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Torpedo Exercise In Japanese Waters Aircrews from the “Saberhawks” of
Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 77, the “Warlords” of HSM
51, and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) “Mighty 59” of
Air Development Squadron (VX) 51 conducted anti-submarine warfare
(ASW) torpedo training in Tokyo Bay, March 8-10, 2022.
Prior to this event, every torpedo exercise conducted by a forward-deployed squadron was conducted in San Diego. The benefit of this particular ASW exercise is that the forward-deployed squadron was able to practice within the region they operate in, while also strengthening bilateral capabilities between U.S. Navy and JMSDF. “This is the first step in an effort that started with the establishment of the first FDNF squadron, ‘The Warlords’, back in 1991,” said Cmdr. Nicholas Cunningham, HSM-77’s commanding officer. “This exercise demonstrates the U.S. Navy’s and JMSDF’s continued partnership and commitment to protecting the waterways of a free and open Indo-Pacific. The ‘Saberhawks’ are incredibly grateful for all of the multi-agency support we received from Naval Munitions Command, Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Commander Carrier Strike Group 5, and Commander U.S. 7th Fleet. CFAY and NAFA have taken a major step forward in supporting local ASW training opportunities between the U.S. Navy and JMSDF.” The exercise involved a inert torpedo being launched from an MH-60R Seahawk attached to HSM-77. The torpedo was recovered by a small boat team from the JMSDF Utility Landing Ship JS LCU 2002. An SH-60K assigned to VX-51 provided air support for the small boat team.
“Continuing to grow interoperability with
our JMSDF partners is a priority for the ‘Warlords’,” said Cmdr.
Timothy E. Rogers, HSM-51 commanding officer. “This ASW exercise
enabled us to take a collective step forward in that regard, but
more importantly assess how effective we are in bilateral ASW
prosecution.” U.S. Navy | U.S. Navy Gifts | U.S. Department of Defense Our Valiant Troops | I Am The One | Veterans | Citizens Like Us |
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