Navy Expeditionary Combat Command's (NECC) Pacific capabilities were on display at the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association's (AFCEA WEST) Conference at the San Diego Convention Center, Feb. 21-23.

For 27 years, AFCEA WEST has brought together military and industry leaders to network and discuss the challenges facing the fleet today and the technology and techniques of tomorrow that will improve security.

Among the NECC-Pacific forces represented at this year's conference are the Riverine Force, Explosive Ordnance Disposal and the Naval Construction Force as part of a joint NECC-Pacific display in the exposition exhibit space.

"We brought gear we use most commonly in our training and operations," said Petty Officer 2nd Class Aaron Brown from Underwater Construction Team (UCT) Two. "At AFCEA WEST I have had the chance to talk with people from the tech community as well as veterans. It is interesting to see the possible technology available to the Naval Construction Force."

In addition to displays, Rear Adm. Brian Brakke, commander NECC/NECC-Pacific participated in a panel discussion, "What are the Challenges in Delivering Ready Forces today," on Feb. 21, which was moderated by retired Vice Adm. Ted Branch, former deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Information Warfare.

Branch, said that the panelist were, "precisely the right leadership to address these challenges," he continued by adding, "As type commanders they are responsible for manning, training and equipping out forces."

The panelists discussed the important role of training and preparing their forces for deployment in order to remain a capable combat-ready force. Topics included training for the high-end fight, emerging threats, and the current limited fiscal environment within the Department of Defense.

During the panel discussion Brakke highlighted new technology and platforms such as the MK VI Patrol Boat supporting high value unit escorts and the MK 18 Mod 2 Kingfish unmanned underwater vehicle that supports the Expeditionary Mine Countermeasure (ExMCM) mission.

Lt.j.g. Jeff Morehead, from EOD Mobile Unit One participated in WEST 17 and discussed the capabilities of ExMCM.

"EOD is at AFCEA WEST to showcase the ExMCM construct and the full detect to engage sequence," said Morehead.

Navy Expeditionary Combat Forces attended the yearly conference to bring more awareness to the support provided worldwide. NECC/NECC-Pacific is an enduring warfighting force providing sea-to-shore and inland operating environment capabilities across the full range of military operations which is focused on delivering combat-effective expeditionary forces ready for worldwide operations now and into the future.

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For more news from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group 1, visit www.navy.mil/.