Story by Master Sgt. Shakima Deprince, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Central Command 

MacDill AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. — Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 542 (VMFA-542), operating the F-35B Lightning II stealth fighter, has successfully returned from a historic five-month deployment to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility, marking a major milestone in Marine Corps aviation and joint force integration. 
 
During the deployment, VMFA-542 made a significant operational and strategic impact in the CENTCOM AOR. The squadron conducted Close Air Support, Armed Overwatch, and Defensive Counter-Air missions in support of Marine, Navy, Army, coalition, and partner nation forces. They advanced F-35 tactics, techniques, and procedures while demonstrating the aircraft’s flexibility in real-world operations. 
 
The unit flew more than 1,099 combat sorties and accumulated over 4,736 mishap-free flight hours, providing essential support to CENTCOM’s integrated air operations. VMFA-542 not only enhanced deterrence, supported regional maritime security, and deepened interoperability through combined training with allied and partner air forces, but also led the way in USMC F-35 flight hours, maintaining a high Aircraft Mission Capable readiness rate, setting the standard for aviation units across the fleet. 
 
“VMFA-542’s historic deployment has set new benchmarks for Marine Corps aviation, demonstrating that a forward deployed F-35B squadron can deliver unmatched combat power and readiness while seamlessly integrating with Joint Forces during a major regional crisis,” said LtCol Carlo F. Bonci, Executive Officer, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 542. 
 
As part of CENTCOM’s Air Component Ninth Air Force (Air Forces Central), VMFA-542 integrated into coalition air and defense operations. The addition of the F-35B Lightning II brought a major upgrade in tactical flexibility, intelligence gathering, and precision strike capabilities. 
 
The F-35B is a fifth-generation stealth fighter uniquely capable of short takeoffs and vertical landings, providing the Marine Corps with operational agility across both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. 
 
This deployment underscores the Marine Corps’ commitment to maintaining readiness and effectiveness in complex environments while reinforcing partnerships with regional allies. VMFA-542 set a new standard for aviation units across the fleet, leaving a tangible impact on the CENTCOM mission recognized by joint and coalition commanders alike. 

From U.S. Coast Guard Southwest District

ALAMEDA, Calif. – The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Waesche (WMSL 751) returned to its Base Alameda home port Oct. 10, concluding a 105-day Arctic deployment spanning over 21,000 nautical miles.   

Waesche’s deployment underscored the Coast Guard’s commitment to safeguarding U.S. sovereignty, enforcing border control, and ensuring national security in the strategically vital Bering Sea, Arctic Ocean, and along the U.S. – Russia Maritime Boundary Line.   

Throughout the three-and-a-half-month deployment, the crew integrated operations with U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM) and U.S. Alaska Command (ALCOM), conducting national defense operations and enforcing maritime laws to safeguard national sovereignty in an increasingly geostrategic Arctic.   

The Arctic is a national priority. The U.S. Coast Guard remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting U.S. interests in the Arctic and ensuring the safety and security of Alaska’s maritime borders and approaches.    

Five China-affiliated research vessels operated in the Arctic region over the summer, and Waesche was one of several Coast Guard assets deployed to the Arctic to control, secure, and defend U.S. territory and sovereign interests.   

In August, Waesche’s crew responded to the People’s Republic of China Research Vessel Zhong Shan Da Xue Ji Di as it was transiting north in the Chukchi Sea above the Arctic Circle, after passing through the Bering Strait. Waesche and the Coast Guard Cutter Healy (WAGB 20) patrolled the Arctic Ocean in September supporting Operation Frontier Sentinel, an operation that responds to adversaries operating in and around Alaskan and U.S. Arctic waters, before responding to China’s research vessels in the region. The U.S. Coast Guard’s responses are intended to counter malign activities, defend sovereign interests, and promote maritime conduct consistent with international law and norms.     

The Coast Guard is the only U.S. surface presence in the Arctic and works in conjunction with U.S. Northern Command and Alaskan Command to constantly monitor foreign vessels operating in and near U.S. waters in support of U.S. homeland defense and security operations.   

While deployed to the region, Waesche served as a Forward Afloat Staging Base during NORTHCOM’s Exercise Arctic Edge 2025, executing a complex, multi-agency assault of a mock target of interest. The operation showcased seamless integration between Waesche, Coast Guard Maritime Security Response Team West, U.S. Navy SEALs, and the Alaska Air National Guard to rapidly respond to domestic threats.   

Waesche conducted joint operations with ALCOM and the Royal Canadian Navy frigate HMCS Regina (FFH 334), demonstrating interagency coordination and a shared commitment to regional security during a joint patrol. The exercise included a passenger exchange, a mock boarding, cross-deck hoist operations with Regina’s CH-148 Cyclone helicopter, air support from a U.S. Coast Guard C-130J Hercules fixed wing aircraft from Air Station Kodiak and a Royal Canadian Air Force CP-140 Aurora.   

“This deployment was a resounding success, proving the concept of expeditionary logistics in the Northern Frontier and solidifying our partnerships with the Joint Force and key allies,” said U.S. Coast Guard Capt. Tyson Scofield, commanding officer of Waesche. “The underway replenishment with Asterix and the successful barge fueling in Kotzebue represent a significant leap forward in our ability to sustain operations in the Arctic. Our integration with the Royal Canadian Navy, ALCOM, and NORTHCOM highlights the importance of peace through strength to maintain an Arctic free of adversarial coercion.”   

Waesche successfully conducted the Coast Guard’s first-ever fueling at sea in the Alaskan theater with the Royal Canadian Navy replenishment oiler MV Asterix – accomplished in 6-8 foot seas with sustained 30-knot winds. Additionally, Waesche fueled north of the Arctic Circle, extending Coast Guard operations into the remote Arctic environment.   

Waesche’s crew conducted professional exchanges with Canadian counterparts, including HMCS Max Bernays in Dutch Harbor, and hosted personnel from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) law enforcement division, and Russian and Mandarin interpreters, further enhancing the cutter’s operational capabilities and regional understanding. Coast Guard Cutter Healy joined Waesche for a joint MBL patrol as well.    

Commissioned in 2010, Waesche is one of four Legend-class national security cutters homeported in Alameda. National security cutters are 418-feet long, 54-feet wide, have a top speed of over 28 knots, a range of 12,000 nautical miles, endurance of up to 90 days, and can hold a crew of up to 170. The advanced technologies of the national security cutter class ships are designed to support the operations and missions throughout the Pacific.   

From U.S. Coast Guard Northeast District

BOSTON — Coast Guard District Northeast is closing the period for providing comments to the Coastal Buoy Modernization Proposal (CBMP) advertised in the Local Notice to Mariners (LNM) and directly solicited from stakeholders.    

After receiving over 3,200 public comments, the Coast Guard will be conducting further analysis of the aids to navigation (ATON) system. There will be no changes to ATON in relation to the proposal until further analysis is complete.   

“We are extremely appreciative of the public’s input on this important project, and our team’s hard work, analysis, and conclusions were reinforced by the outstanding feedback we received from our maritime stakeholders,” said Rear Adm. Michael Platt, the Northeast Coast Guard District Commander. “The Northeast Coast Guard District will continue to ensure a safe, secure, and efficient Maritime Transportation System. We remain focused on shaping the future of our waterways, ensuring a modern aids to navigation system, and facilitating commerce vital to economic prosperity and strategic mobility.”  

The Coast Guard maintains nearly 45,000 navigational aids nationwide. With America’s Marine Transportation System supporting $5.4 trillion of economic activity, America’s ATON system enables the safe and efficient flow of commerce, economic prosperity, and strategic mobility. The Coast Guard will continue assessing waterways and provide the most effective changes to support a resilient marine transportation system.   

Release From Saronic

Saronic today commemorated the official opening of its 80,000+ square-foot facility in downtown San Diego, marking the occasion with a celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony. The event was attended by City of San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria, who provided remarks, as well as other local leaders, government stakeholders, and industry partners. The City has proclaimed October 21 as “Saronic Day” in recognition of the company’s contributions to the region’s defense innovation ecosystem and commitment to bring skilled jobs, economic opportunity, and technical expertise to the community. 

Driven by its strong naval presence, premiere research institutions, and robust industrial partnerships, San Diego has long been viewed as a hub for defense innovation. By opening its new downtown San Diego facility, Saronic is deepening its committed to the region’s economic revitalization while strengthening its ability to deliver autonomous maritime capabilities to its commercial and US Navy partners. Given its proximity to Navy commands, the site ensures Saronic can collaborate with defense customers to rapidly integrate feedback and provide real-time mission support of its Autonomous Surface Vessels (ASVs). 

“San Diego is where innovation meets service,” said San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria. “With Saronic expanding here, we’re strengthening our city’s leadership in defense technology and creating new opportunities for San Diegans to power the next generation of maritime innovation. This investment means more good jobs for San Diegans and stronger partnerships to support the men and women who serve our country.” 

Workforce Development: Training Naval Operators on Maritime Autonomy 

Saronic’s new facility in San Diego will serve in part as a training and development hub for naval and maritime operators, allowing defense and commercial customers and partners to expand their skills and expertise in maritime autonomy. Through a specialized curriculum tailored to the unique demands of autonomous maritime capabilities, Saronic is equipping sailors and mariners with the know-how to maintain and operate the hybrid fleet of the future. 

Saronic is committed to ensuring the safe and effective operation of its ASVs, as well as the development of a highly skilled and certified operator base. The company is a participant in industry- wide initiatives like the AUVSI Trusted UMS Operator Program, which establishes a common standard for training and certification of mission operators across the unmanned systems domain. This new San Diego training initiative reinforces that commitment and builds on the region’s role as a national center for workforce development in the maritime sector. 

“Saronic is partnering closely with naval leaders, operators, and partners to ensure this program not only addresses immediate technical needs but also provides opportunities for continued skills advancement and deepens the understanding of Saronic’s ASVs and autonomous capabilities,” said Nick Stoner, VP of Growth at Saronic. “San Diego is an anchor in the nation’s naval defense network, and this initiative underscores our belief that advancing technology must go hand-in-hand with investing in people – the region’s most powerful asset.” 

Investing in San Diego’s Future 

Saronic first announced its plans to establish a San Diego facility in July 2025. Since then, the space has undergone an extensive renovation, bringing on new capabilities to support its role as an operations, training, and depot facility. With this launch, the company continues to expand its local headcount, hiring across Mission Operations, Growth, Corporate Development, Mission Services, Forward-Deployed Engineering, Programs, and other functions. The company expects to add dozens of roles to its San Diego operations in the coming months. 

This investment builds on Saronic’s continued U.S. expansion, which includes large-scale manufacturing operations in Austin, Texas, and its shipbuilding facility in Franklin, Louisiana. 

From Lockheed Martin 

ORLANDO, Fla., Oct. 20, 2025 – Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) has been awarded a $233 million firm-fixed-price contract to deliver IRST21^® Block II systems and initial spares to the U.S. Navy and Air National Guard (ANG). 

IRST21 is Lockheed Martin’s next-generation infrared search and track (IRST) sensor capability, a long-wave infrared system that passively detects and tracks airborne targets at extended ranges. By delivering longer range detection and faster target data, IRST21 Block II boosts warfighter situational awareness, cuts decision making time and keeps our armed forces mission ready to engage threats the instant they appear. 

The Block II variant, contracted under this award, features cutting edge optics, advanced processors and industry-leading algorithms that significantly increase threat-detection range and provide tracking and targeting data to support beyond-visual-range missile engagements. 

This award follows the U.S. Navy’s recent declaration of Initial Operational Capability for IRST21, which cleared the path for full-rate production of the Block II variant now entering fleet deployment. 

“IRST21 Block II delivers a game-changing leap in passive warfighting capabilities across multiple platforms,” said Cristin Stengel, IRST21 program director for Lockheed Martin. “By significantly enhancing the range and accuracy to enable weapon employment in challenging environments, this system ensures pilots remain ahead of evolving adversaries and mission-ready at all times.” 
 

On the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, IRST21 is mounted on the nose of the centerline fuel tank, complementing the aircraft’s AN/APG-79 radar to maintain effectiveness in radar-denied or heavy electronic attack environments. 

For F-15 and F-16s, IRST21 is embedded in a ready-now modular, externally mounted Legion Pod, providing ease of transportability and bringing 6^thgeneration targeting capability to 4^th generation aircraft. By operating passively without emitting a signal, the system is resistant to electronic jamming—ensuring warfighters maintain a critical advantage where survivability and reaction time are essential. 
  

From UTIC, Oct. 20,2025 

MIDDLETOWN, R.I. – The Undersea Technology Innovation Consortium (UTIC) announced today a significant milestone in its mission to advance undersea tech innovation. UTIC has now successfully facilitated the award of 100 prototype projects, with a value of over $1.4 billion.  

UTIC is the consortium for the U.S. Navy’s Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) for undersea and maritime technology, an agile and flexible procurement strategy for acquiring military technology. The OTA allows the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Newport to rapidly prototype and acquire leading-edge technologies from UTIC member organizations, accelerating innovation that meets the needs and mission of the U.S. Navy.  UTIC members represent small and large businesses, academia, and nonprofit research institutes with state-of-the-art undersea and maritime technology. 

“UTIC represents some of the most innovative organizations in the nation. Through this partnership, the Navy has fast and efficient access to leading edge undersea and maritime technology,” said Molly Donohue Magee, Chief Executive Officer at UTIC. “Our national defense is stronger thanks to this community of best-in-class experts, and our UTIC members continue to successfully compete for exciting and rewarding undersea and maritime technology opportunities in support of the Navy’s needs.” 

Since the OTA award in June 2018, prototype project awards have been distributed to 64 organizations, including 50 non-traditional defense contractors, demonstrating UTIC’s commitment to fostering innovation across diverse sectors. 

“Collaboration drives innovation, and speed is a collective imperative. Celebrating 100 prototype projects is not only as a numerical milestone—but a testament to the power of deep industry engagement,” added Mica Dolan, President and Chief Operating Officer of Advanced Technology International (ATI), UTIC’s consortium management firm. 

Successful prototypes developed under the OTA include sonar, autonomous, and communication systems essential for effective operations in the undersea environment. 

“I am pleased to note that the excellent partnership between UTIC and NUWC Newport has resulted in a milestone 100 awards through Other Transaction Authority. The continued success of this partnership has helped the Navy move forward in its mission to successfully get emerging technologies to the Fleet at a rapid pace,” said Marie Bussiere, Technical Director at NUWC, Newport. “We’ll continue to evolve and expand the undersea battlespace through the technologies that come forth through our industry partnerships.”   

About UTIC 
The Undersea Technology Innovation Consortium (UTIC) promotes the rapid development, prototyping, and commercialization of innovative undersea and maritime. UTIC represents a united undersea and maritime industry voice, breaking down barriers to growth by identifying and integrating undersea and maritime technology resources and opportunities, and providing the environment to collaborate on innovative solutions. For more information on UTIC,  visit https://www.underseatech.org/. 

By Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet Public Affairs

PHILIPPINE SEA  –  The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), the U.S. Marine Corps, and U.S. Navy begin the multilateral exercise Annual Exercise (ANNUALEX) 2025 in the Philippine Sea, Oct. 20, 2025. 

This year’s ANNUALEX focuses on enhancing the Japan and U.S. bilateral alliance within a multilateral context through maritime communication tactics, anti-submarine warfare operations, air warfare operations, replenishment-at-sea, and more. JMSDF Izumo-class helicopter-capable, anti-submarine warfare destroyer JS Kaga (DDH 184) leads the JMSDF participation in this year’s ANNUALEX. 

Held every two years, ANNUALEX is led by the JMSDF to provide an opportunity to refine and build upon existing combat interoperability capabilities, enhancing readiness across all platforms. This serves as a deterrent against regional instability and aggression. 

U.S. participating assets include the U.S. Navy Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Shoup (DDG 86), Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Robert Smalls (CG 62), P-8A Poseidon, Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo ships USNS Amelia Earhart (T-AKE 6), USNS Wally Schirra (T-AKE 8), fleet replenishment oiler USNS Tippecanoe (T-AO 199), a U.S. submarine, and U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II is assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242. 

Participating forces will also include the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) and Air Force (RAAF), Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) and Air Force (RCAF), French Navy (FN), and Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF). 

The previous ANNUALEX, held in November 2023, featured Carrier Strike Group 1, represented by its flagship Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), during operations in U.S. 7th Fleet. 

U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. 

Company celebrates its prestigious heritage of innovation and trusted role in advancing America’s national security 

From Sparton 

DELEON SPRINGS, FLORIDA – Oct. 20, 2025 – Sparton DeLeon Springs, LLC (Sparton), an innovative leader in and manufacturer of maritime defense solutions is honoring its 125th anniversary this year. Founded in 1900 as The Withington Company, Sparton has grown from a small Michigan manufacturer into a trusted defense contractor specializing in high-performance sonobuoys, advanced undersea warfare technologies, and beyond.  Sparton was acquired by Elbit Systems of America, LLC (Elbit America) in 2021. 

Today, Sparton specializes in the production of high-quality sonobuoys critical to the nation’s undersea and anti-submarine warfare. Producing more than 250,000 units annually, the company excels in precision manufacturing that is highly efficient and extremely effective.  

Sparton has delivered critical solutions that have successfully shaped many industries and strengthened America’s national security for over a century. From pioneering the country’s first all-electric radio in the 1920s to becoming a cornerstone of the United States anti-submarine warfare technology in the 1950s, Sparton continues to integrate precision engineering, cutting-edge sensor systems, and advanced maritime solutions to meet today’s challenges and anticipate future threats. 

“Sparton is the world leader in designing, developing, testing and producing complex maritime sensors, especially sonobuoys. The Sparton team plays a central role in the expansion of Elbit America’s maritime capabilities to its customers in the U.S. and abroad. We’re proud Sparton’s been part of the Elbit America family since 2021,” said Elbit America President and CEO Luke Savoie. 

As Sparton celebrates this milestone year, it continues to evolve with the same principles that have defined its past: creativity, precision craftsmanship, reliability and an unwavering dedication to safeguarding America and its allies. 

“For 125 years, Sparton has focused on meeting the ever-evolving needs of our nation,” said Chair of the Sparton DeLeon Springs, LLC Proxy Board Ken Krieg. “From its early manufacturing roots to its leadership in undersea warfare technology today, Sparton continues to innovate with purpose—supporting the United States and its allies. This anniversary honors our impressive history, but equally important, it underscores our readiness for what lies ahead.” 

“Sparton’s 125-year legacy is built on a foundation of innovation, trust, and an unwavering commitment to deliver exceptional technology and solutions that give our customers the competitive edge they need,” said Sparton DeLeon Springs, LLC Chief Executive Officer Donnelly Bohan. “We’re honored to serve our country and as we celebrate this impressive milestone, we also celebrate being a proud member of our community—where generations of families have built their careers helping America stay strong. We are all so proud of our employees who have dedicated their skills and expertise to strengthening our nation’s national security with their commitment to manufacturing precision and creative problem-solving.”   

The company kicked off its anniversary celebrations on Saturday, Oct. 18, with a Family Fun Day at its DeLeon Springs facility with more than 200 employees and family members in attendance. The celebration served as a thank-you to Sparton’s dedicated workforce and as an opportunity to honor the impressive history and contributions Sparton has made over 125 years.   

The following statement from the 3^rd MAW was released on Oct. 17, 2025: 

At approximately 7:05 p.m. PDT Oct. 16, 2025, an AH-1Z Viper assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 369, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, experienced an aviation mishap during routine operations near an unpopulated area of Imperial Gables, California. The crew of two pilots were transported to separate hospitals for medical treatment. The first pilot was transported to Pioneers Memorial Hospital, Brawley, California, and is confirmed deceased. The second pilot was transported to Desert Regional Medical Center, Palm Springs, California, and is in stable condition. 

Maj. Gen. James B. Wellons, the commanding general of 3rd MAW, issued the following statement, “It is with profound sadness that I share the loss of a Marine from 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and the “Gunfighters” while conducting a training flight in support of the Marine Corps Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course. This Marine made the ultimate sacrifice, and we are forever grateful for his selfless commitment and willingness to go into harm’s way. To the family, friends, and loved ones of our fallen Marine, we send our deepest condolences and offer our unwavering support during this time of grief.” 

As a matter of policy, we will not release the identity of a deceased service member until 24 hours after all next of kin notifications have been completed. 

Though we understand the inherent risks of military service, any loss of life is always difficult. The 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing stands firm in its commitment to supporting the families, friends, and fellow service members of our fallen Marine. 

USNS Lenni Lenape is the sixth Bollinger-Built T-ATS 

HOUMA, La. — (October 17, 2025) – Joined by senior U.S. Navy officials and more than 20 officials from the Lenape Nation at Bollinger Houma, Bollinger Shipyards (Bollinger) today officially laid the keel for the future USNS Lenni Lenape, the ninth Navajo-class Towing, Salvage, and Rescue Ship (T-ATS) and the sixth T-ATS vessel being constructed by Bollinger since acquiring the program in April of 2021. 

“Bollinger is grateful for the Navy’s continued confidence in our team to build the Navajo-class Towing, Salvage and Rescue Ships,” said Ben Bordelon, President and CEO of Bollinger Shipyards. “The keel laying of the future USNS Lenni Lenape marks another significant milestone in our partnership, and we are honored to support the Navy’s fleet modernization efforts through the T-ATS program.” 

The keel authenticators were the Hon. Susan Cade, Elder of the Delaware Tribe of Indians, the Hon. Deborah Dotson, Committee Member of the Delaware Nation, and the Hon. Shannon Holsey, President of the Stockbridge-Munsee Community. 

Named to honor the Lenape Nation of Pennsylvania, the future USNS Lenni Lenape (T-ATS 9) will be the first naval vessel to carry the name of the Lenni Lenape tribe, which was the first tribe to sign a treaty with the United States in 1778. 

The Navajo class provides ocean-going tug, salvage, and rescue capabilities to support fleet operations. T-ATS replaces and fulfills the capabilities that were previously provided by the Powhatan-class Fleet Ocean Tug (T-ATF 166) and Safeguard-class Rescue and Salvage Ships (T-ARS 50) class ships. 

In addition to T-ATS 9, Bollinger is constructing USNS Navajo (T-ATS 6), USNS Cherokee Nation (T-ATS 7), USNS Saginaw Ojibwe Anishinabek (T-ATS 8), and USNS Muscogee Creek Nation (T-ATS 10). 

About the Navajo-class Towing, Salvage and Rescue Ship Platform 

The Navajo-class is a new series of towing, salvage and rescue ships (T-ATS) being constructed for the U.S. Navy. The Navajo-class is a multi-mission common hull platform that will be deployed to support a range of missions such as towing, rescue, salvage, humanitarian assistance, oil spill response and wide-area search and surveillance operations using unmanned underwater vehicles (UUV) and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV). The vessels will replace the existing Powhatan-class T-ATF fleet ocean tugs and Safeguard-class T-ARS rescue and salvage ships in service with the US Military Sealift Command.