US Navy – The USS Bowditch, a Navy ocean survey ship that is currently conducting research work off the coast of northern China in the Yellow Sea, is being harrassed by Chinese forces. It’s mission is to assert the US Navy’s right to freedom of navigation in international waters.

• Washington Times: Inside the Ring

US Navy – A description of the types of mission being performed by US Navy SEALS in Afghanistan, and how the SOF-centric nature of the war on terror is changing the command and control structure for special forces.

• San Diego Union Tribune: Commandos calling the shots
  

US Navy – The US is decommisioning all of its Sprunance-class destroyers.

• San Diego Union Tribune: Destroyer destined for Navy’s mothball fleet
  

Canadian Navy – Canada’s commando unit JTF2 is being trained to handle maritime missions.

• Ottawa Citizen: JTF2 readies for naval battle
  

Royal Australian Navy – A new way to protect against magnetic mines.

• Sydney Morning Herald: One way to avoid being a ship magnet
  

Background – Iraq – Thomas Ricks describes the current war plan against Iraq and how it will target Saddam Hussein’s leadership.

• Washington Post: War Plans Target Hussein Power Base

Background – War Gaming – Another look at how Millenium Challenge robbed US forces of useful lessons.

• Washington Post: Military Overkill Defeats Virtual War