Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) executed underwater and anti-submarine exercises, July 6, in preparation for its upcoming deployment as part of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 2.
Philippine Sea participated in a submarine familiarization (SUBFAM) exercise and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) certifications while on group sail with CSG 2 assets.
SUBFAM is an exercise intended to familiarize the strike group with various visual aspects of a submarine while at sea. These exercises help watchstanders supplement the sonar suite with identifying and locating submarines while underway.
"Considering how junior my team is, transitioning from trying to pass basic phase to becoming Search Attack Unit Commander, we met all objectives and performed just as well as any experienced team," said Senior Chief Sonar Technician (Surface) Bradley Alvis. "My sonar technicians brought a warfighting mentality and great attitude to the table which is the reason we're able to be so successful. I'm blessed to have such a great division and outstanding Sailors."
In addition to SUBFAM, Philippine Sea is completing ASW 2.3, a critical certification needed to pass basic phase. ASW 2.3's success depends on the ship's ability to effectively train watchstanders and junior Sailors in the anti-submarine warfare area.
"For the amount of work that goes into these exercises and the limited experience of our watchstanders, I think things have been going really well," said Lt. j.g. Bria Rand, Philippine Sea's anti-submarine warfare officer.
Philippine Sea is training on passive and active tracking, conducting simulated attacks utilizing vertical launch anti-submarine rockets (ASROCs), surface vessel torpedo tubes and organic air assets.
"We have put in a lot of long, hard-working days," said Sonar Technician (Surface) 2nd Class Gabriel Weintraub. "We're the oldest sonar suite, and it amazes me to see how well and accurately it tracks subs. We're still pressing on and going to make it to certification!"
Philippine Sea is conducting a group sail with George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group assets and completing basic phase certifications prior to deployment.
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