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| 151222-N-ED185-079 TOKYO BAY (Dec. 22, 2015) The Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Texas (SSN 775) transits Tokyo Bay before arriving at Fleet Activities Yokosuka. Texas is visiting Yokosuka as a part of a scheduled port visit. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian G. Reynolds/Released) |
YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Texas (SSN 775) arrived at Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, Dec. 22 for a visit as part of its Indo-Asia-Pacific deployment.
The visit strengthens the already positive alliance between the U.S. and Japan through the crews' interaction with the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force.
It also demonstrates the U.S. Navy's commitment to regional stability and maritime security in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.
"The ship and crew performed exceedingly well," said Cmdr. Todd Nethercott, Texas' commanding officer. "The ship's motto, 'Don't Mess With Texas,' clearly depicts the ship's capabilities and the crew's spirit. The crew is looking forward to experiencing Yokosuka and working with our close regional allies."
Texas is the second Virginia-class fast-attack submarine commissioned by the United States. It is capable of executing a multitude of missions including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike, surveillance and reconnaissance, irregular warfare, mine warfare, and shallow water operations. To maintain the stealth advantage inherent in submarines, the U.S. Navy does not normally release information about what specifically a submarine did while on patrol.
"Texas conducted extensive training prior to deployment and is ready to execute the full spectrum of submarine force missions worldwide," said Nethercott.
"Texas Sailors are hardworking and dedicated individuals," said Master Chief Machinist's Mate Daniel Kloepfer, Texas's chief of the boat. "Maintaining a forward-deployed nuclear submarine is not an easy task and Yokosuka will allow for some much deserved rest for the crew."
Many crew members said they were excited to experience the rich culture of Japan.
"One of the reasons I joined the Navy was to see the world," said Electrician's Mate 2nd Class Anthony Amos. "I'm looking forward to seeing Tokyo and maybe trying some of the world's best sushi."
Measuring more than 377 feet long and weighing more than 7,800 tons when submerged, Texas is one of the quietest and most technologically advanced submarines in the ocean. Built in Newport News, Virginia, Texas home ported in Groton Connecticut before transferring to Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, in 2009.