The Patrol Squadron (VP) 46 “Grey Knights” recently completed a successful Operational Readiness Evaluation (ORE) in preparation for their upcoming deployment. 

The ORE, conducted by the Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing 10 Weapons and Tactics Unit, evaluates the squadron’s ability to locate, track and attack surface and subsurface combatants in a dynamic scenario designed to test the depth of the Combat Air Crew’s (CAC) training and knowledge.

The multi-phase event consisting of special instruction and target recognition training, a simulator phase and culminated in a two-day flight phase. The flight phase is designed to test all aspects of operations, maintenance, and aircrew, requiring them to work in concert with each other to be successful.

“I really enjoyed seeing how all of the sensor operators, the flight station and our TACCO (Tactical Coordinator) worked together to track a real submarine,” said Naval Aircrewman Operator 2nd Class Deeanne Ortmann, a radar operator with CAC-5.

Grey Knights crews performed very well, providing around the clock surveillance for 48 continuous hours of a participating U.S. submarine and coordinating twelve consecutive, overlapping missions. They maintained a high state of vigilance by successfully getting all aircraft airborne, maintaining a constant track of the subsurface contact and turning over vital information between outbound and inbound crews.

“It was really cool getting to incorporate all of our training and practice and simulations and use them in a real world scenario,” said Ortmann.

The squadron’s success was a testament to the hard work of the both Sailors and Aircrew of VP-46. The maintenance department was able to supply mission-capable aircraft to well-trained Combat Aircrew, who were able to maximize the abilities of all of the sensors on board to maintain a level of sustained superior performance throughout the evaluation.

As a result, VP-46 will be able to supply the fleet with a combat ready force, ready to deploy anywhere in the world and expertly execute the antisubmarine warfare mission.