Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan –
The Navy’s Fiber Optic Test and Repair (FOTR) Certification Program reached a significant milestone by certifying the first certification site and inspector within the 7th Fleet. This achievement marks a critical step toward enhancing shipboard self-reliance in fiber optics maintenance. Managed by the Cybersecurity and Fiber Optics Engineering and Operations Division at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD), the program aims to equip Sailors with the skills to perform 90% of all organizational-level fiber optics repairs directly aboard their vessels.
Fiber optic cabling, known for its lighter weight and faster, more secure data transmission compared to older technologies, supports nearly all Navy electronic systems. These systems include vital navigation, self-defense and power projection capabilities. As naval systems become increasingly sophisticated, the reliance on the ship’s Fiber Optic Cable Plant (FOCP) continues to grow, highlighting the importance of maintaining and repairing this critical infrastructure.
“Having certified fiber optics technicians and tooling aboard means crews can now troubleshoot, identify and repair most fiber optics issues without delay,” said Terry Russell, Fiber Optic Test & Repair Certification agent. “This eliminates the wait for external technical representatives, enabling technicians to quickly assess and restore essential systems.”
Within the demanding operational environment of the 7th Fleet—the Navy’s largest forward-deployed area of operation—this certification is transformative. It ensures that critical shipboard communication and weapons systems remain fully functional during deployments, enhancing mission readiness and power projection.
“By empowering Sailors with these repair skills, the Navy strengthens fleet resilience and enhances system availability,” Russell added.
The FOTR team from Dahlgren conducted a thorough assessment of the Naval Ship Repair Facility and Japan Regional Maintenance Center in Yokosuka, Japan, from August 4-14. This effort followed initial visits in 2024 to both the repair facility and Detachment Sasebo, Japan, where leadership collaboration helped chart the path forward.
To meet certification requirements, inspectors from both sites traveled to the U.S. for specialized commercial training—a complex coordination effort supported strongly by Naval Surface Group Western Pacific and Destroyer Squadron 15 leadership.
Looking ahead, the Navy plans to expand the FOTR program to additional critical sites. Efforts are also underway to develop fiber optic maintenance training tailored for submarine forces and to partner with Naval Air Systems Command to create a broader, integrated program under their oversight.
“This work truly matters,” Russell emphasized. A former enlisted Navy technician himself, he highlighted the critical nature of the program: “Our program could be the determining factor in whether a ship can safely return to port, defend itself against threats or deliver power projection when needed. We take that responsibility both seriously and personally.”
With successful certification in the 7th Fleet, the Navy is strengthening its operational capabilities and ensuring that Sailors are better prepared to keep their ships mission ready in the face of growing technological demands.