FLEET ACTIVITIES YOKOSUKA, Japan – The Virginia-class attack submarine USS Texas (SSN 775) arrived at Fleet Activities Yokosuka Feb.5 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 (JMSDF).
"The fighting spirit is alive and well on the Texas!" said Cmdr. Todd Nethercott, commanding officer. "Texas maximizes every opportunity it has to work with regional partners. Exercises with the JMSDF, enables us to sharpen our skills and strengthen the relationship between our two nations."
Texas is the second Virginia-class attack submarine commissioned by the United States Navy. This submarine is capable of executing a multitude of missions including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, and shallow water operations.
"Everything is bigger in Texas!" said Master Chief Machinist’s Mate Daniel Kloepfer, chief of the boat. "You will not find a group of Sailors with bigger hearts that the Sailors on this boat. I know the crew enjoys Japan and all of the amenities that Yokosuka has to offer. Spending time in foreign ports is what a lot of the crew joined the Navy to do. The memories made here will be something they cherish for the rest of their life."
Many crewmembers were excited to experience the rich culture of Japan.
"I can’t wait to get back on land," said Machinist’s Mate 1st Class Nathan Nosar. "I have been looking forward to watching the Super Bowl all year and I’m glad we are in port to catch the game."
Measuring more than 377 feet long and weighing more than 7,900 tons when submerged, Texas is one of the quietest and most technologically advanced submarines in the world. Built in Newport News, Virginia, Texas was homeported in Groton, Connecticut before transferring to Pearl Harbor Hawaii in 2009.
For more news from Commander, Submarine Group 7, visit www.csp.navy.mil/csg7/