U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Jose Esparza, a radio operator with 3d Battalion, 2d Marines, gives commands during Exercise Shinka 22.1 at Combined Arms Training Center, Camp Fuji, Japan, June 28, 2022. U.S. Marine Corps / Lance Cpl. Michael Taggart
The Naval Brief: Weapons inspectors; Red Hill defueling plan; Seized missiles; and more...
Welcome to The Naval Brief, a weekly look at the news and ideas shaping the sea services’ future.
Ukraine weapons inspectors. The U.S. has sent billions worth of weapons and equipment, including howitzers and patrol boats, to Ukraine to support their efforts to repel Russia’s invading military, and Defense Security Cooperation Agency Deputy Director Jed Royal would like the Pentagon to send inspectors to Ukraine to monitor the deliveries, Defense One reports. Typically, inspectors would be on the ground visiting locations to ensure weapons are being used and stored properly, but right now they are only able to review receipts in other European countries and put their trust in Ukrainian officials.
Iranian weapons seized. A MH-60 Seahawk helicopter from the USS Gridley Arleigh Burke-class destroyer helped the British Royal Navy frigate HMS Montrose seize Iranian surface-to-air missiles and cruise-missile rocket engines during an operation Feb. 25 in the Gulf of Oman, according to statements Thursday from the U.S. Navy and British government. The weapons were found on speedboats being used by smugglers, and one type of cruise missile seized—the “351”—has been used by Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen to hit targets in Saudi Arabia, according to the UK statement.
Defueling Red Hill. December 2024 is the earliest the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility in Hawaii will be completely defueled, according to the Navy’s plans, USNI News reports. The fuel leaks that contaminated local drinking water were caused by “human error, poor system knowledge, and inadequate maintenance practices,” said Adm. Samuel Paparo, U.S. Pacific Fleet commander, according to USNI News.
Sign up to get The Naval Brief every Thursday from Caitlin M. Kenney, Defense One’s military services reporter. On this day in 1948, the regular Navy’s first six enlisted women were sworn in.
From Defense One
Pentagon to Buy Two Advanced Air Defense Systems for Ukraine // Tara Copp
The U.S.-Norway missiles may not be ready for weeks or months, official says.
The Risks of US Military Assistance to Ukraine // Rachel Stohl and Elias Yousif
With arms pouring into a wartorn country, we must take steps to ensure they are not stolen or misused.
US Sues to Block Spy-Tech Deal // Adam Mazmanian
The Justice Department opposes Booz Allen's bid to acquire a rival ahead of a five-year signals intelligence procurement.