//The Wire//1930Z March 29, 2024//

//ROUTINE//

//BLUF: BALTIMORE BRIDGE EFFECTS MOUNT. FRANCE CONTINUES ASSESSING TERROR THREATS.//

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-International Events-

France: Authorities continue to claim an elevated risk of terror attacks throughout the country. The opening ceremonies for the Olympic games have already been closed to tourists, after a man stole a bag from an event worker which contained security plans and details. Currently, France is considering closing the opening ceremonies altogether, due to security concerns.

-HomeFront-

New York: City officials have announced the implementation of metal detectors in the subway system. These detectors will augment the existing military checkpoints currently in place throughout the subway system, and will be installed over the next few weeks. These measures are in addition to the hundreds of soldiers that are currently deployed throughout the transportation network.

Baltimore: The follow-on effects of the Key Bridge collapse continue to be felt as many vessels remain trapped in Baltimore Harbor. Aside from a few commercial tankers/cargo vessels, the largest ships currently trapped in the harbor are Military Sealift Command (MSC) vessels, to include the SS ANTARES and the SS DENEBOLA. Both vessels are Fast Sealift Ships, some of the fastest military cargo vessels in existence. Also trapped within the harbor are the M/V GARY I. GORDON (formerly the USNS GORDON) and the M/V CAPE WASHINGTON, both very large multirole RO/RO cargo vessels.

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Admin Note: Though the Ready Reserve Force has been neglected in recent years, with many vessels being mothballed or otherwise deactivated, four of the largest MSC ships being out of action is a substantial impact to the United States’ wartime logistical sealift capability. Though RRF ships are strategically positioned for just this situation, the loss of forces or the reduction of capabilities is worthy of note nonetheless.

Analyst: S2A1

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