The Los Angeles fast-attack submarine USS Montpelier (SSN 765) returned to Naval Station Norfolk from a regularly scheduled deployment Feb. 17.
Under the command of Cmdr. Thomas A. Winter , Montpelier is returning from the European Command area of responsibility where it executed the nation’s maritime strategy in supporting national security interests and maritime security operations.
“Montpelier conducted various independent operations that directly contributed to the combatant commander’s theater security operations,” said Winter. “Additionally, we participated in a multinational anti-submarine warfare exercise with participants from France, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Portugal.”
During the deployment Montpelier steamed more than 36,500 nautical miles. They were able to conduct port visits to Haakonsvern, Norway; Faslane, Scotland; and Rota, Spain.
“Each of these visits provided opportunities for the Montpelier crew to experience the local culture while strengthening relations with our allies in the European theater,” said Winter. “The performance of Montpelier’s crew was exceptional – inport and at sea. We accomplished all operational tasking, pulled into and out of port as scheduled, remained at sea as scheduled, and was an invaluable asset to the Sixth Fleet commander for more than six months.
“The technical and tactical competence exhibited by this highly trained crew was nothing short of phenomenal. In addition to meeting all operational requirements, we qualified 22 enlisted personnel and five officers in submarine warfare.”
After spending several holidays overseas, Montpelier Sailors are ready for their homecoming in Norfolk.
“The crew is excited to return home to Norfolk, and looking forward to reunions with family and friends, ” said Winter. “After six months under the waves, the crew is especially eager to take advantage of the many outdoor activities available in the Hampton Roads region.”
Fast-attack submarines like Montpelier have multi-faceted missions. They use their stealth, persistence, agility and firepower to deploy and support special force operations, disrupt and destroy an adversary’s military and economic operations at sea, provide early strike from close proximity, and ensure undersea superiority.
Montpelier is the third ship in the U.S. Navy to be named for the city of Montpelier, Vt. Built by the Newport News Shipbuilding Company and Drydock Company, the “Mighty Monty” was commissioned March 13, 1993. Montpelier was the first submarine to launch Tomahawk cruise missiles in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
The submarine has a crew complement of 15 officers and 129 enlisted, 360-feet long, and can travel in excess of 25 knots.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff , February 21, 2012; Image: hullnumber