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Illegal Internet usage on U.S. Navy ship USS Manchester. Investigations and consequences for the crew
Author:Mariusz Dasiewicz
The gCaptain portal reveals a shocking incident aboard a U.S. Navy warship. As a result of the investigation, it was shown that senior commanders on the USS Manchester They secretly installed commercial satellite internet Starlink, bypassing official procedures. Under Command Senior Chief Grisel Marrero, officers used this network for private purposes, which posed a serious threat to the unit's operational tasks.
Command Senior Chief US Navy caught illegally using Starlink – satellite internet aboard USS Manchester
During the mission, the crew was restricted in internet access, which is a standard security procedure. However, 16 commanders aboard the ship Manchester decided to circumvent these restrictions. They installed an unsecured Starlink antenna and launched a network with the provocative name "STINKY", allowing themselves to stream films and track sports results. At the same time, the rest of the crew only had minimal communications.
The U.S. Navy uses its own safe Starshield systems, which provide protection against detection by hostile forces. Instead of using official equipment, the commanders tied the commercial Starlink antenna to the pallet on board. Such a solution did not meet safety standards and put the crew at risk.
Marrero, the main initiator of the process, repeatedly lied to her superiors about the existence and operation of the unauthorized installation. She also faked documentation concerning its use. The case didn't come out until August 2023 when a civilian contractor spotted an unusual antenna. After months of denial, Marrero eventually pleaded guilty and was demoted to grade E-7 after the court trial.
"I am shocked at how lightly the case was treated," said gCaptain one of the fleet officers working on LCS ships. "Marrero compromised the operational safety of the entire ship, and its punishment is only degradation."
The US Navy investigation showed that 16 officers were involved in the operation, who participated in the purchase and concealment of the antenna. The situation was referred to as a "criminal conspiracy" which threatened the lives of the crew. Most involved individuals received disciplinary sanctions.
This incident recalls the importance of the commanders' responsibility for both technological and operational safety on board military units. Marrero Actions, despite her experience and education, have undermined the trust placed in her as a leader.
This event shows how inappropriate decisions can jeopardise not only the safety of sailors, but also the operational integrity of U.S. Navy ships.
Source: gCaptain/MD
