of the E-2C, known as Hawkeye 2000, and the forthcoming E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, a two-generation leap in systems capability, make the Hawkeye a critical node in network-centric air operations. Hawkeye system capabilities are fully interoperable with the U.S. Air Force E-3 Sentry’s Airborne Warning And Control System (AWACS) and accompanying ground-based C2 systems. Radar improvements coupled with Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC) will make the E-2D an important participant in Theater Air and Missile Defense (TAMD), helping the CSG provide homeland and partner nation security and force protection. E-2D Advanced Hawkeye has an IOC of FY 2011 and is currently in the ground / flight test phase.

33Roadmaps - Navy TACAIR

20302008

EA-6B

E-2C

EA-18G

E-2D


MARINE CORPS TACTICAL AIRCRAFT

F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter

The Marine Corps’ AV-8B Harrier and F/A-18A/C/D Hornet aircraft will be replaced with the F-35B Lightning II STOVL variant of the JSF. The STOVL JSF combines multi-role, low-observable, fifth-generation capabilities with the flexibility required for expeditionary basing. The F-35B will allow the Marine Corps to provide Tactical Air (TACAIR) operational flexibility and tactical supremacy to the MAGTF and Joint Force Commander. IOC for the F-35B is FY 2012.

EA-6B Prowler AND Airborne Electronic Attack

The Marine Corps will continue to fly the ICAP III EA-6B Prowler as a capability bridge to a MAGTF-oriented, scalable, system-of-systems able to support the needs of the joint force. In development are UAS payloads, ground systems, and joint improvements to the F-35 JSF that will enable a distributed EW capability suitable for MAGTF operations.

35Roadmaps - Marine Corps TACAIR

20302008

AV-8B

F/A-18A/C/D

EA-6B

UAS

F-35B


NAVY HELICOPTERS

MH-60R/S Seahawk Multi-Mission Combat Helicopters

The MH-60R and MH-60S multi-mission combat helicopters are the pillars of the Naval Helicopter CONOPS for the 21st century. Under the Helo CONOPS, the two Seahawk variants, with 85 percent commonality to facilitate maintenance and logistics support, will deploy as companion squadrons embarked on aircraft carriers, surface ships, and logistics vessels under the leadership of the Carrier Air Wing Commander.

MH-60R

The MH-60R will provide surface and subsurface warfare support with its Airborne Low Frequency Sonar (ALFS), Electronic Support Measures (ESM), advanced Forward-Looking InfraRed (FLIR), precision air-to-ground missiles, machine guns, and lightweight torpedoes. The first fleet MH-60R squadron was established in October 2007.

MH-60S

The MH-60S will partner with the MH-60R for surface warfare missions, carrying the same FLIR and air-to-ground weaponry and machine guns. Additionally, it will have the capability to support Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) and Naval Special Warfare (NSW) joint theater operations. The platform will perform the Airborne Mine CounterMeasures (AMCM) mission using any one of five advanced sensor / weapons packages to provide detection, localization, and neutralization of the anti-access mine threat. These five systems include the AQS-20A Mine-Hunting Sonar, the Airborne Laser Mine Detection System (ALMDS), the Airborne Mine Neutralization System (AMNS), the Rapid Airborne Mine Clearance System (RAMICS), and the Organic Airborne and Surface Influence System (OASIS). Collectively, these systems will allow naval forces to operate and maneuver in littoral and blue water environments. The MH-60S will also anchor the fleet logistics role in CSG and ESG operations.

MQ-8B Fire Scout Vertical Takeoff UAS (VTUAS)The MQ-8B Fire Scout VTUAS system is designed to operate from all air-capable ships. Initially, it

will deploy on the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS), providing a significantly improved organic surveillance capability. Fire Scout’s capabilities include day and night real-time Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Target Acquisition (RSTA); communications relay with offboard sensors (such as the MH-60R/S and unmanned surface and underwater vehicles); and battlefield management of ASW, Anti-Surface Warfare (ASUW), and Mine Warfare (MIW) operations. With a vehicle endurance of more than five hours, a VTUAS system, comprised of three air vehicles rotating on and off station, will be capable of twelve continuous hours of operation as far as 110 nautical miles from the launch site.

37Roadmaps - Navy Helicopters

20302008

SH-60B/F

MH-60R MQ-8B

MH-60R

HH-1N

UH-3H

MH-60S

HH-60H

MH-53E

MH-60S

Heavy Lift future

Capability

(To Be Determined)


MARINE CORPS ASSAULT SUPPORT AIRCRAFT

AH-1Z Super Cobra and UH-1Y Huey Helicopters

The H-1 upgrade program is an integral part of the Marine Corps’ end strength growth to 202,000 personnel. As the number of Marine infantry battalions increases, so will the requirement for rotary-wing attack and utility support aircraft. To meet this demand, two Marine Light Attack Helicopter (HMLA) squadrons will be added to the active component. Both the AH-1Z and UH-1Y feature the latest technology in rotor and drive train design, avionics, sensors, and weapons. They also share approximately 84 percent of their parts, making them far more maintainable, supportable, survivable, and deployable than current generation H-1 aircraft. IOC for the AH-1Z is FY 2011. IOC for the UH-1Y is FY 2008.

MV-22B Osprey Tilt-Rotor

The MV-22B Osprey is a tilt-rotor V/STOL aircraft designed as the medium-lift replacement for the Vietnam-era CH-46E Sea Knight assault support helicopter. The Osprey can operate as a helicopter or a turboprop aircraft and incorporates advances in composite materials, airfoil design, fly-by-wire controls, and digital avionics. It possesses twice the speed, six times the range, and three times the payload of the CH-46E and will revolutionize 21st century expeditionary warfare. IOC for the MV-22B was declared in June 2007 and it is now supporting combat operations in Iraq and throughout the globe.

39ROADMAPS - MARINE CORPS ASSAULT SUPPORT

AH-1W

UH-1N

MV-22B

MV-22B

CH-46E

AH-1Z

UH-1Y

20302008


KC-130J Super Hercules

The KC-130J Super Hercules is a multi-role, multi-mission tactical tanker and assault support aircraft that is well-suited to the mission needs of the forward-deployed MAGTF. As the replacement for the KC-130F, R, and T model aircraft, the KC-130J provides increased speed and range, an improved refueling system, a digital cockpit, night vision imaging capabilities, and increased survivability as well as commonality / interoperability between the active and reserve components of the Marine Corps.

CH-53K Heavy Lift Helicopter

In operation since the early 1980s, CH-53E helicopters are starting to reach their airframe fatigue life service limits and do not have the lift capability necessary to support the future warfighting concepts of the Marine Corps. To support the Marine Expeditionary Brigade 2015 Vision and Ship To Objective Maneuver (STOM) requirements through the 2025 timeframe, the Marine Corps is developing the CH-53K Heavy Lift Helicopter. The CH-53K can transit 110 miles from the sea base on a "Navy hot day" (103 degrees Fahrenheit at sea level and 91.5 degrees Fahrenheit at 3,000 feet) and deliver a 27,000-pound load (carried externally) to a Landing Zone with an elevation of 3,000 feet. This makes it ideal for the Marine Corps’ future specialized and unique requirements for expeditionary heavy-lift. In the troop transport mode, the CH-53K will be capable of carrying 30 fully-loaded combat troops in crashworthy seats. Major system improvements include more powerful and efficient engines, an expanded gross weight airframe, an improved drive train, advanced composite rotor blades, a modern interoperable cockpit, improved external and internal cargo handling systems, and increased survivability and force protection. The CH-53K will have increased range and payload, digital connectivity and interoperability, and reduced operations and support costs.

41ROADMAPS - MARINE CORPS ASSAULT SUPPORT

KC-130F/R/T/J

CH-53E

CH-53K

CH-53D

KC-130J

20302008


NAVY MARITIME PATROL AND RECONNAISSANCE AIRCRAFT

P-8A Poseidon Multi-Mission Maritime Aircraft (MMA)The P-8A Poseidon MMA will replace the P-3C Orion, which has reached the end of its service life. The

Poseidon will provide ASW, ASUW, and ISR to the joint warfighter. To keep pace with emerging threats, the P-8A features a robust sensor and communications suite built within an open architecture to facilitate capability insertion of state-of-the-art ASW sensors, NetReady enabling technologies, and the latest joint weapons. The procurement plan for the Poseidon provides the lethality and capacity needed to support CSG, ESG, and joint battle force access throughout the maritime domain. IOC for the P-8A MMA is FY 2013.

Broad Area Maritime Surveillance (BAMS) UAS The BAMS UAS Program, scheduled to complete technology development and begin System

Development and Demonstration (SDD) in FY 2008, is integral to the Navy’s airborne ISR recapitalization strategy, along with the P-8A Poseidon and the Next Generation EP-3 (EPX). It will provide a persistent (24 / 7), multi-sensor (radar, Electro-Optic (EO), InfraRed (IR), ESM), maritime surveillance and communications relay capability with worldwide access, enhancing situational awareness of the battlespace and shortening the sensor-to-shooter kill chain. BAMS UAS will be forward-deployed, land-based, and autonomously operated. As a FORCEnet enabler, it will serve as a distributed ISR node in the maritime environment and help build and sustain the Common Operational Picture (COP) for the Fleet Commander. BAMS UAS will be operated under the cognizance of the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Group and its initial infrastructure will be incorporated into fleet Tactical Support Centers (TSC). IOC is scheduled for FY 2014.

Next Generation EP-3 (EPX)The EPX will recapitalize the Navy’s aging

EP-3E Aries manned SIGINT platform. It will be a multi-intelligence platform (SIGINT, Measurement and Signatures Intelligence (MASINT), and Imagery Intelligence (IMINT)) with robust net-centric and tactical nodes for both offboard and onboard collection and processing. The EPX will be an integral part of the Navy and joint families of ISR systems, providing signals intelligence and information support well into the 21st century.

43Roadmaps - Navy MPRA

20302008

P-3C

EP-3E

BAMS

EPX

P-8A


NAVY AND MARINE CORPS TRAINING, LOGISTICS, AND OTHER AIRCRAFT

TRAINING AIRCRAFT

T-6B Texan II Joint Primary Training System

NFO and Air Force Combat Systems Officer (CSO) training has transitioned to the T-6A Texan II, a giant leap forward in primary training with a digital cockpit, ejection seats, cockpit pressurization, and significantly improved flight performance.

Navy and Marine Corps primary pilot training will transition to the T-6B Texan II by 2015 when the T-34C TurboMentor is retired after more than 30 years of service. The long-term goal is to retro-fit all T-6A aircraft to the T-6B configuration so that there will only be one primary training aircraft for Naval Aviation.

At the end of its service life, the T-39G/N Sabreliner NFO training aircraft will be replaced in the near-term by the T-45C and ultimately by a combination of the T-6B and the T-45 Replacement Aircraft.

T-45 Replacement Aircraft

With the 2009 retirement of the T-2C Buckeye, advanced undergraduate carrier-capable jet training will have completely transitioned to the T-45 Goshawk. The T-45 will also be used to conduct radar intercept and Advanced Tactical Maneuvering (ATM) training for NFOs and, as the T-39G/N is retired, will have the capability to conduct Synthetic Radar Training (SRT) in concert with advanced simulation. This will make the T-45 the sole advanced undergraduate jet training platform for pilots and flight officers. Although the T-45A/C inventory is currently a mix of analog and digital aircraft, the Required Avionics Modernization Program (RAMP) will soon digitize all T-45 cockpits to more adequately prepare students for the advanced tactical jet aircraft of tomorrow’s fleet. By 2030, the T-45 Replacement Aircraft will have begun replacing the T-45 Goshawk.

45Roadmaps - Training Aircraft

20302008

T-6A

T-34C

T-39G/N

T-45A/C

T-2C

T-45

REPLACEMENT

AIRCRAFT

T-6B


T-44 Multi-Engine Replacement Aircraft

The T-44A/C Pegasus and the TC-12B Huron are both pressurized, twin-engine, fixed-wing aircraft used to conduct multi-engine aircraft training for Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard pilots. Multi-engine training in the Huron will be discontinued in 2012. By 2030, the T-44C, which updates the T-44A with an all-glass cockpit, will be replaced by the T-44 Multi-Engine Replacement aircraft.

TH-57D Sea Ranger

The TH-57D will replace the TH-57B/C Sea Ranger as the Navy’s only primary rotary-wing aircraft training platform. Future upgrades will include a digital cockpit to enhance training and more closely match the capabilities of Navy and Marine Corps fleet helicopters.

47Roadmaps - Training Aircraft

20302008

TC-12B

T-44A/C

TH-57B/C

T-44

REPLACEMENT

AIRCRAFT

TH-57D


LOGISTICS AIRCRAFT

Navy Unique Fleet Essential Aircraft (NUFEA)NUFEA provide Combatant Commanders with short-notice, quick-response, intra-theater logistics

support. Currently comprised of several aircraft platforms, NUFEA assets deliver medium- and heavy-lift capabilities in direct support of the Fleet. They are designed primarily to provide wartime movement of personnel and heavy cargo directly to the transitory beachhead, bringing personnel and equipment down the “last tactical mile” of the logistics trail.

C-40A Clipper

The C-40A Clipper is a Boeing 737 derivative equipped with an oversized cargo door that offers multiple passenger / cargo configurations and combinations. It is replacing the aging C-9 Skytrain and C-20G Gulfstream fleet. The venerable C-9 has served the Fleet exceptionally well for years, but with an average aircraft age of 34 years, maintenance costs are steadily rising. The C-40A will lead the NUFEA contingent into the 21st century with increased range, capacity, and fuel efficiencies to support sea-based logistics.

C-130T Hercules

The C-130T Hercules will continue to provide heavy-, over-, and outsized-lift capability. Projected to receive the Avionics Modernization Program (AMP), the C-130T stands poised to

enter the 21st century fully compliant with international standards and ready to meet the requirements of Combatant Commanders.

49Roadmaps - Logistics Aircraft

20302008

C-9B / DC-9

C-20G

C-130T C-130T

C-40A

C-40A


Operational Support Aircraft

Operational Support Aircraft (OSA) are used to transport high-priority passengers and cargo with time-, place-, or mission-sensitive requirements. They are stationed worldwide and perform critical airlift missions for the geographic Combatant Commanders from remote locations where commercial sources are not available or viable.

C-12 Replacement Aircraft

The C-12 Replacement Aircraft will replace the C-12B/F/M Huron and C-26D Metroliner and provide light-lift capability through 2030.

UC-35C/D Cessna Citation The UC-35C/D transport aircraft will continue to provide transportation for high-priority

personnel through 2030.

Executive Transport Aircraft

C-37 Gulfstream

The C-37 Gulfstream executive transport aircraft replaces the aging C-20A and C-20D to provide secure, high-speed, long-range transportation for senior Navy Department personnel.

51Roadmaps - Logistics Aircraft

20302008

C-20A/D

C-37A/B

C-12B/F/M

C-26D

UC-35C/D

C-37A/B

UC-35C/D

C-12

REPLACEMENT

AIRCRAFT


OTHER NAVAL AIRCRAFT

E-6B Mercury Airborne Command Post

Derived from Boeing’s 707 aircraft, the E-6B provides the Commander, U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) with the command, control, and communications capability needed to direct and employ strategic forces. Designed to support a flexible nuclear deterrent posture, the E-6B performs Very Low Frequency (VLF) emergency communications, USSTRATCOM Airborne Command Post missions, and Airborne Launch Control of ground-based Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBM). The Block I program and the Service Life Extension Program (SLEP) will ensure the mission systems and airframe remain viable well into the 21st century. IOC for these programs is planned for FY 2012.

53Roadmaps - Other Naval Aircraft

20302008

E-6B


FUTURE CARRIER ONBOARD DELIVERY (COD) Aircraft The C-2A Greyhound transports high-priority cargo, mail, and passengers between carriers and

shore bases. It can deliver a combined payload of 10,000 pounds over a distance of 1,000 nautical miles and its interior cabin can easily be rearranged to accommodate passengers, litter patients, or jet engines. The large cargo ramp at the rear of the aircraft and a powered winch allow straight-in rear loading and unloading for fast turnaround and can be operated in flight to air drop supplies and personnel. Equipped with an Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) used for unassisted engine starts, the Greyhound can operate independently from remote locations, lending increased operational versatility to forward-deployed COD missions. The aircraft is currently undergoing a SLEP that includes structural enhancements, improvements to the avionics system, re-wiring, and a new propeller system which will extend the Greyhound’s service life until a Future COD Aircraft can be fielded.

VH-71 Presidential Helicopter Replacement

Lockheed Martin’s VH-71 is in development as the replacement for the 30-year-old VH-3D and 20-year-old VH-60N helicopters, currently providing transportation for the President of the United States,

foreign heads of state, and other dignitaries as directed by the White House Military Office. The VH-71 will provide a hardened, mobile command and control transportation capability and a

system of integrated systems necessary to meet current and future presidential transport mission requirements. The capability will be delivered incrementally.

55Roadmaps - Other Naval Aircraft

20302008

C-2A

VH-3D

VH-60N

FUTURE COD

AIRCRAFT

VH-71


UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS

The Naval UAS Family of Systems provides the Navy and Marine Corps with a tiered, joint-interoperable UAS architecture for battlespace awareness, maritime domain awareness, force protection, and force application required by the supported commander. Influenced by a number of CONOPS, the tiers are tailored to support specific force levels, from CSGs and ESGs to MEUs, regiments, and battalions.

TAC

TICA

L TI

ER I

TAC

TICA

L TI

ER II

TAC

TICA

L TI

ER II

I

Incr

easi

ng p

erfo

rman

ce, p

aylo

ad c

apac

ity, a

nd v

ehic

le s

ize

Increasing Range, Persistence, FORCEnet Integration, and Mission Complexity

PEN

ETRA

TIN

GPE

RSIS

TEN

T

USM

CU

SN

57Roadmaps - Unmanned Aircraft Systems

BAMS

(USN)GHMD

(USN)

N-UCAS

(USN)

Fire Scout

(USN)Shadow

(USMC)

Scan Eagle

(USN / USMC)

Raven B

(USMC)Dragon Eye

(USMC)

VUAS

(USMC)

TIER II / STUAS(USMC / USn)


Tactical Tier I UAS

Dragon Eye and Raven B

The Dragon Eye and Raven B UAS platforms are man-packable, hand-launched, autonomous systems designed to provide Marine Corps small unit commanders with a reconnaissance and surveillance capability to see over the next hill on the battlefield, or around the next building in the urban environment. Dragon Eye began operations in 2004 and is now being replaced by the Raven B UAS, a joint asset used by the Army and U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM).

Tactical Tier II UAS

Scan Eagle UAS

Scan Eagle is a 40-pound vehicle with a cruising speed of 50 knots and a ceiling of 15,000 feet. Designed to fly continuous missions of 15 hours or more, it is used for both land- and ship-based operations. The Scan Eagle system includes the Sky Wedge hydraulic launcher, the Sky Hook retrieving system, and a mobile ground control element. The vehicle is equipped with a nose-mounted inertial-stabilized camera turret that carries either a zoom Charge Coupled Device (CCD) or IR sensor. Provided through a fee-for-services contract to the Navy and Marine Corps, the Scan Eagle system is being used to fill a capability gap on an interim basis. It will be replaced by Small Tactical UAS (STUAS) in FY 2011.

STUAS

STUAS will be a tactical, expeditionary, long endurance UAS capable of multiple missions. It will have advanced target acquisition, fire support capability, and will be employed from both land and sea. The competitively-selected STUAS will begin SDD in FY 2009 and a baseline capability will reach IOC in FY 2011.


Tactical Tier III UAS

RQ-7B Shadow (Marine Corps Tactical UAS (MCTUAS))The RQ-7B Shadow UAS is a transportable RSTA asset capable of providing tactical commanders

with day and night battlefield reconnaissance, target acquisition and designation, and communication relay in support of the Joint Force or MEF Commander. Shadow will be operated by Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadrons (VMU) that have been reorganized as detachments to allow greater operational flexibility than was possible with the recently-retired RQ-2B Pioneer system.

Vertical UAS (VUAS)VUAS is a versatile, persistent, medium-range platform that supports joint forcible-entry operations

delivered from the sea base. It will support Expeditionary Maneuver Warfare (EMW) by providing a real-time reconnaissance, surveillance, targeting, and weapons employment capability to JTF and MAGTF Commanders. VUAS has the speed to complement EMW, the range to meet the needs of the JTF and MAGTF Commanders, the survivability to operate in denied environments, the endurance to permit continuous coverage, and the agility to execute pre-planned and in-flight multi-mission tasking. It is envisioned that VUAS will succeed MCTUAS with a projected IOC sometime beyond 2015.

MQ-8B Fire Scout Vertical Takeoff UAS (VTUAS)The MQ-8B Fire Scout VTUAS system is designed to operate from all air-capable ships. Initially, it

will deploy on the LCS, providing a significantly improved organic surveillance capability. Fire Scout’s capabilities include day and night real-time RSTA, communications relay with offboard sensors (such as the MH-60R/S and unmanned surface and underwater vehicles), and battlefield management of ASW, ASUW, and MIW operations. With a vehicle endurance of more than five hours, a VTUAS system, comprised of three air vehicles rotating on and off station, will be capable of twelve continuous hours of operation as far as 110 nautical miles from the launch site. The MQ-8B Fire Scout is part of the transformation roadmap for the SH-60B/F and MH-60R (see pp. 36-37).


Penetrating UAS

N-UCAS

Naval Aviation is pursuing the development of an unmanned, low observable, carrier-based aircraft for missions in high-threat environments. With an IOC of 2025, N-UCAS is envisioned to be the strike-fighter recapitalization platform (F/A-XX) for heavily defended and denied access targets in maritime, littoral, and overland environments. N-UCAS operator intervention will be minimal, required only for such things as mission planning inputs, updates, target selection, and weapons release approval.

In August 2007, the contractor for the UCAS aircraft carrier suitability demonstration (UCAS-D) was selected. UCAS-D is a technical effort designed to demonstrate the carrier suitability of an autonomous, low-observable, unmanned air vehicle and critical technologies relevant to the shipboard environment. This effort is scheduled to conclude in 2013 and will include catapult takeoffs from, and arrested landings aboard, an actual aircraft carrier.

Future Carrier Air Wings (circa 2025) will be transitioning from a mix of F/A-18 and F-35 squadrons to a mix of F-35 and N-UCAS / F/A-XX squadrons. This mix will provide the Navy with the capability to conduct non-traditional ISR in denied access areas, initial SEAD / DEAD, and penetrating strike missions at reduced risk during the early phases of a campaign.


Persistent UAS

Global Hawk Maritime Demonstration (GHMD)GHMD is an initiative directed by the Secretary of the Navy to demonstrate a multi-sensor,

persistent ISR, high-altitude UAS capability well before the IOC of the BAMS UAS. The GHMD Program capitalized on the Air Force’s Global Hawk production line by purchasing two air vehicles (with the radar sensor software modified to provide a limited maritime capability) and the accompanying ground station equipment. GHMD is being used for a manned / unmanned aircraft CONOPS; developing Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTP); and collecting lessons learned that will benefit the BAMS UAS Program. Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Group (CPRG) is the fleet lead for exercise participation and experimentation.

BAMS UAS

The BAMS UAS Program, scheduled to complete technology development and begin SDD in FY 2008, is integral to the Navy’s airborne ISR recapitalization strategy, along with the P-8A Poseidon and EPX. It will provide a persistent (24 / 7), multi-sensor (radar, EO, IR, ESM), maritime surveillance and communications relay capability with worldwide access, enhancing situational awareness of the battlespace and shortening the sensor-to-shooter kill chain. BAMS UAS will be forward-deployed, land-based, and autonomously operated. As a FORCEnet enabler, it will serve as a distributed ISR node in the maritime environment and help build and sustain the COP for the Fleet Commander. BAMS UAS will be operated under the cognizance of the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Group and its initial infrastructure will be incorporated into fleet TSCs. It is part of the transformation roadmap for the P-3C (see pp. 42-43). IOC is scheduled for FY 2014.


WEAPONS

LONG-RANGE STANDOFF WEAPONS

AGM-84H/K Standoff Land Attack Missile – Expanded Response (SLAM-ER)SLAM-ER is a long-range, highly precise, air-launched strike missile capable of attacking high-value

fixed and re-locatable land targets as well as surface ships that are underway or in port. Terminal control of the weapon is accomplished when the pilot designates the impact point on the Imaging InfraRed (IIR) scene transmitted by the weapon to the cockpit display. Man-In-The-Loop (MITL) commands are sent to the SLAM-ER via a data link pod carried by the launching (or secondary control) aircraft. All Hornet variants can provide terminal control for SLAM-ER, but only legacy Hornets (F/A-18A/B/C/D) can actually launch the weapon. Launch capability for fleet Super Hornets is scheduled for release in 2008.

An Analysis of Alternatives (AoA) will be conducted to scope and define a follow-on weapons solution to SLAM-ER with the capability to destroy stationary, moving, and re-locatable targets at extended ranges in all weather conditions.

63Roadmaps - Standoff Weapons

FOLLOW-ON

STANDOFF WEAPON

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HARPOON

SLAM-ER

AGM-84 Harpoon Block III

The Harpoon Block III is a retro-fit upgrade to the Block 1C weapon used by aircraft, ships, submarines, and coastal defense systems for ASUW. The upgrade adds a Global Positioning System (GPS) with an aimpoint accuracy that enhances target discrimination, a feature that is particularly useful in the littoral environment where surface targets can blend with the shoreline. The addition of a data link system provides the ability to receive targeting updates in flight, giving the launch platform positive terminal control over emergent threats. The enhanced capabilities of the Harpoon Block III provide a spiral development path for integrating targeting improvements on future Naval Aviation platforms.


MID-RANGE STANDOFF WEAPONS

AGM-88E Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile (AARGM) The AARGM upgrade program transforms a portion of the existing AGM-88 High-Speed Anti-

Radiation Missile (HARM) inventory into lethal strike weapons with enhanced Time Critical Strike and Precision Attack capabilities. The AARGM upgrade includes:

An advanced digital anti-radiation homing receiver for greater sensitivity.•

An active millimeter wave terminal radar to increase lethality against modern air defense units, such •as Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) radars that stop emitting.

An Inertial Navigation System (INS) / GPS capability to enable precision strike and limit collateral •damage.

A Weapon Impact Assessment (WIA) transmitter to aid the Battle Damage Assessment (BDA) •process.

A receiver for network-centric connectivity with offboard targeting information.•

The AARGM fuses multiple sensors and geo-specificity capabilities together to counter enemy tactics designed to defeat anti-radiation missiles. IOC for AARGM is FY 2010.

AGM-154 Joint Standoff Weapon (JSOW)JSOW is a family of armaments that permits naval aircraft to attack targets at increased standoff

distances. The weapons use INS and GPS for guidance. All JSOW variants share a common body but can be configured for use against area targets or bunker penetration. The JSOW-C unitary variant adds an IIR seeker and an Autonomous Target Acquisition (ATA) capability to attack point targets with precision accuracy. The JSOW-C-1 will incorporate new target tracking algorithms into the seeker for moving targets, giving Joint Force Commanders an affordable, air-delivered, standoff weapon that is effective against fixed and re-locatable land targets as well as maritime targets. The JSOW-C-1 system will maintain legacy JSOW-C functionality to be effective against point targets in or through adverse weather conditions on both day and night missions. JSOW-C-1 will provide low- and high-altitude launch capabilities to enable launch platforms to remain outside the range of target point defenses, enhancing aircraft survivability. Used in conjunction with accurate targeting information and anti-radiation weapons, JSOW-C-1 will destroy enemy air defenses creating sanctuaries that permit the rapid transition to low-cost, direct attack ordnance.

Joint Air-to-Ground Missile (JAGM: Mid-Range Standoff)JAGM is a joint Army / Navy initiative with the Army designated as the lead service. It is an all-

weather, extended range, 100-pound class weapon system that will use a tri-mode seeker (semi-active laser, millimeter wave radar, and IIR), multi-purpose warhead, and single configuration rocket motor to destroy high-value hardened and non-armored stationary and moving targets. Threshold platforms for JAGM as a mid-range standoff capability include the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and other joint service manned and unmanned aircraft. It is expected to reach IOC in FY 2015.

65Roadmaps - Standoff Weapons

Small Diameter Bomb Increment II (SDB II)SDB II is a joint interest program that provides the warfighter with the capability to attack mobile

targets at standoff ranges in all types of weather. It addresses the following warfighter requirements:

Attack fixed and mobile targets.•

Achieve multiple kills per pass. •

Allow for multiple ordnance carriage.•

All-weather operations.•

Precision munitions capability.•

Reduced munitions footprint.•

Increased weapons effectiveness.•

Minimized potential for collateral damage. •

Reduced susceptibility of munitions to countermeasures.•

Migration path to a network-centric operations capability.•

Incremental development to pursue network-centric interoperability will continue. The aircraft planned for SDB II integration are the F/A-18E/F and the F-35B/C. IOC for the Marine Corps’ F-35B is scheduled for FY 2016. IOC for the Navy’s F-35C carrier variant will follow soon thereafter.

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JSOW-A/C JSOW-A/C-1

HARM Block V AARGM

JAGM:mid-range standoff

SDB II

NO PREDECESSOR


DIRECT ATTACK WEAPONS

General Purpose (GP) BombsMark 80 / BLU series General Purpose 500-, 1,000-, and 2,000-pound bombs provide blast and

fragmentation effects against a variety of non-hardened targets and are used extensively for direct attack, CAS, and suppression missions. The thermally-protected warhead is used for Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM), Laser JDAM (LJDAM), Dual Mode Laser-Guided Bombs (DMLGB), and Low Collateral Damage Bombs (LCDB). GP bombs are expected to remain in the inventory through 2030.

Dual Mode Laser-Guided Bomb (DMLGB) The DMLGB is a retrofit that converts LGBs currently in

the inventory to a dual mode configuration using common components. The retrofit replaces the existing Computer Control Group (CCG) with an INS / GPS that provides fire-and-forget, all-weather terminal guidance. The retrofit strategy streamlines qualification timelines, putting a new weapon in the hands of the warfighter that much faster. IOC took place in September 2007 on both the AV-8B Harrier and F/A-18 Hornet aircraft. Future integration on the F-35 Lightning II is also planned.

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Direct Attack Moving Target Capability (DAMTC)Threat targets are becoming more mobile and more capable and the ability to

neutralize them with legacy aircraft is critical. DAMTC will be a level-of-effort weapon that is intended to provide naval and joint warfighters with a lethal, interoperable, and cost-effective precision strike weapon system that can engage moving, semi-mobile, and stationary targets. It is anticipated that DAMTC will be a retrofit kit for existing JDAM and/or LGB level-of-effort weapons, making it available to the Fleet in the near future.

Low Collateral Damage Bomb (LCDB)The BLU-126/B, also known as the LCDB, is a weapon that is both combat-

effective and adheres to the Collateral Damage Rules of Engagement dictated by the U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM). A precision strike weapon, the LCDB is ideal for modern urban warfare, where target discrimination between friendly, neutral, and enemy forces requires exceptional blast control. The LCDB can be used with the same guidance kits as those used for LGBs, DMLGBs, and JDAM. The modification of an existing weapon system reduced the design, production, and sustainment costs of the BLU-126/B.

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LGB

JDAM

LCDB LCDB

DMLGB

GP BOMBS GP BOMBS

DAMTC


Joint Air-to-Ground Missile (JAGM: direct attack)JAGM is a joint Army / Navy initiative with the Army designated as the lead service. It is an all-

weather, direct attack, 100-pound class weapon system that will use a tri-mode seeker (semi-active laser, millimeter wave radar, and IIR), multi-purpose warhead, and single configuration rocket motor to destroy high-value hardened and non-armored stationary and moving targets. JAGM as a direct attack capability is envisioned to be the eventual replacement for the AGM-114 Hellfire and Tube-launched, Optically-tracked, Wire-guided (TOW) missile systems. Threshold platforms include the AH-1Z Cobra, the MH-60R Seahawk, and other joint service manned and unmanned aircraft. It is expected to reach IOC in FY 2015 for the AH-1Z and FY 2016 for the MH-60R.

69Roadmaps - Direct Attack Weapons

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ROCKETS

APKWS

LOGIR

MAVERICK

TOW

HELLFIRE

JAGM:direct attack

Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS)APKWS provides precision guidance to the existing Hydra 70, 2.75-inch rocket system (scalable

to 5.0-inch) by placing a laser-guided seeker onto existing rocket motors and warheads, providing an excellent low-cost, mid-range weapon that is well-suited to the urban environment. Accurate to within 2 meters of the aim point, the weapon will destroy target sets consisting of personnel, unarmored vehicles, lightly-armored vehicles, Armored Personnel Carriers (APC), structures, and Man-Portable Air Defense Systems (MANPADS) at ranges from 1.5 to 5 kilometers. Expected IOC is FY 2010.

Low Cost Guided Imaging Rocket (LOGIR)LOGIR is a Hydra 70, 2.75-inch rocket with an inertial / infrared guidance kit front end. LOGIR

technology is applicable to 5-inch rockets, such as Zunis, and bombs, such as JDAM. During 2006, the LOGIR team from the Weapons Division of the Naval Air Warfare Center (NAWCWD) completed fin deployment testing and the results showed excellent functionality. In addition, researchers from NAWCWD have made significant theoretical advances that will lead to the elimination of nearly all image processing thresholds, technologies that are now being incorporated into LOGIR.


AIR-TO-AIR WEAPONS

AIM-9X Block II/P3I Sidewinder

The AIM-9X Sidewinder is a major modification to the AIM-9M short-range, air-to-air missile and will provide U.S. fighters with air superiority over tomorrow’s advanced threats. The AIM-9X is upgraded with a focal-plane-array guidance-control section, a highly maneuverable airframe, and signal processors that enhance kinematics and infrared countermeasure capabilities. The AIM-9X Block II/Pre-Planned Product Improvement (P3I) Program will provide the warfighter with increased lethality, high-off-boresight capability, and a data link to take full advantage of increased kinematics and range. The Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS) provides a “first look, first shoot” capability to Naval Aviators.

AIM-120D/P3I Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM)The AMRAAM is deployed on the F/A-18A+/C/D Hornet and the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and

will be deployed on the EA-18G, AV-8B, and JSF aircraft. Joint Navy and Air Force procurement of the AMRAAM continues and deliveries of the AIM-120C are under way. The AIM-120D P3I Program modernizes this missile to maintain medium-range air superiority. This modernization plan includes an enhanced data link, a GPS, improved high-off-boresight capability, a program to enhance kinematics, and improved Electronic Counter-CounterMeasures (ECCM) capabilities through software upgrades. Ultimately, the AMRAAM will be the Department of the Navy’s sole Medium / Beyond Visual Range (M / BVR) missile.

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AIM-9X

AIM-7

AIM-120A/B/C

AIM-9X Block II/P3I

AIM-120D/P3I

AIM-9M


FORCEnet AND COLLABORATIVE WARFARE

Throughout history, military leaders have sought to apply their knowledge of the battlefield to gain the advantage over their adversaries and employ their forces quickly to achieve desired effects. Some of Naval Aviation’s desired effects include compressing kill chain timelines, reducing or eliminating fratricide and collateral damage, increasing survivability, and enhancing lethality. The means to achieve these effects is referred to as “warfighting capability,” which is heavily dependent on the speed at which information is delivered to the warfighter and translated into action. The faster the information travels, the closer the warfighter gets to “simultaneity of operations”—an imperative in today’s highly dynamic environment.

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FORCEnet (Fn) is an operational construct and architectural framework for naval warfare. It represents the future implementation of Network-Centric Warfare which will increase the speed at which information is exchanged throughout the battlespace. As such, Fn is one of many critical enablers that must be united under a single unifying concept in order to meet Capabilities-Centric warfighting requirements. For Naval Aviation, that unifying concept is Collaborative Warfare. It blends System-, Platform-, and Network-Centric views into a single perspective—centered on warfighting capabilities—that is validated through mission analysis. Collaborative Warfare leverages transactions between groups of platforms and systems to achieve desired effects on the battlefield and enhance mission execution and success. It complements FORCEnet by providing validated warfighting requirements and an operational (mission) context to pace the threat. Open Architecture (OA) and Common System solutions are business models that will be used to achieve interoperability and promote Collaborative Warfare within the parameters of fiscal realities.

The Naval Aviation Collaborative Warfare Process (CWP)

Synchronizing myriad capability enablers, such as weapons, sensors, radios, waveforms, computing systems, and Fn networks requires a Collaborative Warfare Process (CWP) that aligns requirements and resources with acquisition strategies. To that end, capabilities identified by warfighters are coordinated with the S&T and acquisition communities to develop capabilities-based investment strategies for the Naval Aviation Enterprise (NAE) that can be used in the Navy’s budget processes. Additionally, Naval Aviation is working closely with the United States Air Force as they execute a parallel process called Warfighter Network Integration (WNI).

Naval Aviation Collaborative Warfare Vision 2030: Dynamic Mission Execution

It is imperative that we clearly articulate future collaborative warfighting capability requirements. Capabilities assessed to date by Naval Aviation’s CWP and the Air Force’s WNI converge into a single overarching capability known as Dynamic Mission Execution, which is critical to delivering desired effects. It provides an operationally validated context that ensures Fn investments deliver the right warfighting capabilities. Examples of capabilities that contribute to Dynamic Mission Execution include dynamic tasking / re-tasking of assets, collaborative combat identification and classification, and enhanced tactical SA.

Our vision is to deliver a Collaborative Warfare Environment (CWE) that enhances warfighting capability by facilitating Dynamic Mission Execution across platform and domain boundaries in any threat environment. The CWE must facilitate rapid sharing, processing, and fusion of information between the many platforms engaged in Dynamic Mission Execution. It must be survivable, allow autonomous mission execution when disconnected from the Global Information Grid (GIG), and, when attacked, effect a graceful degradation to Line Of Sight (LOS) warfare. The CWE must facilitate the control of UAS platforms and network-enabled weapons and their integration into future missions and allow automated, dynamic routing of information so that the intentions of the Combatant Commander can be executed despite network disruptions.

forcenet and collaborative warfare


SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

In the future, Naval Aviation will continue to play key roles in power projection and maritime security. To meet current and future requirements, research scientists and engineers are focusing their efforts on improving existing capabilities and developing new technologies to meet future threats. Technologists are encouraged to develop innovative concepts that provide new capabilities and systems to help our Navy and Marine Corps maintain every warfighting advantage over current and future adversaries.

In addition to near- and mid-term S&T program goals, the NAE has developed a technology planning document entitled Naval Aviation Capability Needs 2030-2050, intended to serve as guidance for long-term research efforts. All plans and programs are executed in partnership with the Office of Naval Research (ONR) and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). Coordination of our program across the other services, industry, and academia is an essential part of the planning process.

75Science and Technology

Future Warfighting Capabilities

Naval Aviation will continue to be a critical element of a mobile and flexible fighting force capable of rapid response with minimal host nation support. To deter adversaries and reassure allies, Naval Aviation assets will be required to provide long-term and persistent functions. These demands will be met through increased use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems over a broad range of missions. Automated systems will decrease the number of personnel required ashore and afloat. Combatant Commanders will expect Naval Aviation systems to work in concert with space-based systems and joint assets to provide omniscient intelligence. Systems will decrease in size and increase in performance. Communication throughout the battlespace will be secure and reliable and provide information in real time. The seamless integration of information from intelligence and surveillance resources will continue to be required to build a Common Operational Picture. New weapons technologies will allow faster response and enable precision effects to meet emerging threats.


Science and Technology Planning and Investment

The primary goals of Naval Aviation’s S&T program are to maximize the return on S&T investments and increase warfighting capability, accomplished by:

Defining, balancing, and prioritizing S&T program goals.•

Executing the S&T investment strategy and managing the investment portfolio.•

Tracking the metrics of S&T projects which transition to acquisition programs for the Fleet.•

Processes and metrics, developed through a rigorous Lean Six Sigma methodology, guide S&T program execution.


NavY Aviation Science and Technology Objectives

Science and Technology Objectives (STO) have been developed and documented as part of a new strategic planning process. They are the foundation of technology development and implementation and are derived from requirements established by the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations (OPNAV), with inputs from Commander, Naval Air Forces (CNAF) and the Program Executive Offices (PEO). STOs provide specific goals and tasks for S&T programs and will be updated every two years.

Representative STOs include:

Aircraft Survivability: Multi-spectral signature control, including •active and passive technologies; vulnerability reduction technologies, including damage-tolerant structures; defensive avionics and counter-SAM capabilities, including missile and laser warning systems, expendables, and passive and active countermeasures; defense against MANPADS; and multi-spectral threat warning and defeat.

Information Operations: Low-cost computer network monitoring •capability; airborne network attack capabilities; improved communication network exploitation, including jamming and hacking; and improved effectiveness in multi-platform jamming collaboration.

Electronic Attack: Sensors to detect hostile electronic emissions; improved noise and •deceptive jamming capabilities, including better techniques, more power, improved reaction, increased performance in dense threat environments, and broader spectrum coverage; reduced cockpit workload; automated signal correlation; automated interaction and coordination with offboard assets; and improved power generation, routing, and storage.

Persistent Target Detection, Discrimination, Identification, and Targeting: Integrated, joint, •multi-tiered sensor and weapon grid; automated, assisted, surface target discrimination; and behavior-directed intent determination.

Battlespace Awareness: Autonomous, organic, long-dwell sensors; integrated national, theater, •and force sensors; and automated decision support.

Airborne ASW: Improved submarine multi-spectral detection, localization, and identification •with an emphasis on passive methods; remote interrogation and propagation of unattended ASW sensor fields; and improved data link capability for sharing ASW information and data with submarines and surface ships.


Marine Corps Aviation Science and Technology

The focal points for Marine Aviation S&T fall into three general categories:

Science and Technology Program Opportunities.•

Legacy (Rotorcraft) Science and Technology Investment Category Priorities.•

Overall Science and Technology Objectives. •

Science and Technology Program Opportunities

The major Marine Aviation program area with the potential for high-payoff S&T investment is networked AEA. Technological advances present the opportunity to introduce EA capabilities into multiple aviation platforms, leveraging developments in sensor capabilities to counter enemy threats across the MAGTF, as opposed to only point solutions.


Legacy (Rotorcraft) S&T Investment Category Priorities

The following prioritized list of S&T investment categories applies to current and future rotorcraft programs. They correspond directly to Marine Corps priorities outlined in the U.S. Army’s S&T Strategic Planning document.

Affordability: Reducing development, acquisition, operating, and support costs while 1. maintaining or increasing capability.

Supportability / Maintainability: Improving reliability, availability, and maintainability. 2.

Footprint: Reducing the weight and volume of the personnel, materiel, equipment, and supplies 3. that support an aerial system and must be moved.

Survivability / Safety: Improving the ability to avoid detection, tracking, and engagement in a 4. complex threat environment and survive a hit / crash.

Deployability: Reducing the time, effort, and support systems to prepare, transport, and restore 5. a force capability.

Battlefield Situational Awareness: Improving the ability to know and comprehend the location, 6. intent, and actions of blue and red forces, non-combatants, environmental conditions, terrain, and obstacles in the area of operational responsibility.

Training: The efficiency with which commanders, their staffs, pilots, operators, and maintainers 7. are initially and continuously trained to proficiency.

Lethality: Improving the ability to precisely deliver a spectrum of intended lethal and non-8. lethal effects.

Mobility: The ability to maneuver and transport troops, supplies, and equipment on the 9. battlefield in complex terrains and severe sea states.

Battle Command: Improving the commander’s ability to decide on and execute a course of 10. action, measured in response time.

Top Five STos for Marine Corps Aviation

A complete and detailed listing of Marine Aviation S&T Objectives can be found in Annex C to the U.S. Marine Corps S&T Strategic Plan published by the Marine Corps Combat Development Command (MCCDC) in August 2007.

STO 1: A standardized force tracking system to provide real-time identification of friendly forces, battlefield coordination, command SA, and casualty evacuation.

STO 2: Advanced multi-function EW transceiver with technologies that are compatible with the Marine Corps’ follow-on EA platform.

STO 3: Advanced rotor / prop technologies for performance across a wider operating envelope with better efficiency (fuel / load savings).

STO 4: Variable-speed air refueling drogue using technologies that enable refueling of fast tactical aircraft as well as slower rotorcraft.

STO 5: Active kinetic and non-kinetic aircraft technologies to provide “unlimited magazine” self-protect capabilities against both IR SAMs and Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPG).

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PEOPLE


TOTAL FORCE STRATEGY

The primary focus of the NAE’s Total Force (TF) Strategy is to develop a capable workforce that is “ready for tasking and affordable . . . now and in the future” and fully prepared to support Navy, Marine Corps, and joint missions. To accomplish this goal, the NAE will continue to adopt innovative ways to attract, train, and employ its dedicated and superbly talented workforce made up of active and reserve military members as well as government civilian and contractor support personnel.

The NAE’s Total Force Strategy relies on readiness and capability demand signals received from the Fleet to clearly define work requirements, correctly shape the workforce, and positively impact budgeting and programming decisions. It is a living management tool—one that is continually assessed, improved, and refined to maintain relevance and effectiveness.

Warfighters - The Product of the Total Force Strategy

The business of our Navy and Marine Corps will always be combat—and victory our mission and our heritage. The Total Force Strategy preserves this legacy and reflects our belief that Naval Aviation’s competitive advantage is, and always will be, dedicated and highly-talented people. As such, the most important product of the NAE’s Total Force Strategy is the warfighter—our active and reserve naval personnel who carry the fight to the enemy. The NAE’s Total Force Strategy creates and sustains a culture that values and recognizes each member’s contributions to warfighting readiness. It provides the framework to create a productive and motivated Total Force that meets current readiness goals today while building future capability for tomorrow. Our focus on the Total Force embraces the warfighter as well as our valuable civilian employees and contractor support personnel so that the right talent, drawn from a diverse corps of professionals, is put to task efficiently and effectively.

Resource Sponsorship

Diminishing budgets, annual inflation, and the rising costs of personnel programs mandate manpower efficiencies just to keep the cost of our Total Force constant. In order to avoid responding reactively to “across the board” cuts in the Naval Aviation budget, the Navy developed a comprehensive “Single Resource Sponsor” strategy. It enables the Total Force Cross-Functional Team (TF CFT) to shape the Total Force in the most effective manner by looking across all NAE subordinate commands while preserving combat readiness and capability through informed decisions in a resource-constrained environment.

Marine Corps 202K Build

In February 2007, the President of the United States approved the Marine Corps Commandant’s request to increase the total manpower of the Marine Corps from 175,000 to 202,000. Determined to maintain the warfighting capability of its three MEFs, each comprised of more than 20,000 Marines, the Marine Corps is using a holistic approach to gain 5,000 Marines per year through FY 2011. In total, Marine Aviation will add over 4,100 Marines, many of whom will be assigned to three new Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadrons, three new Marine Heavy Lift Helicopter Squadrons (HMH), and one Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron. Fundamental to the Marine Corps’ 202K Build initiative is the commitment to recruit and retain the most highly-qualified Marines from the diverse American workforce, and to develop, recognize, and reward their unique talents. In so doing, 202K Build will improve the capability and lethality of the Marine Corps and solidify its reputation as an elite fighting force.

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Diversity

Naval Aviation is devoted to recognizing, developing, and rewarding the contributions of its diverse Sailors, Marines, and civilians. To guarantee a continued supply of talented people, the NAE is working to better understand the demographics of its current workforce and the workforce of the future. The NAE has developed a rigorous, metrics-driven diversity monitoring system, implemented a diversity outreach program that specifically targets recruiting events where we can connect with those who will comprise the future workforce, and institutionalized mentoring in order to maintain awareness of the issues that impact minority and gender-specific hiring and retention. Naval Aviation is dedicated to sustaining a culture that values the warfighting contribution made by every member of its workforce.

Retention

Retention continues to be one of the NAE’s most significant Total Force challenges. When retention levels fall, the costs incurred—loss of experience and technical knowledge, additional recruiting requirements, and increased training demands—are extensive. The NAE’s focus on retention begins with sustaining a culture that values and recognizes everyone’s contribution to warfighting readiness. As such, we will work to create an environment that is conducive to retaining a productive and motivated Total Force by providing challenging and rewarding career choices and recognizing the contributions and sacrifices of our people and their families.


Active Reserve Integration (ARI)Navy Air

Part of the NAE’s Total Force Strategy is fully integrating the active and reserve Navy components of the Naval Air Forces. Navy Reserve units, assigned to Commander, Naval Air Forces Reserve (CNAFR), serve multiple roles within the NAE as fleet readiness enablers, critical components of Combatant Commander operations, and as Naval Aviation’s strategic reserve. CNAFR units consist of active component, reserve component, and contractor support personnel charged with maintaining a trained, experienced, and responsive wartime capacity with an operational support capability that can be reconstituted as often as needed to meet the specific demands of the active duty Fleet. The full realization of Navy ARI will optimize the employment of the in-service and future aircraft, weapons, and systems delineated in NAVPLAN 2030, operated and maintained by our most precious resource—our people.

Significant integration milestones have already been achieved or are presently underway. For example, all Navy Reserve helicopter and maritime patrol squadrons now report directly to their active duty Type Wing Commanders, and Commander Fleet Logistics Support Wing (CFLSW) will soon assume oversight of all Navy C-12 aircraft. Navy Reserve squadrons belonging to the Tactical Support Wing provide 75 percent of the tactical adversary aircraft support required by active duty squadrons, and fly counternarcotic, electronic attack, and other missions in support of all Combatant Commanders.

85PEOPLE

Navy Reserve helicopter squadrons provide an array of operational support to the Fleet, ranging from counternarcotics operations and fleet range support to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron EIGHTY-FOUR flying combat missions in Iraq in support of Special Operations Command Central (SOCCENT). Additionally, an increasing number of Navy Air Reservists, assigned to Training and Fleet Replacement Squadrons (FRS), are filling flight and ground instructor billets, using their talent and fleet experience to train the next generation of Naval Aviators, Naval Flight Officers, and Naval Aircrewmen. Navy Reserve flight instructors assigned to Squadron Augment Units (SAU) are flying between 700 and 1,000 sorties per week, helping the Chief of Naval Air Training (CNATRA) sustain a predictable student throughput tied to fleet demand—a significant readiness enabler.

The Navy Air Reserve is a valued, responsive, and proven asset. It offers resources and support at reduced cost, delivers readiness to the Fleet, provides surge capabilities for wartime and contingency operations, and eases the strain on active duty personnel engaged in high-tempo operations. The advantages of a robust Navy Reserve Force span the breadth of naval operations, offering the operational and organizational flexibility required to support fleet requirements.


Marine Air

The 4th Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW) augments active Marine Corps operating forces with aviation capabilities required to conduct the six functions of Marine aviation: Air Reconnaissance, Anti-Air Warfare, Assault Support, Control of Aircraft and Missiles, Electronic Warfare, and Offensive Air Support. In this capacity, 4th MAW augments fixed- and rotary-wing platforms as well as ground support and aviation C2 tactical agencies.

Active component support from the 4th MAW is far-reaching. In support of OIF, 90 percent of 4th MAW’s total assets were integrated with active forces during various rotations. Additionally, 4th MAW’s rotary-wing assets augmented the Fleet Marine Force (FMF) with assault support capabilities during OEF. All 4th MAW rotary-wing and refueling squadrons have been mobilized for at least two years and seven of eight squadrons have participated in at least two deployments. One of three strike-fighter squadrons has been mobilized for one year and participated in one deployment.

Resources and real-world flight experience from the 4th MAW are also being dedicated to the future of Naval Aviation. Currently, there are 52 Marine Reserve pilots assigned to CNATRA as flight instructors under the Marine Corps Reserve Flight Instructor Program (MCRIP). During FY 2007, these aviators flew 4,783 events totaling 7,007 flight hours and were responsible for 20 percent of the total hours flown that year. Units of the 4th MAW also provide seasoned aviators in direct support of FRS training.

The 4th Marine Aircraft Wing is a valuable component of the Marine Corps Total Force and remains ready to provide Selected Marine Corps Reserve aviation units or individual augments to active Marine Corps operating forces.

87PEOPLE

89

NAVAL AVIATION ENTERPRISE


The first of the Navy’s Warfare Enterprises, the NAE is a warfighting partnership in which interdependent Naval Aviation issues affecting multiple stakeholders are resolved on an enterprise-wide basis. The NAE enables communication across all elements of the Enterprise, fosters organizational alignment, encourages inter-service integration, stimulates a culture of productivity, and facilitates change when change is needed to advance and improve. Working together optimizes the use of existing resources, manages the costs associated with generating readiness, and harnesses change as a positive force within our Navy and Marine Corps.

The vision of the NAE is to efficiently deliver the right force, with the right readiness, at the right time . . . today and in the future. The mission of the NAE is to support Combatant Commanders and the Fleet by providing combat-ready Naval Aviation forces that are fully trained, properly manned, interoperable, well-maintained, and combat-sustainable. Its goals are to balance Current Readiness and Future Capability, enhance agility, maintain and improve alignment, reduce the cost of doing business, and attain and maintain visibility across the Enterprise.

ENTERPRISE LINKAGES

The enterprise model has expanded across the Navy with the establishment of four Warfare Enterprises in addition to the NAE: the Surface Warfare Enterprise (SWE), the Undersea Warfare Enterprise (USE), the Naval Expeditionary Combat Enterprise (NECE), and the Naval NETWAR (Network Warfare) / FORCEnet Enterprise (NNFE).

Overseeing the Warfare Enterprises is the Fleet Readiness Enterprise (FRE) led by Commander, Fleet Forces Command. The FRE integrates the activities of the five Warfare Enterprises with the fleet training domain, supporting providers, and resource sponsors to optimize cost-effective delivery of operational forces that are Ready For Tasking by Component Commanders worldwide.

Integrating the various provider domains are the Providers, led by the Vice Chief of Naval Operations and the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development, and Acquisition (ASN (RDA)). The Providers supply manpower, assets, parts, supplies, research and development, health care, and supporting infrastructure to the FRE.

Overseeing and integrating enterprise efforts at the Navy level is the Navy Enterprise (NE), led by the NE Executive Committee (NE ExComm). The NE framework consists of activities, governance, and behaviors that drive additional efficiencies in how the Navy and Marine Corps deliver current readiness and future capability, and provides a foundation for making better, more informed decisions regarding missions, capabilities, resource allocations, and risks.

91Naval Aviation Enterprise


NAE CROSS-FUNCTIONAL TEAMS

Current Readiness CFT

The Current Readiness CFT is responsible for predictably achieving prescribed readiness levels with the people, equipment, and training necessary to generate units Ready for Tasking (RFT)—and accomplishing all of this within the available resources. The team is responsible for sustaining the success of the Naval Aviation Readiness Integrated Improvement Program (NAVRIIP), for continually evaluating the achievement of squadron and carrier readiness, and for implementing best practices that provide effective training, qualified personnel, and efficient maintenance. The Current Readiness CFT links all decision-makers horizontally so that problems can be solved cross-functionally, resulting in the achievement of near- and long-term readiness goals in a more efficient manner. Marine Corps leadership has adopted the Current Readiness improvement strategy to enable Marine Aviation to sustain legacy aircraft engaged today in demanding combat and contingency operations. The Marine Aviation Executive Readiness Board (MAERB) has been established to govern the overall readiness improvement process. The MAERB is establishing aircraft Type/Model/Series (TMS) Teams to continuously define, measure, and improve the manpower, training, materiel, and logistic readiness of their respective communities. Additionally, a new reporting methodology and toolset are under development to better integrate Marine Aviation readiness with the Naval Aviation Enterprise.

Our goals are to achieve the readiness we need today, buy the force of tomorrow, and equip tomorrow’s warriors and leaders with the leadership and management tools needed to sustain 21st

century Navy and Marine Corps Aviation.


Future Capability CFT

The Future Capability CFT is chartered by both the NAE Board of Directors (BoD) and the Providers to govern process improvement initiatives on behalf of Navy Department stakeholders. As such, the Future Capability CFT will initiate, prioritize, and align process improvement activities that facilitate the “on cost and on schedule” development and achievement of Naval Aviation capabilities. One of the keys to achieving this objective is the Program Performance Team (PPT), designed to improve the planning and execution of Navy and Marine Corps aviation acquisition programs. The PPT uses a data-driven approach and cost-risk analysis to identify the root causes behind cost and schedule overruns, and works collaboratively with Naval Aviation’s industry partners to develop joint process improvement strategies. Through the Future Capability CFT, the activities of the PPT will be synchronized with current readiness to deliver warfighting capabilities to our Sailors and Marines while cutting program cost and schedule overruns in half by the end of 2012. Future capability process improvement will encompass everything that affects program performance, including budgeting, requirements, acquisition, and contractor support. The membership of the Future Capability CFT includes Flag officers and senior executives from the Navy Secretariat, OPNAV, the PEOs, and the Systems Commands.

Total Force CFT

The TF CFT is the single process owner for all manpower, which includes active and reserve military, government civilians, and contractor support personnel. The mission of the TF CFT is to develop and execute a comprehensive strategy for managing the “people element” of the NAE and balancing the impacts—financial and otherwise—of recruiting, training, and sustaining a force focused on warfighting readiness. More specifically, the TF CFT is responsible for establishing a manpower baseline for Naval Aviation, one that includes an accurate assessment of the number of people in the workforce as well as an inventory of their specific skills and abilities. The CFT’s overriding goal is to create ownership for the Total Force throughout all aviation units, leading to the achievement of a single manpower metric: People Ready for Tasking, an Affordable Force, Now and in the Future.

The TF CFT is comprised of experts in active and reserve military and civilian force manpower including the Commanders of Naval Air Training, Naval Air Forces Reserve, and the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training (CNATT); NAVAIR 7.0 (Corporate Operations); CNAF Code N1 (Force Personnel); OPNAV Codes N1 (Manpower, Personnel, Training, and Education) and N88 (Air Warfare); the Navy Personnel Command; Marine Corps Manpower and Reserve Affairs (M&RA); Marine Aviation Manpower (HQMC (ASM)); and the Marine Corps Training and Education Command (TECOM). They review transformational initiatives and track metrics and action items through monthly meetings with the NAE BoD and Current Readiness CFT, as well as their own Executive Steering Committee. They also monitor the implementation of all TF initiatives approved by the NAE BoD.


NAE INITIATIVES

Fleet Readiness Centers (FRC) In 2006, Naval Aviation integrated its shore-based Intermediate- and Depot-Level maintenance

organizations and aligned them with six Fleet Readiness Center Area Commands. FRCs move Depot-Level artisans closer to the flight line where they can provide solutions directly to our Sailors and Marines resulting in greater efficiency, agility, speed, and quality in the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of naval aircraft. This strategy is improving current readiness while saving time and money, producing airframes, engines, components, and support equipment that meet Naval Aviation’s RFT aircraft entitlements—at the best value to the Navy and Marine Corps. By 2011, it is predicted that FRCs will save the Navy and Marine Corps $1.2B in repair costs.

Marine Corps Reset

Over 140 Marine Corps aircraft are forward-deployed in support of the War on Terror and some of these aircraft are being used at rates four times above normal. The increased operational tempo, the harshness of the desert environment, and the shortage of available aircraft mandate a maintenance solution that returns aircraft to the flight line in pre-war condition and ensures they remain in service for extended periods of time. The Reset Strategy does this by applying a holistic, integrated maintenance process to groom, sustain, and reconstitute Marine Corps aircraft involved in the War on Terror. It encompasses in-CONUS and out-CONUS components and has four interrelated elements.

The first element is called Preset, which is performed in CONUS on squadron flight lines. Preset grooms the material condition of aircraft in preparation for immediate wartime deployment and facilitates modifications to wartime aircraft configurations. Completed in 14 days or less, Preset occurs between 180 and 30 days prior to deployment.

The second element is called Combat Sustainment. It is performed in theater to sustain Preset material conditions and maximize the number of RFT aircraft. It is also designed to reduce degradation caused by environmental and operating conditions and reduce excessive maintenance man-hours at the Organizational-Level. Combat Sustainment takes no more than 30 days and occurs after 12 continuous months of deployment.

The third element is Reconstitution, which, like Preset, is performed in CONUS on squadron flight lines. Its purpose is to return post-deployment aircraft to a ready-deployable state with improved operational availability, material condition, and systems reliability. It is also designed to reduce adverse impacts on squadron readiness related to increased post-deployment maintenance demands. Reconstitution occurs within 180 days of return from deployment and is completed in less than 30 days.

The fourth element is Industrial / Integrated Logistics Support and is performed in CONUS at the FRC sites. Its purpose is to reduce depot turnaround time while returning quality aircraft to the Marine Corps. Depot inductions for individual aircraft are scheduled in advance and can take from 14 to 365 days, depending on the complexity of the work.

The long-term goal is to institutionalize Reset as a material condition management construct that can be adopted and applied beyond the War on Terror template. The evolved Reset end-state will fully integrate, accommodate, and synchronize all aspects of aircraft inventory and maintenance management, to include in-service repair, modifications, aircraft crash / battle damage repair, and scheduled depot events.



NAE AIRSpeed

The Naval Aviation Enterprise’s primary enabler for Continuous Process Improvement (CPI) is a program called AIRSpeed. The term AIRSpeed encompasses all CPI tools and methodologies that are currently being implemented—or may be implemented in the future—to produce readiness; improve quality of life for our Sailors, Marines, and civilians; and assist with meeting cost constraints. Some of the CPI tools provided to our workforce include Theory of Constraints (TOC), Lean Six Sigma (LSS), Barrier Removal Teams, Quick Wins, and Kaizen initiatives.

TOC and LSS are industry-proven process improvement tools that have been approved for use by the Department of the Navy and that are the core CPI elements and methods being applied within the NAE at this time. AIRSpeed blends these tools in a unique and synergistic manner. Their application to the processes associated with Naval Aviation maintenance, supply, and administration is driving the development of improved operating practices that consistently deliver greater readiness with greater efficiency.


Because of its scope and flexibility, AIRSpeed can be tailored to the unique needs of broad areas within the NAE. AIRSpeed enables readiness production by increasing the speed, reliability, and predictability of the processes associated with integrated maintenance and supply replenishment. Within the industrial maintenance capability, it has contributed to reductions in the cycle time of aircraft, engine, and component repair and overhaul, leading to fewer items in the overall repair pipeline and more of them available for fleet use. Within the Systems Commands, AIRSpeed and similar CPI toolsets reduce the response times and costs of processes employed in the course of acquiring, testing, and sustaining new aircraft, weapons, and their related systems.


Marine Aviation C2 Transformation

One of Marine Aviation’s highest priorities is the transformation of aviation C2 systems to ensure the Marine Air Command and Control System (MACCS) prepares for emerging operational environments. Success in the future will require capability increases in the following areas:

Deployability: Reduced operations and logistics footprint; modularity and commonality of •equipment with a focus on EMW.

Flexibility: Multi-function nodes that can distribute MACCS functions across the network; •decentralized operations empowered by shared battlespace awareness; open architecture suites that can quickly integrate new technology and adapt to future environments.

Integration: Planned migration to MAGTF C2.•

Manpower and Training: Shift from highly-focused, single-function specialties to broader skill areas.•

Adaptability: Operate afloat, ashore, airborne, and during transition.•

Data Fusion: Common, real-time, fused operational and tactical pictures.•


Marine Aviation Logistics Transformation

The Aviation Combat Element (ACE) Logistics Road Map supports the AVPLAN and outlines the major elements that will drive the logistics transformation of the ACE. The overarching goal is to provide responsive, agile, and sustainable logistics support to the modern ACE in expeditionary and sea base environments. Elements of this logistics transformation include Marine Aviation Logistics Support Program II (MALSP II); MAGTF Logistics Integration (MLI), including Naval Logistics Integration (NLI); and Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron (MALS) Future.

MALSP II

The MALSP has a history of excellence in supporting Marine Aviation. It was the cornerstone of support for the Marine ACE during Operations DESERT SHIELD and DESERT STORM and it continues to support the ACE in the War on Terror. Expeditionary aviation logistics will transform under MALSP II which will provide responsive, agile, and sustainable logistics with a smaller operational footprint. MALSP II will leverage AIRSpeed’s CPI strategies to mitigate waste, variation, and bottlenecks in the end-to-end wartime logistics chain.

MLI

The MAGTF is supported by two separately-funded logistics systems: one that supports the ACE of the MAGTF and another—the LCE—that supports the GCE. Under MLI, Marine Aviation is partnering with its Marine Ground counterparts to integrate the logistics processes of these two systems in support of future sea base operations.

MALS Future

New logistics processes and technology will significantly impact the ability of MALSP II to better support Marine Aviation. The Marine Aviation Logistics Squadrons of the future (MALS Future) will be organized and strategically located using the Doctrine, Organization, Training, Materiel, Leadership and Education, Personnel, and Facilities (DOTMLPF) process.


Carrier Readiness Team

The Carrier Readiness Team (CRT) helps NAE leaders define and achieve aircraft carrier readiness standards and deliver them at the right time and at the right cost—with definable risk.

Created to streamline fleet-wide spending decisions and capture efficient business practices, the CRT is reexamining how the Navy mans, trains, equips, and maintains its fleet of aircraft carriers. It explores cultural shifts in fiscal spending to ensure funds are used where they are most needed, shifting the emphasis from resource consumption to resource management. As a result of improved maintenance activities, strategies, and processes, the CRT has so far been able to find $420M dollars in current Future Years Defense Plan (FYDP) savings and cost avoidance—enough money to operate a CVN / air wing for one year.


In addition to maintenance cost improvements, the CRT is implementing AIRSpeed process improvement tools on aircraft carriers. The CRT is also testing and evaluating the Aircraft Carrier Advanced Readiness Program (CV-SHARP), expected to become fully operational in July 2008. Under CV-SHARP, predictive scheduling and evaluative tools will create a standard training process for all Navy aircraft carriers using metrics that measure the individual training and readiness levels of recurring onboard watch teams.

CNATRA Realignment

On October 1, 2007, the Chief of Naval Air Training formally realigned from the Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) to Commander, Naval Air Forces. The realignment places all CNATRA aviation hardware, operating budgets, and cockpit-related training under the cognizance of CNAF and

the NAE and establishes a holistic Learning Continuum for Naval Aviators, Naval Flight Officers, and Naval Aircrewmen that manages their training from accession to completion of the FRS. The

change, which officially designates CNATRA as the Naval Air Forces Deputy Commander for Training, is designed to better synchronize aviator production with fleet

requirements and resources.

103

SUMMARY

Naval Aviation is a warfighting force that is integral to the ability of Navy, Marine Corps, and joint forces to deter or win regional conflicts and major power wars. Our aircraft carriers, amphibious assault ships, Carrier Air Wings, Aviation Combat Elements, and Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Forces maintain a combat-ready posture that is deployed forward as an instrument of our national power. We understand the importance of cooperative multinational relationships because no one nation has the resources required to guarantee the complete safety of the world’s oceans and the airspace above them. Although our foremost responsibility is the projection of sea-based combat power, we also embrace the responsibility to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief throughout the world.

Naval Aviation is a warfighting enterprise that will continue to develop, deliver, and sustain the aircraft, weapons, and systems our Sailors and Marines need to serve America in defense of freedom. We embrace the privilege of this awesome responsibility with pride, determination, and enthusiasm.


APPENDIX A -

ACRONYMS and ABBREVIATIONS

AAG Advanced Arresting GearAARGM Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided

Missile ACE Aviation Combat Element AEA Airborne Electronic AttackAESA Active Electronically Scanned ArrayAEW Airborne Early Warning ALFS Airborne Low Frequency SonarALMDS Airborne Laser Mine Detection System AMCM Airborne Mine CounterMeasures AMNS Airborne Mine Neutralization SystemAMP Avionics Modernization ProgramAMRAAM Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air

MissileAoA Analysis of AlternativesAPC Armored Personnel CarrierAPKWS Advanced Precision Kill Weapon

System APU Auxiliary Power UnitARI Active Reserve IntegrationASN (RDA) Assistant Secretary of the Navy

for Research, Development, and Acquisition

ASUW Anti-Surface Warfare

ASW Anti-Submarine WarfareATA Autonomous Target AcquisitionATM Advanced Tactical ManeuveringAVPLAN Marine Corps Aviation Plan AWACS Airborne Warning And Control SystemBAMS Broad Area Maritime SurveillanceBDA Battle Damage AssessmentBLT Battalion Landing TeamBLU Bomb, Live UnitBoD Board of DirectorsC2 Command and ControlCAS Close Air SupportCCD Charge Coupled DeviceCCG Computer Control GroupCE Command ElementCEC Cooperative Engagement CapabilityCFLSW Commander, Fleet Logistics Support

WingCFT Cross-Functional TeamCNAF Commander, Naval Air ForcesCNAFR Commander, Naval Air Forces ReserveCNATRA Chief of Naval Air Training

105Appendix A - Acronyms and Abbreviations

CNATT Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training

COD Carrier Onboard Delivery CONOPS Concept of OperationsCONUS Continental United States COP Common Operational PictureCPI Continuous Process ImprovementCPRG Commander, Patrol and

Reconnaissance GroupCRT Carrier Readiness TeamCSAR Combat Search and RescueCSG Carrier Strike GroupCSO Combat Systems Officer CV Hull designation for U.S. Navy

conventionally-powered aircraft carrierCVN Hull designation for U.S. Navy nuclear-

powered aircraft carrierCV-SHARP Aircraft Carrier Advanced Readiness

ProgramCVW Carrier Air WingCWE Collaborative Warfare EnvironmentCWP Collaborative Warfare ProcessDAMTC Direct Attack Moving Target CapabilityDARPA Defense Advanced Research Projects

Agency DDG Hull designation for U.S. Navy guided

missile destroyerDEAD Destruction of Enemy Air DefensesDMLGB Dual Mode Laser-Guided Bomb

DOTMLPF Doctrine, Organization, Training, Materiel, Leadership and Education, Personnel, and Facilities

EA Electronic AttackECCM Electronic Counter-CounterMeasuresEMALS Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch

SystemEMW Expeditionary Maneuver WarfareEO Electro-Optic(al) EPX Next Generation EP-3ESG Expeditionary Strike GroupESM Electronic Support MeasuresEW Electronic WarfareEWCC Electronic Warfare Coordination

CenterFFG Hull designation for U.S. Navy guided

missile frigateFLIR Forward-Looking InfraRedFMF Fleet Marine Force Fn FORCEnetFOC Full Operational CapabilityFRC Fleet Readiness CenterFRE Fleet Readiness EnterpriseFRS Fleet Replacement SquadronFY Fiscal YearFYDP Future Years Defense PlanGCE Ground Combat ElementGHMD Global Hawk Maritime Demonstration


GIG Global Information GridGP General Purpose (Bomb)GPS Global Positioning SystemHARM High-Speed Anti-Radiation MissileHMH Designation for U.S. Marine Corps

heavy lift helicopter squadron HMLA Designation for U.S. Marine Corps

light attack helicopter squadron ICAP III Improved Capability III ICBM Intercontinental Ballistic MissileICU Intensive Care UnitIED Improvised Explosive Device IIR Imaging InfraRedIMINT Imagery IntelligenceINS Inertial Navigation SystemIOC Initial Operational CapabilityIR InfraRed IRST InfraRed Search and TrackISR Intelligence, Surveillance, and

ReconnaissanceJAGM Joint Air-to-Ground MissileJDAM Joint Direct Attack MunitionJHMCS Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System JSF Joint Strike FighterJSOW Joint Standoff WeaponJSOW-C Joint Standoff Weapon unitary variantJTF Joint Task ForceLCAC Landing Craft Air CushionLCDB Low Collateral Damage BombLCE Logistics Combat ElementLCS Littoral Combat ShipLCU Landing Craft, UtilityLGB Laser-Guided BombLHA Hull designation for U.S. Navy general

purpose amphibious assault shipLHA (R) Hull designation for U.S. Navy general

purpose amphibious assault ship (replacement)

LHD Hull designation for U.S. Navy multipurpose amphibious assault ship

LJDAM Laser Joint Direct Attack MunitionLOGIR Low Cost Guided Imaging RocketLOS Line Of Sight

LSS Lean Six SigmaM&RA Manpower and Reserve Affairs M / BVR Medium / Beyond Visual RangeMACCS Marine Air Command and Control

System MAERB Marine Aviation Executive Readiness

BoardMAGTF Marine Air-Ground Task Force MALS Marine Aviation Logistics SquadronMALSP Marine Aviation Logistics Support

Program MANPADS Man-Portable Air Defense SystemMASINT Measurement and Signatures

IntelligenceMAW Marine Aircraft Wing MCCDC Marine Corps Combat Development

CommandMCRIP Marine Corps Reserve Flight Instructor

Program MCTUAS Marine Corps Tactical UASMEF Marine Expeditionary ForceMEU (SOC) Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special

Operations Capable)MITL Man-In-The-LoopMIW Mine WarfareMLI MAGTF Logistics IntegrationMMA Multi-Mission Maritime AircraftMPRA Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance

Aircraft MPRF Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance

ForcesNAE Naval Aviation EnterpriseNAVAIR Naval Air Systems Command


NAVPLAN Navy Aviation PlanNAVRIIP Naval Aviation Readiness Integrated

Improvement ProgramNAWCWD Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons

DivisionNE Navy EnterpriseNE ExComm Navy Enterprise Executive CommitteeNECE Naval Expeditionary Combat

EnterpriseNETC Naval Education and Training

CommandNETWAR Network Warfare NFO Naval Flight OfficerNLI Naval Logistics IntegrationNNFE Naval NETWAR / FORCEnet

EnterpriseNSW Naval Special WarfareN-UCAS Navy Unmanned Combat Aircraft

SystemNUFEA Navy Unique Fleet Essential AircraftOA Open ArchitectureOASIS Organic Airborne and Surface

Influence System OEF Operation ENDURING

FREEDOMOIF Operation IRAQI

FREEDOMONR Office of Naval ResearchOPNAV Office of the Chief of Naval

OperationsOPNAV N1 Manpower, Personnel,

Training, and Education (Office of the Chief of Naval Operations)


OPNAV N88 Air Warfare Division (Office of the Chief of Naval Operations)

OSA Operational Support AircraftP3I Pre-Planned Product ImprovementPEO Program Executive OfficePHIBLEX Amphibious Landing Exercise PPT Program Performance TeamPRT Provisional Reconstruction Team RAMICS Rapid Airborne Mine Clearance

System RAMP Required Avionics Modernization

Program RFT Ready For TaskingRPG Rocket Propelled GrenadeRSTA Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and

Target AcquisitionS&T Science and TechnologySA Situational AwarenessSAM Surface-to-Air MissileSAU Squadron Augment Unit

SDB II Small Diameter Bomb Increment IISDD System Development and

DemonstrationSEAD Suppression of Enemy Air DefensesSIGINT Signals IntelligenceSLAM-ER Standoff Land Attack Missile –

Expanded ResponseSLEP Service Life Extension ProgramSOCCENT Special Operations Command CentralSOF Special Operations Forces SRT Synthetic Radar TrainingSTO Science and Technology ObjectiveSTOM Ship To Objective ManeuverSTOVL Short Takeoff / Vertical LandingSTUAS Small Tactical UASSWE Surface Warfare Enterprise


TACAIR Tactical Air TAMD Theater Air and Missile DefenseTECOM Training and Education CommandTF Total ForceTF CFT Total Force Cross-Functional TeamTLOA Training, Logistics, and Other Aircraft TMS Type / Model / Series TOC Theory of ConstraintsTOW Tube-launched, Optically-tracked,

Wire-guided missile systemTSC Tactical Support CenterTTP Tactics, Techniques, and ProceduresUAS Unmanned Aircraft SystemUCAS Unmanned Combat Aircraft SystemUCAS-D Unmanned Combat Aircraft System –

Demonstration

USCENTCOM U.S. Central CommandUSE Undersea Warfare EnterpriseUSMC United States Marine CorpsUSSOCOM U.S. Special Operations CommandUSSTRATCOM U.S. Strategic CommandV/STOL Vertical / Short Takeoff and Landing VAQ Designation for U.S. Navy electronic

attack squadronVLF Very Low Frequency VMAQ Designation for U.S. Marine Corps

tactical electronic warfare squadronVMU Designation for U.S. Marine Corps

unmanned aerial vehicle squadron VTOL Vertical Takeoff and LandingVTUAS Vertical Takeoff UAS VUAS Vertical UASWIA Weapon Impact Assessment WNI Warfighter Network Integration


APPENDIX B -

IMAGE CREDITS

ii-iii U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class N.C. Kaylor

iv-v Composite of U.S. Navy photos by Randy Hepp

vi-1 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ron Reeves

2-3 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Paul J. Perkins

4-5 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jarod Hodge

6-7 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jarod Hodge

8 U.S. Navy photo

9 U.S. Marine Corps photo by Corporal Jonathan Teslevich

10-11 U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 1st Class (SW) John Collins

12-13 U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 2nd Class (AW/SW) Timothy Smith

14-15 U.S. Marine Corps photo by Corporal Grahm S. Humphreys

16-17 Composite of U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Steven King and Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Elizabeth Allen

18-19 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Zachary L. Borden

20-21 U.S. Navy photo by Randy Hepp

22-23 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Denny Cantrell

24-25 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Denny Cantrell

26-27 U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Cheresa D. Clark

28-29 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Richard Doolin

30-31 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Kyle D. Gahlau


34-35 U.S. Marine Corps photo by Corporal Zachary Dyer

36-37 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Andrew King

38-39 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Daniel A. Barker

40-41 U.S. Marine Corps photo by Corporal Alicia M. Garcia

42-43 U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sergeant Joshua Strang

44-45 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kristopher Wilson

46-47 U.S. Navy photo by Megan Kohr

48-49 U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 2nd Class Scott Taylor

50-51 U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Shawn P. Eklund


111Appendix B - Image Credits

54-55 U.S. Navy photo by Noel Hepp

56-57 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Patrick W. Mullen III

58 U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Corporal James J. Vooris

59 U.S. Army photo by Sergeant Amber Robinson


62-63 U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 3rd Class Salvador J. Chavez, Jr.

64-65 U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Corporal Jeremy W. Ferguson

66-67 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class James R. Evans

68-69 U.S. Marine Corps photo by Corporal Cullen J. Tiernan

70-71 Department of Defense photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Salvador J. Chavez, Jr.

72-73 Department of Defense photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Jon Hyde

74-75 Composite of U.S. Navy photos by Randy Hepp

76-77 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Davis Anderson

78-79 U.S. Marine Corps photo by Corporal Sheila M. Brooks

80-81 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Corey Truax

82-83 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Kyle D. Gahlau

84-85 U.S. Navy Photo by Jose “Fuji” Ramos

86-87 U.S. Marine Corps photo by Corporal James D. Hamel

88-89 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Patrick M. Bonafede

90-91 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Coleman Thompson

92-93 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Todd Frantom

94-95 U.S. Marine Corps photo provided by Steve Green

96-97 U.S. Navy photo by Fernando Feliciano

98-99 Department of Defense photo by Lance Corporal Charles S. Howard, USMC


102-103 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Eduardo Zaragoza

104-105 U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sergeant Chad McMeen

106-107 U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 3rd Class Marcel A. Barbeau

108-109 U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Corporal Nikki Fleming

110-111 U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class James R. Evans


document credits

Naval Aviation Vision - January 2008

Design Team

Noel HeppDave Bradford

Writer / ResearcherKim Mozingo

Project Leads

CAPT Mike Warriner, USNCommander, Naval Air Forces

Executive Assistant for the Naval Aviation Enterprise

LtCol Brian Magnuson, USMCFuture Plans; Aviation Plans, Policies, and Budget Matters

Headquarters, USMC

Amy BehrmanNaval Air Systems Command, Strategic Communications

Malcolm TaylorNaval Air Systems Command, Science & Technology

Rick Meana and Peg SumnerAir Warfare Plans and Analysis (OPNAV N88)

Project Director

Gary E. ShroutNaval Aviation Enterprise Public Affairs

Project Manager

Suzy Lang-Rutt

Managing Editor / Head Writer

John Pierce

Art Director

Ken Collins

Support Team

Col Steve Franklin, USMCDirector, Aviation Logistics

Headquarters, USMC

Maj Randy Anderson, USMCAviation Logistics Plans Officer

Headquarters, USMC

Robin GoebelExecutive Team Lead, Naval Aviation Enterprise

CDR Chris Fordam, USNCommander, Naval Air Forces Reserve

Acknowledgements

Many thanks to all those throughout the Naval Aviation Enterprise who contributed to this document.

Special thanks to the Strategic Planning and Communications Team from OMNITEC Solutions, Inc. for their expertise in writing, editing, and designing this document.

For additional information / copies, please visit the NAE webpage at http://www.cnaf.navy.mil/nae.

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Documents

Naval Aviation Vision 2008