Composite Training Unit Exercises and Joint Task ... - Govsupport.us

COMPTUEX/JTFEX EA/OEA Final Chapter 11.3 PROPOSED ACTIONThe EA studies two alternatives, they are: (1) the No Action Alternative (Current Operations); and, (2) theProposed Action (Preferred Alternative). The No Action Alternative consists of the individual operationsat existing major ranges and facilities associated with COMPTUEX and JTFEX events. Under thisalternative, Commander, THIRD Fleet, would continue to conduct training operations from February2007 through January 2009. These operations would include three ESG COMPTUEXs, four CSGCOMPTUEXs, three ESG JTFEXs and four CSG JTFEXs for a total of fourteen exercises in 2 years inthe Southwestern United States and Southern California (SOCAL) Operating Areas (OPAREAS).Under the Proposed Action, Commander, THIRD Fleet would have the option to conduct two concurrentmajor range events. While the overall number of major range events depicted in the No ActionAlternative, to include fourteen exercises, would not increase, Commander, THIRD Fleet would have theflexibility to assess two Strike Groups simultaneously, thereby supporting the Fleet Response Plan. Theability to conduct concurrent major range events provides the operational commander with thesereadiness goals: (1) flexibility to respond to surge requirements; (2) unique opportunity for carrieroperations; and, (3) enhanced operational capabilities.1.4 OVERVIEW OF COMPTUEX AND JTFEXThe training mission of COMPACFLT is to provide fully trained combat-ready forces to CombatantCommanders, as dictated by the National Command Authority. In furtherance of this mandate and insupport of the Navy’s FRTP the U.S. THIRD Fleet (headquartered at Naval Base Point Loma) regularlyconducts COMPTUEX and JTFEX at military installations and operating areas in the southwesternUnited States and offshore of Southern California. These complex, deployment-preparation exercisesrequire varied land, sea, and undersea training environments to properly demonstrate the full range ofcapabilities required of deploying naval forces.U. S. Navy ships are normally assigned to and deploy as a package or formation called a Strike Group.Strike Groups are further divided by function into a CSG or ESG. A CSG is normally formed around anAircraft Carrier (CVN) with an embarked Air Wing (CVW). A CSG is frequently supported by three tofive other types of ships aimed at power projection, and gaining and maintaining sea control. An ESG isformed around an Amphibious Assault Ship (LHA or LHD) with an embarked Marine Expeditionary Unit(MEU). An ESG is also normally supported by three to five other types of ships. An ESG and CSG havecertain similar capabilities. However, an ESG is unique in its ability to move embarked MEU elementsashore via helicopter or amphibious-type craft. Thus an ESG will often train to different, expandedwarfare capabilities from the sea to land areas.The FRTP is a “stair step” training process that is divided into three, increasingly complex Phases: Basic,Integrated and Sustainment.COMPTUEX is in the Integrated Phase of the FRTP and may involve either a CSG or an ESG. ACOMPTUEX is conducted as a series of scheduled training events that occur according to a given timeschedule against an opposition force. The COMPTUEX provides an opportunity for the Strike Group tobecome proficient in the myriad of required warfare skill sets. Additionally, it stresses the integration orcoordination of the different warfare areas and provides realistic training on in-theater operations. TheCOMPTUEX is normally more structured than the JTFEX, so it is longer in duration.JTFEX is in the Sustainment or final Phase of the FRTP and may involve either a CSG or an ESG. It is ascenario-driven, at-sea training exercise designed to evaluate the Strike Group’s preparedness for forward1-5 February 2007