Carrier Strike Group Seven
Carrier Strike Group Seven crest.
Active	1 October 2004 to 30 December 2011. [1] [2]
Country	United States of America
Branch	United States Navy
Type	Carrier Strike Group (CSG)
Role	Naval air/surface warfare
Part of	U.S. Third Fleet
Garrison/HQ	Naval Air Station North Island, California
Engagements	Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) Operation Anaconda Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan (OEF-A)
Website	Official Website
Commanders
Commander	Rear Admiral Robert P. Girrier [3]
Chief of Staff	Captain Steven Baxter [4]
Command Master Chief	YNCS(SW/AW) Anthony Tate [5]
Aircraft flown
Electronic warfare	EA-6B Prowler E-2C Hawkeye
Fighter	F/A-18E/F Super Hornet F/A-18C Hornet
Helicopter	MH-60R/MH-60S Seahawk
Transport	C-2A Greyhound

Carrier Strike Group Seven, abbreviated CSG-7 or CARSTRKGRU 7, was one of six U.S. Navy carrier strike groups assigned to the U.S. Pacific Fleet. U.S. Navy carrier strike groups are employed in a variety of roles, all of which involve gaining and maintaining sea control. ^[6]

Carrier Strike Group Seven was based at Naval Air Station North Island, California, and it typically deployed to the U.S. Seventh Fleet operating in the Western Pacific (WESTPAC) and the U.S. Fifth Fleet in the Indian Ocean and the Persian Gulf. The Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) served as the final flagship for Carrier Strike Group Seven.

Carrier Strike Group Seven (CARSTRKGRU 7) made four deployments to the U.S. Fifth Fleet, and its embarked carrier air wing flew 6500 air sorties in support of ground forces in Iraq and Afghanistan while CARSTRKGRU-7 surface warships supported theater security and maritime interdiction operation within that fleet's area of responsibility. CARSTRKGRU-7 also made a Western Pacific surge deployment to support of U.S. commitments in that region while the flagship of the forward-based Carrier Strike Group Five flagship, the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63), began its scheduled maintenance period in Yokosuka, Japan.

Units of Carrier Strike Group Seven, individually and together, participated in such joint exercises as Valiant Shield 2006; such bi-lateral exercises as RSOI/Foal Eagle 2007, Talisman Saber 2007, Malabar 2008, and Malabar 2011; and such multi-lateral exercises as SEACAT 2008 and RIMPAC 2010. Finally, Carrier Strike Group Seven provided humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HA/DR) support in the aftermath of the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, the Typhoon Fengshen of 2008, and the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami.

On 30 December 2011, Carrier Strike Group Seven will be formally disestablished, ending the existence of this U.S. Navy aircraft carrier formation whose operational history spanned World War Two, the Cold War, and the Global War on Terror. ^[2]

Overview

Historical background

Carrier Division Seven

Carrier Division Seven (CarDiv-7) was established on 19 December 1944, and its aircraft carriers provided night air combat patrols for the U.S. Pacific Fleet's Fast Carrier Task Force. CarDiv-7 aircraft carriers participated in the Philippine and Okinawa campaigns as well as carrier air raids against the Japanese home islands. Aircraft carriers assigned to CarDiv-7 during World War Two included Saratoga, Enterprise, Independence, and Bon Homme Richard.

During the Cold War, CarDiv-7 was re-established on 22 March 1956. ^[7] During the Vietnam War, Aircraft carriers assigned to Carrier Division Seven (CarDiv 7) operated as part of Task Force 77 from Yankee Station and Dixie Station, and they participated with such air campaigns as Operation Flaming Dart, Operation Rolling Thunder, Operation Barrel Roll, Operation Steel Tiger, Operation Commando Hunt, Operation Tiger Hound, Operation Iron Hand, Operation Pocket Money, Operation Linebacker, and Operation Linebacker II.

Carrier Group Seven

Carrier Division Seven was re-designated as Carrier Group Seven (CarGru-7) on 30 June 1973, and it saw action in Operation Southern Watch, Operation Noble Eagle, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Anaconda, and Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan (OEF-A) as a carrier battle group of the U.S. Fifth Fleet. CarDiv-7 and CarGru-7 aircraft carriers made a total of 34 deployments to the Western Pacific Ocean and Persian Gulf. ^[7]

Command structure

Commander Carrier Strike Group Seven (COMCARSTRKGRU 7) served as Immediate Superior-in-Command (ISIC) for the ships and units assigned to the group. Acting as an Operational Commander, COMCARSTRKGRU 7 exercised oversight of unit-level training, integrated training, and readiness for assigned ships and units, as well as maintains administrative functions and material readiness tracking for ships and squadrons assigned to the group.

Carrier Strike Group Seven reported to Commander, U.S. Third Fleet as one of the five carrier strike groups currently part of the United States Pacific Fleet. CARSTRKGRU 7's pre-deployment training and certification comes under the operational control (OPCON) of the U.S. Third Fleet. When deployed overseas, Carrier Strike Group Seven came under the authority of the numbered fleet commander in whose area it is operating. When deployed in this fashion, the group utilizes a task force or task group designator, for example, Task Group 50.1 in the Fifth Fleet area.

Carrier Strike Group Seven was an operational formation. Administratively the ships and aircraft of the strike group were assigned to U.S. Navy type commands. The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan, the guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG-62), and Destroyer Squadron Seven (DESRON-7) were under the administrative authority of Commander, Naval Surface Forces Pacific. ^{[8] [9]} Carrier Air Wing Fourteen (CVW-14) was under the administrative authority of Commander, Naval Air Force Pacific.

CARSTRKGRU 7 Commanders

• Rear Admiral Robert J. Cox		(6 August 2004 – 21 March 2005)
• Rear Admiral Michael H. Miller		(15 April 2005 – 25 January 2007)
• Rear Admiral Charles W. Martoglio		(25 January 2007 – 16 November 2007)
• Rear Admiral James P. Wisecup		(16 November 2007 – 27 October 2008)
• Rear Admiral Adm. Scott P. Hebner		(27 October 2008 – 27 October 2009)
• Rear Admiral Thomas S. Rowden		(18 September 2009 – February 2011)
• Rear Admiral Robert P. Girrier		(February 2011 – October 2011)
• Captain Steve Baxter (acting)		(October 2011 – 30 December 2011)

Force composition in 2011

U.S. Navy carrier strike groups typically consist of an aircraft carrier ( flagship), an embarked carrier air wing, at least one Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser, and a destroyer squadron. At the time of its dis-establishment in 2011, Carrier Strike Group Seven was composed of the following units:

• USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76), flagship (pictured) ^[10]
• Carrier Air Wing Fourteen (CVW-14) ^[10]
• USS Chancellorsville (CG-62) ^[10]
• Destroyer Squadron Seven (DESRON-7) ^{[10] [11]}
  • USS Gridley (DDG-101) ^{[10] [11]}
  • USS Howard (DDG-83) ^{[10] [11]}
  • USS Decatur (DDG-73) ^{[10] [11]}
  • USS Benfold (DDG-65) ^{[10] [11]}
  • USS Thach (FFG-43) ^{[10] [11]}

2004 operations

Summer Pulse ’04

The John C. Stennis Carrier Battle Group was on of six carrier battle groups to participate in Summer Pulse '04 (SP04) which was the U.S. Navy's first full scale exercise of its new operational construct, the Fleet Response Plan (FRP). ^{[12] [13] [14]} The FRP is designed to allow the Navy to provide up to seven carrier strike groups (CSG) to support any contingency worldwide in 30 days. Per the plan, two more CSGs can be ready within three months to reinforce or rotate out the forces that initially deployed. This allows for a continuous presence and the ability to swiftly respond to different crisis situations. FRP also is about new ways of operating, training, manning and maintaining the fleet resulting in increased force readiness and the ability to provide significant combat power in a crisis situation as well as reinforce our relationships and interoperability in five theaters of operations. ^{[12] [13] [14]}

2004 WESTPAC deployment

n 24 May 2004, the Stennis Carrier Battle Group departed Naval Station San Diego for its 2004 WESTPAC deployment to participate in Operation Northern Edge in the Gulf of Alaska. The carrier battle group returned to San Diego on 1 November 2004 after participating Northern Edge 2004, JASEX 2004, and RIMPAC 2004 (pictued) before the upcoming homeport change of the John C. Stennis to Bremerton, Washington, in 2005. ^{[15] [16] [17]}

Northern Edge 2004

Northern Edge is an annual joint training exercise designed to enhance interoperability among the various branches of the U.S. armed services by sharpening and honing joint service techniques and procedures. While traditionally held in the cold weather months, for 2004, Northern Edge was moved to June to accommodate the worldwide scheduling of combat forces and availability of the carrier strike group. ^[18] Held from 7 June through 16 June 2004, Northern Edge training focused on air-centric tactics and procedures with an emphasis on air-to-air, air-to-ground, and on personnel recovery operations in remote areas of the Pacific Alaska Range Complex (PARC) near Fairbanks, Alaska, and over water in the Gulf. Though most flight operations went according to plan, naval aviators frequently operated in low visibility conditions with thick cloud ceilings over the Gulf. Along with aircraft from the Stennis Strike Group, several other fighter units participated, including the Pacific Air Forces, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing from Okinawa, Japan, and other air wings from around the world. ^[18] The carrier Stennis paid a port visit to Esquimalt, British Columbia between 18–21 June 2004, and carried bi-lateral exercises with the Canadian Navy between 22–29 June 2004. ^[19] The carrier battle group also paid a port visit to Pearl Harbor between 22–26 June 2004, prior to RIMPAC 2004. ^[20]

RIMPAC 2004

Part of Summer Pulse '04 included the Stennis Carrier Strike Group participating in the biennial Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise, a two-week-long multinational series of naval war games involving 40 ships, seven submarines, 100 aircraft, and nearly 18,000 military personnel from seven nations. RIMPAC 2004 focused on multinational training while building trust and cooperation among the participating naval partners. The carrier John. C Stennis was the flagship for the Multinational Task Force Commander, Rear Admiral Patrick Walsh, Commander Carrier Group 3, the commander of the Stennis Carrier Strike Group. ^[21]

JASEX 2004

The John C. Stennis and Kitty Hawk carrier strike groups participated in Joint Air and Sea Exercise 2004 (JASEX 04). This second annual joint exercise involved air and sea training events focused on integrating joint training, and improving interoperability and teamwork between the two carrier strike groups, as well as with land-based Air Force and Marine Corps units forward deployed to in the Western Pacific. Typhoon Rananim complicated the exercise, causing the two carrier strike groups to re-deploy 600 nautical miles (1,100 km) east to the Iwo Jima operating area. JASEX 02 ended on 15 August 2004. ^[22]

2004 WESTPAC force composition

Units	JCSCSG Warships	Carrier Air Wing Fourteen (CVW-14) squadrons embarked aboard flagship USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74)
No. 1	USS Lake Champlain (CG-57)	Strike Fighter Squadron 115 (VFA-115): 14 F/A-18E	Carrier Airborne Early Warning 121 (VAW-121): 4 E-2C
No. 2	USS Howard (DDG-83)	Strike Fighter Squadron 113 (VFA-113): 12 F/A-18C	Sea Control Squadron 31 (VS-31): 6 S-3B
No. 3	USS Ford (FFG-54)	Strike Fighter Squadron 25 (VFA-25): 14 F/A-18C	Helicopter Squadron 5 (HS-5): 5 HH-60H & 3 SH-60F
No. 4	USS Salt Lake City (SSN-716)	Fighter Squadron 31 (VF-211): 10 F-14D	Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 40 (VRC-40), Det. 4: 2 C-2A
No. 5	USNS Rainier (T-AOE-7)	Electronic Attack Squadron 140 (VAQ-140): 4 EA-6B	—
Notes	[16] [17]	[23] [24]	[23] [24]

2004 WESTPAC exercises & port visits

Number	Regional Exercises				Port Visits		Notes
	Duration	U.S. Force	Joint/Bilateral/Multilateral Partner(s)	Operating Area	Location	Dates
1st:	7–16 Jun. 2004	Stennis CVBG	Northern Edge 2004: Eleventh Air Force, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing	Gulf of Alaska	Esquimalt, British Columbia	18–21 Jun. 2004	[18] [19]
2nd:	22–29 Jun 2004	Stennis CVBG	Canadian Maritime Forces Pacific	Eastern Pacific	Pearl Harbor	22–26 Jun. 2004	[19] [20]
3rd:	29 Jun – 27 Jul 2004	Stennis CVBG	RIMPAC 2004: United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Chile	Hawaiian waters	—	—	[21]
4th:	8–15 Aug. 2004	Stennis CVBG	JASEX 2004: Kitty Hawk CVBG	Western Pacific	Port Klang, Malaysia	1–5 Sept. 2004	[15] [17] [22]
5th:	—	Stennis CVBG	—	—	Fremantle, Western Australia	28 Sept. 2004	[15] [17] [22]

Strike group redesignation

Effective 1 October 2004, in keeping with the CNO’s Guidance from Admiral Vernon E. Clark, Carrier Group Seven (CarGru 7) and its John C. Stennis Carrier Battle Group were re-designated as Carrier Strike Group Seven (CARSTRKGRU 7). ^[1]

2005 operations

USS John C. Stennis maintenance cycle

Shortly after returning from Summer Surge '04 deployment, John C. Stennis changed its homeport to Naval Base Kitsap in Bremerton, Washington, on 11 January 2005. ^{[25] [26]} Once at Bremerton, Stennis underwent an 11-month Docking Planned Incremental Availability (DPIA), the first time it had been dry-docked since commissioning in 1995. Upgrades included a new mast installation The new mast’s structure is the first of its kind. A new type of steel alloy was used, making the mast stiffer and thicker than before. The new mast is also heavier and taller, allowing it to support new antennas the old mast would not have been able to support. Other upgrades included the installation of a new Integrated Bridge System in the pilothouse that will save manpower and provide state-of-the-art displays, as well as other shipboard and combat systems. ^{[27] [28] [29]}

Following its DPIA maintenance cycle and pre-deployment training exercises, John C. Stennis returned to Bremerton, Washington, and the carrier was certified surge ready, meaning the ship maintained a high state of readiness in case of an unscheduled deployment as directed by Rear Admiral Kevin M. Quinn, the commander of Carrier Strike Group Three, with Stennis being the newly reassigned flagship for that carrier strike group. ^[30]

Operation Unified Assistance

On 11 January 2005, the carrier Ronald Reagan departed San Diego for routine carrier operations and to transport two VRC-30 C-2A Greyhound aircraft for use in support of Operation Unified Assistance. After a 12-day underway period, Reagan paid a three-day port visit to Hawaii beginning 22 January. ^{[31] [32]} On 21 March 2005, Carrier Strike Group Fifteen (CARSTRKGRU 15) was disestablished, with Rear Admiral Robert J. Cox lowering his flag on that date, and CARSTRKGRU-15's former flagship, the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan, was reassigned as the flagship to Carrier Strike Group Seven. ^[33]

2005 training cycle

COMPTUEX

On 17 October 2005, Carrier Strike Group Seven (CARSTKGRU-7) departed Naval Base San Diego, California, with Carrier Air Wing Fourteen (CVW-14) embarked on its new flagship, the carrier Ronald Reagan. The strike group began its Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX), which is a major requirement for the carrier strike group’s certification for its readiness for deployment. ^[34]

COMPTUEX is an 18-day exercise designed to train the Reagan, its embarked air wing, and other CARSTKGRU-7 vessels that make up the carrier strike group to function as one highly effective fighting force. The exercise consisted of two distinct phases and will be evaluated by Commander, Strike Force Training, U.S. Pacific Fleet. Phase I consisted of a detailed schedule of events (SOE) designed to provide specific task training and evaluation for the carrier strike group and warfare commanders. Phase II, also known as the final battle problem, is a real-world type exercise without an SOE. The carrier strike group must be able to identify and respond to a situation as a single and highly-coordinated, combat-ready force. ^[34] Strike group commander Rear Admiral Michael H. Miller noted:

Ronald Reagan and CVW-14 have trained together before, and some of the smaller vessels have trained with us, but for the most part, this is the first chance we have had to bring all the important elements together. COMPTUEX really helps to build a sense of cohesion and unity between the commands, which is critical in accomplishing our mission. ^[34]

In addition to Carrier Strike Group Seven, several Canadian Navy ships also participated in this COMPTUEX training cycle, including the destroyer Algonquin; the frigates Vancouver, Calgary, and Ottawa; and the replenishment tanker Protecteur. ^{[34] [35]} On 10 November 2011, Carrier Strike Group Seven completed its COMPTUEX training exercise and returned to port, with Admiral Miller noting:

Ronald Reagan and CVW-14 proved to be a formidable fighting force. COMPTUEX proved that we have the speed and agility to quickly execute operations around the world in support of the war on terror. Carrier Strike Group 7 is an example of how the Navy is able to carry out our mission anytime, anywhere in the world. ^[35]

Carrier Strike Group Nine, led by the carrier Abraham Lincoln, also participated during the final battle problem, integrating its Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX-05) into Carrier Strike Group Seven's COMPTUEX exercises. ^[35]

Joint Task Force Exercise 06-2

On 6 December 2005, Carrier Strike Group Seven departed San Diego for Joint Task Force Exercise 06-2 (JTFEX 06-2) off the coast of southern California. This nine-day exercise was the final step in preparing Carrier Strike Group Seven for its upcoming 2006 Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployment, and it tested the strike group’s ability to plan and execute alongside other U.S. and coalition forces in a complex, hostile war-fighting environment. ^{[34] [36]} Strike group commander Rear Admiral Michael H. Miller noted:

JTFEX is designed to demonstrate that the U.S. Navy, in consonance with our coalition partners, is capable of carrying out our mission anytime, anywhere – around the world, around the clock – in order to deter extremism and defeat those who would do us harm. ^[34]

On 17 December 2005, Carrier Strike Group Seven completed JTFEX 06-2 and returned to Naval Air Station North Island, with Admiral Miller noting:

The Sailors participating in this exercise performed better than any group I’ve experienced. We proved that the Ronald Reagan, DESRON (Destroyer Squadron) 7 and CVW (Carrier Air Wing) 14 have the speed and agility to quickly execute operations around the world in support of the war on terrorism. ^[34]

2005 force composition

Units	CARSTRKGRU 7 Warships	Carrier Air Wing Fourteen (CVW-14) squadrons embarked aboard flagship USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76)
No. 1	USS Lake Champlain (CG-57)	Strike Fighter Squadron 115 (VFA-115)	Carrier Logistics Support Squadron 30 (VRC-30)
No. 2	USS McCampbell (DDG-85)	Strike Fighter Squadron 113 (VFA-113)	—
No. 3	USS Decatur (DDG-73)	Strike Fighter Squadron 25 (VFA-25)	—
No. 4	USS Paul Hamilton (DDG-60)	Strike Fighter Squardron 22 (VFA-22)	—
No. 5	USS Tucson (SSN-770)	Airborne Early Warning Squadron 113 (VAW-113)	—
No. 6	USNS Rainier (T-AOE-7)	Electronic Attack Squadron 139 (VAQ-139)	—
No. 7	EOD Unit 11, Det. 15	Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Four (HS-4)	—
Notes	[35] [36]	[36]	[36]

2006 pperations

2006 WESTPAC deployment

On 4 January 2006, Carrier Strike Group Seven departed San Diego for its Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployment under the command of Rear Admiral Michael H. Miller. This was the first overseas deployment for the strike group's flagship, the nuclear carrier Ronald Reagan. ^[37] Off Hawaii, Carrier Strike Group completed a four-day Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) exercise on 12 January 2006. The purpose of this exercise was to test the anti-submarine warfare capabilities of the strike group in real-world scenarios. ^[38] Strike group commander Admiral Miller noted:

DESRON 7, Lake Champlain, Ronald Reagan and CVW 14 truly melded as a potent ASW team. This ASW exercise proved that we have the ability to detect and destroy hostile submarines in support of COMPACFLT’s (i.e., Commander, Pacific Fleet) number one mission priority. Carrier Strike Group 7 is an example of how the Navy is able to carry out these types of missions anytime, anywhere in the world. ^[38]

The exercise also featured the first use of the U.S. Navy's improved surface ship sonar system that was installed in both of the destroyers attached to Carrier Strike Group Seven. ^[38]

On 5 July 2006, Carrier Strike Group Seven completed its six-month WESTPAC deployment, with Strike group commander Admiral Miller noting:

The Ronald Reagan Strike Group has made a significant, positive contribution to military operations during this deployment. We proved that President Reagan’s motto, ‘Peace through Strength,’ is as applicable today as it was during his administration. With the speed, agility and persistence of this modern strike group, we made a difference in helping deter terrorism around the globe. ^[39]

2006 WESTPAC force composition

Units	CARSTRKGRU 7 Warships	Carrier Air Wing Fourteen (CVW-14) squadrons embarked aboard flagship USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76)
No. 1	USS Lake Champlain (CG-57)	Strike Fighter Squadron 115 (VFA-115): F/A-18E	Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Four (HS-4): SH-60F/HH-60H
No. 2	USS McCampbell (DDG-85)	Strike Fighter Squadron 113 (VFA-113): F/A-18E	Carrier Logistics Support Squadron 30 (VRC-30): C-2A
No. 3	USS Decatur (DDG-73)	Strike Fighter Squadron 25 (VFA-25): F/A-18C(N)	—
No. 4	USS Paul Hamilton (DDG-60)	Strike Fighter Squardron 22 (VFA-22): F/A-18C(N)	—
No. 5	USNS Rainier (T-AOE-7)	Electronic Attack Squadron 139 (VAQ-139): EA-6B	—
No. 6	EOD Unit 11, Det. 15	Airborne Early Warning Squadron 113 (VAW-113): E-2C 2000	—
Notes	[37] [40] [41] [42] [43] [44]	[37] [45]	[37] [45]

2006 U.S. Fifth Fleet operations

Carrier Strike Group Seven entered the U.S. Fifth Fleet's area of responsibility (AOR) on 18 February 2006, and fleet commander Vice Admiral Patrick M. Walsh visited the strike group's flagship, the carrier Reagan, on 27 February 2006. ^{[46] [47]} Carrier Strike Group Seven completed operations with the Fifth Fleet on 29 May 2006. ^[48]

Carrier air operations

On 22 February 2006, F/A-18E Super Hornets (pictured) assigned to Strike Fighter Attack Squadron 115 (VFA-115) became the first aircraft launched from the flight deck of USS Ronald Reagan to drop ordnance on enemy targets in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. ^[49] Carrier Air Wing Fourteen squadrons VFA-22, VFA-25, VFA-113, and VFA-115 were the first to deploy with F/A-18 Hornet strike fighters equipped with the Remotely Operated Video Enhanced Receiver (ROVER) system that allows ground forces, such as Joint terminal attack controllers (JTAC), to see what an aircraft or unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is seeing in real time by receiving images acquired by the aircraft's sensors on a laptop on the ground via video transfer with little time delay. ROVER greatly improves the JTAC on the ground reconnaissance and target identification which are essential to close air support. ^{[40] [50]} During its deployment with the Fifth Fleet, the carrier Ronald Reagan and Carrier Air Wing Fourteen launched more than 6,100 sorties, totaling more than 19,600 flight hours, with more than 2,940 sorties and 14,200 flight hours in direct support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. ^{[48] [50]}

Maritime security operations

On 3 April 2006, the guided-missile cruiser Lake Champlain joined Combined Task Force 58 (CTF-58), a multi-national force responsible for maritime security operations (MSO) in the Northern Persian Gulf. Additionally, CTF-58 also played a key role in protecting both the Al Basrah Oil Terminal (ABOT) and the Khor Al Amaya Oil Terminal (KAAOT). ^[51] Also, the guided-missile destroyer Decatur conducted maritime security operations with the Pakistani-led Combined Task Force 150 off the coast of the Horn of Africa. ^[52]

Multi-lateral operations

Carrier Strike Group Seven performed a passing exercise ( PASSEX) with the French naval task force, led by the nuclear carrier Charles de Gaulle on 27 April 2006 (pictured). The PASSEX included drills in communications, air defense and surface warfare tactics. Aircraft from the French aircraft carrier also made “touch-and-go” landings aboard the Reagan during the exercise. The strike group also participated in a PASSEX with the Indian Navy in February 2006. ^[53] Beginning 15 May 2006, the guided-missile destroyer Decatur joined the French naval task force operating in the North Arabian Sea. ^[43]

On 29 April 2006, the guided-missile destroyer McCambell, with the fleet ocean tugboat Catawba, participated in a proof-of-concept demonstration with Bahrainian emergency management teams. Two U.S. Navy ships executed the proof of concept, that included a simulated oil spill as well as the subsequent containment-and-recovery operation outside the port of Mina Salman. ^{[42] [52]}

Valiant Shield 2006

Valiant Shield 2006 was held in the Guam operating area between 19–23 June 2006, and it included 28 naval vessels, nearly 300 aircraft and, approximately 22,000 service members from the U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Marine Corps, and U.S. Coast Guard. Valiant Shield is a joint exercise designed to reinforce the United States’ commitment to the Pacific Region by demonstrating the U.S. military’s ability to conduct joint command and control operations and rapidly deploying joint forces in response to any regional contingency. The centerpiece of Valiant Shield 2006 was the three carrier strike groups (pictured):

• Carrier Strike Group Five (CARSTRKGRU 5) led by the USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63) with Carrier Air Wing Five (CVW-5) embarked
• Carrier Strike Group Seven (CARSTRKGRU 7) led by the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) with Carrier Air Wing Fourteen (CVW-14) embarked
• Carrier Strike Group Nine (CARSTRKGRU 9) led by the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) with Carrier Air Wing Two (CVW-2) embarked

Valiant Shield 2006 was the first time that three carrier strike groups had operated together in the Pacific on over ten years. Forces exercised a wide range of skills, including maritime interdiction; defense counter-air and anti-submarine warfare; intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; and command and control. ^[54]

DESRON 7 guided-missile destroyer Decatur provided air, surface, and undersea warfare (USW) defense to Carrier Strike Group Nine while guided-missile destroyers McCampbell and Decatur performed anti-submarine warfare patrols while operating off the coast of Guam. ^{[52] [55]} McCampbell leveraged its embarked air detachment, Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (Light) 49 (HSL-49), Detachment 5, during Valiant Shield 2006. ^[56]

Carrier Air Wing Fourteen embarked carrier Reagan provided a wide variety of capabilities during Valiant Shield 2006. Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 139 (VAQ-139) flew EA-6B Prowler aircraft equipped with state-of-the-art Improved Capability (ICAP) Version III technology. ^[57] Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 113 (VAW-113) provided command-and-control capability with its E-2C Hawkeye 2000 aircraft. ^[58] Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 4 (HS-4) (pictured) was one of four helicopter squadrons that operated 24 SH-60F and SH-60H Seahawk helicopters used to protect the carrier task force against an underwater force consisting of five submarines. ^[59]

2006 WESTPAC exercises & port visits

Number	Regional Exercises				Port Visits		Notes
	Duration	U.S. Force	Joint/Bilateral/Multilateral Partner(s)	Operating Area	Location	Dates
1st:	9–12 Jan. 2006	Carrier Strike Group Seven	Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) exercise	Hawaiian operating area	Brisbane, Australia	23–27 Jan. 2006	[40] [38] [60]
2nd:	—	Carrier Strike Group Seven	—	—	Singapore	7 Feb. 2006	[40] [41] [61]
3rd:	—	McCampbell	—	—	Republic of Maldives	17 Feb. 2006	[42]
4th:	—	Carrier Strike Group Seven	—	—	Jebel Ali, UAE	15–19 Mar. 2006	[40] [62] [63]
5th:	—	Carrier Strike Group Seven	—	—	Jebel Ali, UAE	16–20 Apr. 2006	[64]
6th:	27 Apr. 2006	Carrier Strike Group Seven	PASSEX: French Navy [Note 1]	Arabian Sea	Jebel Ali, UAE	14–18 May 2006	[40] [41] [53] [65]
7th	29 Apr. 2006	McCambell, Catawba	Royal Bahrain Naval Force	Mina Salman, Bahrain	—	—	[42]
8th:	—	Carrier Strike Group Seven	—	—	Port Kelang, Malaysia	3–5 June 2006	[40] [66] [67]
9th	—	McCambell	—	—	Hong Kong	3 June 2007	[42]
10th	—	Decatur	—	—	Phuket, Thailand	2–5 June 2007	[43]
11th:	16 Jun. 2006	Carrier Strike Group Seven	Valiant Shield 2006	Guam operating area	Hong Kong	10–13 Jun. 2006	[40] [42] [43] [44] [68] [69]

2006 training cycle

Carrier qualifications

On 20 October 2006, the carrier Ronald Reagan returned to San Diego following a week of carrier qualifications (CQ) for Training Squadron 4 (VT-4) off the coast of Southern California. ^[70] During this period, on 18 October, Ronald Reagan completed its 20,000 arrested landings (pictured) since the ship was commissioned in 2003. ^[71]

Joint Task Force Exercise 07-1

On 9 November 2006, the carrier Ronald Reagan and Carrier Air Wing Fourteen (CVW-14) departed San Diego for quarterly sustainment training (pictured) under the U.S. Navy’s Fleet Response Training Plan (FRTP) by participating in Joint Task Force Exercise 07-1 (JTFEX 07-1). FRTP represents the U.S. Navy’s continuing effort to ensure its ships maintain a heightened state of readiness for short-notice deployments in the event they are needed to support the global war on terrorism. While underway, Ronald Reagan and CVW-14 conducted a wide variety of drills and mission-specific scenarios designed to improve both watch team and air crew proficiency, such as exercises in strike warfare, air defense, close air support, and general quarters. ^[72]

During Joint Task Force Exercise 07-1, between 12–16 November 2006, Carrier Strike Group Seven, led by Ronald Reagan, combined with Carrier Strike Group Three, to form Carrier Task Force 150 (CTF-150) under the overall command of Rear Admiral Kevin Quinn, the commander Carrier Strike Group Three. ^[73] The carrier John C. Stennis, Carrier Air Wing Nine, and the other warships assigned to Carrier Strike Group Three had departed San Diego on 8 November 2006. ^[74]

As the commander of CTF-150, Admiral Quinn exercised operational control over both carrier strike groups. Merging the two carrier strike groups into a single task force increased the assets available to the commander in theater. The mission of the carrier task force is similar to that of a carrier strike group, but much larger in scale and scope. ^[73] This was the first time that the two strike groups had operated together. ^[74]

For the JTFEX, air-power “persistence” was considered militarily essential. During normal cyclic flight operations involving a single air wing, naval aviators spend a significant amount of time transiting to and from target areas, and consequently the operational tempo is often limited to a 12-hour cycle. With the enhanced capabilities from combining two carrier air wings, CTF-150 is able to maintain a nearly constant air presence over the targeted areas by alternating aircraft flight cycles and consequently conduct air operations over a continuous 24-hour cycle. ^[73]

Surface warships operating with CTF-150 executed a full spectrum of surface warfare scenarios. Led by the commodore of Destroyer Squadron 21 (DESRON-21) acting as CTF-150’s Sea Combat Commander (SCC), the surface warships conducted sustained operations in maritime interdiction operations (MIO), anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASUW), and mine warfare (MW). Of the four disciplines, ASW continued to be the top war-fighting priority. ^[73]

On 21 November 2006, Carrier Strike Group Seven returned to San Diego. ^[75] This sustainment training was the first for the guided-missile destroyers Momsen and Russell as units of Carrier Strike Group Seven. ^[75] Also, this sustainment training had combined the Tailored Ship’s Training Assessment (TSTA), Composite Unit Training Exercise (COMPTUEX), and Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) into an accelerated 12-day training period. ^[75]

2007–2008 0perations

Change of command

On 25 January 2007, Rear Admiral Charles W. Martoglio relieved Rear Admiral Michael H. Miller as Commander, Carrier Strike Group Seven (COMCARSTRKGRU-7) in a change of command ceremony held aboard the strike group's flagship, the aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan. ^[76] Admiral Martoglio commented on his new assignment by noting:

I am honored to take command of Carrier Strike Group 7 and the Ronald Reagan [Carrier] Strike Group (CSG). I am impressed with the readiness of this strike group and with the tremendous Sailors and their families who so measurably contribute to the security of our great nation. ^[76]

Prior to his new assignment, Admiral Martoglio has served the senior military assistant to the Secretary of the Navy Donald C. Winter. He had previously completed tours as the director of strategy and policy on the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations; executive assistant to Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command; executive assistant to the Vice Chief of Naval Operations; and Commander, Destroyer Squadron 23. Martoglio and his staff embarked aboard the Ronald Reagan in preparation of its upcoming surge deployment in support of U.S. Navy operations in the Western Pacific. ^[76]

2007 WESTPAC surge deployment

On 27 January 2007, Carrier Strike Group Seven (CARSTRKGRU-7) departed from San Diego for its Western Pacific (WESTPAC) surge deployment. CARSTRKGRU-7 deployed under the U.S. Navy's Fleet Response Plan (FRP) and will operate in the western Pacific in support of U.S. commitments in the region while the flagship of the forward-based Carrier Strike Group Five flagship, the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63), began its scheduled maintenance period in Yokosuka, Japan. The FRP provided the U.S. Navy with the ability to respond to any global commitment with flexible and sustainable forces and the ability to rapidly respond to a range of situations on short notice. ^{[77] [78]}

One highlight of the 2007 WESTPAC surge deployment occurred on 15 March 2007 when Captain Richard “Rhett” Butler made his 1,000th carrier-arrested landing. He was flying an F/A-18E Super Hornet from Strike Fighter Squadron 115 (VFA-115), and he caught the No. 2 arresting wire aboard the carrier Ronald Reagan at approximately 3:15 pm, local time (pictured). Captain Butler was the commander of Carrier Air Wing Fourteen. ^[79]

On 20 April 2007, Carrier Strike Group Seven returned to its home base of Naval Air Station North Island, California, completing its WESTPAC surge deployment. ^[80]

2007 WESTPAC force composition

Units	CARSTRKGRU 7 Warships	Carrier Air Wing Fourteen (CVW-14) squadrons embarked aboard flagship USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76)
No. 1	USS Lake Champlain (CG-57)	Strike Fighter Squadron 115 (VFA-115): F/A-18E	Electronic Attack Squadron 139 (VAQ-139): EA-6B
No. 2	USS Paul Hamilton (DDG-60)	Strike Fighter Squadron 113 (VFA-113): F/A-18E	Airborne Early Warning Squadron 113 (VAW-113): E-2C 2000
No. 3	USS Russell (DDG-59)	Strike Fighter Squadron 25 (VFA-25): F/A-18C(N)	Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Four (HS-4): SH-60F/HH-60H
No. 4	EOD Unit 11, Det. 15	Strike Fighter Squardron 22 (VFA-22): F/A-18C(N)	Carrier Logistics Support Squadron 30 (VRC-30): C-2A
Notes	[77] [78] [81] [82] [83] [84]	[77] [78] [85]	[77] [78] [85]

2007 Seventh Fleet operations

On 2007, Carrier Strike Group Seven (CARSTRKGRU-7) entered the U.S. Seventh Fleet's area of responsibility (AOR). ^[86] Admiral Charles W. Martoglio, the commander of Carrier Strike Group Seven (COMCARSTRKGRU-7), noted:

Our friends and allies in the region can be assured of continued, robust interaction with our Navy in the form of mutual training opportunities, exchanges, and port visits. We are committed to the maintenance of peace and stability in the Pacific region. ^[86]

Between 16–18 March 2007, Carrier Strike Group Seven took part in a passing exercise (PASSEX) with the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) in the Philippine Sea. The goal of the exercise was for (CARSTRKGRU-7) to work with their JMSDF counterparts in such areas of mutual interest, including drills in communications, precision maneuvering, air defense tactics, and surface warfare tactics. Ronald Reagan also conducted a fueling at sea with each of the four JMSDF ships, as well as a photo exercise (pictured) and a pass in review. ^[87] COMCARSTRKGRU-7 Admiral Martoglio noted:

We value the close relationship with our counterparts in JMSDF as we work together to address regional issues of vital importance to both countries. The United States Navy and the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force have a unique relationship in that we have one of the most robust bilateral exercise programs between any two countries. This PASSEX is a chance for our two navies to enhance military-to-military relationships and is designed to improve both naval forces’ capability for coordinated and bilateral operations. ^[87]

Also, to facilitate better communications, both navies participated in an officer exchange program that ensured a seamless integration of two naval forces. ^[87]

On 6 April 2007, Carrier Strike Group Seven departed the U.S. Seventh Fleet's AOR. ^[88] On 7 April 2007, the carrier Ronald Reagan concluded its three-day munitions offload to the MSC ammunition ship Flint, signifying the end of its Seventh Fleet deployment. ^[81]

RSOI/Foal Eagle 2007

On 25 March 2007, Carrier Strike Group Seven joined US-ROK military forces in Exercise RSOI/Foal Eagle 2007 (RSOI/FE 07), a scheduled seven-day combined/joint exercise conducted annually involving forces from both the United States and the Republic of Korea. RSOI and FE are theater-wide, computer-simulated and field exercises designed to evaluate and improve the U.S. and ROK forces ability to coordinate the procedures, plans and systems necessary to defend the ROK in a contingency. RSOI/FE 07 was designed to provide training for our forces in the various aspects of reception, staging, onward movement, and integration as well as focusing on rear area security and sustainment operations. ^{[89] [90]} Strike group commander Rear Admiral Charles Martoglio noted:

RSOI/FE allows the Ronald Reagan Strike Group and other U.S. forces to improve our working relationship with other key nations in the region. Our presence during this exercise demonstrates that we can rapidly integrate into the forces already present in the region to provide a unified and capable fighting force. ^[89]

During the exercise, ROK Navy personnel served aboard the Ronald Reagan as part of an officer exchange program. ^[89] Exchange officers assisted their host ships with communications and provided support, while conveying ROK Navy perspectives throughout the RSOI/Foal Eagle 2007 exercise. Warships from both navies operated together to perfect their war-fighting skills, including close-air-support for ground forces, air-to-air defense exercises, maritime interoperability training, and expeditionary operations. ^[90]

RSOI/Foal Eagle 2007 concluded on 31 March 2007. Rear Admiral James P. Wisecup, Commander U.S. Naval Forces Korea, noted the success of this year's RSOI/FE exercise:

This was the largest number of ship visits in the Republic of Korea in at least a decade to the cities of Donghae, Chinhae, Pyongtaek, Pohang, and Busan. Engagement between the ships’ crews, the ROK Navy, and the host cities was absolutely amazing. I feel this exercise was a complete success, positively enhancing the U.S. Navy's reputation and visibility on the peninsula. ^[90]

Talisman Saber 2007

The guided-missile destroyer operated independently and participated in Exercise Talisman Saber 2007, a bi-lateral exercise with the Australian Defence Force, before joining Carrier Strike Group Three for Valiant Shield 2007. ^[83]

2007 WESTPAC exercises & port visits

Number	Regional Exercises				Port Visits		Notes
	Duration	U.S. Force	Bilateral/Multilateral Partner(s)	Operating Area	Location	Dates
1st:	—	Carrier Strike Group Seven	—	—	Sasebo, Japan	24 Feb. 2007	[81] [82]
2nd:	16–18 Mar. 2007	Carrier Strike Group Seven	PASSEX: Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) [Note 2]	Philippine Sea	Hong Kong	7 Mar. 2007	[81] [82] [83] [84] [87] [91]
4th:	25–31 Mar. 2007	Carrier Strike Group Seven	RSOI/Foal Eagle 2007: Republic of Korea Armed Forces	Korean Theater of Operations	Busan, ROK [Note 3]	22 Mar. 2007	[81] [82] [84] [89] [90] [92]
6th	—	Carrier Strike Group Seven	—	—	Pearl Harbor	9 April 2007	[93]
7th:	10 Jun. – 25 Jul. 2007	Paul Hamilton	Talisman Saber 2007: Australian Defence Force	Coral Sea	Brisbane, Australia	10 Jun. 2007	[83]

2007 maintenance cycle

On 31 October 2007, the aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan returned to Naval Air Station North Island, California, following two days of its sea trials to evaluate the Reagan's material readiness to rejoin the fleet as a fully operational unit. The sea trials also marked the end of Reagan's six-month planned incremental availability (PIA 07) period. ^[94]

Reagan's six-month planned incremental availability period was a $150-million (USD) overhaul included the installation of advanced combat systems and shipboard electronics as well as improvements to the berthing spaces. Also, the flight deck was resurfaced, the steam catapults were reworked, and new aircraft recovery system was installed. Finally, Reactor Department personnel worked on the ship's propulsion plant. ^{[94] [95] [96]}

On 9 November 2007, Ronald Reagan returned to Naval Air Station North Island, California, after completing its flight deck certification. This was a major step in preparing the ship to return to combat readiness, and Reagan completed this certification after four day underway. ^[97]

Change of command

On 16 November 2007, Rear Admiral James P. Wisecup relieved Rear Admiral Charles W. Martoglio as Commander Carrier Strike Group Seven (COMCARSRKGRU-7) in change of command ceremony held aboard the strike group's flagship, the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76). Admiral most recent assignment had been Commander Naval Forces Korea during the RSOI/Foal Eagle 2007 exercise. ^[98]

2007–2008 training cycle

TSTA/FEP training exercises

On 27 November 2007, the aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan and Carrier Air Wing Fourteen (CVW) 14 departed Naval Air Station San Diego, California, complete its Tailored Ship's Training Assessment (TSTA), an intense training period designed to prepare the ship and embarked air wing for prompt and sustained combat operations at sea. ^[99] Joining the Reagan and CVW-14 were the guided-missile cruiser Chancellorsville; the guided-missile destroyers Gridley and Howard; and the guided-missile frigate Thach. ^{[100] [101]}

TSTA and the upcoming Final Evaluation Problem (FEP) were conducted by Afloat Training Group Pacific (ATGPAC), the afloat training agency for the Commander, Naval Surface Forces Pacific. TSTA/FEP exercises are designed to test a ship's ability to conduct multiple simultaneous combat missions and survive complex casualty situations under stressful conditions. A major part of TSTA and FEP was testing the ship's damage control organization through a variety of events and general quarter drills scheduled during the underway period. ^[99]

During its TSTA/FEP exercises, during the early morning hours of 15 December 2007, Ronald Reagan responded to a medical emergency aboard the Bermuda-flagged cruise ship Dawn Princess off the coast of southern Baja California, Mexico. Two HH-60H helicopters from squadron HS-2 were dispatched from the Reagan, flew some 550 miles to Dawn Princess, and executed a emergency medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) of a 14 year-old girl from Albion, Illinois back to the carrier. Once aboard the Reagan (pictured), an emergency appendectomy was performed by the ship's medical department. ^[100] Dawn Princess' s operator, Princess Cruises, subsequently honored the crew of the Ronald Reagan and squadron HS-4 during a press conference and recognition ceremony held aboard the Dawn Princess on 2 January 2007. ^[102]

On 18 December 2007, the Ronald Reagan returned to NAS San Diego having a score of outstanding on the Tailored Ship's Training Availability and Final Evaluation Problem (TSTA/FEP) during the previous 21-day underway period. ^[101]

COMPTUEX

On 11 January 2008, the carrier Ronald Reagan paid a scheduled port visit to Santa Barbara, California. ^[103] During the next two days, over 2 million pounds (9907,184.74 kg) of munitions were transferred from the MSC ammunition ship Flint to the Reagan which returned to San Diego on 15 January 2008. ^[104] On 17 March 2008, Carrier Strike Group Seven departed NAS North Island near San Diego, California, to conduct its Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) off the coast of Southern California as part of its training cycle for a regularly scheduled deployment. ^[105]

The goal of this 18-day exercise was to provide realistic training environments that closely replicate operational challenges that carrier strike groups might face during military operations around the world. ^[105] Phase I of COMPTUEX included a detailed schedule of events (SOE) designed to provide specific task training and evaluation for the carrier strike group and warfare commanders. Phase II consisted of a real-world type exercise with no pre-planned SOE, and it was also known as the final battle problem. ^[106]

COMPTUEX was evaluated by Commander, Strike Force Training Pacific, and this exercise was designed to test the strike group's ability to operate in complex, hostile environments as a single unit. This training encompassed the full spectrum of naval warfare (e.g., surface, air, and undersea). COMPTUEX also offers many training situations to assess how prepared the strike group is for deployment, and it was part of the Fleet Training Readiness Plan (FTRP). This was is the first exercise where the entire strike group works together as one team, and it was one of the final steps in preparing the strike group for deployment. ^[105] One feature of COMPTUEX was special training involving mine warfare provided by Mobile Mine Assembly Unit One (MOMAU 1) based at Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach, California. MOMAU-1 provided training to strike group personnel while preparing 14 MK-63 mines to be used in a mine-laying qualification evolution for pilots assigned to Carrier Air Wing 14. ^[107]

During COMPTUEX, the carrier Reagan and Carrier Air Wing 14 received their "Blue Water Certification" which was a prerequisite for deployment, and these certifications allow the carrier and air wing to operate in areas that are out of range of friendly airfields. The certification process tested the ship's ability to land aircraft in emergency situations, such as engine failure and fuel leakage, as well as the ability to launch aircraft already on the catapults and clear the landing area in order to recover the damaged aircraft. ^[108] On 7 April 2008, Carrier Strike Group Seven returned to its home base of NAS North Island following the completion of its Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) that took place off the coast of Southern California. ^[106]

Joint Task Force Exercise 08-5

On 11 April 2008, the aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan and Carrier Air Wing Fourteen (CVW-14) departed Naval Air Station San Diego, California, to begin Joint Task Force Exercise 08-5 (JTFEX 08-5) off the coast of Southern California. Joining the Reagan and CVW-14 were the guided-missile cruiser Chancellorsville; the guided-missile destroyers Gridley (pictured), Howard, and Decatur; and the guided-missile frigate Thach. ^[109]

Joint Task Force Exercise 08-5 was designed to be a realistic exercise in real-world operations and the operational challenges faced by U.S. forces in cooperation with coalition militaries. JTFEX 08-5 was the final step in preparing Carrier Strike Group Seven for its Western Pacific (WESTPAC) upcoming deployment and it tested the strike group's ability to plan and execute the Navy's Maritime Strategy alongside other U.S. and coalition forces in complex, hostile war-fighting environments. ^[109]

On 22 April 2008, Carrier Strike Group Seven returned to its home base. Strike group commander Rear Admiral James P. Wisecup noted completion of Joint Task Force Exercise 08-5:

This is the strike group's last training before we go on deployment. It's the ability to do integrated training, not just individual ship training. We bring the group together, all the ships, the air wing and the aircraft carrier, as well as the staffs of the warfare commanders and we fight the ship as a group. I'm very confident about the Ronald Reagan Strike Group's ability to go into harm's way and also to do the nation's business. ^[109]

2008 WESTPAC deployment

On 19 May 2008, Carrier Strike Group Seven depart from Naval Air Station North Island, California, for its 2008 Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployment to support the U.S. Navy's will support the Maritime Strategy in the U.S. Fifth Fleet and U.S. Seventh Fleet areas of operation. ^[110] On 27 May 2008, Carrier Strike Group Seven began its undersea warfare exercise (USWEX) in the waters of the Hawaiian operating area in order to assess the undersea warfare capabilities of the strike groups. Two nuclear-powered fast attack submarines also participated in USWEX. ^[111] Carrier Strike Group Seven returned to its homebase on 25 November 2008, completing its six-month 2008 overseas deployment. ^[112] Strike group commander Rear Admiral Scott Hebner noted:

There is no question that Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group had a very successful deployment. The talented and dedicated Sailors of this group demonstrated tremendous operational flexibility and performed at the highest levels of excellence across the warfare spectrum and core capabilities of the Maritime Strategy. They were warriors, ambassadors, partners and humanitarians. They represent all that is good in our country and I'm profoundly honored to sail with this impressive strike group. ^[112]

2008 force composition

Units	CARSTRKGRU 7 Warships	Carrier Air Wing Fourteen (CVW-14) squadrons embarked aboard flagship USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76)
No. 1	USS Chancellorsville (CG-62)	Strike Fighter Squadron 115 (VFA-115): 12 F/A-18E	Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 139 (VAW-113): 4 E-2C
No. 2	USS Gridley (DDG-101)	Strike Fighter Squadron 113 (VFA-113): 10 F/A-18C(N)	Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Four (HS-4): 7 SH-60F/HH-60H
No. 3	USS Howard (DDG-83)	Strike Fighter Squadron 25 (VFA-25): 12 F/A-18C(N)	Carrier Logistics Support Squadron 30 (VRC-30), Det. 1: 4 C-2A
No. 4	USS Decatur (DDG-73)	Strike Fighter Squardron 22 (VFA-22): 12 F/A-18F	Ship-based helicopter detachments [Note 4]
No. 5	USS Thach (FFG-43)	Electronic Attack Squadron 139 (VAQ-139): 4 EA-6B	—
Notes	[104] [110] [113] [114] [115] [116] [117]	[110] [118] [119]	[110] [118] [119] [111]

2008 Seventh Fleet operations

Typhoon Fengshen

Carrier Strike Group Seven cut short is port visit to Hong Kong and was ordered by U.S. President George W. Bush to join in the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HA/DR) efforts for the island of Panay, Republic of the Philippines, in the aftermath of Typhoon Fengshen. ^[112] Following the strike group's arrival on 25 June 2008 after steaming for 36 hours, Rear Admiral James P. Wisecup conferred with Lt. General Ike Inserto of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to coordinate this HA/DR operation. During the first day, two C-2A Greyhound cargo aircraft, two HH-60H Seahawk helicopters, and one SH-60F Seahawk helicopter flew from the carrier Ronald Reagan to Iloilo's Santa Barbara airport, delivering more than 12,000 bottles of fresh water and more than 7,500 lbs. of rice to the airport. ^[120]

Starting on 26 June 2008, Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. Navy personnel began delivering much-needed relief supplies to the victims of Typhoon Fengshen on Panay. Helicopters from Carrier Strike Group Seven made 19 relief sorties to deliver food and bottled water to areas most affected by Typhoon Fengshen. Inside the helicopters, U.S. Navy air crews paired with AFP officers and civilian government officials to make the deliveries while AFP officers embarked Reagan to help direct the effort. ^[121]

For the second consecutive day, Philippine Air Force (PAF) C-130 cargo planes loaded with food and other supplies arrived at Iloilo's Santa Barbara airport as did two C-2A Greyhound cargo planes from the Ronald Reagan with water and rice. During the course of these first two days, the carrier Reagan had provided 28,128 20-ounce bottles of water and 9,060 pounds (4,109.55 kg) of rice. U.S. and AFP personnel loaded the supplies onto the helicopters for rapid delivery to storm victims, with the relief flights continuing as supplies arrive from Ronald Reagan, the Philippine government, and relief organizations. ^[121] Also, the strike group's four destroyers were positioned around the island of Panay and served as fueling stations to keep the relief effort moving. ^[122]

In addition to the relief flights, a four-man engineering team from the Ronald Reagan engineers repaired Iloilo City's hospital generators damaged by the floods. After bringing a mud-damaged fuel pump aboard the ship for repair, the team returned to Iloilo City's Barotac Viejo Hospital and restored electrical power. ^[123] Also, senior medical personnel from Reagan's health services department coordinated with AFP personnel and provincial government officials regarding public health issues. ^[122] Finally, in addition to Carrier Strike Group Seven, the U.S. Navy maritime prepositioning ship GySgt. Fred W. Stockham provided assistance to the relief efforts while the rescue-and-salvage ship Safeguard assisted in the recovery operations of the capsized ferry Princess of the Stars. ^[120]

On 29 June 2008, United States Ambassador to Thailand Kristie A. Kenney joined AFP Chief of Staff General Alexander B. Yano flew aboard the Ronald Reagan to be briefed of the HA/DR mission as well as to thank the U.S. naval personnel for their relief efforts. ^[123] On 3 July 2008, Carrier Strike Group Seven departed the Sulu Sea and the island of Panay. During its relief mission, the strike group flew 332 sorties over eight consecutive days delivering more than 519,000 pounds (235,414.44 kg) of fresh water, rice, and medical supplies to typhoon victims in Panay. ^{[112] [122]} Strike group commander Rear Admiral James P. Wisecup noted:

This was a mission that was tremendously rewarding for our Sailors. The aircrews flew 20–35 missions per day, sunup to sundown. Our aircraft maintainers worked through the night. Every Sailor in the strike group had a hand in this. More importantly, we worked alongside our counterparts from the Armed Forces of the Philippines and brought real help to their people. ^[122]

SEACAT 2008

DERSON-7 guided-missile destroyer USS Howard participated in the fourth annual Southeast Asia Cooperation Against Terrorism (SEACAT) exercise which began in Singapore on 18 August 2008. ^{[115] [124] [125]}

SEACAT 2008 was the multifaceted exercises designed to focus information sharing, cooperation, and coordination by bringing together six countries for simultaneous bilateral exercises with the United States. It presented its participants with realistic situations involving criminal and terrorist threats requiring international coordination, communication and decision-making. SEACAT also provided participants with practical maritime interception training opportunities to enhance the maritime security and interoperability of the participating forces. ^[124]

For SEACAT 2008, the naval forces of Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and the Republic of the Philippines participated bilaterally with the U.S. Navy during SEACAT 2008. A team of U.S. officers worked with liaison officers from the participating forces to analyze situations and produce recommended solutions for proposal to their individual national headquarters. The officers are also collaborated in the planning of maritime interception operations within the specific exercise scenario. ^[125]

Captain Michael W. Selby, the Destroyer Squadron One commodore, directed the exercise task force on behalf of Rear Admiral Nora W. Tyson, Logistics Group Western Pacific commander, who acted as the executive agent for SEACAT 2008. ^[125] Captain Selby noted:

SEACAT is a means of contributing to the capabilities of our friends and allies. The security of all waterways is vital to peace and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region, and we applaud the ongoing efforts of regional nations in combating maritime threats. Additionally, we feel that personal relationships built during these types of opportunities are mutually beneficial. ^[125]

The U.S. Navy dock landing ship Tortuga served as the flagship for SEACAT 2008. ^[125] In addition to Howard and Tortuga, other U.S. ships that participated in SEACAT 2008 included the frigate Ford, the Coast Guard cutter Morgenthau, and Military Sealift Command salvage ship Safeguard and pre-positioned cargo ships 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez and Cpl. Louis J. Hauge, Jr. Also, a U.S. P-3C maritime patrol aircraft from squadron VP-16 participated in SEACAT 2008. ^{[115] [125]}

During the first day of the exercise, 18 August 2008, Howard acted as an opposing force vessel that a commando team from the Brunei Special Forces boarded her. The Royal Navy of Brunei and the Royal Brunei Air Force tracked Howard and assisted the Brunei Special Forces team in the maritime intercept and subsequent boarding operation (pictured). Helicopter Visit, Board, Search and Seizure Team 1 (HVBSS-1) was embarked aboard the Howard, and HVBSS-1 acted as crew members assigned to the rogue vessel. ^[125]

On the second day of the exercise, 18 August 2008, Howard boarding teams conducted small boat operations in rigid-hull inflatable boats (RHIBs) (pictured), while coordinating with a P-3 Orion maritime patrol aircraft from the Republic of Singapore Navy. ^[125]

SEACAT 2008 concluded on 20 August 2008. ^[115]

Malabar 2008

Carrier Strike Group Seven participated in Malabar 2008, an annual bi-lateral exercise with the Indian Navy, involving surface, air and sub-surface training while operating the Arabian Sea between 20–24 October 2008 (pictured). ^{[104] [113] [114] [117] [112] [126]} The purpose of Malabar 2008 was to promote increase inter-operability between the United States and India, with a special emphasis on maritime interdiction, including counter-piracy and counter-terrorism operation. ^[126] Rear Admiral Anil Chopra, Flag Officer of the Indian Navy's Western Naval Command (FOCWF), noted:

This greatly enhances our two navies’ interoperability, which is very important to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, as well as issues of maritime security and piracy. ^[127]

Joining Carrier Group Seven were the fast combat support ship Bridge and the nuclear-powered fast-attack submarine Springfield and a P-3C maritime patrol aircraft. ^{[127] [126]} Indian naval units included guided-missile destroyers Mumbai and Rana; the guided-missile frigates Talwar, Godavari, Brahmaputra, and Betwa; the replenishment tanker Aditya; and a Shishumar-class diesel-electric submarine. ^[126]

On 14 November 2008, Carrier Strike Group Seven concluded operation in the Seventh Fleet area of responsibility. ^[112]

2008 Fifth Fleet operations

Carrier air operations

On 28 August 2008, Carrier Strike Group Seven (CARSTRGRU-7) relieved Carrier Strike Group Nine, led by the carrier Abraham Lincoln, as Carrier Task Force 50 (CTF-50) and launched its first sorties (pictured) in support of Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan (OEF-A). ^[128] A total of more than 1,150 sorties were flown by Carrier Air Wing Fourteen in support of coalition ground forces in southern Afghanistan during CARSTRGRU-7's deployment with the U.S. Fifth Fleet. ^[112]

Maritime security operations

The guided-missile destroyer Decatur and the guided-missile frigate Thach joined Combined Task Force 152 (CTF-152) operating in the Persian Gulf, while the guided-missile destroyers Gridley and Howard patrolled the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden as part of Combined Task Force 150 (CTF-50). ^{[112] [128]}

On 28 September 2008, Howard began visually monitoring the situation involving Belize-flagged cargo ship Faina, captured 25 September, which is anchored off the Somalia coast near the harbor city of Hobyo. MV Faina was owned and operated by "Kaalybe Shipping Ukraine" and was carrying a cargo of T-72 tanks and related equipment. Two other pirated vessels, MV Capt Stefanos and MV Centauri, were also anchored at this location. ^[129] On 5 February 2009 the MV Faina and her crew were released after being held captive for 5 months. ^[130]

2008 WESTPAC exercises & port visits

Number	Regional Exercises				Port Visits		Notes
	Duration	U.S. Force	Joint/Bilateral/Multilateral Partner(s)	Operating Area	Location	Dates
1st:	27 May 2008	Carrier Strike Group Seven	Undersea Warfare Exercise (USWEX)	Hawaiian operating area	Hong Kong	19–22 Jun. 2008	[111] [131] [132]
2nd:	—	Carrier Strike Group Seven	—	—	Apra Harbor, Guam	6 Jul. 2008	[104]
3rd:	—	Ronald Reagan, Chancellorsville	—	—	Busan, ROK	14 Jul. 2008	[104] [113]
4th:	—	Howard , Decatur, Thatch	—	—	Chinhae, ROK	14–18 Jul. 2008	[115] [116] [117] [133] [134] [135]
5th:	—	Ronald Reagan, Howard	—	—	Sasebo, Japan	28 Jul. to 1 Aug. 2008	[136] [137]
6th:	—	Chancellorsville, Thach	—	—	Yokosuka, Japan	28 Jul. to 1 Aug. 2008	[136] [137]
7th:	—	Gridley	—	—	Fukuoka, Japan	28 Jul. to 1 Aug. 2008	[136] [137]
8th:	17–20 Aug. 2008	Howard	SEACAT [Note 5]	—	—	—	[115] [124] [125]
9th:	—	Carrier Strike Group Seven	—	—	Port Kelang, Malaysia	18–21 Aug. 2008	[138] [139]
10th:	15–24 Oct. 2008	Carrier Strike Group Seven	Malabar 2008: Indian Navy	Arabian Sea	Goa, India	18 Oct. 2008	[104] [113] [114] [117] [112]
11th:	1 Nov. 2008	Chancellorsville, Decatur	PASSEX: Royal Thai Navy [Note 6]	Andaman Sea	—	—	[113] [140]
12th:	—	Carrier Strike Group Seven	—	—	Singapore	25 Oct. 2008	[113]
13th:	—	Carrier Strike Group Seven	—	—	Pearl Harbor	17 Nov. 2008	[113]

Change of command

On 27 October 2008, Rear Admiral Scott Hebner relieved Rear Admiral James P. Wisecup of command of Carrier Strike Group Seven while the strike group was underway in the U.S. Seventh Fleet's area of responsibility. ^[141] Admiral Wisecup's next assignment was as president of U.S. Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island. ^[141]

Admiral Hebner had previously served as the executive assistant to the Commander, Allied Joint Force Command Naples/ U.S. Naval Forces Europe, and he also served as the executive assistant to the Chief of Naval Operations. On 18, January 2007, Hebner assumed duties as assistant commander, Navy Personnel Command for Career Management, his previous assignment ^[141]

2009 0perations

Carrier qualifications & sustainment exercises

On 17 February 2009, the aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan departed Naval Air Station North Island in Coronado, California, for carrier qualifications for pilots from the Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS). Also, Electronic Attack Squadron 129 (VAQ-129) was also training instructor pilots to aid in the transition from EA-6B Prowler to EA-18G Growler. This marks the first landing of VAQ 129's Growlers aboard an aircraft carrier (pictured). ^[142]

On 26 March 2009, Carrier Strike Group Seven returned to Naval Air Station North Island following the completion of its sustainment exercise (SUSTAINEX). The aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan completed SUSTAINEX along with embarked Carrier Air Wing Fourteen; the guided-missile cruiser Chancellorsville; the guided-missile destroyers Howard and Gridley; and the guided-missile frigate Thach. SUSTAINEX is the last coordinated exercise involving the ships of Carrier Strike Group Seven prior to its upcoming Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployment later in 2009. ^[143]

2009 WESTPAC deployment

On 28 May 2009, Carrier Strike Group Seven departed San Diego, California, to begin its 2009 Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployment. ^[144] The strike group's departure was delayed for 24 hours because of a malfunction in a voltage regulator on one of the eight electrical generators onboard the carrier Ronald Reagan. ^[145] Carrier Strike Group Seven entered the U.S. Seventh Fleet's area of responsibility (AOR) on 9 June 2009. ^[146] Carrier Strike Group Seven returned to its home base at Naval Air Station North Island, California, completing its five-month WESTPAC deployment, on 31 October 2009. ^[147] Strike group commander Rear Admiral Scott Hebner noted:

This is the finest team of Sailors I've been fortunate to call shipmates. I could not be more proud of each and every Sailor and their families. The Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group has been pretty busy the last few years, executing missions across the capabilities of our National Maritime Strategy—and answering the call with impressive results every time. ^[147]

The guided-missile frigate Thach returned to San Diego on 5 November 2009 after completing an around-the-world deployment via the Suez Canal, the Strait of Gibraltar, and the Panama Canal. During its extended deployment, Thatch paid port call in Saipan, Thailand, Bahrain, Jordan and the Azores. ^{[147] [148]} The guided-missile destroyer Decatur returned to Naval Base San Diego on 23 November 2009 after an extended deployment. ^{[147] [149]}

2009 WESTPAC force composition

Units	CARSTRKGRU 7 Warships	Carrier Air Wing Fourteen (CVW-14) squadrons embarked aboard flagship USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76)
No. 1	USS Chancellorsville (CG-62)	Strike Fighter Squadron 115 (VFA-115): 12 F/A-18E	Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 139 (VAW-113): 4 E-2C
No. 2	USS Gridley (DDG-101)	Strike Fighter Squadron 113 (VFA-113): 10 F/A-18C(N)	Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Four (HS-4): 7 SH-60F/HH-60H
No. 3	USS Howard (DDG-83)	Strike Fighter Squadron 25 (VFA-25): 12 F/A-18C(N)	Carrier Logistics Support Squadron 30 (VRC-30), Det. 1: 4 C-2A
No. 4	USS Decatur (DDG-73)	Strike Fighter Squardron 22 (VFA-22): 12 F/A-18F	—
No. 5	USS Thach (FFG-43)	Electronic Attack Squadron 139 (VAQ-139): 4 EA-6B	—
Notes	[144] [145] [149] [150] [151] [152] [153]	[144] [154] [155]	[144] [154] [155]

2009 Seventh Fleet operations

Carrier Strike Group Seven entered the U.S. Seventh Fleet's area of responsibility (AOR) on 9 June 2009. ^[156] On 21 June 2009, while transiting the Sulu Sea near the Republic of the Philippines, Carrier Strike Group Seven commemorated the one-year anniversary of Typhoon Fengshen relief efforts with a reception of Philippine civilian and military dignitaries aboard the carrier Ronald Reagan and a wreath-laying ceremony at sea. ^[157]

2009 Fifth Fleet operations

A number of dignitaries visited Carrier Strike Group Seven's flagship, the carrier Ronald Reagan, during its deployment to the U.S. Fifth Fleet. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen visited on 13 July 2009; Fifth Fleet commander Vice Admiral William E. Gortney on 16–17 August; and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Rick D. West on 12–13 September. ^{[158] [159] [160]}

Carrier air operations

On 6 July 2009, Strike Group Seven relieved Carrier Strike Group Eight, led by the carrier Eisenhower , as Carrier Task Force 50 (CTF-50), and Carrier Air Wing Fourteen (CVW-14) launched its first combat air sorties (pictured) in support of coalition ground forces for Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan (OEF-A). ^[161]

On 11 September 2019, the U.S. Navy announced that the near-term carrier strike group deployment schedule would be changed to accommodate the delay in the return of the carrier Enterprise from its current overhaul. This schedule resulted in extending the current deployment of Carrier Strike Group Eleven, led by the carrier Nimitz, and upcoming deployment of Carrier Strike Group Ten, led by the carrier Harry S. Truman, to eight months. ^[162]

On 18 September 2009, Carrier Strike Group Eleven relieved Carrier Strike Group Seven as Carrier Task Force 50 (CTF-50), and Carrier Air Wing Eleven launched its first combat air sorties in support of coalition ground forces for Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan (OEF-A). ^[163] During its 2009 deployment to the U.S. Fifth Fleet, Carrier Air Wing Fourteen flew more than 1,600 sorties in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. ^{[147] [163]}

Maritime security operations

The guided-missile destroyers Decatur, Howard, and Gridley, as well as the guided-missile frigate Thach, supported maritime security operations in the Persian Gulf, Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, and Red Sea. ^[161] For example, during July 2009, the Thatch was assigned by Commander, Task Group Iraqi Maritime (CTG-IM) to serve as a picket ship patrolling the vital Al Basrah Oil Terminal (ABOT) located in the northern Persian Gulf. ^[164]

On 26 August 2009, Somali pirates aboard Win Far opened fire at a U.S. Navy SH-60B helicopter from Squadron HSL-49 embarked aboard the cruiser Chancellorsville. No rounds struck the helicopter, the crew did not return fire, and no U.S. Navy personnel were injured. Win Far is a Taiwanese-flagged fishing vessel that was captured by pirates on 6 April 2009, and it subsequently served as a "mother ship" to conduct other known pirate attacks, including the Maersk Alabama incident in April 2009. ^{[150] [165] [166]}

The HSL-49 helicopter was conducting a routine surveillance flight of Win Far at anchorage south of Garacad, Somalia, when the incident occurred. During the flight, aircrew observed activity, but could not ascertain they were fired upon until their return to Chancellorsville and review of Forward Looking Infrared Radar (FLIR) video, which recorded the incident. The helicopter was approximately 3,000 yards from Win Far when it was fired upon. ^{[165] [166]}

2009 WESTPAC exercises & port visits

Number	Regional Exercises				Port Visits		Notes
	Duration	U.S. Force	Bilateral/Multilateral Partner(s)	Operating Area	Location	Dates
1st:	—	Carrier Strike Group Seven	—	—	Singapore	4 Jun. 2009	[145] [150] [167]
2nd:	—	Gridley, Thatch	—	—	Phuket, Thailand	25 Jun. 2009	[151] [153]
3rd:	—	Decatur	—	—	Yokosuka, Japan	4 Jul. 2009	[149]
4th:	—	Carrier Strike Group Seven	—	—	Phuket, Thailand	22 Sep. 2009	[145] [168]
5th:	—	Carrier Strike Group Seven	—	—	Pearl Harbor	13 Oct. 2009	[145]

2010 Operations

2010 maintenance cycle

On 19 May 2010, Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) completed the six-month Planned Incremental Availability (PIA) maintenance cycle on the aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan. This PIA project came in under budget, and it marked both Norfolk Naval Shipyard's largest off-site availability as well as the largest public sector work package ever performed on an aircraft carrier berthed at Naval Air Station North Island (NASNI) located near Coronado, California (pictured). ^[169] During the maintenance period, Ronald Reagan received technological upgrades that prepared it for its next deployment and subsequent operation. Refurbishments ranged from hi-tech combat systems and firefighting equipment to improved ship's laundry services and living spaces. ^[170]

This PIA maintenance project was an example of the 'One Shipyard' concept wherein the U.S. Navy mobilizes its work force across its various shipyards to better meet fleet readiness requirements as well as to stabilize a vital workforce base for the U.S. defense industry. While Norfolk Naval Shipyard was the project lead, significant was done by its partners, which were:

• Puget Sound Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility (PSNS & IMF)
• Southwest Regional Maintenance Center (SWRMC)
• Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding (NGSB).

During peak manning, approximately 1,400 worked the project on a daily basis. This included approximately 625 NNSY personnel, 165 PSNS & IMF employees, and 600 from SWRMC/NGSB. ^[169]

On 18 May 2010, the carrier Ronald Reagan departed Naval Air Station North Island for sea trials. ^{[171] [170] [172]} The sea trial was the final phase of the PIA, and it was conducted to assess the Reagan's material readiness to return to the operational fleet. ^[170] The Reagan pulled into Naval Air Station North Island on 19 May 2010 after completing its two-day sea trial, marking the official end to its six-month planned incremental availability (PIA) maintenance period. ^[170]

Flight deck certification

On 2 June 2010, the carrier Ronald Reagan, with Carrier Air Wing Fourteen (CVW-14) embarked, departed Naval Air Station North Island to conduct flight deck certifications. ^{[172] [173]} The first CVW-14 aircraft to land on the Reagan's flight deck was from Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 4 {HS-2). ^[173] Other embarked squadrons included:

• Strike Fighter Squadron 154 (VFA-154)
• Strike Fighter Squadron 147 (VFA-147)
• Strike Fighter Squadron 146 (VFA-146)
• Airborne Early Warning Squadron 113 (VAW-113)
• Fleet Logistics Squadron 30 (VRC-30)

The certification included a full evaluation of the arresting gear, steam catapults, and flight deck personnel. The Reagan's air department was assessed on its ability to maintain a fully operational flight deck and respond to simulated mishaps. ^[173]

Centennial Canadian International Fleet Review

Upon completion of its flight deck certification, Ronald Reagan and other U.S. Third Fleet ships participated in the International Fleet Review (IFR) commemorating the 100th birthday of the Royal Canadian Navy in Victoria, British Columbia. ^[173] Joining the Reagan for the naval review were the cruiser Chosin, the destroyer Sampson, and the frigate Ford. ^[172] The naval review took place 9–12 June 2010, and it involved 21 naval ships and more than 8,000 naval personnel from Canada, France, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. ^[174]

RIMPAC 2010

On 23 June 2010, U.S. Pacific Fleet commander Admiral Patrick M. Walsh and Combined Task Force commander Vice Admiral Richard W. Hunt announced the official start of the month-long 2010 Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise during a press conference held in Lockwood Hall at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. RIMPAC 2010 was the 22nd exercise in the series that originated in 1971. ^[175] The exercise was designed to increase the operational and tactical proficiency of participating units in a wide array of maritime operations by enhancing military-to-military relations and interoperability. ^[176] Thirty-two ships, five submarines, over 170 aircraft, and 20,000 personnel participated in RIMPAC 2010, the world's largest multi-national maritime exercise. ^[177]

RIMPAC 2010 brought together units and personnel from Australia, Canada, Chile, Colombia, France, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Netherlands, Peru, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Thailand, and the United States. During the exercise, participating countries conducted gunnery, missile, anti-submarine, and air defense exercises, as well as maritime interdiction and vessel boarding, explosive ordnance disposal, diving and salvage operations, mine clearance operations, and an amphibious landing. RIMPAC 2010 will also emphasize littoral operations with ships like U.S. littoral combat ship Freedom, the French frigate Prairial, and the Singapore frigate Supreme. ^[175]

On 28 June 2010, the aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan arrived in Pearl Harbor to participate in RIMPAC 2010. Ronald Reagan was the only aircraft carrier to participate in this exercise. During the in-port phase of RIMPAC, officers and crew of the 14 participating navies interact in receptions, meetings, and athletic events. ^[178] The Reagan completed its Tailored Ships Training Availability (TSTA) exercises prior to RIMPAC 2010. ^[172]

During 6–7 July 2010, 32 naval vessels and five submarines from seven nations departed Pearl Harbor to participate in the Phase II of RIMPAC 2010. This phase included live fire gunnery and missile exercises; maritime interdiction and vessel boardings; and anti-surface warfare, undersea warfare, naval maneuvers and air defense exercises. Participants also collaborated in explosive ordnance disposal; diving and salvage operations; mine clearance operations; and amphibious operations. ^[179] Phase III involved scenario-driven exercises designed to further strengthen maritime skills and capabilities. ^[179]

During RIMPAC 2010, over 40 naval personnel from Singapore, Japan, Australia, Chile, Peru, and Colombia managed combat exercises while serving aboard the Ronald Reagan (pictured). This involved managing anti-submarine warfare and surface warfare for Carrier Strike Group Seven and the entire RIMPAC force, including the use of radar, charts, and high-tech devices to monitor, chart, and communicate with other ships and submarines. Tactical action officers from the different countries coordinated the overall operational picture and provided direction and administration to the enlisted personnel involved in the Sea Combat Control (SCC) activities. ^[180] Also, Reagan conducted a live Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) launch, firing at a simulated target, the first since 2007. ^{[172] [177]}

On 30 July 2010, RIMPAC 2010 concluded with a press conference held at Merry Point Landing on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. ^[176] A reception for over 1,500 participants, distinguished visitors and special guests was held in the hangar bays of the carrier Reagan. ^[177]

During RIMPAC 2010, participating countries conducted three sinking exercises (SINKEX) involving 140 discrete live-fire events that included 30 surface-to-air engagements, 40 air-to-air missile engagements, 12 surface-to-surface engagements, 76 laser-guided bombs, and more than 1,000 rounds of naval gunfire from 20 surface combatant warships. ^[176] Units flew more than 3100 air sorties, completed numerous maritime interdiction and vessel boardings, explosive ordnance disposal, diving and salvage operations and mine clearance operations and 10 major experiments, with the major one being the U.S. Marine Corps Enhanced Company Operations experiment. ^[176] Ground forces from five countries completed five amphibious landings, including nine helicopter-borne amphibious landings and 560 troops from ship-to-shore mission. In all, 960 different training events were schedule and 96 percent were completed in all areas of the Hawaiian operations area, encompassing Kāneʻohe Bay, Bellows Air Force Station, the Pacific Missile Range Facility, and the Pohakuloa Training Area. ^[176]

On 8 August 2010, the carrier Ronald Reagan returned to its homeport, returning after a nearly two-month underway period. ^{[172] [177]}

COMPTUEX

The carrier Ronald Reagan departed from Naval Air Station North Island, California, for a Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV) assessment on 25 August 2010, and Reagan departed its homeport to conduct routine operations off the coast of southern California in preparation for its 2011 Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployment. ^[172]

On 18 October 2010, Ronald Reagan departed for its Composite Unit Training Exercise (COMPTUEX). ^[172] COMPTUEX was the intermediate phase of Carrier Strike Group Seven's Inter-Deployment Training Cycle (IDTC), and it was designed to hone warfare skills with the rest of the strike group while maintaining unit proficiency by bringing together every intricate part of the strike group in order to work effectively and efficiently as one cohesive unit. ^[181]

Over the next three weeks, flight operations were conducted nearly continuously under simulated combat conditions to ensure that naval aviators gained the necessary qualifications and proficiency to launch from and return to Ronald Reagan's flight deck. Also, Ronald Reagan simulated a straits transit with four ships from the strike group, participated in three opposed replenishments at sea, a vertical replenishment, and ran many general quarters and man overboard proficiency drills. ^[181] On 9 November 2010, the Reagan was diverted to provide assistance to the disabled cruise ship Carnival Splendor (pictured). ^{[172] [182]} On 14 November 2010, the Ronald Reagan and embarked Carrier Air Wing Fourteen completed a successful COMPTUEX series of training exercises. ^[181]

On 17 December 2010, the carrier Reagan returned to homeport after a two-day underway off the coast of southern California. ^[172]

2009 COMPTUEX force composition

Units	CARSTRKGRU 7 Warships	Carrier Air Wing Fourteen (CVW-14) squadrons embarked aboard flagship USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76)
No. 1	USS Chancellorsville (CG-62)	Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 323 (VMFA-323): 12 F/A-18C	Electronic Attack Squadron 139 (VAQ-139): 4 EA-6B
No. 2	USS Preble (DDG-88)	Strike Fighter Squadron 154 (VFA-154): 10 F/A-18C	Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 113 (VAW-113): 4 E-2C
No. 3	USS Howard (DDG-83)	Strike Fighter Squadron 147 (VFA-147): 12 F/A-18F	Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Four (HS-4): 7 SH-60F
No. 4	USS Thach (FFG-43)	Strike Fighter Squadron 146 (VFA-146): 12 F/A-18E	Carrier Logistics Support Squadron 30 (VRC-30), Det. 1: 4 C-2A
Notes	[181]	[181] [183]	[181] [183]

2011 operations

Joint Task Force Exercise

On 2 February 2011, Carrier Strike Group Seven departed Naval Air Station North Island, California, for its Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX) and final deployment preparations. JTFEX is an integrated battle force exercise designed to test the capabilities of carrier strike groups operating with multi-national forces in a joint environment. This final training exercise represents the culmination of a series of exercises and training requirements conducted in preparation for overseas deployment, and it readies the strike group for any challenge that it may face while deployed. ^[184] Carrier Strike Group Seven will conduct its JTFEX before starting its 2011 Western Pacific (WESTPAC) deployment. ^[185]

2011 WESTPAC deployment

On 5 March 2011, the aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan and its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing Fourteen (CVW-14), completed their pre-deployment training, and Carrier Strike Group Seven departed for its 2011 deployment on 2 February 2011. ^{[185] [186] [187] [188]} Carrier Strike Group Seven returned to its home base Naval Air Station North Island in Coronado, California, on 9 September 2011, completing its 2011 WESTPAC deployment. ^{[189] [190] [191]}

One highlight of the 2011 WESTPAC deployment occurred on 18 April 2011 when Captain Kevin "Nix" Mannix made his 1,000th arrested landing when he landed his F/A-18F Super Hornet from Strike Fighter Squadron 154 on the flight deck of the Ronald Reagan (pictured). Captain Mannix was the deputy commander of Carrier Air Wing 14. ^[192] Mannix noted the occasion by noting:

There is nothing but professionals in this line of work. The men and women on the flight deck, the maintainers, I've worked with nothing but absolute professionals. ^[192]

Mannix's first arrested landing occurred onboard the training aircraft carrier Lexington on 6 December 1987. ^[192]

2011 WESTPAC force composition

Units	CARSTRKGRU 7 Warships	Carrier Air Wing Fourteen (CVW-14) squadrons embarked aboard flagship USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76)
No. 1	USS Chancellorsville (CG-62)	Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 323 (VMFA-323): 12 F/A-18C(N)	Electronic Attack Squadron 139 (VAQ-139): 4 EA-6B
No. 2	USS Preble (DDG-88)	Strike Fighter Squadron 154 (VFA-154): 12 F/A-18F	Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 113 (VAW-113): 4 E-2C HE2K NP
No. 3	USS Higgins (DDG-76) [Note 7]	Strike Fighter Squadron 147 (VFA-147): 12 F/A-18E	Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Four (HS-4): 5 SH-60F & 3 HH-60H
No. 4	—	Strike Fighter Squadron 146 (VFA-146): 10 F/A-18C	Carrier Logistics Support Squadron 30 (VRC-30), Det. 1: 4 C-2A
Notes	[185] [186] [187] [193] [194] [195]	[183] [196] [197]	[183] [196] [197]

2011 Seventh Fleet operations

Carrier Strike Group Seven entered the U.S. Seventh Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) on 9 March 2011. ^[198]

Oceania Maritime Security Initiative

While underway, from 28 February to 6 March 2011, the guided-missile destroyer Preble conducted fisheries patrol in the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) of various Pacific island nations as part of the Oceania Maritime Security Initiative. ^{[187] [199]} With modern technology, fishing vessels have increased their capability and capacity to catch more fish, and consequently, it is imperative that the rights of small island nations to their EEZ be preserved to prevent illegal fishing and exploitation of their ecosystems. ^[199] EEZ patrols are part of an ongoing partnership between the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard to reduce and eliminate illegal, unregulated, unreported (IUU) fishing and effectively enforce fishing regulations across the Western Pacific. ^[199]

Preble's mission supported the United States' long-standing partnership with the maritime nations of Micronesia, Oceania, and the Marshall Islands, with the focus on IUU fishing in the EEZ of these island nations and on the high seas itself. During the course of this operation, Preble encountered multiple vessels conducting fishing operations in EEZ. All the data was reported to USCG District 14 for evaluation and follow-on action via the embarked Coast Guard liaison team. Also, Preble{{'} embarked detachment of SH-60B Sea Hawk helicopters from squadron HSL-43 was used to conduct routine aerial patrols, enabling the surveillance team to search multiple areas of interest. ^[199]

Key Resolve/Foal Eagle 2011 (KR/FE 11)

Key Resolve/Foal Eagle 2011 (KR/FE 11) started 28 February 2011, and employed almost 13,000 US troops and more than 200,000 South Korean troops, as well as a Carrier Strike Group Seven led by the carrier Ronald Reagan. ^{[198] [200] [201]} Key Resolve involved computer-based military simulations that ran from 10 March 10, while Foal Eagle field training programs were completed by 31 March 2011. ^{[200] [202] [203] [204]}

Operation Tomodachi

On 11 March 2011, the U.S. Pacific Fleet announced that several U.S. naval units will provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HA/DR) support to Japan in the aftermath 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, with this mission code-named Operation Tomodachi. Units would include Carrier Strike Group Seven (CARSTRKGRU 7), elements of the Expeditionary Strike Group Seven led by the amphibious assault helicopter carrier Essex, and the command ship Blue Ridge, the flagship of the U.S. Seventh Fleet. ^[194]

Carrier Strike Group Seven diverted from its upcoming port call to Busan, Republic of Korea, prior to participating in Key Resolve/Foal Eagle 2011 exercises, and the strike group was the first U.S. naval unit to reach off Japan. CARSTRKGRU 7 arrived off the east coast of Honshu on 13 March 2011, and the carrier strike group immediately began providing HA/DR support. The carrier Ronald Reagan served as an afloat platform for refueling Japan Self Defense Force and other helicopters involved in rescue and recovery efforts ashore. ^{[185] [205]} Also, the guided-missile cruiser Chancellorsville began providing HA/DR support while operating off the coast of Miyagi Prefecture. ^[186] The guided-missile destroyer Preble provided more than 700 pounds ( kg) of supplies to earthquake and tsunami survivors, and Preble also used its embarked SH-60B Sea Hawk helicopters (pictured) from squadron HSL-43 to survey coastline and provide an aerial perspective to other Joint Support Force ships in the surrounding area involved in the HA/DR operation. ^[206]

While on its initial approach to Sendai, Japan, on 13 March 2011, sensors on the carrier Reagan detected nuclear radiation. The strike group applied the expertise of its nuclear-trained personnel aboard Reagan, and it established a Radiation Control (RADCON) Central to address this new challenge. Also, on 23 March 2011, the Reagan temporarily suspended flight operations to conduct a fresh water washdown on its flight deck and embarked aircraft. This was done to remove any traces of radioactive contamination deposited from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant over the previous 11 days. ^{[185] [207]}

Japanese Defense Minister Toshimi Kitazawa, U.S. ambassador to Japan John Roos, and Joint Support Force commander Vice Admiral Patrick M. Walsh flew out to the carrier Ronald Reagan to express their personal thanks for their strike group's relief effort to Japan. On 4 April 2011, Carrier Strike Group Seven concluded its involvement in Operation Tomodachi. ^[208] Strike group chief of staff Captain Steve Baxter summarized Carrier Strike Group Seven's involvement with Operation Tomodachi by noting:

Our challenge was translating our training for core war-fighting competencies and adapting them to missions like humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. We were able to execute those missions purely by using basic fundamental skills of the carrier strike group. ^[207]

Malabar 2011

Malabar 2011 was a scheduled bi-lateral naval training exercise involving the U.S. Navy and the Indian Navy held between 2–9 April 2011. U.S. naval units initially included guided-missile destroyers Sterett and Stethem; the guided-missile frigate Reuben James; and a nuclear powered attack submarine. Indian naval units included the guided-missile destroyers Delhi, Ranvijay, and INS Ranvir (D54); the corvette INS Kirch (P62); and the replenishment tanker Jyoti. ^{[209] [210] [211]}

The at-sea portions were conducted in the western Pacific Ocean, east of the Luzon Strait, and east of Okinawa. The exercise's location coincides with the Indian Navy's western Pacific deployment. Malabar 2011 was designed to advance U.S.-Indian military-to-military coordination and capacity to plan and execute tactical operations. Exercise events exercise included liaison officer professional exchanges and embarks; communications exercises; surface action group exercise operations; formation maneuvering; helicopter cross deck evolutions; underway replenishments; humanitarian assistance and disaster relief; gunnery exercises; visit, board, search and seizure; maritime strike; air defense; screen exercise; and anti-submarine warfare. ^[209]

U.S. and Indian navies conducted the final operations for Malabar 2011 on 9 April 2011. Because of its involvement in Operation Tomodachi, Carrier Strike Group Seven was able to participate in Malabar 2011 (pictured). ^[211]

2011 Fifth Fleet operations

On 9 May 2011, Carrier Strike Group Seven entered the U.S. Fifth Fleet's area of responsibility, and Carrier Air Wing Fourteen (CVW-14) launched its first combat sorties in support of Operation Enduring Freedom - Afghanistan (OEF-A) (pictured). ^{[185] [212]} During a visit to the carrier Ronald Reagan on 15 June 2011, Fifth Fleet commander Vice Admiral Mark I. Fox noted the contribution that strike group made:

You are conducting operations to support our troops on the ground every single day from the flight deck of this ship. I am truly impressed with the way that the entire CSG has conducted its operation; you guys have been hitting it out of the ballpark. ^[213]

Beginning on 17 June 2011, three U.S. Army Ground Liaison Officers (GLO) embarked on the strike group's flagship, the carrier Ronald Reagan, to coordinate air support to coalition ground forces in Afghanistan. ^[214] Major Brendan McShea, USA, of the 4th Battlefield Coordination (BCD) detachment assigned to the Reagan, explained the importance of Ground Liaison Officers:

We are here because we get the ground concept. We coordinate with the ground commanders and interpret their needs, then pass that along to the pilots. ^[214]

Ground Liaison Officers possess first-hand experience working in a hostile environment, providing a unique perspective to guide these air sorties. GLOs help field the request from coalition ground commanders, and they coordinate with the Carrier Strike Group Seven to determine the best course of action to meet a given situation. Ground Liaison Officers typically deploy for a year at a time, with half of that time usually spent aboard aircraft carriers assigned to the Fifth Fleet's carrier task force. ^[214]

During its 2011 Fifth Fleet deployment, Carrier Strike Group Seven and its CVW-14 aircraft flew over 900 air sorties in support of coalition ground forces in Afghanistan. ^[191]

2011 WESTPAC exercises & port visits

Number	Regional Exercises				Port Visits		Notes
	Duration	U.S. Force	Joint/Bilateral/Multilateral Partner(s)	Operating Area	Location	Dates
1st:	2 Feb. 2011	Chancellorsville	Solid Curtain-Citadel Shield 2011	Pearl Harbor	—	—	[186]
3rd:	28 Feb. to 6 Mar. 2011	Preble	Oceania Maritime Security Initiative: U.S. Coast Guard	Western Pacific	Pearl Harbor	19 Feb. 2011	[187]
3rd:	2–9 April 2011	Carrier Strike Group Seven [Note 8]	Malabar 2011: Indian Navy [Note 9]	Western Pacific	Sasebo, Japan	19 Apr. 2011	[185] [186] [187] [211]
4th:	—	Carrier Strike Group Seven	—	—	Phuket, Thailand	1–5 May 2011	[185] [186] [187] [215] [216]
5th:	—	Carrier Strike Group Seven	—	—	Al Hidd, Bahrain	22–26 May 2011	[185]
6th:	—	Preble	—	—	Singapore	29 Jun. 2011	[187]
7th:	—	Preble	—	—	Muara, Brunei	4–9 Jul. 2011	[187]
8th:	—	Preble	—	—	Da Nang, Vietnam	15 Jul. 2011	[187]
9th:	—	Carrier Strike Group Seven	—	—	Hong Kong	12–16 Aug. 2011	[185] [186] [187] [193] [217]
10th:	—	Carrier Strike Group Seven	—	—	Apra Harbor, Guam	21 Aug. 2011	[185] [186] [193] [218]
11th:	—	Carrier Strike Group Seven	—	—	Pearl Harbor	31 Aug. to 3 Sep. 2011	[185] [219]

2011 post-deployment training

On 14 October 2011, the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) departed Naval Air Station North Island, California, for carrier qualifications (CQ) with Carrier Air Wing Fourteen off the coast of southern California, returning on 3 November. On 4 November 4 2011, Ronald Regan departed NAS North Island for additional CQ training with the Naval Air Training Command (NATRACOM). On November 2011, the Ronald Reagan was underway for a Fleet Replacement Squadron Carrier Qualifications (FRS-CQ). ^[185]

Deactivation

On 1 August 2011, the U.S. Navy announced that Carrier Strike Group Nine will change its permanent duty station from Naval Station Everett to Naval Base San Diego effective 14 December 2012. The aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) will be re-assigned as the flagship for Carrier Strike Group Nine following the de-activation of Carrier Strike Group Seven. Abraham Lincoln will shift its homeport from Everett, Washington, to Newport News, Virginia, for its Refueling and Complex Overhaul in August 2012. ^[2] The deactivation of Carrier Strike Group Seven effective 30 December 2011 reflects the U.S. Navy's future budgetary reductions as well as the realignment of its resources based on the reduced availability of its operational carrier fleet and carrier air wings. ^{[2] [220]}

See also

• History of the United States Navy
• List of United States Navy aircraft squadrons
• U.S. Carrier Group tactics

Notes

Footnotes

Citations

Sources

• Morison, Samuel Loring (2009). "U.S. Naval Battle Force Changes 1 January 2008—31 December 2008: Aircraft Carrier Air Wing Assignments and Composition as of 17 Feb 2009". Naval Institute Processings. 135 (5): 118–120. ISSN 0041-798X. Retrieved 26 August 2010. Registration required. {{ cite journal}}: Unknown parameter |month= ignored ( help)
• Morison, Samuel Loring (2010). "U.S. Naval Battle Force Changes 1 January 2009—31 December 2009: Aircraft Carrier Air Wing Assignments and Composition as of 1 March 2010". Naval Institute Processings. 136 (5): 106–116. ISSN 0041-798X. Retrieved 29 August 2010. Registration required. {{ cite journal}}: Unknown parameter |authormask= ignored (|author-mask= suggested) ( help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored ( help)
• Morison, Samuel Loring (2011). "U.S. Naval Battle Force Changes 1 January 2010—31 December 2010: Aircraft Carrier Air Wing Assignments and Composition as of 1 March 2011". Naval Institute Processings. 137 (5): 117–120. ISSN 0041-798X. Retrieved 29 August 2010. Registration required. {{ cite journal}}: Unknown parameter |authormask= ignored (|author-mask= suggested) ( help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored ( help)
• "Questions & Answers". Summer Pulse 04. U.S. Navy. 2004. Archived from the original on 7 October 2006. Retrieved 30 October 2010.

External links

• GlobalSecurity.org
  • Ronald Reagan Strike Group
  • Ronald Reagan Strike Group References