NMFS Biological Opinion on U.S. Navy training ... - Govsupport.us

FINAL PROGRAMMATIC BIOLOGICAL OPINION ON U.S. NAVY ACTIVITIES IN THE HAWAII RANGE COMPLEX 2008-2013
missiles using the Coherent Signal Processing radar, telemetry, C-Band precision radars, and Mobile Aerial Target
Support System. THAAD differs from other missile defense testing in that THAAD scenarios involve the target vehicle
being launched outside of Pacific Missile Range Facility, with the THAAD interceptor launched from an existing
launch pad at Pacific Missile Range Facility. The intercept occurs in the Temporary Operating Area.
Other missile defense operations associated with the Navy proposed Research, Development, Test & Evaluation
activities include preparing security, range instrumentation and communications checks, radar calibrations, and
range surveillance and clearance. As part of the required clearance before an exercise, the target area must be
inspected visually and determined to be clear. Range Control is charged with hazard area surveillance and clearance
and the control of all range operational areas.
Joint Task Force Wide Area Relay Network. Joint Task Force Wide Area Relay Network (JTF WARNET) is a
demonstration of advanced Command, Control and Communications technologies in a highly mobile, wireless, wide
area relay network in support of tactical forces. The objective of a network of this type is to link tactical forces,
providing a common operating picture. Although similar in function to a common internet setting, JTF WARNET
demonstrates this capability in a very austere battlefield environment, without the luxury of existing communication
systems. In addition, the network must be capable of transmitting classified information. JTF WARNET testing
evaluates joint and allied command, control and communications decision making, planning and execution, and
tactical capability. These tests are monitored from shore facilities at PMRF. They do not use ordnance.
Shipboard Electronic Systems Evaluation Facility Quick Look Tests. The Shipboard Electronic Systems Evaluation
Facilities (SESEF) range, located off Barbers Point on Oahu, provides state-of-the-art test and evaluation of combat
systems that radiate or receive electromagnetic energy. The SESEF range includes land based test facilities established
to provide electromagnetic system test and evaluation services to afloat and shore commands. SESEF services can be
used for the development of new and upgraded systems, and provide a real-time evaluation of a system in an
operational environment. The Fleet Operational Readiness Accuracy Check Site range control is located near
Nanakuli, Oahu. The electronic equipment at this site checks range and bearing accuracy for Navy and Coast Guard
ships to ensure equipment function and calibration. Specific frequencies and power settings are dependent on the
type of test being conducted. The test equipment operated by SESEF allows for a performance evaluation of the ship,
shore, or aircraft system. Neither SESF test uses ordnance or sonar.
Tests conducted by SESEF fall into one of two broad categories:
Quick Look and System Performance tests. Quick Look tests are generally conducted during transit to and from port,
or while pier side at Pearl Harbor. These tests provide the ship a quick operational evaluation of the system(s) being
tested with a simple “SAT or UNSAT” grade along with any detected system anomalies or problems. An example is a
radio check that confirms that a ship’s radio can both transmit and receive voice communications. Quick Look tests
have the following characteristics:
• Generally short in duration
• Require little or no advance scheduling
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