The Net also allows for tracking of replacement items, an important feature for a ship with an inventory of 125,000 items, from parts for a nuclear reactor to toilet paper. My mom sends me messages telling me to be careful. Even with e-mail, the arrival of letters from home will remain a cherished event aboard ship. Calif. The availability of e-mail varies among the 190 ships of the Pacific Fleet, depending on location and equipment. Submarines have to raise an antenna.
Messages can be of virtually unlimited length.
Pictures can be loaded from digital cameras. Even when the geopolitical mood is outwardly calm, sailors are warned not to mention sensitive information such as the location of the ship, the kind of exercises underway, and the date and location of the next port call. So please be careful. E-mails go on the unclassified Internet side of the system. Just how safe is unclear.