In an era of increasingly complex global security challenges, the U.S. Navy’s ability to stay ahead of adversaries depends on continuous, focused training and preparedness.

In March 2025, Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet (C3F) successfully hosted Warfighter Prep (WFP) 2025—a pivotal three-day training event designed to enhance warfighting readiness for both Active and Reserve Sailors. This investment in training directly supports C3F’s warfighting mission by ensuring that personnel are prepared to operate effectively from day one of mobilization.

This philosophy drives the Navy Reserve's emphasis on Individual Training Plans and T-Ready tracking. During the Warfighter Prep seminar, participants gained experience and exposure to presentations by academic and university leaders; experts from four Warfighting Development Centers and the Naval War College; and other tactical and operational leaders to help warfighters “connect the dots” and become better in their field of expertise.

Advancing Individual Readiness for Mission Success

The Navy Reserve’s focus on Individual Training Plans underscores the importance of targeted training initiatives like WFP 2025. By integrating real-world operational scenarios, advanced tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs), and Maritime Operations Center (MOC) academics, this event directly contributed to improving the readiness metrics of participating Sailors.

“Warfighting readiness is built upon common foundational knowledge,” said Rear Adm Rich Meyer, Deputy Commander U.S. 3rd Fleet. Warfighter Prep provides fundamental academic operational and tactical education and training that enables our Reserve Component Sailors to seamlessly integrate with the Active Component as we rehearse to fight from the MOC.”

Building a Knowledgeable and Lethal Force

WFP 2025 emphasized key aspects of theater knowledge, platform advancements, and evolving warfare strategies. The training incorporated elements from the University Regional Academics Warfighting Development Center (WDC) TTP training, and MOC academic briefings, all aimed at enhancing Sailors’ understanding of global security dynamics and their impact on naval operations.

Key Training Components and Expert Insights
1. University Regional Academics:

○ Delivered in-depth briefings on geopolitical threats in the Indo- Pacific, helping Sailors contextualize their roles within the broader security framework.
○ Provided insights and unique perspectives into national objectives from scholarly viewpoints.

2. Warfighting Development Center (WDC) TTP Training:

○ Focused on the latest advancements in naval warfare tactics and operational execution.
○ Enabled Sailors to refine their skill sets in simulated combat scenarios, ensuring adaptability in dynamic operational settings.

3. Maritime Operations Center (MOC) Academics:

○ Enhanced operational-level warfare proficiency by providing critical instruction on command-and-control processes.
○ Strengthened the integration between Active and Reserve Sailors in MOC functions, reinforcing seamless operational effectiveness.

Learning from the Best: Expert Insights with Real-World Impact
The sound of engaging discussion filled the auditorium as world-renowned experts shared critical perspectives that brought global challenges into sharp focus:
● Dr. Jeffrey A. Larsen on Russian foreign policy and strategic deterrence.
● Dr. David C. Kang on evolving security dynamics of the Korean Peninsula.
● Dr. Tai Ming Cheung on the People’s Republic of China technological and military advancements.

Measurable Readiness Gains
WFP 2025 was not just an academic exercise—it moved the needle on warfighting readiness. Participants demonstrated improved proficiency in operational planning, execution, and strategic analysis. The event reinforced the Navy Reserve’s ability to deploy Sailors who are well-versed in the latest security challenges and capable of immediate operational impact upon mobilization.

"We're" not just checking boxes here, explained Capt. Russell Howells, one of the event organizers.  "When our Sailors mobilize, there's no grace period for getting up to speed. WFP ensures they're ready to perform from the moment they deploy."

As the final day concluded, the impact was evident not just in improved Sailor’s knowledge, but in the confidence displayed by participants. Capt. Mary Bookey, NR C3F Headquarters Commanding Officer, observed, "I've participated in these training events over the years, and WFP 2025 represents our most comprehensive preparation yet. You can see it in how our Sailors carry themselves—they know what they’ll be called to do and how to prepare to be ready."

Warfighter Prep 2025 was a critical step in ensuring that C3F’s Reserve Component remains ready to support warfighting operations on day one. By aligning with Individual Training Plans objectives, this investment in training directly enhanced the Navy’s ability to respond to emerging threats. As the global security landscape evolves, sustained efforts like WFP will remain essential in maintaining a lethal, adaptable, and mission- ready force.