Operations

vCSG-3 strives to maintain a predictable yet exciting schedule which keeps its members engaged by continuously honing their skills. This schedule begins with work ups which normally follow the conclusion of deployment. Work ups are designed to act as a refresher for existing members where lessons learned are applied to standing procedures and tactics are adjusted based of their efficiency and lethality during deployment.

Training

The strike group training program is broken down into three phases. These phases are designed to progress from basic understanding to non-combat related flight tasks culminating with combat related tactics. Within each of these phases are a series of skill-sets which must be demonstrated which ultimately lead to completion of the phase.

During work ups, a new pilot’s progression through the training program is based upon their own initiative. They are invited to attend squadron training sessions throughout the week and to schedule one-on-one training sessions with a winged pilot. As a trainee becomes proficient in a series of skills, their ability to perform the skill is observed in a check ride. Check rides are a means for CSG-3 Training Cadre to test the knowledge of a student pilot to ensure the material is absorbed, understood, and that the student can demonstrate techniques.

During work ups, squadrons will progress through a refresher training program very similar to that which the new pilots must complete. The process differs, however, in that winged pilots will participate in weekly missions structured in much of the same way as missions while deployed. Each training mission will be debriefed and areas of weakness will targeted for follow-on training. During this time scheduled training sessions will occur 2-3 times a week.

SABER GOLD

At the conclusion of work ups, CSG-3 conducts a large scale force-on-force exercise in the Nevada desert known as Saber Gold. This exercise is designed to span a week to several weeks and tests the strike groups abilities to effectively conduct operations in the air-to-air and air-to-surface arena. Saber Gold also serves as a means for the strike group to identify any last minute deficiencies in tactics and procedures to be corrected prior to deployment.

Deployment

Following successful work ups and being deemed mission ready, the strike group conducts a fly-on to the USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) as it steams towards it’s assigned Area of Operations for the duration of deployment. Deployment is designed to last 10-12 weeks where operations are conducted throughout the deployment’s duration. In addition to larger operations encompassing the entire wings participation, pilots are also encouraged to organize and conduct adhoc missions on the group’s persistent 24/7 server.

At the conclusion of deployment, the strike group conducts a fly-off back to their home air station signifying the end of cruise.

Following a brief R&R period, the strike group will reconnect and the process will repeat itself.