Sailors assigned to the Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile destroyer
USS John Paul Jones (DDG 53) successfully completed two live-fire tests
of the Aegis Weapons System (AWS) Feb. 8. The first target was launched
from Naval Air Station Point Mugu. John Paul Jones used its onboard
AN/SPY-1D (MOD) radar to engage the target, demonstrating the ability
of the U.S. Navy's AWS to detect, track and fire upon a target simulating
a high speed cruise missile.
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John
Paul Jones, equipped with the latest-generation Aegis Baseline 9C weapon
system, developed a fire control solution and launched the Standard
Missile-2 (SM-2), which resulted in the successful destruction of an
AQM-37C target. In a later test, the ship defended itself against the
same type of target while simultaneously engaging a simulated ballistic
missile threat.
John Paul Jones recently underwent combat systems modernization as part
of the congressionally approved fiscal 2006 Defense Appropriations Act.
John Paul Jones is the first DDG to receive the latest commercial off
the shelf (COTS) open architecture computing system, transmitter upgrades
and a multi-mission signal processor. These upgrades provide the backbone
for the new Baseline 9C system, which will soon be implemented throughout
the surface fleet.
During the training evolution all systems performed as expected. Program
officials will conduct an extensive assessment and evaluation based
upon data collected from the tests.
"Serving as the commanding officer of the USS John Paul Jones is
an immense honor. Not only do I work with the most advanced surface
combat system around, but I do so with some of the most dedicated and
capable men and women in the business," said Cmdr. Andrew Thomson.
John Paul Jones will continue to conduct operations and training within
3rd Fleet's 50 million square-mile area of responsibility.
U.S. 3rd Fleet leads naval forces in the Eastern Pacific from the West
Coast of North America to the international date line.
By Ensign Elee Wakim, USS John Paul Jones (DDG 53) Public Affairs
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