SMWDC
Commander’s Corner I am humbled to lead the incredible SMWDC team as we work diligently to increase the lethality and tactical proficiency of the Surface Fleet. SMWDC continues to play a significant role at a critical juncture in Surface Warfare history. We recognize that as our near-peer and peer adversaries develop and challenge for dominance of Sea Control, we must hone and sharpen our warfighting skills to Own the Fight. The level of effort and professionalism I see throughout our organization is impressive, and the value our team provides to the Fleet is reflected in the direct feedback we get from our Navy’s most senior leaders. As a result, the demand signal for SMWDC expertise remains high. Since the beginning of 2018, our team has worked hard along our four lines of operation. In advanced tactical training, we completed the first East Coast ARG Surface Warfare Advanced Tactical Training (SWATT) event with USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), as well as SWATTs with USS Essex (LHD 2) ARG, USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) CSG CRUDES units, and USS Sentry (MCM 3). SMWDC also developed a revamped Missile Exercise - Live Fire With a Purpose LFWAP - which sharpens warfighter’s skills and supports technical development of our weapons systems in support of Fleet Forces Command. In Doctrine and TTP development, SMWDC led LCS Tactical Action Working Groups (TAWGs) and are nearing publication of the Bloodhound Manual – a pub that will make SuASW doctrine and TTP easier to use by the warfighter. We are also improving Ship’s Self Defense System (SSDS) training at the Amphibious Warfare Division. Operationally, our Mine Warfare (MIW) Battle Staff led a 16-nation force during Baltic Operations (BALTOPS), followed by leading MIW operations during the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise. Similarly, the Integrated Air and Missile Defense Division continues to respond effectively to critical operational requests for information from our Numbered Fleet Commanders. Finally, our requirements teams are very active in engaging OPNAV, Type Commanders, and waterfront teams to ensure that the Warfare Improvement Program (WIP) submissions we submit each year ensure that the warfighter has what they need to carry out the mission in the years to come. Vice Adm. Brown has challenged our community to Own the Fight, and I am proud to lead a team that is singly focused on that mission by increasing the lethality and tactical proficiency of the Surface Fleet. We look for the brightest, the best, and those not content with status quo. I look forward to seeing you on the waterfront! D.A. Welch RDML, USN
Mission, Vision, Values The security interests of the United States and those of our allies are increasingly challenged. As emphasized in the National Defense Strategy, the maritime domain continues to grow in importance -- becoming more heavily used, more stressed, and more contested than ever before in an era of renewed great power competition. The mission of the United States Navy is to be ready to conduct prompt and sustained combat incident to operations at sea. Our Navy will protect America from attack and preserve America’s strategic influence in key regions of the world. To accomplish this mission, the CNO has established four priorities: warfighting, learning faster, strengthening our Navy and Joint team, and building partnerships. Commander, Naval Surface Forces has issued the charge that the Surface Forces “OWN THE FIGHT” and that we strive to be the best, the fastest, the toughest and the smartest Naval Force. SMWDC plays an integral role in bringing this vision to life and sustaining it.
Mission:
Increase the lethality and tactical proficiency of the Surface Force across all domains.
Vision:
SMWDC matures into an elite organization that continues to learn while accomplishing our mission with enthusiasm and innovation.
Values: -
We are ONE TEAM… All SMWDC personnel have an important role and are equally valued.
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Ship crews and Warfare Commander Staffs are the “Center of the Universe.” We do everything possible to give them the tactics, confidence & competence to fight and win.
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Teamwork and effective communication are critical to success. We will adhere to these principles within SMWDC and amongst stakeholders.
Lines of Operation: -
Advanced tactical training
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Doctrine and tactical guidance development
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Operational support to Combatant Commanders, Numbered Fleet- Commanders, and Task Force Commanders
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Capability assessments, experimentation and future requirements
D. A. WELCH
SCD Leads Innovation with ‘Bloodhound Manual’ SAN DIEGO - Doctrine and tactical development are not just about publishing documents. Behind those publications lie an established process of how the Navy uses historical lessons learned, determines best practices, and creates and validates naval tactics in support of the fleet. One of SMWDC’s four lines of operation is tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP) development, which includes revision and Fleet implementation through Navy Warfighting Development Center (NWDC) across the spectrum of surface warfare areas. SMWDC’s Sea Combat Division (SCD) is responsible for these processes Surface Warfare (SUW) and Surface Unit Anti-Submarine Warfare (SuASW). Since taking over responsibilities as the primary review authority for over 60 SUW and SuASW Navy TTP (NTTP) publications, tactical memoranda (TACMEMOs), and tactical bulletins (TACBULs), SMWDC SCD consolidated over 20 of the SuASW NTTPs, TACMEMOs, and TACBULs into one Surface Ship ASW Tactics Manual. This new publication, the Bloodhound Manual, will make SuASW tactics more understandable, executable, readable, and repeatable while maintaining the valuable elements of existing SuASW TTP. Each weapons school at NAWDC – Strike Fighter Weapons and Tactics, Rotary Wing Weapons School, Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Weapons School – have their own manuals. Since the surface navy executes common mission areas across multiple surface ship platforms, SMWDC’s Bloodhound Manual will serve as the single source for all ASW-capable surface ships to conduct ASW. Specific ASW combat systems employment manuals will remain as standalone publications to ensure maximum applicability. The consolidation of TACMEMOs and TACBULs into the Bloodhound Manual does not mean that there is no demand for tactical developments. TACMEMOs and TACBULs still serve the purpose of generating experimental tactics at the Warfare Development Centers (WDC). But, the future of tactics depends on innovation at the deckplate level. For the surface navy to OWN THE FIGHT, leaders at all levels must understand doctrine and TTP, use the doctrine and TTP, and provide feedback to SMWDC through appropriate channels to build a more capable and lethal surface force. At SMWDC, we often hear that the doctrine and TTP update process is too slow, that publications are out of date, that they are hard to use, and even worse, hard to find. As part of the SuASW doctrine and TTP consolidation effort for the Bloodhound Manual, SMWDC will adopt NAWDC’s model for updating their manuals on a quarterly basis in a transparent way. This means that Sailors on the deckplates can submit their feedback and see exactly where their input goes, and how it is incorporated. Be on the lookout for the Bloodhound Manual in early 2019, and if you want to get involved with doctrine and TTP development efforts, email SMWDC at the Tactical Observations and Lessons Learned email distro at SMWDC_TOLL@navy.smil.mil.
SCD Improves ASW Warfighting through SHAREM SAN DIEGO - SMWDC supports myriad programs across a multitude of surface warfare areas to improve the Fleet’s readiness, capability, and lethality. One program that specifically improves ASW warfighting readiness has been around for nearly 50 years. It identifies and develops solutions to tactical problems, informs future SONAR requirements for the fleet, operates out of several different numbered fleet areas of operation, and produces recommendations for the effective employment of weapons and sensors. The program is SHAREM - the Ship ASW Readiness Effectiveness Measuring program. SHAREM is a CNOdirected ASW assessment program which is sponsored by OPNAV N96, managed by PEO-IWS-5 and executed by SMWDC. WTIs are a fundamental part of SMWDC’s execution of SHAREM events. Lt. Mor Rosenberg, an ASW/SUW WTI, completed two SHAREM events from start to finish, including the data analysis that is completed months after execution of the event. SHAREMs are also an opportunity to work with allies and partners. Previous SHAREM’s included the Royal Thai Navy, Japanese Maritime Self Defense Forces, Royal Singapore Navy, NATO allies, and Republic of Korea Navy. The SHAREM program also includes at least one event per year that is specific to the United States. This year’s U.S. specific SHAREM was aboard USS Mustin (DDG 89). Throughout the exercise, Mustin continued to demonstrate proficiency and excellence, which led to the ship earning this year’s Pacific Fleet Bloodhound award. The Bloodhound award is presented annually to one Atlantic Fleet and one Pacific Fleet ship for exceptional performance in the area of AntiSubmarine Warfare (ASW) proficiency, preparedness, and training. Data recording is a critical element for SHAREM events and ships often perform very well in system data recording. SHAREM events also include reviews of watchstander logs as an evaluative measure of a watchstander’s thought process during freeplay events. Mustin set the bar incredibly high for all future SHAREM events with pristine watchstander logs, and robust question and answer sessions that prodded combat systems users and engineers alike to think more deeply. Further, the discussions were illustrative regarding the wardrooms desire to improve their performance and make their next SHAREM event better. SHAREM is a program that is proven to increase ASW readiness, and is an important part of ships maintaining high-end capability in the warfare area. It is fitting that SMWDC’s Sea Combat Division continues to support the program as the surface community’s Warfighting Development Center (WDC), in order to centralize the knowledge gained and incorporate lessons learned to promulgate doctrine and TTP development to the Fleet.
Making a Point for Point Defense LITTLE CREEK, Va. - As the capabilities of our peer and near peer competitors continue to evolve, advanced and relevant ships’ systems training becomes ever more important. Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center (SMWDC) is taking action in both the classroom and the waterfront along its advanced tactical training line of operation to ensure the fleet has the tools to succeed in Ship’s Self Defense System (SSDS) operations. SSDS, for Air Defense aboard most Amphibious Warfare (AMW) ships, integrates sensors, weapons, and countermeasures for point defense against AntiShip Cruise Missiles. AMW Warfare Tactics Instructor (WTI) students complete a rigorous 15week training pipeline including two weeks dedicated to SSDS integration and operation. Students receive SSDS classroom instruction from AMW resident WTIs and subject matter expert support from Center for Surface Combat Systems (CSCS) Unit Dam Neck. Students integrate the classroom lectures with hands-on SSDS console operations at CSCS wallops Island, completing AMW and air defense scenarios in the second week of SSDS instruction. AMW Division schoolhouse instructors develop and update SSDS scenarios for each AMW WTI class, providing students the reps and sets in the trainer on the most relevant and challenging scenarios along with the SSDS doctrine review board and Plan, Brief, Execute, and Debrief processes. Lt. Courtney Janowicz, SSDS curriculum lead instructor, stressed the importance of the training and staying up to date on the most current employment and tactics, “Maintaining proficiency on systems like SSDS is vital to the success of Amphibious Warfare. I have enjoyed being a part of the AMW WTI SSDS classroom training and providing mentorship and training aboard AMW ships. The trainers at Wallops Island are an integral part of our curriculum and they enable the highest quality training to WTI candidates.” The CSCS Wallops Island facilities offer the best option for simulated CIC training, and allow students to rotate through the CIC watch stations aboard AMW ships while enabling rapid watch stander feedback on effectiveness of the student-developed plan. Upon graduation, AMW WTIs assigned to AMW Division also attend Aegis Training and Readiness Center’s six week SSDS Warfare Operators course in Dahlgren, Va. AMW WTI curriculum and the SSDS Warfare Operators course prepare AMW WTIs to provide unmatched SSDS expertise and fleet support during Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) Surface Warfare Advanced Tactical Training (SWATT), Live Fire With a Purpose (LFWAP), and deployed operational support. Each of these events are a part of SMWDC’s robust advanced tactical training line of operation, which continues to have increased demand from the waterfront as word spreads. SMWDC’s investment in SSDS training aligns with the Command’s mission to support advanced tactical training for warfighters and increase the lethality and tactical proficiency of the Surface Force across all domains.
Kearsarge ARG Completes First East Coast ARG SWATT NORFOLK, Va. - The Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) returned to homeport after completing the Navy’s first East Coast ARG Surface Warfare Advanced Tactical Training (SWATT) exercise June 28. SWATT is led by mentors and Warfare Tactics Instructors (WTI) from Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center (SMWDC) who develop and oversee the execution of ARG SWATTs, who provide at-sea mentoring to build more capable and tactically proficient surface forces. "SWATT provided us with the first opportunity for the ARG ships to operate as a warfighting team. SMWDC WTIs provided excellent training for Warfare Commanders, Ships, and watch standers,” said Capt. Daniel Blackburn, commodore of Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 6. “This week definitely prepared us and set the stage for the upcoming integrated training phase. " SMWDC’s mission is to increase the lethality and tactical warfighting proficiency of the Surface Fleet, by providing SWATTs to ships in the U.S. Fleet Forces and U.S. Pacific Fleet areas of operations. The SMWDC team accomplishes its advanced tactical training portion of its mission through focused mentoring at the unit, Air Defense Commander, and Sea Combat Commander-levels. SMWDC increases lethality through the development of watch standers and watch teams by incorporating the Plan, Brief, Execute and Debrief (PBED) methodology into each training event. “We couldn’t have asked for a better first East Coast SWATT,” said Cmdr. Jeff Heames, director of operations and training for SMWDC who embarked USS Arlington (LPD 24) as one of the senior mentors during the exercise. “We have refined the ARG SWATT training syllabus as well as the exercise control methodology for both the East and West Coast exercises. This ensures that surface ships across the Fleet are able to receive the same level of advanced training, which will position them for a running start into the high-end integrated training phase. The advanced phase is a vital part of the overall training cycle that delivers ready, lethal and capable units to our Fleet commanders.” Sailors completed air warfare exercises, live-fire exercises, and engaged simulated torpedo attacks. SMWDC mentoring and real-time feedback using replay tools rapidly improved the watch team’s performance each time they completed advanced training events.
Kearsarge ARG is preparing for an upcoming deployment, and the SWATT exercise provided the ARG a chance to synchronize their ARG warfighting and prepare for integrated phase training. During the integrated phase, the ARG will train with the Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) before receiving deployment certification. The Kearsarge ARG consists of PHIBRON 6, Kearsarge, the San Antonioclass amphibious transport dock USS Arlington (LPD 24), and the Whidbey Islandclass dock landing ship USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43).
Ready & Lethal: Live Fire With a Purpose Program DAHLGREN, Va. – In early 2016, SMWDC took the lead as U.S. Fleet Forces Command’s revamped Missile Exercise program – Live Fire With a Purpose (LFWAP) program. Since then, the SMWDC LFWAP team supported 85 combatants to fire over 100 Standard Missile 2 (SM2), Rolling Airframe Missile, and NATO Sea Sparrow Missiles. On May 28, 2018, the USS The Sullivans (DDG 68) launched an SM2 to mark the centennial missile firing. Over the course of each of the twenty-nine LFWAP events, an Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) Warfare Tactics Instructor (WTI) leads the team through a ten step process. This process outlines the planning, training, and execution of safe live firing, and serves as a template for real-world operational preparation. Unit level training consists of IAMD WTIs working closely with the ships to ensure watch standers become comfortable with the objectives and scenarios for safe event execution. It is preferred that ships run five nominal and five off-nominal scenarios to prepare them for possible system casualties during execution. This also serves as a final check to ensure watch teams are capable of reacting appropriately to casualties during deployment, when no trainers are present. For execution, every ship is assigned an IAMD WTI to assist with final training, doctrine verification, and system set-up questions. Final rehearsals are conducted with live aircraft to verify systems and watch standers are ready for execution. An important part of preparation is verifying the data collection set-up and operation. Naval Surface Warfare Center – Corona Division, assists with weapon and radar system data collection during the execution phase, that enables same day replay to support key event objectives during the on-site debrief. The data is then transmitted to NSWC-Corona for further analysis. Within months after a LFWAP event, SMWDC and NSWC-Corona conduct a Data Analysis Work Group (DAWG) to discuss the tactical and technical nuances of each live fire event. The data analysis is used to provide an in depth debrief to the firing units prior to their deployment, confirm current tactics, techniques and procedures (TTP's), assist in development of future TTP's, and provide feedback to the Navy acquisitions communities in support of developing future capabilities. “LFWAP is treated as the graduation event by U.S. Fleet Forces Command and U.S. Third Fleet prior to ships deploying because it provides a tactically challenging scenario for each ship requiring watchteams to utilize ship TTPs, preplanned responses (PPRs) and the commanding officer’s battle orders to defend th e mse l ve s ,” s ai d I AM D Di vi si on Di rec to r C a p t. Ji m J one s. “This is not a checklist event. This is an event that stresses watch teams’ understanding of their own self-defense processes while building their confidence with the systems that will defend our Nation down-range.” The LFWAP program is taking the Navy's warfighting to a new level. Over the last three years Live Fire events have become more complex with each event enhancing our fleet's weapon systems efficacy. Navy-wide warfighting capability has benefited from studying the lessons learned from each firing event; these lessons lead to improved TTPs, PPRs, commanding officer's battle orders, and validated formal course of instruction training curriculums. The LFWAP program prepares our ships and Sailors for the real-world threat environments they will face and represents high velocity learning to counter threats.
WTI: A Foundation for Leaders and Future COs DAHLGREN, Va. – This August marks the fifth anniversary of the launch of the first Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) Warfare Tactics Instructor (WTI) course. The course began in August 2013 with ten candidates, and led to over 100 IAMD WTIs currently serving in the Fleet. The IAMD WTI course was followed not long after by the AntiSubmarine/Surface Warfare (ASW/SUW) and Amphibious Warfare (AMW) WTI courses. The officers completing each of the programs have served the Surface Navy well since the institutionalization of the program. Among the IAMD WTI program’s first patched class, a number of WTIs served with distinction in critical SWO billets including the IAMD WTI Program Manager, the executive officer of a guided-missile destroyer (DDG), the IAMD WTI Program Deputy Director at SMWDC’s IAMD Division, a senior instructor at the AEGIS Training and Readiness Center (ATRC), combat systems and plansand-tactics officers aboard a DDG, and a joint interface control officer (JICO) who travels the world supporting the operational fleet. The IAMD WTI cadre continues to grow and develop, and the first commanding officers in the Navy to wear WTI patches will wear the IAMD WTI insignia. In fiscal years 2019/2020, IAMD WTIs will take command aboard: USS Little Rock (LCS 9) USS John Paul Jones (DDG 53) USS Higgins (DDG 76) USS Mitscher (DDG 57) USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) USS Rafael Peralta (DDG 115) PCU Delbert D. Black (DDG 119) IAMD, AMW, and ASW/SUW WTIs are making a critical positive impact in the Fleet. They continue to provide Sailors, ships, and staffs the tactical sets and reps to increase lethality and tactical proficiency. As the existing WTI programs continue to develop, SMWDC will also add a WTI course of instruction to develop Mine Warfare (MIW) WTIs to ensure that we increase our capability to keep sea lines of communication open in line with the National Defense Strategy and Navy mission.
Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) SAN DIEGO - Commander Task Force (CTF) 177, led by U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Dave Welch, commander, Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center (SMWDC) and the Navy's Global Mine Warfare Commander, kicked off the Southern California (SOCAL) portion of the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) with mine warfare training operations which run from June 27 to Aug. 2. CTF 177 is comprised of 26 units with approximately 1,100 personnel representing the United States, Australia, Canada, England, Japan, the Netherlands and New Zealand. It will conduct advanced mine warfare operations including mine countermeasure operations to support RIMPAC. The mine warfare training operations are structured into five phases: staging and integration; force integration training; two simultaneous tactical phases; and a debrief and refurbishment period. "The purpose of these operations is to increase capability and to build relationships with our partners. Trust isn't something you can surge, and it's critical that we maintain and develop these key relationships for the times we really need to rely on one another," said U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Dave Welch, commander, Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center (SMWDC) and the Navy's Global Mine Warfare Commander. "The training we will complete will increase capability, evaluate new and existing tactics, foster interoperability, and also provide us the opportunity to complete biennial certification of the U.S. Navy's deployable mine warfare battle staff." SMWDC's Mine Warfare Battle Staff will complete Mine Warfare Commander biennial certification following Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet's review of training objectives met throughout the exercise. The CTF 177 team will also conduct an assessment of mine countermeasure forces in confined waters and sea lines of communication.
Southern California (SOCAL) 2018 Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 21 is also slated to continue operational testing for MH-60S Seahawk Airborne Mine Countermeasure systems - Airborne Laser Mine Detection System (ALMDS) and Airborne Mine Neutralization System (AMNS) - a first for fleet exercises. RIMPAC 2018 will also be the first time that U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Security Response Team West (MSRTW) participates in RIMPAC SOCAL. Early in the exercise they conducted maritime interdiction operations with Royal Canadian Navy explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) technicians. U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, Royal Australian Navy, Royal Canadian Navy, Royal Navy, Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force, the Royal Netherlands Navy and Royal New Zealand Navy personnel will participate in the exercise. Commands participating include: Mine Countermeasures Squadron (MCMRON) 3, Mine Countermeasures Division (MCMDIV) 31, MSRT-W, the Australian Mine Warfare and Clearance Diving Squadron, USS Ardent (MCM 12), USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49), HMCS Whitehorse (MM 705), HMCS Yellowknife (MM 706), Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron (HM) 14, and Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 21. Twenty-five nations, 46 ships, five submarines, 200 aircraft, and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 27 to Aug. 2 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security of the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2018 is the 26th exercise in the series that began in 1971.
Battle Staff Leads MIW Force in BALTOPS ‘18 KIEL, Germany - The Navy’s deployable mine warfare (MIW) commander’s staff completed two weeks of underway training with allies and partners during exercise Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) 2018, increasing interoperability, capability, and readiness among participating navies. Commander, Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center (SMWDC) is the Navy’s global MIW commander and maintains a deployable operational staff that leads complex MIW missions in all numbered fleets. BALTOPS is an annual joint, multinational maritime-focused exercise designed to provide training opportunities that increase flexibility and interoperability among participating nations. BALTOPS provided high-end training for allies and partners across the region to reassure and demonstrate NATO's long-term commitment to security in the Baltic Region. The exercise included mine clearance operations in advance of amphibious landings, along sea lines of communication and shipping lanes, and in approaches to ports and harbors. Participating nations in BALTOPS included Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, the United Kingdom and the United States. In total, 43 maritime units, more than 60 aircraft, and a combined amphibious landing force participated. BALTOPS incorporated maritime, ground, and air forces to strengthen combined response capabilities necessary to ensure regional stability. "BALTOPS is a great opportunity for us to rehearse mine countermeasure (MCM) operations with our partners and NATO allies, sharing practical hands-on training, identifying and mitigating mine warfighting challenges, and developing a greater understanding of the unique capabilities we all bring to the team," said Capt. Christopher Merwin, SMWDC MIW division director. "Training opportunities like this give us an advantage in real-world mine countermeasure operations because of the interoperability developed through learning, planning and operating as a coalition during these exercises." The SMWDC mine warfare battle staff commanded the MCM task group, leading MCM efforts from Blue Ridge-class command and control ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20). The MCM task group included nearly half of the participating BALTOPS ships and six drones. Subordinate MCM commanders for the exercise included Rota, Spain-based Task Force (TG) 68, San Diego-based Mine Countermeasures Division 31 embarked in Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport USNS Carson City (T-EPF 7), Standing NATO Mine Countermeasure Group 1, and the Baltic MCM Squadron. The close cooperation of 16 nations’ MCM forces allowed exchange of tactics and procedures to safely and effectively defeat underwater explosives. SMWDC’s mine warfare division is one of four divisions focused on MIW, amphibious warfare, integrated air and missile defense, and anti-submarine warfare/surface warfare. SMWDC is a subordinate command of commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet and exists to command and operationally control MIW forces in support of theater operations and to increase the lethality and tactical proficiency of the surface force across all domains.
SMWDC Reserve Component SAN DIEGO - Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center (SMWDC), with the mission to increase lethality and tactical proficiency across all domains, is providing the extra effort and preparation to keep the Surface Force at the varsity level! Reserve Sailors are on the team too, making significant contributions on the waterfront alongside SMWDC’s mentors and Warfare Tactics Instructors (WTI) at the command’s headquarters and four divisions in California and Virginia. In 2018, the number of reserve units in SMWDC’s reserve enterprise increased to five, providing expanded opportunities for reserve Sailors interested in joining SMWDC’s mission (drill location in parentheses): -NR SMWDC Headquarters (San Diego, Ca.) -NR SMWDC Sea Combat Division (San Diego, Ca.) -NR SMWDC Mine Warfare (MIW) Division (San Diego, Ca) -NR SMWDC Amphibious Warfare (AMW) Division (Little Creek, Va.) -NR SMWDC Integrated Air and Missile Defense Division (Dahlgren, Va.) "SMWDC has evolved into the most critical of all Surface Force training commands, helping the Surface Force - and the Navy - keep pace with changing technology and the changing threat environment," said Vice Adm. Richard Brown during SMWDC’s recent change of command. "But not only for the Surface Force, our Fleet Commanders and Numbered Fleet Commanders want SMWDC and more of it. SMWDC has become a low-density, high-demand asset." Now, there are plans in place for the SMWDC reserve unit to grow to over 100 reserve Sailors that will continue to support SMWDC’s vital mission. SMWDC NR unit supported SWATT exercises, delivery of advanced training courses through SMWDC’s school houses, and Warfare Improvement Programs that provide the connective tissue between the deckplates, type commanders, and the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations (OPNAV) to ensure that funding and future requirements are aligned. Also, we continue to recruit AC WTIs joining the RC at separation. Most annual training (AT) will occur underway or ashore in exercise control during SWATT exercises on both coasts. This year, SMWDC Reserve Enterprise supported three SWATTs – USS Essex (LHD 2) ARG SWATT, USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) CSG CRUDES SWATT, and the first East Coast ARG SWATT with USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) ARG – vital fleet experience for reserve officers and value to the SMWDC mission. “Surface Warfare Reserve Enterprise support to SMWDC is a top priority,” said Rear Adm. John Mustin, deputy commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific and Atlantic Fleets. “Getting underway with the Fleet’s top senior mentors and tacticians and to play a key role in increasing the Fleet’s readiness and lethality is opportunity our reserve teammates should prioritize at the top of their wish lists.” SMWDC’s Reserve Enterprise would like to hear from you if you are interested in supporting the team. Look for NR SMWDC opportunities in CMS-ID, JOApply, and Apply, or you can contact SMWDC Reserve Enterprise Director Capt. Ken Blackmon, kenneth.r.blackmon@navy.mil or SMWDC Reserve Enterprise Deputy Director – Cmdr. Steve McJessy, stephen.mcjessy@navy.mil NR SMWDC HQ CO - Capt. Jurgemeyer, jeffrey.jurgemeyer@navy.mil NR SMWDC MIW CO (acting) - Cmdr. Siweck, brett.siweck@navy.mil NR SMWDC SCD CO - Cmdr. Clavero, michael.clavero@navy.mil NR SMWDC IAMD CO - Cmdr. Skidmore, jesse.skidmore@navy.mil NR SMWDC AMW CO - Cmdr. Newbrough, patrick.newbrough@navy.mil
WTI Program Information Are you interested in making the Fleet more lethal? Warfare Tactics Instructors are creating tactics, training the Fleet, and becoming experts in their warfare areas. First Tour Division Officers: If selected, you can go through the course prior to your second Division Officer Tour, with no impact to your timeline for shore duty. Second Tour Division Officers: If selected, you are eligible to take a WTI shore tour and build your expertise prior to going back to sea as a Department Head. If you are interested in getting a Master’s degree, we will work with you – we have WTIs doing FSEP, NWC, NPS Distance Learning, FSP, and more. Department Heads: If selected, you are eligible to take a WTI shore tour and build your tactical expertise prior to taking Command. There are not many billets right now, but keep your eye on the downstream fill list as we are looking to expand the number of billets! SWO Nuclear Officers: WTI can fit into your career after your Division Officer tours or after your Department Head tour. We recommend being a WTI after your Division Officer tours as it will develop you professionally prior to standing TAO as a Department Head. CWOs and LDOs: We have a limited number of WTI billets for both CWOs and LDOs at various training commands. To join, simply email SWO_WTI@navy.mil for an application or log on to NSMWDC page at http://www.public.navy.mil/surfor/nsmwdc/pages/home.aspx on the left side of the page in the Join the Fight section you will find all the requirements. Selection boards are held in September, November, January, March, May, and July. Applications for the next selection board are due by 14 September, 2018. Once you are selected, you will be eligible to select WTI billets for your next shore duty. Billets are available at a variety of training commands both in the U.S. and around the world.
We’ll Come to You! Fleet Outreach Program SMWDC’s TEAM is actively engaging the Surface Fleet with a stated goal of visiting every gray hull in the Navy this year to engage ship COs and XOs about how SMWDC’s lines of operation support your teams, as well as the junior officer cadre to discuss how the WTI program fits into the Surface Warfare Officer Career Path. Call (619)556-3961 or email SWO_WTI@navy.mil to set up a ship, wardroom, or Fleet Concentration Area visit today! Follow SMWDC on the following sites: Facebook: www.facebook.com/SMWDC DVIDS: https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/SMWDC Homepage: http://www.public.navy.mil/surfor/nsmwdc/
WANTED: YOUR FEEDBACK! (TTP / Doctrine) Fleet feedback is a vital component of the doctrine review and validation process. The SMWDC Collaboration At Sea (CAS) page is your low-bandwidth provider of doctrinal tactics, techniques, and procedures. Available on the CAS page is the Tactical Observations and Lessons Learned (TOLL) portal designed to give the fleet an easy path to submit feedback. We want to hear from you! CAS Page: https://www2.pr.cas.navy.smil.mil/secret/navy/45/site.nsf/ main.html?Openpage TOLL Portal: https://www.uar.cas.navy.smil.mil/secret/navy/45/site.nsf (Norfolk) https://www.pr.cas.navy.smil.mil/secret/navy/45/site.nsf (Hawaii) https://www.ior.cas.navy.smil.mil/secret/navy/45/site.nsf (Bahrain) https://www.ecr.cas.navy.smil.mil/secret/navy/45/site.nsf (Italy) Some of the latest doctrine updates released by SMWDC: TM 3-21.2-18 SQQ-89(V) 15 ACB-11 Continuous Active Sonar (JUN 2018) TM 3-01.6-17 BMD Core Tactics (JUN 2018) NTTP 3-01.5 Aegis Air Defense Core Tactics (MAY 2018) TM 3-15.1-18 Mine Warfare Survey Ops (APR 2018) TM 3-01.1-18 Electronic Warfare Threat-Centric Planning for Air and Missile Defense (MAR 2018) TM 3-01.7-17 Ballistic Missile Defense Guarded Unit (MAR 2018) TM 3-20.1-18 Maritime Detainee Control (FEB 2018) TM 3-22.1-17 Combat Flight Quarters (OCT 2017) TM 3-21.4-17 Bi-Static Active Operations (AUG 2017) NTTP 3-20.71 Surface Ship Harpoon Employment Manual CH-3 (JUL 2017)
SMWDC Fiscal Year 19 Plans and Tactics Officer (PTO) Course Purpose: Train perspective Plans and Tactics Officer on Electromagnetic Maneuver Warfare concepts, SMWDC-style PBED processes, and tactical planning. CIN/CDP: S-4N-2602/18F8 Length: 5 days Classification: Top Secret/SCI Estimated hours a week: 40 hours/week (Start Time: 0800) Convening dates in FY 19: (5) PTO 1812 PTO 1903 PTO 1905 PTO 1907 PTO 1909
10 DEC 2018 04 MAR 2019 06 MAY 2019 15 JUL 2019 23 SEP 2019
San Diego, CA San Diego, CA San Diego, CA San Diego, CA San Diego, CA
Advanced ASW Officer (AASWO) Course Purpose: The purpose of this course is to improve Carrier Strike Group operational effectiveness by providing the means for long-term Surface Warfare Officer (SWO) subject matter expertise in the ASW mission area. These second tour division officers will provide tactical decision support to the Commanding Officer and Tactical Action Officer (TAO), train the ASW team and educate the wardroom on ASW tactics, techniques and procedures. CIN/CDP: G-2G-1112/10L4 Length: 5 weeks Classification: Secret Estimated hours a week: 40 hours/week (Start Time: 0730) Convening dates in FY 19: (4) 13 NOV 2018 07 JAN 2019 06 MAY 2019 12 AUG 2019
Senior Mine Warfare Seminar Purpose: The purpose of this course is to provide and/or validate an executive level understanding of Integrated Mine Warfare (MIW) concepts, practices and procedures for U.S. Navy Senior Officers involved with Integrated MIW Operations. CIN/CDP: G-2G-0701/07TY Length: 3 days Estimated hours a week: 40 hours/week Classification: SECRET Convening dates in FY 19: (3) 15 OCT 2018 28 JAN 2019 15 APR 2019
Curriculum Listing Surface Warfare Advanced Tactical Training (SWATT) Inport Training Purpose: Prepare ship’s leadership and watchstanders on the most applicable tactics, techniques and procedures to successfully executed the underway training events at the sixteen day Surface Warfare Advanced Tactical Training (SWATT) CIN/CDP: None Length: 5 days Classification: Secret Estimated hours a week: 40 hours/week Multiple convening dates in FY 19 including the first East Coast CSG CRUDES SWATT! Contact SMWDC’s N3/N7 for more information and exact schedules.
Surface MCM Advanced Evaluator Course Purpose: Training Console Operator in the advanced tactics for proper execution of Mine Hunting Tactics Techniques and Procedures. CIN/CDP: S-4N-2601/18F7 Length: 20 days Estimated hours a week: 40 hours/week Classification: SECRET Convening dates in FY 19: (4) 01 OCT 2018 San Diego, CA 12 MAR 2019 San Diego, CA 11 JUN 2019 San Diego, CA 17 SEP 2018 San Diego, CA
SMWDC also leads and supports many others courses / training events including: - Warfare Tactics Instructor (WTI) Instructor and Tactics Course (I/TC) - Air & Missile Defense Commander P-CO Cruiser Pipeline - Air & Missile Defense Commander Mobile Training Team (AMDC MTT) - IAMD Toolkit and Mission Planning - Force Air Defense Officer (FADO) Course - Integrated Air Defense Course (IADC) - Sea Combat Commander’s Course of Instruction (SCC COI) - Live Fire With a Purpose (LFWAP) Coming in FY-19: MIW WTI Program! For more information email SWO_WTI@navy.mil for an application or log on to NSMWDC page at http://www.public.navy.mil/surfor/nsmwdc/pages/home.aspx on the left side of the page in the Join the Fight section you will find all the requirements.