SINGAPORE – The Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Key West (SSN 722) arrived in Singapore June 1 for a visit as part of its deployment to the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.
With a crew of approximately 140, Key West will conduct a multitude of missions and maintain proficiency of the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet.
“Operating in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region is what we do as part of the forward-deployed submarine force in Guam,” said Lt. Cmdr. Patrick Tembreull, executive officer. “This port visit to Singapore is an excellent opportunity for the crew to build upon our existing partnership while experiencing the rich culture of Singapore and beauty of this part of the world.”
Key West was commissioned Sept. 12, 1987 and is the third ship of the U.S. Navy named for the city of Key West, Florida.
“This has been a very busy year for Key West and these men have worked very hard,” said Command Master Chief Eric Baker, chief of the boat. “They are ready for this well-deserved port visit after a successful training and exercise period and are eager to explore and take in the culture and sights that Singapore has to offer.”
For some of the crew, this is their first time visiting Singapore.
“I’m excited about our stop in Singapore,” said Fireman Paul Macmillan. “I’m excited to explore an entirely different culture and try some new foods!”
Measuring more than 360 feet long and displacing more than 6,900 tons, Key West is one of the most capable submarines in the world. This submarine is capable of supporting a multitude of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike warfare, surveillance and reconnaissance.
Key West is a member of Commander Submarine Squadron (COMSUBRON) 15, which is located at Polaris Point in Apra Harbor, Guam. COMSUBRON 15 staff is responsible for providing training, material and personnel readiness support of four Los Angeles-class attack submarines stationed in Guam. The submarines and submarine tenders USS Frank Cable (AS40) and USS Emory S. Land (AS39) are part of the U.S. Navy’s forward-deployed naval force are capable of meeting global operational requirements.