NAVY NEWS WEEK 41-3

9 October 2018

International SMARTEX exercise wraps up in the Mediterranean Sea Ships and personnel from the US, Spain, Germany and France concluded the four-day Smart Defense Exercise (SMARTEX) on September 28. SMARTEX is a NATO initiative designed to enhance interoperability and training between participating countries. During the exercise, Spanish sailors embarked aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Carney (DDG 64) to observe exercise events and train with US sailors, which included live-fire exercises, fast-inshore attack craft drills, air-defense exercises, anti-submarine drills and visit, board, search and seizure exercises on US and Spanish vessels. Five Carney sailors also had the opportunity to spend a day on the Spanish frigate ESPS Mendez Nunez (F104).

USS Carney (DDG 64) transits the Mediterranean Sea as the ship participates in a smart defense exercise (SMARTEX) led by Spain. Photo: US Navy

Aboard Nunez, Spanish sailors demonstrated to their American counterparts their daily routines and operating procedures. “Watching the Spanish sailors work aboard Nunez was very insightful,” said Information Systems Technician 3rd Class Lonniel Nelson. “I think this was a very valuable opportunity for the Sailors of both countries.” Training with other military forces enhances mutual awareness and maritime capability of partner nations. SMARTEX helped create an environment that promoted maritime safety and security in the region, and interoperability between Spain and the US. “SMARTEX was a rare opportunity to operate alongside our Spanish partners, conducting complex training and robust operations amid multi-axis threats,” said Cmdr. Tyson Young, commanding officer of Carney. “Both Carney and Mendez Nunez benefitted greatly from the exercise in both planning and tactical execution; truly emphasizing the ability of both navies to work seamlessly together.” US 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts a full range of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation missions in concert with coalition, joint, interagency, and other parties in order to advance security and stability in Europe and Africa. Source: Naval Today

SA Shipyards contracts Unique Group for hydrographic newbuild components

Photo: Unique Group

Southern African Shipyards has awarded subsea and offshore solution specialist Unique Group a contract to deliver dynamic positioning systems and navigational equipment for its hydrographic newbuilds. Through its Marine & Subsea division, Unique Group will be delivering the equipment for multiple – main and support vessels (boats!). Among the vessels to be fitted with the systems is the South African Navy’s VARD-designed Project Hotel hydrographic survey vessel. As part of the contract, Unique Group will also provide complete integration of the hydrographic equipment package, which will include centralized operations between the main vessel and smaller support vessels boats. The hydrographic office set up onshore will also be updated with new computer hardware and the latest processing software for chart production, data collection, processing, reporting and backup solutions. Unique Group will provide a full package including technical support and relevant operational and maintenance training for the staff. “Unique Group has always been at the forefront of innovation and customer satisfaction. Our team specializes in working with partners to deliver projects on time and with the best available solution,” Harry Gandhi, Unique Group CEO commented. “We are pleased to have been chosen for a significant project to provide complete vessel integration for a reputed client like Southern African Shipyards.” The South African Navy’s Project Hotel hydrographic vessel is being built to replace SAS Protea which has been in service since 1972. According to Vard, the PC7 ice- strengthened vessel will measure 95 meters in length and have approximately 7800kW propulsion power, a shafted controllable pitch propeller, and a maximum speed of 18 knots. The vessel has a 10,000nm range with 44 days endurance; and will be manned by a crew of 120 comprising ships’ crew and scientists. ` Source: Naval Today

A 802-Zr.Ms. Snellius inbound Kiel, Germany. Photo : Paul Struyf ©

Crew shortage prevents Irish Naval Service vessels setting sail Emergency meeting of top officers convened as reservists drafted to fill gaps on third ship By : Peter Murtagh Two Naval Service vessels were unable to set sail last week because of a crew shortage while reservists have been brought in to plug gaps on a third ship, it has emerged. Emergency talks were held last Friday in Haulbowline between Chief of Staff, Vice-Admiral Mark Mellett, Assistant Chief of Staff Brig Gen Peter O’Halloran and the Flag Officer Commanding, Cmdr Mick Malone. Meanwhile, the issue of shortages in the Naval Service, the Air Corps and the Army is expected to feature highly in the annual PDForra conference of non-commissioned officers. The LÉ Orla, a coastal patrol vessel, and the LÉ Niamh, a large offshore patrol vessel, were unable to leave their Haulbowline base, it is understood. Members of the Naval Service Reserve were drafted in recently to supplement crew shortages on a third ship, the LÉ Eithne, a helicopter patrol vessel that is the navy’s flagship. What is the problem? Shortages are such that Naval Service personnel are being asked to return to sea early, sacrificing part of their pre-planned shore leave. This has prompted a level of dissent from some of those asked. “The Naval Service has been running eight ships with personnel for seven and is about to take delivery of a ninth ship,” said a source. “There is a serious human resources problem. [Senior officers] are sticking their fingers in the holes as they appear.” Within the Air Corps, there is a 30 per cent shortfall in pilots and technicians which means the service is operating at less than 70 per cent capacit Retired Brig Gen Ger Aherne said the relationship between the Defence Forces and the Department of Defence is now “toxic, broken, dysfunctional and dangerous”. Key to the current problems, said the senior ex- officer, who has been critical of military pay levels , is the “long term political and institutional neglect and indifference towards the Defence Forces”. Lieut Col Earnán Naughton, general secretary of Raco, the Representative Association of Commissioned Officers, said the Defence Forces’ “governance and command structure is breaking down”. “Within the Air Corps, there is a 30 per cent shortfall in pilots and technicians which means the service is operating at less than 70 per cent capacity,” he said. “Army officer corps strength is about 40 per cent down. Strained relationship Senator Gerard Craughwell said Naval Service petty officers and senior non-commissioned officers have been asked to take up lower-ranked duties to make up crew numbers so ships can get to sea. Staffing difficulties are linked to the problem of retaining Defence Force personnel. But strained relations between senior officers and the department run deeper than just this issue. An example cited is how the department treated a joint submission to the Public Service Pay Commission which is looking at pay rates, particularly rank-and-file earnings and restoration of pay cuts. The Defence Forces were asked to tell the department what they wanted, which senior officers did in writing but then heard nothing back until after the submission was forwarded directly to the commission. Last night, the Defence Forces press office said Vice-Admiral Mellett “received briefings regarding naval operations and the challenges associated with the delivery of Maritime Security and Defence services” in Haulbowline. The department said naval reservists had been given training recently. The service has 92 per cent of its numbers, it added.Recruitment is continuing and staff will get pay rises worth between 6.2 per cent to 7.4 per cent. In addition, they will enjoy the restoration of the 5 per cent allowances cut under the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act 2013. Source : The Irish Times Don’t you find it disturbing, the recurrent story of politician’s lack of interest on defence matters. Breakthrough close in submarine negotiations as Christopher Pyne denies delays Oct 2 2018 at 11:00 PM Updated Oct 2 2018 at 11:00 PM

Negotiations between Australia and France over the new $50 billion submarine fleet have stalled. Supplied

by Andrew Tillett Two of the biggest sticking points in contract negotiations between Australia and France for the overarching agreement to guide construction of the $50 billion fleet of new submarines are close to being resolved, amid mounting criticism of delays and potential cost blow-outs. As crossbench South Australian senators called on the government to dump the French- owned Naval Group's unique design and purchase of off-the-shelf submarines modified for Australian needs, Defence Minister Christopher Pyne denied the project was in trouble. The Australian Financial Review revealed in August a stalemate over several issues had emerged in negotiations between the Australian Navy and Naval Group for the Strategic Partnering Agreement, the government-to-government agreement intended to provide the framework for the design and construction of the 12 new submarines over the next several decades. The delays meant that an unofficial deadline to have the SPA completed by September so it could be signed last week during French Defence Minister Florence Parly's visit to Adelaide was missed, with expectations it will not be finalised until next year. The ABC reported Mr Pyne was refusing to meet with Naval Group executives until the negotiations had been finalised, a claim he said was completely false. Stumbling blocks But with the initial "design and mobilisation" contract expiring last month, forcing Naval Group to dip into its cash reserves, the finalisation of the SPA is required before the French shipbuilder can enter a new contract to undertake the detailed design work. Amid this pressure, the Financial Review understands that the two major stumbling blocks – a disagreement over the length of warranty periods to cover any defects, and concerns over the impact if Naval Group was no longer owned by the French state – are close to being resolved ahead of the next round of talks next week. Mr Pyne insisted negotiations remained on track. "Sure, it's very important it be got right because it's the long-term contract and therefore we are not rushing into signing it," he told the ABC. "But nor is it delayed. It is a negotiation, negotiations by their very nature take time and I'm very comfortable with the position that we are in with the submarine contract. There's a lot of very overheated conversation about the contract." Despite the importance of building the submarines in Adelaide to underpin the local economy, Centre Alliance senators Rex Patrick and Stirling Griff, the Australian Conservatives Cory Bernardi and independent Tim Storer expressed their concern over the direction of the project. Senator Patrick claimed that for $20 billion the government would be able to build 20 submarines in Adelaide based on an existing design. He said these submarines could be stationed at forward bases in Japan, Guam or the mooted Australian naval base in Papua New Guinea. National interest But Mr Pyne said the French design had been selected because it satisfied Australia's need for a submarine capable of operating long-range from home. "The idea that we could scrap that when so much work has already been done on it and so much money spent on it is quite frankly fanciful," he said. Opposition defence minister Richard Marles said the government needed to get on top of the project and negotiate an agreement that reflected the national interest so that the country could get on with building the subs. "An ANAO [auditor-general's] report warning of extreme risk, and now a significant delay in the negotiations of the Strategic Partnership Agreement, are starting to add up to critical government failure," he said. "The Collins class is a very good submarine, but it's asking a lot for them to still be running when they're 50 years old. It's about time the government told us how they plan to keep them the best subs in the region for the decades and decades we'll need them." Source: https://www.afr.com

Iran’s IRGC Speedboat’s Close Encounter With USS Theodore Roosevelt By Video Manager October 3, 2018 , 10:05 am Newly released footage shows an Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corp (IRGC) speedboat in close proximity to the USS Theodore Roosevelt. The incident, which purportedly took place in March, occurred in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, in the Persian Gulf. It is the passageway for around a third of all oil traded by sea. See the video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hjeu6wBX7-Q Source: https://www.breakingisraelnews.com Watch: The world’s first drone that can go underwater like a submarine Business Insider SA Oct 03, 2018, 07:55 AM The world’s first-ever waterproof drone which can submerge in water like a submarine, float like a boat and fly in the air at over 69km per hour has been launched in the United States. The Spry, featuring a 4K camera that can capture video at 30 frames per second and take pictures at 12 megapixels, will be commercially available by November, its creator SwellProUSA and Urban Drones said. They said the waterproof remote control is also first-ever for a drone. “We've only seen this in science fiction movies," Alex Rodriguez, Urban Drones' CEO, said in a statement. "The Spry's ability to submerge under water and fly in the air makes it the most versatile drone ever created.” He said drone enthusiasts will enjoy the Spry's advanced flight features like hold position, auto follow, object orbit and return to pilot's position. Meanwhile, advanced users will enjoy the ability to fly the drone at speeds over 43km per hour while flipping and turning tight corners just like a racing drone. The drone’s design and construction were wholly funded through a crowdsourcing campaign on Kickstarter within 45 minutes. Source: https://www.businessinsider.co.za India, UK to increase joint navy training By Shaurya Karanbir Gurung

A carrier battle group consists of an aircraft carrier and its escorts, which together define the group. (Representational Image)

NEW DELHI: Enhancing their strategic relationship, India and the UK are planning to increase the joint training between their navies through carrier battle group operations. The UK has also offered to provide training to other Indian forces, including the army, which can be useful to India in its “conflict” at the borders. The UK’s Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Defence, Stephen Lovegrove, in an exclusive interaction with ET said when he met his counterpart, Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra, he discussed issues on training of Indian forces and carrier battle groups. A carrier battle group consists of an aircraft carrier and its escorts, which together define the group. Without identifying any country, Lovegrove, who was on a visit to India last week, also said that the training being offered can be used in conflicts that India is involved in. Lovegrove explained that Indian Navy and the Royal Navy are discussing cooperation on carrier battle groups. This is a prelude to the first deployment of UK’s latest aircraft carrier, the HMS Queen Elizabeth, in the Strait of Malacca. “A new aircraft carrier the QueenElizabeth is in the US doing its sea trials and is having the first F-35s fly from it. That exemplifies what we are trying to achieve with India. Its first operational deployment will be through the Strait of Malacca in 2021,” he said. Explaining the things being done with the Indian Navy, Lovegrove said, “I think the most relevant item is comparing practices and techniques of carrier battle groups, which will be happening when our new carrier (Queen Elizabeth) is fully operational... The two navies are discussing those types of cooperation on carrier battle groups.” On the UK playing a greater role in the Indian Ocean Region, he said, “We have enduring interests in the region. We want to continue to play our part in maintaining security here...The Queen Elizabeth will also represent some of our commitment to our trading relations. Its Its important for us that the Indian Ocean and South China Sea remain open to trade, navigation.” He added, “We also know that you have conflicts on your borders, which we want to assist in training some of your troops with. So we do some of that activity.” Lovegrove added that he had discussed with Mitra on training of forces such as the Royal Marines training their equivalent forces on how to operate in contested environments, sea boarding techniques and interdiction. Meanwhile, Lovegrove also said that the Indian Air Force has shown interest in knowing more about the Advanced Hawk, the combat version of the Hawk jets, which are used for training pilots of the IAF and navy.” Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com

US Navy proposing major show of force to warn China By Barbara Starr, CNN Pentagon Correspondent Updated 0632 GMT (1432 HKT) October 4, 2018 (CNN) The US Navy's Pacific Fleet has drawn up a classified proposal to carry out a global show of force as a warning to China and to demonstrate the US is prepared to deter and counter their military actions, according to several US defense officials. The draft proposal from the Navy is recommending the US Pacific Fleet conduct a series of operations during a single week in November. The goal is to carry out a highly focused and concentrated set of exercises involving US warships, combat aircraft and troops to demonstrate that the US can counter potential adversaries quickly on several fronts. The plan suggests sailing ships and flying aircraft near China's territorial waters in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait in freedom of navigation operations to demonstrate the right of free passage in international waters. The proposal means US ships and aircraft would operate close to Chinese forces. The defense officials emphasized that there is no intention to engage in combat with the Chinese. While the US military carries out these types of operations throughout the year, the proposal being circulated calls for several missions to take place in just a few days. While one official described it as "just an idea," it is far enough along that there is a classified operational name attached to the proposal, which is circulating at several levels of the military. Officials would not confirm the name of the potential operation. US officials acknowledge China often see these missions as provocations. They also acknowledge that the intelligence community would have to weigh in with any concerns about reactions from China. The Pentagon refused to acknowledge or comment on the proposal. "As the secretary of defense has said on countless occasions, we don't comment on future operations of any kind," said Lt. Col. David Eastburn, a Pentagon spokesman. The US Pacific Fleet also refused to comment. Word of the US Navy's proposal comes just days after what the Pentagon has called an "unsafe" encounter between US and Chinese destroyers in the South China Sea. The US Navy said the Chinese destroyer Lanzhou came within 45 yards (41 meters) of the USS Decatur while the US ship was on a "freedom of navigation" operation near Chinese-claimed islands. The 8,000-ton destroyers could have been seconds away from colliding, said Carl Schuster, a former US Navy officer who spent 12 years at sea. The destroyer encounter capped weeks of heightened tensions between Beijing and Washington. Late last week, US Secretary of Defense James Mattis pulled out of a planned visit to Beijing later in October, two US officials told CNN. Mattis had originally planned to visit the Chinese capital to meet with senior Chinese officials to discuss security issues. The last-minute cancellation of the unannounced trip has not been publicly confirmed by the Pentagon. Earlier in the week, the Chinese government canceled a port visit to Hong Kong by the USS Wasp, a US Navy amphibious assault ship. Following the cancellation, the US Navy released a series of photos showing troops aboard the 40,000-ton Wasp taking part in a live-fire exercise in the South China Sea. Also last week, the US flew B-52 bombers over the South China Sea and East China Sea. Earlier in September, Washington levied sanctions against the Chinese military over its purchase of weapons from Russia, including Su-35 fighter jets and S-400 surface-to-air missile systems. Meanwhile, on the economic front, the US and Chinese governments have been levying tariffs on an expanding number of each country's exports. At a press conference last week, US President Donald Trump said his often-mentioned friendship with Chinese leader Xi Jinping may have come to an end. "He may not be a friend of mine anymore. But I think he probably respects me," Trump said. While the proposal for the week-long exercises is being driven by the US military, carrying it out it during November when US mid-term elections are taking place could have political implications for the Trump administration if the US troops are challenged by China. The proposal for now focuses on a series of operations in the Pacific, near China, but they could stretch as far as the west coast of South America where China is increasing its investments. If the initial proposal is approved, the missions could be expanded to Russian territory. Defense Secretary James Mattis and Gen. Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, will take into account the diplomatic implications of each mission, officials said. They will also have to consider the risk of suddenly moving forces to new areas away from planned deployments, and whether potential threat areas are being left uncovered by the military, especially in the Middle East. At this time the proposal is still being considered within the military. The proposal has grown out of the Pentagon's National Defense Strategy which focuses on the growing military challenge posed by the Chinese and Russian militaries. Mattis has urged US commanders to come up with innovative and unexpected ways to deploy forces. Currently the aircraft carrier USS Harry S Truman is taking the unexpected step of operating in the North Sea -- sending a signal to Russia that US military forces can extend their reach to that area. Source: https://edition.cnn.com

Can South Africa Achieve Greater Maritime Security as Chair of the Indian Ocean Rim Association? 3 October 2018 Alex Kannegiesser-Bailey, Research Assistant, Indian Ocean Research Programme The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) consists of 21 member states and seven dialogue members. It was established in 1997 by South Africa and India, with assistance from Australia and Mauritius. It was conceived as a platform for Indian Ocean states to pursue peaceful socio-economic co-operation. The organisation lost momentum in the early 2000s, when the interest of South Africa, Indonesia, India and Australia, all key states, dwindled. Interest in the association was revitalised in 2011, however, when India adopted priority areas for members to concentrate on. After a recent series of meetings hosted by South Africa in Durban from 30 July to 3 August, the Chair state is working towards strengthening the Indian Ocean Dialogue initiative and Indian Ocean Rim Academic Group. The aim is a programme for better international planning and co-ordination. As Chair of IORA, South Africa says it will work towards achieving domestic maritime economic development that will foster regional economic co-operation. As part of its 2017-19 term as Chair, South Africa has endeavoured to align the implementation of domestic and foreign policy goals on maritime security, with the development and governance of IORA’s priority areas. Comment South Africa is strategically located at the confluence of the Atlantic, Indian and Southern Oceans, placing it alongside a major global maritime trading route. Estimates indicate that 80-95 per cent of all South African trade has a maritime element, making maritime security and stability highly important. To highlight South Africa’s ocean economy focus, Jacob Zuma, who was the president at the time, developed Domestic Operation Phakisa (“hurry up”) in 2013. It was designed to represent the urgency of action needed to seize the maritime opportunities available to the country. Operation Phakisa focuses on unlocking the economic potential of the oceans that adjoin South Africa. Estimates suggest that those opportunities could contribute up to 177 billion rand ($17.4 billion) to South Africa’s Gross Domestic Product by 2033 and up to one million jobs directly. South Africa’s leadership of IORA has promoted the alignment of Phakisa with the IORA blue economy strategy. The objective of that strategy is to promote smart, sustainable and inclusive growth and employment opportunities within the Indian Ocean region maritime economic activities. The Blue Economy Declaration was adopted at the first IORA Ministerial Blue Economy Conference, held in Mauritius in 2015. The Declaration reflects global trends and attempts to harness oceans and maritime resources to drive economic growth, job creation and innovation, while also maintaining sustainability and environmental protection. Through IORA, South Africa has been working towards strengthening its relationship with regional partners in and beyond Africa, to secure its maritime trade. There are strong synergies between IORA’s focus on the blue economy and South Africa’s own Operation Phakisa. Both are aimed at unlocking obstacles to investment and promoting cross-departmental and multi-stakeholder co-operation, with a focus on job expansion and economic development. IORA’s Action Plan 2017-2021 and the African Union’s (AU) 2050 African Integrated Maritime Strategy, also align with IORA’s blue economy focus and South Africa’s domestic Phakisa policy concerning maritime economic interests. The development of IORA’s Action Plan is to be monitored and progressed under South Africa’s leadership, by institutionalising the Indian Ocean Dialogue to advance cohesion and provide an official platform for networking and co-operation with all member states. The Action Plan was a result of the 2016 Jakarta Accord Leader’s Summit, which set out IORA members’ commitments. The plan called for the establishment of three new working groups on maritime security and safety, the blue economy and women’s economic empowerment, respectively. A short-term flagship project that emerged from the Action Plan was for South Africa to establish co-operation with the AU as an important regional body within IORA. The struggle for South Africa during its remaining year as Chair of IORA, however, will be to continue to build on the momentum that the organisation has achieved since its revival and to implement the targets set out at the Jakarta Accord. IORA is the single “permanent” inter-governmental organisation within the Indian Ocean region. It does, however, share similar characteristics with the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), which is a “voluntary” initiative that encourages navies to co-operate to increase maritime stability. IONS is the only other body considered to be a near region-wide group in the Indian Ocean. Despite similar initiatives, IORA and IONS differ in organisational composition, with some individual members only involved in one organisation. Due to the lack of management and co-operation between these two bodies, both IORA’s and IONS’ contribution to the security of the Indian Ocean has been underwhelming. While the 2013 IORA ministerial meeting, held in Perth, noted that IORA’s maritime security plans should align with and complement IONS’s initiatives, there was no mention of IONS in the 2017 Jakarta Accord Action Plan. For either of these organisations to be successful in implementing strategic policy on maritime economic stability, a rules-based framework is needed to mobilise collaboration between them. Co-operation between IORA and IONS would strengthen maritime stability and security in the Indian Ocean. As South Africa enters the second half of its term as the Chair of IORA, it is unclear what level of development and success has been achieved, or will be achieved, that is different from the accomplishments of previous chairs. Source: http://www.futuredirections.org.au The New York Naval Militia in Operation Sandy October 3, 2018 Guest Author By CDR Art McCormick (ret.) Super Storm Sandy On 26 October, 2012, as Super Storm Sandy, the largest tropical storm in area ever recorded in the Atlantic Ocean roared up the eastern seaboard of the eastern seaboard of the United States Governor Andrew Cuomo declared a state of emergency in New York.1 Preparations included the 24-hour activation of the state’s emergency operation center (EOC) with major participating components, including the Division of Military and Naval Affairs (DMNA), ready to respond. A Warning Order was issued by Major General Patrick Murphy, the Adjutant General (TAG), to all components of the DMNA which comprises the NY Army National Guard, the NY Air National Guard, the NY State Guard, and the NY Naval Militia (NYNM). A Warning Order for the Naval Militia had been issued by the NYNM Deputy Commander for Operations on 25 October 2012. Three days later Gov. Cuomo ordered the mobilization of NY Military Forces (NYMF). The mobilization included members of the Naval Militia.2

Crews from the Coast Guard Cutter Sturgeon Bay, Coast Guard Marine Safety and Security Team Boston, Coast Guard Station New York, the New Jersey State Police and the New York City Police Department escort the Pre- Commissioning Unit (PCU) New York as the ship sails into New York Harbor. The nearest patrol boat is NYNM PB 300 escorting the USS New York (LPD-21) into NY harbor for it’s commissioning ceremony in November 2009.

On the same day, the U.S. Secretary of Defense, with the consent of the Governor, authorized the appointment of a Dual Status Commander (DSC) for NY, thereby allowing a pre-certified National Guard officer to command both state and federal forces within the state.3 This command was executed at 1128 on 3 November, 2012. This was the first large-scale unplanned contingency utilizing a DSC since the concept was established in 2009.4 Establishing the NY Naval Militia Article 1 Section 8 of the United States Constitution authorizes states to establish militias which can be called forth by Congress “to execute the laws of the union, suppress insurrections and repel invasions.” The states are reserved the right to appoint officers of their militias and authorize training “according to the discipline prescribed by Congress.” Title 10 of the U.S. Code (USC) Sec.311, established by Congress, defines the organized militia as the National Guard and the Naval Militia.5 NY State Military Law Article 1, Sec. 6 “authorizes the Governor in event of invasion, disaster, insurrection, riot, breach of peace, or imminent danger thereof, to order all or part of the organized militia into active service.”6 Article 1 Sec. 8 of the U.S. Constitution also directs the Congress to “provide and maintain a navy.” In the late nineteenth century states began reestablishing Naval Militias, originally created and then disbanded in the early 19th century, to support the mandated federal Navy. In times of national emergencies states provided their naval militias for federal service. New York Governor David Hill signed a bill creating the NY Naval Militia on June 14, 1889.7 The 1st Battalion stood up two years later.8 The Naval Militia Act (NMA) of February 1914 put the State Naval Militias under the supervision of the Secretary of the Navy.9 This preceded the launching of the Naval Reserves by two years.10 With the establishment of the Navy Reserves, and later the Marine Reserves, federal support of naval militias ended and most states abolished their organizations.11 New York is unique in continuously maintaining its federally recognized Naval Militia. Title 10 USC does not include the Naval Militia as a reserve component but does authorize the Secretary of the Navy to set standards that the Naval Militia must meet, including the requirement that 95 percent of unit members be U.S. Navy (USN) or U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) reservists, to qualify for federal material support.12 NY State Military Law also requires 95 percent of Naval Militia members to be federal reservists13 and that the organization parallels that of the Navy and Marine Corps Reserves.14 Additionally, Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) between the NYNM and the USN (1996),15 the USMC (1996)16 and the U.S. Coast Guard (1997) have been signed, reaffirming continued cooperation while also permitting Coast Guard Reservists to join the NYNM. Federal responsibilities supersede NYNM activation. A January, 2007 Defense Department report, Critical Homeland Infrastructure Protection, discusses the benefits “of the Federal Government providing immediate access to Navy and Marine reservists during State and Local emergencies, at no cost to the DoD.”17 History of NY Naval Militia Disaster Response The NYNM can trace its disaster response history back to when it was mobilized to “protect steam ship passengers during the 1892 cholera quarantine at Fire Island.”18 120 years later the NYNM would again be at Fire Island performing Defense Support to Civilian Authorities (DSCA) missions. A more recent operation includes the TWA 800 recovery in 1996. The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) was the lead agency in the massive recovery operation with significant USN support. Over 30 NYNM members, mostly stevedores from the USN 6th Cargo Handling Battalion, along with Marines, were activated for three to four weeks to load, unload, and drive trucks. When the North Country Ice Storm of 1998 struck in January 15 NYNM members were on State Active Duty (SAD) for five weeks assisting primarily with logistics and supplying staff officers. Naval Militia Construction Battalion (SeaBees) members served under the NY National Guard 152nd Engineer Support Company and used National Guard heavy equipment. The most significant NYNM state activation occurred immediately after the World Trade Center terrorist attack on September 11, 2001. Naval Militia personnel were on site within hours and remained in Lower Manhattan for ten months. A total of 560 personnel were called to SAD. A decade later, nearly 200 NYNM members were mobilized when Hurricane Irene struck in August 2011. Non-disaster activations included assisting with maritime security for the 2004 Republican National Convention when NYNM SAD members served alongside National Guard Title 32 and Title 10 troops. Joint Task Force Sandy As the NY community was still reeling from the ravaging effects of “Sandy,” a Nor’easter (named “Athena” by The Weather Channel) struck the NY metropolitan area on 8 November, delivering 7-13 inches of snow, a four-foot tide surge, high winds, and additional power outages. Although a relatively minor snow storm as far as Nor’easters are concerned, the timing could not have been more demoralizing with snow accumulations breaking records for this early date. At the peak of operations there were over 4000 military personnel under state control with the majority being on SAD, some under Title 32, which allows the governor to retain command and control (C2) while the federal government assumes the financial burden, and nearly 700 Federal Title 10 forces (federal active duty personnel under C2 of the Secretary of Defense/President of the U.S.). Brigadier General Mike Swezey, a pre-designated DSC, was the only individual in both Operation Sandy chains of command: one leading up to the president, who retained C2 of Title 10 forces, and down to the active duty troops serving within NY. The other lead up to the Governor of NY, who retained C2 of Title 32 and SAD troops, and down to the state forces responding. Orders were accepted by over 200 NY Naval Militia members during the Operation Sandy response with 25 to 85 personnel on SAD at a time. Duration of activations ranged from 1 day to over 30 days from 29 October to 30 November, with the majority serving from five to nine days. Most of the NYNM members were integrated into the state’s military task forces whose missions included security, sheltering displace citizens, food and clothing distribution, and the evacuation of hospitals and nursing homes. Additionally, the NY Naval Militia Military Emergency Boat Service (MEBS) performed safety reconnaissance operations in Jamaica Bay to help identify maritime hazards along with security patrols around Fire Island at the request of local law enforcement agencies until emergency utilities could be restored and access roads made passable. Naval Militia members were also integrated into the DMNA Joint Task Forces Headquarters (JTFHQ) and the Operation Sandy Joint Operations Centers (JOC) respectively. The NYNM warning order of 25 October 2012 directed the activation of the Personnel Action Team (PAT) to begin identifying and contacting members in preparation of expected activation. Liaison Officers were also advised to be ready to respond to anticipated mobilization execution order (EXORD). General NYNM activation directives require members recalled to DSCA SAD to be self-sufficient for up to 72 hours if necessary. The EXORD was given on 28 October and the JTF Sandy Liason Officer (LNO) team reported the next day. A NYNM LNO would be present at the JTF Sandy JOC from 29 October until 19 November when liaison duties would be handled locally by the senior militiamen in the area of responsibility (AOR). NYNM LNOs would also be manning the JFHQs JOC in Latham, NY. Within a few days the JTF Sandy JOC would include representatives from the NY Army National Guard (NYARNG), the NY Air National Guard (NYANG), the exclusively state NY Guard (NYG) and the NYNM. In addition, representatives from the U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM), Army North, the National Guard Bureau, and the USS Wasp Amphibious Battle Group (ABG) would be occupying seats within the JOC. On 3 November, the USS Wasp (LHD-1), accompanied by the USS San Antonio (LPD-17) and the USS Carter Hall (LSD-50), arrived off the coast of New York and New Jersey with embarked Marines and Sailors from the 26th MEU along with detachments from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH) 366 and Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 467. They operated in support of Hurricane Sandy disaster relief efforts. Title 10 personnel from the U.S. Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marines were among the responders:  Air Force teams completed unwatering operations at Rockaway Wastewater Treatment facility, and East School in Long Beach, N.Y., and provided teams to support fire departments conducting unwatering operations in Breezy Point, N.Y.  Army divers repaired the pier system at Caven Point, N.J. Additionally, divers continue to assist the New York City Fire Department unwater the PATH tunnel at the World Trade Center and unwater the Long Beach High School and Recreation Center, N.Y.  Marines continued assessments with Army engineers in Far Rockaway, N.Y., and pumped 90,000 gallons of water from apartment buildings there. About 750,000 gallons were pumped from affected homes and parks in Breezy Point, N.Y.  Navy dive detachments continue to support the World Trade Center site and Marine Corps pump teams are assisting pumping operations at Breezy Point. Helicopters from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit were transporting and relocating generators in the area at the direction of the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Navy Seabees and Marine personnel restored the beach at Coast Guard Station Sandy Hook; and supporting debris clearance operations at locations in Bayonne, N.J. and the Battery, N.Y.19 Also, National Guardsmen from Florida, Delaware, Georgia, Kansas, Massachusetts, Maine, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia arrived in NY through Emergency Management Agreement Compacts. With such a diverse force responding to the disaster, the Governor, with input from the Adjutant General (TAG), and the Secretary of Defense consented to the activation of a DSC to command Title 10, Title 32, and SAD forces within the state. The DSC was executed on 3 November and the NYNM was a part of this historic event. Naval Militia members, after reporting to the Joint Reception Staging Onward Movement and Integration (JRSOI) site and being scanned into the system, were then put to work where needed according to their skillsets. Seven members arrived with air transportation provided by the 109AW and then proceeded with the Air Guard command down range to Floyd Bennet Field in Brooklyn which quickly became the main logistical point for supplies and equipment being used and distributed by the various responding agencies. The majority of the mobilized force was sent to the Lexington Avenue Armory where they were integrated into Task Force 69. According to one Meritorious Commendation citation awarded during the period: “The NY Naval Militia element of Task Force 69 was responsible for saving numerous lives at Belleview Hospital during Super-storm SANDY. On 30 October 2012, the NY Naval Militia contingent, part of the Task Force, completed a mission at Belleview Hospital to keep critical hospital functions operational. In conjunction with Officers of the New York Police Department, this element kept the hospital’s generators operating overnight. Utilizing a bucket-brigade and 5-gallon buckets they hauled 100 gallons of fuel per hour from a 1400 gallon fuel truck to generators on the 13th floor of the hospital. Additionally, Task Force 69 assisted hospital staff by keeping food and water supplied throughout the hospital. When it was determined that Bellevue Hospital should be evacuated, 4-5 man teams carried patients down multiple flights of stairs to awaiting ambulances.”20 Two young Marine NYNM members that were qualified Humvee drivers spent a month chauffeuring the TAG and DSC throughout the AOR. MEBS-qualified truck and trailer drivers along with boat teams were kept busy early in the operation ensuring the safety of the vessels and equipment from storm damage. Boats needed to be taken out of the water and brought to higher ground where feasible and if not, taken underway to safer anchorages. If not for the conscientious meritorious efforts of the MEBS teams significant damage would have resulted. This would have hampered the security patrols that were to follow. On 5 November, a request from Suffolk County for maritime security patrols with local law enforcement officers off Fire Island was routed through the JFHQ. It was determined that the NYNM could accomplish this mission and two vessels, trucks, and trailers, along with 15 qualified boat personnel, were soon on their way. They would perform what was quickly labeled “Vampire Patrols” from 1600 until dawn for 14 days commencing on 8 November. Although the first patrol had to be cancelled due to dangerous seas, security patrols from Kismet to Davis Park were completed. This area was without electrical power and the roads were impassable due to the super storm making the homes vulnerable to looters and any remaining civilians without emergency assistance. These patrols greatly reduced the risks. Flexibility was key as fuel and anchorage had to be secured for the vessels along with berthing and messing facilities for the crews. Assistance from the local authorities, including the nearby U.S. Coast Guard station was critical to the mission’s success. Immediately after the 11 September, 2001 attacks, JTF Empire Shield (JTFES) was stood up and has remained active since. Simultaneously, the NYNM MEBS command was established with resources committed to JTFES mission. At the time of Superstorm Sandy’s arrival, 2 MEBS vessels were assigned to Empire Shield. One vessel, with armed National Guard personnel onboard, assisted with security at the Indian Point nuclear power station just up the Hudson River from NYC. The other boat was utilized for safety and security checks of vessels entering NY Harbor with a U.S. Coast Guard inspection team embarked. This was done through a unique agreement between NY and the Coast Guard. When Sandy struck, both MEBS boats were taken off the Empire Shield mission and given over to JTF Sandy to be used by the DSC as needed. This allowed the boats to be available if conditions permitted while allowing them to be relocated to safer anchorage. Within a few days, when it was determined that sufficient MEBS resources could be mobilized for Operation Sandy, both boats were returned to Empire Shield to continue their normal missions. The final mission assignment for members of the NYNM involved going door-to-door in the ravaged coastal areas of Rockaway, Brooklyn, and Staten Island to ascertain the well-being of citizens whose lives were devastated by this catastrophic event. This was accomplished through the Thanksgiving Holiday. The Current Force As the federal maritime forces in NY have decreased, so has the NYNM membership. The recent Strength Report dated March 1, 2012, counts total enrollment at 2206, (compared to approximately 4500 on 9/11), with 209 officers, 22 warrants, and 1975 enlisted.21 The majority of members are selected reservists (SELRES) from the USN (1300), followed by USMC SELRES (655), and USCG SELRES (106). Retired reservists under 60 years of age on the Federal Component List (94) and 5-percenters on the State Active List (51) make up the rest of the force. NY State educational assistance entices recruitment.22 Prior to the September 11, 2001 attacks, all training was provided by the federal government through the reserve system. A new Joint Operations Center (JOC) with direct communications with the U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) was dedicated at DMNA Headquarters in 2008.23 The NYNM, along with the other components of the DMNA JTFHQ, mans a position at the JOC, continuing to stand the watch for not only New York, but all of America. Arthur McCormick CDR (ret) NY Naval Militia is a US Navy veteran having served on active duty as a Radioman from 1966 to 1970 and then as a reserve Hospital Corpsman from 1987 to 1990. Shortly after 9/11/01 he was recalled to state active duty into the federally recognized NY Naval Militia in support of the World Trade Center disaster response. He served in lower Manhattan. He subsequently accepted a state commission in 2003. CDR McCormick served as Senior Joint Task Force 3 Liaison Officer on the staff of the Dual Status Commander for Hurricane Irene (DSC authorized but not activated) and Superstorm Sandy (DSC activated). CDR McCormick graduated from the US Naval War College with Joint Professional Military Education Phase 1 certification in 2008. CDR McCormick retired from the NY Naval Militia in 2016. On the civilian side Dr. McCormick is a retired veterinarian having graduated from the NY State College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University in 1979. He may be reached at [email protected]. References [1] Governor Cuomo Declares State of Emergency in New York in Preparation for Potential impact of Hurricane Sandy. http://www.governor.ny.gov/press/10262012-sandystateofemergencecy Oct 26, 2012. [2] Governor Cuomo Directs New York Army and Air National Guard to Mobilize for Hurricane Sandy. http://www.governor.ny.gov/press/10282012nationalguardmobilized Oct 12, 2012 [3] Panetta Appoints ‘Dual’ Commanders for Hurricane Relief. American Forces Press Service. http://www.defense.gov/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=118366 Oct 28, 2012 [4] Hurricane Sandy Puts New National Guard Command Mechanism to Work. National Defense Industrial Association. http://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/archive/2012/December/Pages/HurricaneSandyPutsNewNationalGuardCommandMechanismtoWork .aspx December 2012 [5] Title 10 Sec. 311 USC. http://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/10/311.html [6] NYS Military Law Art 1 Sec 6. http://codes.lp.findlaw.com/nycode/MIL/1/6 [7] NY Times. June 15, 1889. http://query.nytimes.com/mem/archive-free/pdf?_r=2&res=9404E3DE133AE033A25756C1A9609C94689FD7CF [8] New York Naval Militia Turns 120 on June 23 2011. http://dmna.ny.gov/news/news.php?id=1308832192 [9] NYNM. http://www.dmna.state.ny.us/nynm/naval.php?id=about [10] TNR. MAR 2010. History of the Navy Reserves, p. 18. http://www.navyreserve.navy.mil/Publications/2010/TNRmar10.pdf [11] National Archives. Records of the Bureau of Naval Personnel. 24.6.2 Records of the Division of Naval Militia Affairs. http://www.archives.gov/research/guide-fed-records/groups/024.html#24.6.2 [12] Title 10 Sec. 7854. http://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/html/uscode10/usc_sec_10_00007854—-000-.html [13] NYS Mil Law. http://codes.lp.findlaw.com/nycode/MIL/2/43 [14] Ibid. [15] Dept of Defense (DoD). http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=40825 [16] MARINE CORPS ORDER 5725R.7C ASSOCIATION OF MEMBERS OF THE SELECTED MARINE CORPS RESERVE (SMCR) WITH A STATE NAVAL MILITIA 7JUN96. http://www.marines.mil/news/publications/Documents/MCO%205725R.7C.pdf [17] Defense Science Board Task Force, p19. http://www.acq.osd.mil/dsb/reports/2007-01-Critical_Homeland_Infrastructure_Protection.pdf [18] NYNM. http://www.dmna.state.ny.us/nynm/naval.php?id=about [19] US DoD News. Pentagon Provides Sandy Response Update. Nov 9, 2012. http://www.defense.gov/News/NewsArticle.aspx?ID=118496 [20] Meritorious Commendation Award citation. EO1 Thomas Gray. For meritorious service during the period 29 October 2012 – 8 November 2012. [21] NYNM HQ. Latham, NY 12MAR2012. [22] NYNM Education. http://www.dmna.state.ny.us/nynm/naval.php?id=education [23] NYNG Media Advisory. http://www.dmna.state.ny.us/pressroom/presindx.php?id=1203072420 Source: http://cimsec.org

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