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SURFLANT Tours Mine Countermeasures; Readiness is Key.

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS080510-08
Release Date: 5/10/2008 6:29:00 PM

By Ed Mickley, Naval Mine and Anti-Submarine Warfare Command Public Affairs

INGLESIDE, Texas (NNS) -- Commander, Naval Surface Force, Atlantic, visited the Mine Countermeasure Class Squadron (MCMRON) based at Naval Station Ingleside on May 6, his first visit to the area since assuming command in February.

During the visit Rear Adm. Kevin Quinn, Commander, Naval Surface Force, Atlantic, took a close look at NSI, MCMRON and toured two Mine Countermeasure (MCM) Ships: USS Champion (MCM 4) and USS Devastator (MCM 6).

Quinn observed mine countermeasure operations of crew Dominant aboard Champion as they used sonar to detect and classify mine-like objects. The crew then "flew" their mine-neutralization vehicle, a remotely operated, tethered submersible used to engage, verify and neutralize mines in the water column.

He was especially interested in the new Precision Inertial Navigation System (PINS) and new acoustic generators. PINS is the latest modification being installed on each MCM. PINS greatly reduces the maneuvering workload and effort to keep mine sweepers on course and on target.

Quinn, an experienced surface warrior, engaged Sailors from each department as he toured from stem to stern above and below the waterline. Operations Specialist Seaman Apprentice Karim Herndon from the crew Persistent aboard Devastator, explained the operation of the mine neutralization vehicle.

After the tour, Quinn noted that mine warfare was key to the success of keeping shipping lanes open, during a Surface Navy Association luncheon.

With recent incidents in the Persian Gulf, and considering 95 percent of the world's commerce travels by ship, certain choke points around the world are strategic for traffic flow.

"The impact to the economy is critical," Quinn said. "If the flow of commerce is interrupted it would cause dramatic effects worldwide."

For more news from Commander, Naval Mine & Anti-Submarine Warfare Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/cmwc/.