US Navy’s 2nd Fleet takes part in NORAD’s Noble Defender

The US Navy’s 2nd Fleet participated in North American Aerospace Defense’s (NORAD) latest Operation Noble Defender between 27 and 30 June.

This operation allowed NORAD units to confirm capabilities designed to defend the southern approach to the US from simulated cruise missile threats.

The Continental US NORAD Region coordinated and conducted joint operations with 2nd Fleet assets while concurrently launching jets from different locations across the US’ Gulf Coast.

“Participating in joint cross-command operations, such as Noble Defender, only increases our operational readiness and our ability to work as a cohesive unit,” said Capt. James Johnston, US 2nd fleet maritime operations center director.

“This air defense operation demonstrated our joint abilities to outpace threats and defend North America.”

The 2nd Fleet was activated by US Northern Command to direct the activities for the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Farragut (DDG 99) and the Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 123.

The fleet coordinated with US Naval Forces Northern and the Continental US NORAD Region for planning and execution. Its role in the operation was to facilitate the successful execution of a missile warning informational link.  

NORAD is a bi-national Canadian and American command that employs a network of aerial, ground-based, and space-based sensors, air-to-air refueling tankers, and fighter aircraft to deter, detect and defend against aerial threats.

The operation validates NORAD’s capability to defend the US and Canada against threats from every avenue of approach, as well as demonstrate globally integrated layered defense.