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CHINFO Visits LCS Training Facility

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS130611-29
6/11/2013

By Kimberly M. Lansdale, Center for Surface Combat Systems and Lt. Carl Densing, Fleet Anti-Submarine Warfare Training Center

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Rear Adm. John Kirby, U.S. Navy Chief of Information (CHINFO), visited the Littoral Combat Ship Training Facility (LTF) managed by the Center for Surface Combat Systems (CSCS) Fleet Anti-Submarine Warfare Training Center (FLEASWTRACEN), June 10.

During his visit, Kirby observed how the training facility uses the process known as 'Train to Qualify' (T2Q) to train the crew members of the littoral combat ships (LCS) USS Freedom (LCS 1) and USS Independence (LCS 2).

A fairly new concept for the surface force, T2Q shifts qualification training from the ship to shore training. This enables LCS Sailors to report to these ships ready to stand their watch and execute assigned duties.

'It was exciting to observe the U.S. Navy's latest technology at work for surface warfare training,' said Kirby. 'I was particularly struck by the team approach to this training and the manner in which LCS Sailors can really integrate bridge and combat systems during stressful tactical scenarios. We ask a lot of LCS Sailors. This training gives them the tools to deliver.'

The LTF is the first surface warfare training facility to provide integrated bridge and combat systems tactical scenario training for Sailors serving on board an LCS. It is comprised of three components which can be used independently or in concert with the others to provide more complex training scenarios.

'To ensure LCS Sailors are prepared to operate their revolutionary platforms, LCS training continuum objectives are derived from the fundamentals, systems and tasks specific to the watch stations their billets support,' said Joe Shifflett, LTF director. 'Our simulators integrate LCS command and control, propulsion control and bridge control systems to support individual training in a team environment at the basic, intermediate and advanced levels.'

Center for Surface Combat Systems oversees the development of surface warfare training, and its headquarters' staff oversees 14 learning sites and provides almost 70,000 hours of curriculum and close to 700 courses a year to more than 40,000 Sailors. The training center uses a mix of blended learning comprised of instructor led classes, hands on labs, simulation and computer-based training. Courses include specialized training supporting nine enlisted ratings, as well as training for officers in system-specific skills required to tactically operate and employ surface ships. Building maritime partnerships, the command also provides training to many international students.