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• Readout of Secretary Panetta's Conversation with Israeli Minister of Defense Ehud Barak
• Today in the Department of Defense, 11/22/2012
• Today in the Department of Defense, 11/23/2012
• Contracts for November 21, 2012
• National Guard Bureau Guard News Update
• How to make Thanksgiving special
• Navy Chief Visits Gulf, Listens to Sailors' Concerns
• Panetta Issues Thanksgiving Message to Troops, Families
• National Guard (in Federal Status) and Reserve Activated as of November 20, 2012
• U.S., NATO Consider Turkey Request for Missile Support
• Face of Defense: Airmen Practice Vital Combat Skills
• Panetta Details Steps Needed to End al-Qaida Threat
• Combined Force Kills Several Insurgents
• New DOD Space Policy Addresses Safety, Security, Access
• Panetta Details Steps Needed to End Al-Qaeda Threat

Readout of Secretary Panetta's Conversation with Israeli Minister of Defense Ehud Barak Posted: 21 Nov 2012 04:31 PM PST You are subscribed to News Releases for U.S. Department of Defense. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Readout of Secretary Panetta's Conversation with Israeli Minister of Defense Ehud Barak 11/21/2012 06:15 PM CST IMMEDIATE RELEASE No. 923-12 November 21, 2012 Readout of Secretary Panetta's Conversation with Israeli Minister of Defense Ehud Barak             Pentagon Press Secretary George Little provided the following readout:              "Secretary Panetta spoke with Israeli Minister of Defense Ehud Barak today and reiterated the strong U.S. commitment to Israel's security and the strong U.S.-Israel defense relationship.               "The secretary commended Israel on the ceasefire reached today.  He expressed his hope that no further rockets will be fired from Gaza, and committed to continuing to work together to address the issue of the smuggling of weapons into Gaza.              "Minister Barak thanked Secretary Panetta and the Obama Administration for U.S. support of the Iron Dome counter-rocket system.  The system intercepted over 85 percent of rockets fired at Israeli civilians and provided decision space for Israel to achieve its strategic goals without forcing further military actions.               Secretary Panetta stated how impressed he is by the Iron Dome system and looks forward to continuing to support the system for the benefit of Israel's security."     U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs) On the Web: http://www.defense.gov/releases/ Media Contact: +1 (703) 697-5131/697-5132 Public Contact: http://www.defense.gov/landing/questions.aspx or +1 (703) 428-0711 +1 Update your subscriptions, modify your password or e-mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time on your User Profile Page. You will need to use your e-mail address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please e-mail support@govdelivery.com. Updates from the U.S. Department of Defense

Today in the Department of Defense, 11/22/2012 Posted: 21 Nov 2012 04:14 PM PST You are subscribed to Today in DoD for U.S. Department of Defense. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Today in the Department of Defense, 11/22/2012 11/21/2012 05:55 PM CST Today in the Department of Defense, Thursday, November 22, 2012   Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta and Deputy Secretary of Defense Ashton B. Carter have no public or media events on their schedules. Use Pick a Day to go to a different day. Check Other Events for additional listings, including air shows, band concerts, Congressional hearings, reunions and much more. What's New in DefenseLINK More: news, photos, advisories, contracts, transcripts Contacts Additions and corrections for Today in the Department of Defense are invited and should be directed to the press desk by calling +1 (703) 697-5131 or +1 (703) 697-5132. Media Questions News media representatives with questions for the Department of Defense may reach our press desk by calling +1 (703) 697-5131. Public Inquiries All others are invited to contact our public inquiries section by phone or U.S. mail or through the web. See our comment page for details. Duty Officer A public affairs duty officer is available 24 hours a day through +1 (703) 697-5131. In case of a family emergency, please contact your local American Red Cross. Today in DoD | Pick a Day | Other Events | Subscribe |   U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs) On the Web: http://www.defense.gov/Today/ Media Contact: +1 (703) 697-5131/697-5132 Public Contact: http://www.defense.gov/landing/comment.aspx or +1 (703) 428-0711 +1 Update your subscriptions, modify your password or e-mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time on your User Profile Page. You will need to use your e-mail address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please e-mail support@govdelivery.com. Updates from the U.S. Department of Defense

Today in the Department of Defense, 11/23/2012 Posted: 21 Nov 2012 04:14 PM PST You are subscribed to Today in DoD for U.S. Department of Defense. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Today in the Department of Defense, 11/23/2012 11/21/2012 05:56 PM CST Today in the Department of Defense, Friday, November 23, 2012   Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta and Deputy Secretary of Defense Ashton B. Carter have no public or media events on their schedules. Use Pick a Day to go to a different day. Check Other Events for additional listings, including air shows, band concerts, Congressional hearings, reunions and much more. What's New in DefenseLINK More: news, photos, advisories, contracts, transcripts Contacts Additions and corrections for Today in the Department of Defense are invited and should be directed to the press desk by calling +1 (703) 697-5131 or +1 (703) 697-5132. Media Questions News media representatives with questions for the Department of Defense may reach our press desk by calling +1 (703) 697-5131. Public Inquiries All others are invited to contact our public inquiries section by phone or U.S. mail or through the web. See our comment page for details. Duty Officer A public affairs duty officer is available 24 hours a day through +1 (703) 697-5131. In case of a family emergency, please contact your local American Red Cross. Today in DoD | Pick a Day | Other Events | Subscribe |   U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs) On the Web: http://www.defense.gov/Today/ Media Contact: +1 (703) 697-5131/697-5132 Public Contact: http://www.defense.gov/landing/comment.aspx or +1 (703) 428-0711 +1 Update your subscriptions, modify your password or e-mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time on your User Profile Page. You will need to use your e-mail address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please e-mail support@govdelivery.com. Updates from the U.S. Department of Defense

Contracts for November 21, 2012 Posted: 21 Nov 2012 04:13 PM PST You are subscribed to Contract Announcements for U.S. Department of Defense. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Contracts for November 21, 2012 11/21/2012 05:55 PM CST FOR RELEASE AT 5 p.m. ET No. 921-12 November 21, 2012 CONTRACTS AIR FORCE             Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co., Marietta, Ga., (FA8625-07-C-6471, P00161) is being awarded a $38,508,060 contract modification for procurement of the C-5 Reliability Enhancement and Re-engining Program two optional plus-up spare engines and engine kits effort.  The location of the performance is Marietta, Ga.  Work is expected to be completed by Dec. 15, 2014.  The contracting activity is AFLCMC/WLSK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.              L-3 Communications Corp., Arlington, Texas, (FA8621-09-C-6292, P00072) is being awarded a $22,517,465 contract modification for one 4-ship F-16 block 40/50 MTC production unit, spares and installation set-up.  The location of the performance is Arlington, Texas.  Work is expected to be completed by March 20, 2014.  The contracting activity is AFLCMC/WNSK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.  NAVY             BAE Systems San Francisco Ship Repair, San Francisco, Calif., is being awarded a $13,352,948 firm-fixed-price contract for a 53-calendar day regular overhaul and dry-docking of Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship the USNS Richard E. Byrd (T-AKE 4).  The ship's primary mission is to provide fuel, ammunition and dry and refrigerated stores to support U.S. Navy ships at sea, enabling them to remain underway for extended periods.  This availability is primarily for freeze chill decking structure support and repairs; installing a reverse-osmosis system to produce fresh water; inspecting the propeller shaft and stern tube; cleaning and painting of the underwater hull; and replacing the flight deck foam sprinkler piping.  The contract includes options which, if exercised, would bring the total contract value to $15,083,062.  Work will be performed in San Francisco, Calif., and is expected to be completed by Jan. 17, 2013.  Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  This contract was competitively procured via solicitation posted to the Federal Business Opportunities website, with one offer received.  The U.S. Navy's Military Sealift Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N32205-13-C-3012).             Detyens Shipyard Inc.*, North Charleston, S.C., is being awarded a $13,017,486 firm-fixed-price contract for a 120-calendar day regular overhaul and dry-docking of Military Sealift Command cable laying/repair ship the USNS Zeus.  The ship's primary mission is to install and repair undersea cable systems.  This availability is primarily for  alteration work on the main propulsion motors and forward and stern thrusters; tank preservation; freeboard preservation; various pump overhauls; sea valves; and cleaning and painting the underwater hull.  This contract includes options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to $16,437,469.  Work will be performed in North Charleston, S.C., and is expected to be completed by March 30, 2013.  Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  This contract was competitively procured as a 100 percent small business set-a-side with two offers received.  The U.S. Navy's Military Sealift Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N32205-13-C-5002).              The Boeing Co., St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a $9,816,557 modification to a previously awarded cost-plus-incentive-fee contract (N00019-12-C-2010) for additional engineering analyses in support of the F/A-18A-D Service Life Extension Program.  Work will be performed in St. Louis, Mo. (58 percent) and El Segundo, Calif. (42 percent), and is expected to be completed in September 2013.  Contract funds in the amount of $9,816,557 are being obligated on this award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year.  The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md. is the contracting activity.  *Small Business     U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs) On the Web: http://www.defense.gov/Contracts/ Media Contact: +1 (703) 697-5131/697-5132 Public Contact: http://www.defense.gov/landing/questions.aspx or +1 (703) 428-0711 +1 Update your subscriptions, modify your password or e-mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time on your User Profile Page. You will need to use your e-mail address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please e-mail support@govdelivery.com. Updates from the U.S. Department of Defense

National Guard Bureau Guard News Update Posted: 21 Nov 2012 04:11 PM PST Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page. You are subscribed to Guard News for National Guard Bureau. N.Y. Guard to help Sandy victims over Thanksgiving holiday 11/21/2012 11:52 AM EST As Americans prepare for the Thanksgiving holiday, more than 1,100 members of the New York National Guard continue their support of Hurricane Sandy recovery efforts or augment New York City law enforcement at transportation centers for the single largest travel day in the nation... Guard members on Sandy response get close look at West Point cadet life 11/21/2012 11:52 AM EST Three New York Army National Guard Soldiers who were part of the state response to Hurricane Sandy's devastation got a first-hand look at the United States Military Academy here as guest of their commander, Brig. Gen. Michael Swezey, on Nov. 17...   Update your subscriptions, modify your password or e-mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time on your Subscriber Preferences Page. You will need to use your e-mail address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please contact support@govdelivery.com. This service is provided to you at no charge by the National Guard Bureau. SOCIAL MEDIA: http://www.flickr.com/photos/TheNationalGuard http://www.facebook.com/TheNationalGuard http://www.youtube.com/user/TheNationalGuard http://www.twitter.com/USNationalGuard This email was sent to smart_z64.1111@blogger.com using GovDelivery, on behalf of: National Guard Bureau · AHS 2 · 111 South George Mason Drive · Arlington, VA 22204 · 800-439-1420

How to make Thanksgiving special Posted: 21 Nov 2012 01:09 PM PST Veterans Health Administration Update: Inside Veterans Health How to make Thanksgiving special 11/21/2012 01:00 PM EST Hundreds of Veterans enjoyed an early and free Thanksgiving Day dinner at the VA Ambulatory Care Center in Columbus, Ohio. Voluntary Services organized the meal in space donated by American Legion Post 144. Connect With Us.   You have received this message because you are subscribed to Veterans Health.  Access your Subscriber Preferences to make changes to your subscription or Unsubscribe.  Get this as a forward? Sign up to receive updates from Veterans Health.  Have questions or problems? Please contact support@govdelivery.com for assistance.    Sent to smart_z64.1111@blogger.com on behalf of US Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Health Administration · 810 Vermont Avenue, NW · Washington, DC 20420 · 877-222-VETS (877-222-8387)

Navy Chief Visits Gulf, Listens to Sailors' Concerns Posted: 21 Nov 2012 11:51 AM PST You are subscribed to American Forces News Articles for U.S. Department of Defense. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Navy Chief Visits Gulf, Listens to Sailors' Concerns 11/21/2012 01:43 PM CST Navy Chief Visits Gulf, Listens to Sailors' Concerns By Jim Garamone American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2012 - Sailors want Navy leaders to work on avoiding sequestration and improving deployment rhythms, the Chief of Naval Operations said during a telephone interview from Bahrain today. Adm. Jonathan W. Greenert told reporters that his trip to the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Gulf "is about listening and learning" from sailors. Sailors are concerned about the possible impact of sequestration, Greenert said. "It is difficult for our sailors ... to digest what exactly happens if sequestration kicks in," he said. "We talked about the fact that military personnel [accounts] are exempt. So they found that kind of encouraging. On the other hand, there are civilian personnel here and they are not exempt. Furloughs, early retirements are alternatives that are out there. We very much want the Congress to resolve this." Greenert was referring to massive, across the board cuts in federal spending that would take effect in January if Congress and the White House cannot come up with a plan to reduce the budget deficit by then. Sailors are also concerned about deployments. "We need to look at the individual's deployment tempo -- we call it I-tempo," the admiral said. For example, a petty officer who deploys with a ship works as part that ship's operational tempo. But if that petty officer is reassigned to another billet, "and it is scheduled to deploy in a month, that ship's operational tempo might be relatively low overall, but your individual tempo is high," he said. "We need to measure tempo by individual and we can do that." Greenert will spend Thanksgiving with sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS Eisenhower and the cruiser USS Hue City. He has already visited Djibouti. The admiral wants to find out what's on sailors' minds and hear their concerns. The admiral said it's important that he meets with sailors as they perform their work in theater. Greenert said he'll evaluate the sailors' input and make adjustments as needed "to make sure they have the right tools, that they are proficient in what they are doing, that we prepared them well and that they are confident in their assignments and the things they have to do." In Djibouti, the admiral met with commanders and sailors assigned to Joint Task Force – Horn of Africa. He went over the various projects sailors are involved with, including humanitarian relief, disaster assistance and building partnership capacity. "It's really about synchronizing the effort in [U.S.] Africa Command throughout East Africa," Greenert said. The admiral moved on to the USS Mount Rushmore -- part of the Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group. The ship is working with the Kuwaiti navy and exercised with visit, board, search and seizure operations and convoying exercises. The ship and its sailors will be working with the Saudi Arabian and United Arab Emirates' navies through the New Year, he said. In Bahrain the admiral visited the USS Sentry, a mine countermeasures ship, and the USS Chinook, a patrol craft. The Chinook's crew demonstrated the upgraded guns on the craft and Greenert called the Sentry's crew "really a proud group." The ship joined 5th Fleet over the summer, and it participated in the international mine exercise. "They had the Sea Fox equipment being installed as I was there," the admiral said. The Sea Fox is an unmanned underwater mine neutralization vehicle. Reporters asked Greenert about the amphibious ready group steaming toward the eastern Mediterranean. The violence in Gaza necessitated moving the USS Iwo Jima, the USS Gunston Hall and the USS New York to the eastern Mediterranean and extending the group's deployment. The Iwo Jima group will bring a wide-spectrum of capabilities, the admiral said. "It's tough to say what they could be used to do," Greenert said. The group could be used for everything, he said, from power projection to maritime security to visit, board, search, seizure to noncombatant evacuation operations to just sea-control of the area. "All of those capabilities exist and our job is to make sure we are up and ready if tasked," Greenert said. Biographies: Navy Adm. Jonathan W. Greenert   Defense Department News Through Facebook On American Forces Press Service's Facebook page, you can post comments and share news, photos and videos. Go to http://www.facebook.com/pages/American-Forces-Press-Service/65137437532 or search for American Forces Press Service at Facebook.com. Update your subscriptions, modify your password or e-mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time by clicking on your 'User Profile' page at https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDOD/subscriber/edit?preferences=true#tab1. You will need to use your e-mail address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please e-mail support@govdelivery.com. Have another inquiry? Visit the online FAQ at http://www.defense.gov/landing/questions.aspx for up-to-date information. Get the help you, your family, and fellow servicemembers need, when you need it. Visit www.WarriorCare.mil to learn more. Check out the National Resource Directory at www.nationalresourcedirectory.org, a new web-based resource for wounded, ill and injured service members, veterans, their families, families of the fallen and those who support them from the Departments of Defense, Labor, and Veterans Affairs. This service is provided to you at no charge by U.S. Department of Defense. Visit us on the web at http://www.defense.gov/. Updates from the U.S. Department of Defense

Panetta Issues Thanksgiving Message to Troops, Families Posted: 21 Nov 2012 11:47 AM PST You are subscribed to American Forces News Articles for U.S. Department of Defense. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Panetta Issues Thanksgiving Message to Troops, Families 11/21/2012 01:26 PM CST Panetta Issues Thanksgiving Message to Troops, Families American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2012 - Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta today offered his gratitude to service members and their families in a Thanksgiving message. Here is the secretary's message: This week, as Americans everywhere gather to recount the blessings of freedom and prosperity that we enjoy as citizens of the greatest country on earth, I want to extend my deepest thanks to you, the men and women of the Department of Defense, and your families. Whether serving in uniform or as a civilian, whether deployed abroad or stationed here at home, you are fighting and working every day to secure for all Americans the blessings that we celebrate on Thanksgiving. I hope that wherever you are, you take a moment on Thanksgiving to reflect on the vital role you play in defending our nation and our values, and take pride in the contribution you have made to help make America more safe and secure. I know that for service members on deployment and for their families back home, this time of year is especially difficult to be away from loved ones. But I also know that what you are doing, on this day and every day, is making a profound difference for the country. America is blessed that there are those who are willing to fight and die for all of us, and I know that all Americans will keep you in their thoughts and prayers this Thanksgiving. You give this country its spirit and strength, and you give me hope and confidence in a better future. We are thankful to God for his blessings on our nation, our families, and our men and women in uniform. Thank you again and best wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving to all.   Defense Department News Through Facebook On American Forces Press Service's Facebook page, you can post comments and share news, photos and videos. Go to http://www.facebook.com/pages/American-Forces-Press-Service/65137437532 or search for American Forces Press Service at Facebook.com. Update your subscriptions, modify your password or e-mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time by clicking on your 'User Profile' page at https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDOD/subscriber/edit?preferences=true#tab1. You will need to use your e-mail address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please e-mail support@govdelivery.com. Have another inquiry? Visit the online FAQ at http://www.defense.gov/landing/questions.aspx for up-to-date information. Get the help you, your family, and fellow servicemembers need, when you need it. Visit www.WarriorCare.mil to learn more. Check out the National Resource Directory at www.nationalresourcedirectory.org, a new web-based resource for wounded, ill and injured service members, veterans, their families, families of the fallen and those who support them from the Departments of Defense, Labor, and Veterans Affairs. This service is provided to you at no charge by U.S. Department of Defense. Visit us on the web at http://www.defense.gov/. Updates from the U.S. Department of Defense

National Guard (in Federal Status) and Reserve Activated as of November 20, 2012 Posted: 21 Nov 2012 10:43 AM PST You are subscribed to News Releases for U.S. Department of Defense. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. National Guard (in Federal Status) and Reserve Activated as of November 20, 2012 11/21/2012 12:25 PM CST IMMEDIATE RELEASE No. 922-12 November 21, 2012 National Guard (in Federal Status) and Reserve Activated as of November 20, 2012             The Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard announced this week a decrease in activated Guard members and.  The net collective result is 1,449 fewer reservists and National Guard members activated in comparison to last week.              At any given time, services may activate some units and individuals while deactivating others, making it possible for these figures to either increase or decrease.  The total number currently on active duty from the Army National Guard and Army Reserve is 42,929; Navy Reserve, 4,564; Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve, 8,808; Marine Corps Reserve, 2,575; and the Coast Guard Reserve, 683.  This brings the total National Guard and Reserve personnel who have been activated to 59,559, including both units and individual augmentees.              A cumulative roster of all National Guard and Reserve personnel who are currently activated may be found online at http://www.defense.gov/news/MobilizationWeeklyReport112012.pdf     U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs) On the Web: http://www.defense.gov/releases/ Media Contact: +1 (703) 697-5131/697-5132 Public Contact: http://www.defense.gov/landing/questions.aspx or +1 (703) 428-0711 +1 Update your subscriptions, modify your password or e-mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time on your User Profile Page. You will need to use your e-mail address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please e-mail support@govdelivery.com. Updates from the U.S. Department of Defense

U.S., NATO Consider Turkey Request for Missile Support Posted: 21 Nov 2012 09:29 AM PST You are subscribed to American Forces News Articles for U.S. Department of Defense. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. U.S., NATO Consider Turkey Request for Missile Support 11/21/2012 11:24 AM CST U.S., NATO Consider Turkey Request for Missile Support By Claudette Roulo American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2012 - The U.S. will work closely with its NATO allies to determine the best way to respond to a recent request from Turkey for Patriot missile support, a defense official said today. Turkey is seeking to deploy the Patriot missiles along its southeastern border in an effort to de-escalate crisis conditions due to the civil war in neighboring Syria, NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen said in a statement. "The deployment would be defensive only," Rasmussen said. "It will in no way support a no-fly zone or any offensive operation." Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said in a Nov. 15 Voice of America interview that the U.S. was talking with Turkey about the threats to its security. "Turkey is obviously facing a difficult situation as refugees pour into their country and they're threatened by the instability in Syria," he said. "They have asked that we work with them to try to see what we can do to give them some missile defense capability," he continued. "And we are working with them. And our hope is that we can help provide that kind of assistance." "If approved, the deployment would be undertaken in accordance with NATO's standing air defense plan," Rasmussen said. "It is up to the individual NATO countries that have available Patriots -- Germany, the Netherlands and the United States -- to decide if they can provide them for deployment in Turkey and for how long." "We will remain in close dialogue with our NATO allies as we work through this request for support. We take Turkey's concerns very seriously," the defense official said. Related Sites: Statement by the NATO Secretary General on Patriot Missile   Defense Department News Through Facebook On American Forces Press Service's Facebook page, you can post comments and share news, photos and videos. Go to http://www.facebook.com/pages/American-Forces-Press-Service/65137437532 or search for American Forces Press Service at Facebook.com. Update your subscriptions, modify your password or e-mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time by clicking on your 'User Profile' page at https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDOD/subscriber/edit?preferences=true#tab1. You will need to use your e-mail address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please e-mail support@govdelivery.com. Have another inquiry? Visit the online FAQ at http://www.defense.gov/landing/questions.aspx for up-to-date information. Get the help you, your family, and fellow servicemembers need, when you need it. Visit www.WarriorCare.mil to learn more. Check out the National Resource Directory at www.nationalresourcedirectory.org, a new web-based resource for wounded, ill and injured service members, veterans, their families, families of the fallen and those who support them from the Departments of Defense, Labor, and Veterans Affairs. This service is provided to you at no charge by U.S. Department of Defense. Visit us on the web at http://www.defense.gov/. Updates from the U.S. Department of Defense

Face of Defense: Airmen Practice Vital Combat Skills Posted: 21 Nov 2012 06:31 AM PST You are subscribed to American Forces News Articles for U.S. Department of Defense. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Face of Defense: Airmen Practice Vital Combat Skills 11/21/2012 08:15 AM CST Face of Defense: Airmen Practice Vital Combat Skills By Air Force Staff Sgt. Nathanael Callon 52nd Fighter Wing SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany, Nov. 21, 2012 - Crack! Crack! Crack! Airmen assigned to the 606th Air Control Squadron based at Spangdahlem, Germany, carry simulated casualties to a safe location during combat readiness training, Nov. 15, 2012. U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Dillon Davis (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available. Excitement and confusion whirled across the base camp, as gunfire echoed through the tents and airmen scrambled to find cover. The airmen peered out from the safety of makeshift bunkers as they searched for the source of the sounds. Reports flooded across the radio of a team outside the wire with an unconscious young captain in tow. "Get positive control of the casualty and return to base immediately," the voice on the radio commanded. Just then, the alarm for incoming mortar fire sounded, and the airmen outside the perimeter hit the ground and braced for an explosion. The cold, soggy ground quickly turned to mud and the wind managed to cut through the bundles of layers, uniforms and chemical protective gear they wore. Water engulfed one poor airman as he dove for the ground and landed in a puddle of water, the cold of which he would have to endure for the next 12 hours. Although this was a controlled scenario and not an actual combat environment, airmen from the 606th Air Control Squadron here spent 72 hours braving the frigid German weather and spending every minute of it guarding their base to prepare them for the real thing. The exercise prepares the airmen for the worst, said Air Force Staff Sgt. Robert Messing, a Bremerton, Wash., native who runs the combat readiness training course these airmen experienced. The course combined two weeks of classroom instruction with three days of practical exercise. The trainees set up a base camp and defended it at all costs, surviving scenario after scenario featuring mock enemy combatants. "They can set up in the middle of nowhere, deploy a radar site and have to defend their own base," Messing said. The field exercise requires participants to apply the lessons they've learned in the classroom over the past two weeks. They must react to exercise challenges by implementing the proper use of force, securing unexploded ordnance and being aware of their surroundings. The field exercise is designed to overwhelm the trainees, creating a sort of stress inoculation, Messing said. It is also unique because the 606th has many airmen in support roles who normally would not experience combat or austere deployments. "Not everyone gets training like security forces, but when these airmen come to an [air control squadron] you have to learn how to fight and defend" against the enemy, he said. "If they can survive here with what we throw at them, they have a better chance when the real thing happens." The 606th is a rapidly deployable unit that can quickly pack up and convoy to any location in the European theater to set up radar sites and control air assets from strategic remote locations. Because the unit is self-sufficient, it needs everyone at the same combat readiness level. Every new member must complete the training. Air Force Staff Sgt. Amanda Bailey, a data systems technician from Cocoa Beach, Fla., said she's never experienced training like this, but she enjoyed working with other airmen from around the squadron. Bailey said she learned critical combat skills. "You're going to mess up, but the beauty of it is that it's a controlled learning environment," she said.   Related Sites: 606th Air Control Squadron   Defense Department News Through Facebook On American Forces Press Service's Facebook page, you can post comments and share news, photos and videos. Go to http://www.facebook.com/pages/American-Forces-Press-Service/65137437532 or search for American Forces Press Service at Facebook.com. Update your subscriptions, modify your password or e-mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time by clicking on your 'User Profile' page at https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDOD/subscriber/edit?preferences=true#tab1. You will need to use your e-mail address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please e-mail support@govdelivery.com. Have another inquiry? Visit the online FAQ at http://www.defense.gov/landing/questions.aspx for up-to-date information. Get the help you, your family, and fellow servicemembers need, when you need it. Visit www.WarriorCare.mil to learn more. Check out the National Resource Directory at www.nationalresourcedirectory.org, a new web-based resource for wounded, ill and injured service members, veterans, their families, families of the fallen and those who support them from the Departments of Defense, Labor, and Veterans Affairs. This service is provided to you at no charge by U.S. Department of Defense. Visit us on the web at http://www.defense.gov/. Updates from the U.S. Department of Defense

Panetta Details Steps Needed to End al-Qaida Threat Posted: 21 Nov 2012 04:53 AM PST You are subscribed to American Forces News Articles for U.S. Department of Defense. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Panetta Details Steps Needed to End al-Qaida Threat 11/21/2012 06:42 AM CST Panetta Details Steps Needed to End al-Qaida Threat By Cheryl Pellerin American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Nov. 20, 2012 - For the United States and its allies, ending the al-Qaida threat calls for a modified military footprint, close work with partners and continued U.S. involvement in regions of the world where violent extremism has flourished, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said tonight. Addressing a large audience here at the Center for a New American Security, the secretary discussed significant national security challenges and opportunities ahead. He also outlined priorities that characterize the approaching end of the longest period of sustained armed conflict in the nation's history. The priorities, Panetta said, are fighting the war against al-Qaida and its affiliates, ending the war in Afghanistan, implementing the new defense strategy, meeting fiscal responsibilities, countering nuclear proliferation, improving cybersecurity, achieving greater energy security, implementing the Asia-Pacific rebalance, and taking care of service members, veterans and military families. "But tonight I wanted to focus on the goal that still remains at the top of the priority list, as it must. That goal that the president made very clear -- that we have a responsibility to disrupt, degrade, dismantle and ultimately defeat those who attacked America on 9/11 -- al-Qaida," the secretary said. " ... To protect Americans at home and overseas," he added, "we need to continue to pursue al-Qaida wherever they go, whatever form they take, wherever they seek to hide. We must be constantly vigilant, we must be constantly determined to pursue this enemy." What will it take, he asked, to achieve the end of al-Qaida? The essential first step is to finish the job that the United States and its coalition partners began in Afghanistan, he said, "and we are on track to do that." As the United States and its NATO partners agreed at the 2010 summit in Lisbon, Panetta said, Afghans must be responsible for their own security by the end of 2014. This transition will require continued commitment by the international community and the United States to help Afghan forces achieve this goal, he added. "We have come too far. We have invested too much blood and treasure not to finish the job," the secretary said. "There are no shortcuts, nor can we afford to turn away from this effort when we are so close to achieving success and preventing al-Qaida from ever returning to this historic epicenter for violent extremism." In Afghanistan and Pakistan, prolonged military and intelligence operations have significantly weakened al-Qaida, Panetta said. The terrorist group's most effective leaders are gone, its command and control has been degraded and its safe haven is shrinking, he added, but al-Qaida remains. "We have slowed the primary cancer but we know that the cancer has also metastasized to other parts of the global body," the secretary said. Two examples of that spreading al-Qaida presence are Yemen and Somalia. In Yemen, for example, the capabilities of al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula, or AQAP, are growing. This group has targeted the United States for attack and sowed violence and chaos in Yemen itself, Panetta said. "We have struck back in an effort to disrupt and dismantle this group through a very close partnership with the government of Yemen ... and the Yemenese themselves," he added. In Somalia, against the militant group al-Shaabab, progress also has been made, the secretary said, "in large part because of an effective partnership between the United States and the African Union Mission in Somalia." But the challenge is far from over, Panetta said. "President [Barack] Obama has made clear, we will fight not just through military means but by harnessing every element of American power -- military, intelligence, diplomatic, law enforcement, financial, economic and above all the power of our values as Americans," the secretary said. The second step in achieving the end of al-Qaida, Panetta said, involves maintaining pressure on al-Qaida in Pakistan, on AQAP in Yemen, and on al-Qaida-associated forces in Somalia. That means degrading the terrorists' senior leadership, dismantling their organizational capabilities, remaining vigilant to ensure the threat does not reconstitute, and working to build the capacity of U.S. partners, including Pakistan, to confront these shared threats, he added. "Despite challenges in the bilateral relationship between the United States and Pakistan," the secretary said, "one area in which our national interests continue to align is defeating the terrorists on Pakistan soil that threaten both of us. We remain committed to pursuing defense cooperation based on these shared interests." A third step is to prevent the emergence of new safe havens for al-Qaida elsewhere in the world that the group could use to attack the United States or its interests, he said. "The last decade of war has shown that coordinated efforts to share intelligence, to conduct operations with partners, are critical to making sure that al-Qaida has no place to hide," Panetta told the audience. "We will expand these efforts, including through support and partnership with governments in transition in the Middle East and North Africa," he added. "This campaign against al-Qaida will largely take place outside declared combat zones, using a small-footprint approach that includes precision operations, partnered activities with foreign special operations forces, and capacity building so that partner countries can be more effective in combating terrorism on their own," the secretary said. DOD will work whenever possible with local partners, he added, supporting them with intelligence and resources they need to deter common threats. In Mali for example, Panetta said, "we are working with our partners in Western Africa who are committed to countering the emerging threat to regional stability posed by AQIM." A fourth step needed to bring an end to al-Qaida involves investing in the future, he added, in new military and intelligence capabilities and security partnerships. "Our new defense strategy makes clear -- the military must retain and even build new counterterrorism capabilities for the future," Panetta said. As the size of the military shrinks, for example, special operations will continue to ramp up, growing from 37,000 members on 9/11 to 64,000 today and 72,000 by 2017, the secretary noted. "We are expanding our fleet of Predator and Reaper [unmanned aerial vehicles] over what we have today. These enhanced capabilities will enable us to be more flexible and agile against a threat that has grown more diffuse," Panetta said. "We are also continuing to invest in building partner capacity, including through Section 1206 authority to train and equip foreign military forces. Our new Global Security Contingency Fund has been very helpful in placing new emphasis on cultivating regional expertise in the ranks," the secretary added. A final point that too often takes a backseat to operations against al-Qaida, Panetta said, is how to prevent extremist ideologies from attracting new recruits. "Over the past decade we have successfully directed our military and intelligence capabilities at fighting terrorism," he added. "And yet we are still struggling to develop an effective approach to address the factors that attract young men and women to extreme ideologies, and to ensure that governments and societies have the capacity and the will to counter and reject violent extremism." To truly end the threat from al-Qaida, the secretary said, "military force aimed at killing our enemy alone will never be enough. The United States must stay involved and invested through diplomacy, through development, through education, through trade in those regions of the world where violent extremism has flourished." This means continued engagement in Pakistan, he added, and following through on U.S. commitments to Afghanistan's long-term stability. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton has outlined a comprehensive strategy for North and West Africa that combines security assistance and economic development, strengthens democratic institutions and advances political reforms, Panetta said. " ... We will be vigilant and we will posture our military and intelligence forces to prevent and if necessary respond to threats of violence against our interests throughout the Middle East and North Africa, including threats against our embassies and consulates, and our diplomats themselves," the secretary said. "But to truly protect America, we must sustain and in some areas deepen our engagement in the world –- our military, intelligence, diplomatic and development efforts are key to doing that," he added. Pursuing an isolationist path, the secretary said, "would make all of us less safe in the long-term." "This is not a time for retrenchment. This is not a time for isolation. It is a time for renewed engagement and partnership in the world," Panetta said.   Biographies: Leon E. Panetta Related Sites: Center For A New American Security   Defense Department News Through Facebook On American Forces Press Service's Facebook page, you can post comments and share news, photos and videos. Go to http://www.facebook.com/pages/American-Forces-Press-Service/65137437532 or search for American Forces Press Service at Facebook.com. Update your subscriptions, modify your password or e-mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time by clicking on your 'User Profile' page at https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDOD/subscriber/edit?preferences=true#tab1. You will need to use your e-mail address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please e-mail support@govdelivery.com. Have another inquiry? Visit the online FAQ at http://www.defense.gov/landing/questions.aspx for up-to-date information. Get the help you, your family, and fellow servicemembers need, when you need it. Visit www.WarriorCare.mil to learn more. Check out the National Resource Directory at www.nationalresourcedirectory.org, a new web-based resource for wounded, ill and injured service members, veterans, their families, families of the fallen and those who support them from the Departments of Defense, Labor, and Veterans Affairs. This service is provided to you at no charge by U.S. Department of Defense. Visit us on the web at http://www.defense.gov/. Updates from the U.S. Department of Defense

Combined Force Kills Several Insurgents Posted: 21 Nov 2012 04:52 AM PST You are subscribed to American Forces News Articles for U.S. Department of Defense. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Combined Force Kills Several Insurgents 11/21/2012 06:47 AM CST Combined Force Kills Several Insurgents From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release KABUL, Afghanistan, Nov. 21, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force killed several insurgents during a search for a high-ranking Taliban leader and weapons facilitator in Afghanistan's Logar province today, military officials reported. As the security force approached the Taliban leader's location, multiple insurgents armed with rocket-propelled grenades and small arms attacked the force, officials said. The security force returned fire, killing several insurgents and defeating the attack. The security force also detained one suspect and seized several RPGs and a large quantity of assault rifles as a result of the operation. In other Afghanistan operations today: -- A combined force arrested five insurgents during a search for a Taliban weapons and lethal aid facilitator in Nimroz province. -- In Khost province, a combined force arrested a Haqqani leader and weapons supplier, detained three other suspects and seized improvised explosive device-making materials, RPG equipment, ammunition, and firearms. The detained Haqqani leader is believed to be responsible for conducting convoy and IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. In operations yesterday: -- A combined force killed Taliban leader Saifullah in Ghazni province. Saifullah, also known as Allah Dad, was responsible for ensuring freedom of movement for Taliban fighters to gather intelligence and conduct indirect-fire and IED attacks against Afghan and coalition personnel. Prior to his death, Saifullah was involved in an IED attack against Afghan National Security Forces. In Nov. 19 operations: -- In Kandahar province, a combined force killed several insurgents, detained one suspect and seized weapons, ammunition and equipment including several AK-47 rifles. -- A combined force seized 660 pounds of wet opium and detained one insurgent in Daykundi province.   Related Sites: NATO International Security Assistance Force   Defense Department News Through Facebook On American Forces Press Service's Facebook page, you can post comments and share news, photos and videos. Go to http://www.facebook.com/pages/American-Forces-Press-Service/65137437532 or search for American Forces Press Service at Facebook.com. Update your subscriptions, modify your password or e-mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time by clicking on your 'User Profile' page at https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDOD/subscriber/edit?preferences=true#tab1. You will need to use your e-mail address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please e-mail support@govdelivery.com. Have another inquiry? Visit the online FAQ at http://www.defense.gov/landing/questions.aspx for up-to-date information. Get the help you, your family, and fellow servicemembers need, when you need it. Visit www.WarriorCare.mil to learn more. Check out the National Resource Directory at www.nationalresourcedirectory.org, a new web-based resource for wounded, ill and injured service members, veterans, their families, families of the fallen and those who support them from the Departments of Defense, Labor, and Veterans Affairs. This service is provided to you at no charge by U.S. Department of Defense. Visit us on the web at http://www.defense.gov/. Updates from the U.S. Department of Defense

New DOD Space Policy Addresses Safety, Security, Access Posted: 21 Nov 2012 04:52 AM PST You are subscribed to American Forces News Articles for U.S. Department of Defense. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. New DOD Space Policy Addresses Safety, Security, Access 11/21/2012 05:28 AM CST New DOD Space Policy Addresses Safety, Security, Access By Cheryl Pellerin American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2012 - The new Defense Department space policy, updated to reflect the fast-growing use and sometimes misuse of the space domain, addresses issues of safety, sustainability and security in space for the 21st century and beyond. Orbital debris, or space junk, is any man-made object in orbit around the Earth that no longer serves a useful purpose. This image was made from a model used to track debris in low-Earth orbit. NASA image (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available. The policy, signed Oct. 18, 2012, by Deputy Defense Secretary Ashton B. Carter, follows the release in 2010 of President Barack Obama's National Space Policy, and in 2011 of the National Security Space Strategy, the first such strategy to be cosigned by the defense secretary and the director of national intelligence. DOD's space policy also reflects the 2012 DOD Strategic Guidance, which acknowledged growth in the number of spacefaring nations and threats. According to the guidance, the United States will continue to lead global efforts with allies and partners to assure access to and use of the global commons of space by strengthening international norms of responsible behavior and maintaining interoperable military capabilities. "Space capabilities have long provided strategic national security advantages for the United States," Carter said in a statement. "This updated space policy," he added, "institutionalizes the changes the department has made in an increasingly constrained budget environment to address the complex set of space-related opportunities and challenges." For DOD, space systems are critical to ground navigation, smart bomb precision, and to relay unmanned aerial vehicle feeds to troops. Space also is necessary for early warnings of missile launches and for keeping the president connected to U.S. nuclear forces. In an interview with the Pentagon Channel and American Forces Press Service, Dr. John F. Plumb, acting deputy assistant secretary of defense for space policy, described the policy's main points. "One is that the Department of Defense will deter attacks on our space systems and the systems of our allies, and [the policy] lays out some ways we're going to do that," Plumb said. Methods to deter disruptions or attacks against space-based systems, according to the policy, include supporting the development of international norms of responsible behavior related to the space domain, building coalitions to enhance collective security, enhancing the resilience of the U.S. space enterprise, and being able to respond to an attack on U.S. or allied space systems using all elements of national power. The policy also "makes a declaration of how the United States will view interference with our space systems," the acting deputy assistant secretary said, adding that such interference would be seen as an infringement of U.S. rights and would be "irresponsible in peacetime and during a crisis could be escalatory." Plumb noted, "The policy states this very clearly and it's a message we want to make sure people understand." One of the international norms of responsible behavior will target a growing problem for spacefaring nations -- space debris. "Today there are 60 countries operating in space [and] there are thousands of pieces of debris, pieces of [derelict] rockets or old satellites ... flying around in space," he said. According to the NASA Orbital Debris Program Office, more than 21,000 pieces of orbital debris larger than 10 centimeters exist in orbit, along with 500,000 smaller pieces and more than 1 million pieces smaller than 1 centimeter. "We need to have an international system of norms of responsible behavior for operating in space to mitigate debris," Plumb said. "That's something we're working on and it's something the strategy points toward." Generally, the policy identifies how DOD will promote international cooperation and commercial partnerships, drive changes within DOD space architectures and acquisition processes, and work to shape the space environment. Saving money on expensive space assets is another goal of the department, Plumb said, and working with allies and commercial partners can help accomplish this. The Defense Department has begun to work with commercial space companies to reduce department costs and to help energize the industrial base. "We [also] need to make sure that U.S. companies are able to compete fairly for international contracts," Plumb added, referring to satellites and many systems, subsystems, parts and components that are controlled by the U.S. government for security reasons but that already are being sold commercially by companies around the world. In April, for example, officials from the Defense and State departments released a report that urged Congress to move communications and some remote-sensing satellites off the tightly controlled U.S. Munitions List and into the commercial enterprise. The policy also directs DOD to expand international cooperation in space matters, Plumb said, which "allows you to leverage capabilities together so instead of having to build your own system you can use somebody else's system." He added, "It also buys you a sense of collective security. If you're operating as a coalition in space, you have more partners relying on the same assets. An attack on those space assets by an adversary would no longer necessarily be against you but against a coalition." As an example, during a trip to Perth, Australia, last week, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta announced that the United States would place two key space systems in Australia. One system, an Air Force C-band space-surveillance radar, will track space assets and debris, increase the security of space-based systems and increase coverage of space objects in the Southern Hemisphere. The other system is an advanced U.S. space surveillance telescope designed and built by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. In Australia, the system will help to leverage space surveillance capabilities for both nations, officials said. DOD also must be ready to mitigate the effects of attacks on its space systems, Plumb said. One way to do that, spelled out in the policy, is to plan for resilience in space systems, he added. "Resilience means being able to survive an attack," the acting deputy assistant secretary said, and it means strategically distributing space capabilities among different satellites rather than putting many on one satellite. "If that [one] satellite goes down," he said, "whether it's due to a solar flare or an attack or bad wiring, we don't want to lose all these mission capabilities. These things are very expensive, so resilient architecture would be more distributed." The second part "of mitigating the ability of an adversary to attack us would be to make sure that we can operate effectively on the battlefield even if our space capabilities are being degraded," Plumb added. The growing threat to U.S. and allied space systems, he said, is real. "Other nations and nonstate actors are developing direct ascent anti-satellite weapons, jammers and ground-based lasers, all designed to interfere with or destroy satellites," Plumb said. "We need to be prepared and enhance our resilience so these types of capabilities don't prevent us from operating in space," he added. "So we need to move forward with the way we operate in space, for future conflicts in particular. This space policy gives us a good pathway forward."   Biographies: Ashton B. Carter Related Sites: Special Report: National Security Space Strategy Related Articles: U.S. to Locate Key Space Systems in Australia Report Urges Lifting Some Satellite Export Controls   Defense Department News Through Facebook On American Forces Press Service's Facebook page, you can post comments and share news, photos and videos. Go to http://www.facebook.com/pages/American-Forces-Press-Service/65137437532 or search for American Forces Press Service at Facebook.com. Update your subscriptions, modify your password or e-mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time by clicking on your 'User Profile' page at https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDOD/subscriber/edit?preferences=true#tab1. You will need to use your e-mail address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please e-mail support@govdelivery.com. Have another inquiry? Visit the online FAQ at http://www.defense.gov/landing/questions.aspx for up-to-date information. Get the help you, your family, and fellow servicemembers need, when you need it. Visit www.WarriorCare.mil to learn more. Check out the National Resource Directory at www.nationalresourcedirectory.org, a new web-based resource for wounded, ill and injured service members, veterans, their families, families of the fallen and those who support them from the Departments of Defense, Labor, and Veterans Affairs. This service is provided to you at no charge by U.S. Department of Defense. Visit us on the web at http://www.defense.gov/. Updates from the U.S. Department of Defense

Panetta Details Steps Needed to End Al-Qaeda Threat Posted: 20 Nov 2012 07:45 PM PST You are subscribed to American Forces News Articles for U.S. Department of Defense. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Panetta Details Steps Needed to End Al-Qaeda Threat 11/20/2012 09:34 PM CST Panetta Details Steps Needed to End Al-Qaeda Threat By Cheryl Pellerin American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Nov. 20, 2012 - For the United States and its allies, ending the al-Qaida threat calls for a modified military footprint, close work with partners, and continued U.S. involvement in regions of the world where violent extremism has flourished, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said tonight. Addressing a large audience here at the Center for a New American Security, the secretary discussed significant national security challenges and opportunities ahead. He also outlined priorities that characterize the approaching end of the longest period of sustained armed conflict in the nation's history. The priorities, Panetta said, are fighting the war against al-Qaida and its affiliates, ending the war in Afghanistan, implementing the new defense strategy, meeting fiscal responsibilities, countering nuclear proliferation, improving cybersecurity, achieving greater energy security, implementing the Asia-Pacific rebalance, and taking care of service members, veterans and military families. "But tonight I wanted to focus on the goal that still remains at the top of the priority list, as it must. That goal that the president made very clear -- that we have a responsibility to disrupt, degrade, dismantle and ultimately defeat those who attacked America on 9/11 -- al-Qaida," the secretary said. " ... To protect Americans at home and overseas," he added, "we need to continue to pursue al-Qaida wherever they go, whatever form they take, wherever they seek to hide. We must be constantly vigilant, we must be constantly determined to pursue this enemy." What will it take, he asked, to achieve the end of al-Qaida? The essential first step is to finish the job that the United States and its coalition partners began in Afghanistan, he said, "and we are on track to do that." As the United States and its NATO partners agreed at the 2010 summit in Lisbon, Panetta said, Afghans must be responsible for their own security by the end of 2014. This transition will require continued commitment by the international community and the United States to help Afghan forces achieve this goal, he added. "We have come too far. We have invested too much blood and treasure not to finish the job," the secretary said. "There are no shortcuts, nor can we afford to turn away from this effort when we are so close to achieving success and preventing al-Qaida from ever returning to this historic epicenter for violent extremism." In Afghanistan and Pakistan, prolonged military and intelligence operations have significantly weakened al-Qaida, Panetta said. The terrorist group's most effective leaders are gone, its command and control has been degraded and its safe haven is shrinking, he added, but al-Qaida remains. "We have slowed the primary cancer but we know that the cancer has also metastasized to other parts of the global body," the secretary said. Two examples of that spreading al-Qaida presence are Yemen and Somalia. In Yemen, for example, the capabilities of al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula, or AQAP, are growing. This group has targeted the United States for attack and sowed violence and chaos in Yemen itself, Panetta said. "We have struck back in an effort to disrupt and dismantle this group through a very close partnership with the government of Yemen ... and the Yemenese themselves," he added. In Somalia, against the militant group al-Shaabab, progress also has been made, the secretary said, "in large part because of an effective partnership between the United States and the African Union Mission in Somalia." But the challenge is far from over, Panetta said. "President [Barack] Obama has made clear, we will fight not just through military means but by harnessing every element of American power -- military, intelligence, diplomatic, law enforcement, financial, economic and above all the power of our values as Americans," the secretary said. The second step in achieving the end of al-Qaida, Panetta said, involves maintaining pressure on al-Qaida in Pakistan, on AQAP in Yemen, and on al-Qaida-associated forces in Somalia. That means degrading the terrorists' senior leadership, dismantling their organizational capabilities, remaining vigilant to ensure the threat does not reconstitute, and working to build the capacity of U.S. partners, including Pakistan, to confront these shared threats, he added. "Despite challenges in the bilateral relationship between the United States and Pakistan," the secretary said, "one area in which our national interests continue to align is defeating the terrorists on Pakistan soil that threaten both of us. We remain committed to pursuing defense cooperation based on these shared interests." A third step is to prevent the emergence of new safe havens for al-Qaida elsewhere in the world that the group could use to attack the United States or its interests, he said. "The last decade of war has shown that coordinated efforts to share intelligence, to conduct operations with partners, are critical to making sure that al-Qaida has no place to hide," Panetta told the audience. "We will expand these efforts, including through support and partnership with governments in transition in the Middle East and North Africa," he added. "This campaign against al-Qaida will largely take place outside declared combat zones, using a small-footprint approach that includes precision operations, partnered activities with foreign special operations forces, and capacity building so that partner countries can be more effective in combating terrorism on their own," the secretary said. DOD will work whenever possible with local partners, he added, supporting them with intelligence and resources they need to deter common threats. In Mali for example, Panetta said, "we are working with our partners in Western Africa who are committed to countering the emerging threat to regional stability posed by AQIM." A fourth step needed to bring an end to al-Qaida involves investing in the future, he added, in new military and intelligence capabilities and security partnerships. "Our new defense strategy makes clear -- the military must retain and even build new counterterrorism capabilities for the future," Panetta said. As the size of the military shrinks, for example, special operations will continue to ramp up, growing from 37,000 members on 9/11 to 64,000 today and 72,000 by 2017, the secretary noted. "We are expanding our fleet of Predator and Reaper [unmanned aerial vehicles] over what we have today. These enhanced capabilities will enable us to be more flexible and agile against a threat that has grown more diffuse," Panetta said. "We are also continuing to invest in building partner capacity, including through Section 1206 authority to train and equip foreign military forces. Our new Global Security Contingency Fund has been very helpful in placing new emphasis on cultivating regional expertise in the ranks," the secretary added. A final point that too often takes a backseat to operations against al-Qaida, Panetta said, is how to prevent extremist ideologies from attracting new recruits. "Over the past decade we have successfully directed our military and intelligence capabilities at fighting terrorism," he added. "And yet we are still struggling to develop an effective approach to address the factors that attract young men and women to extreme ideologies, and to ensure that governments and societies have the capacity and the will to counter and reject violent extremism." To truly end the threat from al-Qaida, the secretary said, "military force aimed at killing our enemy alone will never be enough. The United States must stay involved and invested through diplomacy, through development, through education, through trade in those regions of the world where violent extremism has flourished." This means continued engagement in Pakistan, he added, and following through on U.S. commitments to Afghanistan's long-term stability. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton has outlined a comprehensive strategy for North and West Africa that combines security assistance and economic development, strengthens democratic institutions and advances political reforms, Panetta said. " ... We will be vigilant and we will posture our military and intelligence forces to prevent and if necessary respond to threats of violence against our interests throughout the Middle East and North Africa, including threats against our embassies and consulates, and our diplomats themselves," the secretary said. "But to truly protect America, we must sustain and in some areas deepen our engagement in the world –- our military, intelligence, diplomatic and development efforts are key to doing that," he added. Pursuing an isolationist path, the secretary said, "would make all of us less safe in the long-term." "This is not a time for retrenchment. This is not a time for isolation. It is a time for renewed engagement and partnership in the world," Panetta said.   Biographies: Leon E. Panetta   Defense Department News Through Facebook On American Forces Press Service's Facebook page, you can post comments and share news, photos and videos. Go to http://www.facebook.com/pages/American-Forces-Press-Service/65137437532 or search for American Forces Press Service at Facebook.com. Update your subscriptions, modify your password or e-mail address, or stop subscriptions at any time by clicking on your 'User Profile' page at https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDOD/subscriber/edit?preferences=true#tab1. You will need to use your e-mail address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please e-mail support@govdelivery.com. Have another inquiry? Visit the online FAQ at http://www.defense.gov/landing/questions.aspx for up-to-date information. Get the help you, your family, and fellow servicemembers need, when you need it. Visit www.WarriorCare.mil to learn more. Check out the National Resource Directory at www.nationalresourcedirectory.org, a new web-based resource for wounded, ill and injured service members, veterans, their families, families of the fallen and those who support them from the Departments of Defense, Labor, and Veterans Affairs. This service is provided to you at no charge by U.S. Department of Defense. Visit us on the web at http://www.defense.gov/. Updates from the U.S. Department of Defense

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