TRFB Ready to Provide SSBN Maintenance Throughout the Pacific

TRFB Ready to Provide SSBN Maintenance Throughout the Pacific

By Nick Scott Trident Refit Facility, Bangor

Trident Refit Facility Bangor provides submarine maintenance anywhere in the Pacific when the Fleet calls.

As the larger of only two ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) refit facilities in the world, TRFB carries a unique responsibility. Its workforce brings together the full range of skills needed to keep the submarine force ready and on station. The command is also known for its practical, creative approach to solving maintenance challenges, which is why the Navy's fly-away maintenance teams are based here. The missions may differ, but the response is always the same-TRFB personnel stand ready TRFB supports SSBN missions during underway (deployed) periods when required, by sending qualified personnel to ride along during at sea operations or during remote in-port periods. As such, the refit facility maintains certain trade craftsmen, identified ahead of time, with appropriate technical qualifications, travel documents and space access to provide this support on short notice.

These teams are mobile and able to meet a submarine wherever it is, working alongside the crew to resolve the material issue identified. Often, that means hand-carrying the needed parts, technical manuals and other equipment to complete the repairs. There are many locations in the Pacific which the U.S. Navy uses to conduct operations or complete maintenance. When a submarine is in port, and needs servicing, TRFB is just a phone call away.

"When other submarine facilities aren't able to support the repair of a submarine in port, we get the call at TRFB," said Mike Carpentier, repair superintendent for TRFB. "In many instances, TRFB will step up to accomplish our strategic deterrence mission."

Fly away team members are selected ahead of time, but can be shifted as needed depending on the type of work or request.

"My role is to help coordinate and communicate the trade support required to ensure we provide the right people, parts, paper and any other support needed to address whatever the material deficiency is," said Carpentier. "I also provide long distance support while the team is deployed to ensure they get all the support they need."

Speaking on a recent need for a fly-away team in the Pacific:

"Overall, the fly-away team was an outstanding success for the Ship and for TRFB," said Carpentier. "The equipment was rapidly repaired and the ship resumed operations supporting the nation from a forward-deployed location."

Every fly-away event is followed up with a "lessons learned" report that highlights what worked well and where improvements could be made.

"We get better every time," said Carpentier. "The flexibility and gumption of this team sets us up for success."

By keeping submarines ready wherever they are needed, TRFB demonstrates how the Navy is built to project power, preserve peace, and meet the nation's strategic priorities at sea.