Block Xvi - Naval Aviation Platforms And Missions

Front 1

A. Overview (Ref a)

Back 1

The shape of Naval Aviation is a dynamic and constantly changing force; aircraft models are introduced and retired however the mission of aviation in a maritime environment remains relatively unchanged. The challenge, both wartime and peacetime, demands change but our response is a constant force that brings stability to regions far from our shores.

Front 2

B. Core Capabilities (Ref a)

Back 2

We have six basic core capabilities that we address

Front 3

Forward Presence.

Back 3

Key capability that establishes maritime forces in regions
throughout the world. The deployability and expeditionary character of Naval Aviation distinguishes it as the centerpiece of this core capability.

Front 4

Deterrence.

Back 4

Aligned to the national belief that preventing wars is as
important as winning wars. Removing conditions for conflict, providing for the
protection of forces deployed, and possessing superior military strength all serve to deter aggressors from acting.

Front 5

Sea Control

Back 5

Protects the ability to operate freely at sea and is an -important enabler of joint and interagency operations. Maintaining sea control relies on numerous maritime capabilities such as surveillance, detection, and attack of coastal, surface, and subsurface platforms. These are missions readily executed
by Naval Aviation assets in support of this capability.

Front 6

Power Projection

Back 6

The ability to project from the sea is the essential combat
element of the Maritime Strategy. This core capability is uniquely suited to the
strengths of Naval Aviation.

Front 7

Maritime Security.

Back 7

The maintenance of security at sea and the mitigation of
threats short of war. Combating terrorism, piracy, drug trafficking, and other
threats enhances global stability and protects U.S. shorelines.

Front 8

Humanitarian Assistance/Disaster Relief.

Back 8

A human obligation and a foundation of human character. The majority of the world's population lives within a few hundred miles of the ocean, meaning that access is best achieved by maritime
forces.

Front 9

C. Aviation Communities (Ref a)
Aviation communities and their missions.

Back 9

Helicopter Sea Combat (HSC).

Front 10

Helicopter Maritime Strike (HSM);

Back 10

Tasked with the primary roles of antisubmarine and anti-surface warfare, and secondary roles of logistics andrescue.

Front 11

Helicopter Training (HT).

Back 11

Provides basic and advanced training of student Naval Aviators in rotary wing aircraft.

Front 12

Tactical Electronic Warfare (VAQ).

Back 12

Fixed wing squadrons that tactically exploit, suppresses, degrade and deceive enemy electromagnetic defensive and
offensive systems including communication, in support of air strike and fleet operations.

Front 13

Carrier Airborne Early Warning (VAW).

Back 13

Fixed wing carrier based squadrons that provide early warning against weather, missiles, shipping and aircraft.

Front 14

Fleet Composite (VC).

Back 14

Fixed wing utility squadrons providing air services for the fleet such as simulations and target towing.

Front 15

Strike Fighter (VFA)

Back 15

Fixed wing squadrons employed for both fighter and attack missions.

Front 16

Patrol (VP).

Back 16

Fixed wing land based squadrons that perform anti-submarine warfare, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, reconnaissance and mining.

Front 17

Fleet Air Reconnaissance (VQ)

Back 17

Fixed wing squadrons that provide electronic warfare support to include search, interception, recording, and analysis of radiated electromagnetic energy. Selected squadrons serve as elements of the Worldwide Airborne Command Post System and provide communications relay services.

Front 18

Aircraft Logistics Support (VR).

Back 18

Fixed wing squadrons for the transport of personnel and supplies.

Front 19

Carrier Logistics Support (VRC).

Back 19

Fixed wing squadrons that transport personnel and supplies for carrier onboard delivery.

Front 20

Training (VT).

Back 20

Fixed wing squadrons that provides basic and advanced
training for student naval aviators and flight officers.

Front 21

Air Test and Evaluation (VX/VXE).

Back 21

Fixed wing squadrons that test and evaluate the operational capabilities of new aircraft and equipment in an operational environment. They develop tactic and doctrines for their most effective use.